Moon's transits through the Signs & What it means

The Moon transits the 12 signs and stays in each sign for about 2-3 days. Becoming more aware of these transits can help us in a number of ways. For example,  if you just want to know when the most fiery days are to kick into action, look out for Aries, Leo and Sagittarius moons.

There is a wealth of information about moon transits online, this is an introduction to get you started.

Aries Moon- We are motivated, want to start fresh, feel energetic, enthusiastic and active. Our impulses and animal instincts are strong. Low Vibes - Aggressive, beginning but not completing projects. Relationships & sexuality - Crash & burn affairs. Introduce some excitement  in long standing relationships. Try to avoid selfish and aggressive behavior, someone may get hurt. (Enjoy the BDSM, but have a safe word!)   

Taurus Moon- We are concerned with security, peace, feeling good and comfort. Things move at a slower pace now, stop and smell the roses. Low vibes: Materialistic, stubborn

Relationships & Sexuality - Long standing romances start now but may face boredom in the long run. A strong feeling of comfort with partners and lovers. (Great time to make love to candle light and provide chocolates and wine)

Gemini Moon- We have the urge to communicate and seek variety in our everyday lives. Study, connecting, sharing information and short trips are all supported by this moon. Low vibes- Restlessness, fickle. Relationships & Sexuality - Light & fun affairs being now, no strings attached. In long standing relationships: A good time to connect on a mental/ communicative level. (Phone sex anyone? Watch who you send those nude pics too!)

Cancer Moon- The desire to stay home and the need for peace and quiet are amplified. This is a healing and deeply emotional moon. Relationships and family are highlighted now. Low vibes - Over emotional, reclusive. Relationships & Sexuality - A great moon to start a relationship. Emotional connection is deep and we feel “at home” with partner. Watch for moodiness, jealousy and clinginess during this moon. Not a good time for one night stands! ( Did you come home to a clean house & your partner made dinner? Your friends may not see you for the next few days!)

Leo Moon- A prideful, joyous and playful moon. It bring out our inner child, movie star and leader. We feel creative, seek attention and just want to have fun. Low vibes - Egocentric, possessive. Relationships & Sexuality - Fun, exciting and playful romantic encounters. If a long standing romance, make sure you have fun together, bring more playfulness into the relationship. Watch for “me me me” syndrome, think about the other person too. ( Time to take out those costumes from the sex shop or put on a scene with a naughty ending)

Virgo Moon- We seek practical, grounding and mental activities. We are at home with routine, details and re-organizing our lives. Low vibes -  perfectionism, critical. Relationships & Sexuality-  Not the best time to start a romance unless you both have strong Virgo influence. You are hyper aware or all the things you don't like now, relax a bit you’ll surprise yourself. If in a relationship some sort of sacrifice may be made to keep the harmony. (Once the security  gates come down there is no turning back, the floodgates open up in the bedroom)

Libra Moon- We are concerned with being integrated and creating our environment. We feel diplomatic and avoid conflict at all costs. Teamwork, projects and social life go well. Low vibes - Superficial, indecisive. Relationship & Sexuality - Talk about romance! One of the best moons to be in or begin a romance or relationship. Under this moon traditional gestures, mood setting and gifts get you far. ( Leave her a love note and some flowers, then look forward to a real sensual sexfest) Do watch for yourself or your partner doing something they don't want to do, just to keep the peace.

Scorpio Moon- Life is about passion, emotional depth, instinct and self examination now. We want to go deeper, feel more, investigate the world around us. Low vibes - Manipulative behavior, brooding. Relationships & Sexuality - Want an all consuming, enduring, earth shattering romance or sexual encounter? Start it during a Scorpio moon. Talk about feeling everything at once! Do watch for possessiveness, obsession and dishonesty. If in a relationship where your physical needs are not being met? Be honest about it, yes Scorpio is loyal, but someones got to quench that sexual thirst. (The keyword here is intense, better hope you don’t have to get up early the next day or do anything physically strenuous. There may be some sore spots!)

Sagittarius Moon- One of the most optimistic, spontaneous  and vision driven moons. We want to travel, explore, and think about the big picture. We don’t care about the details, we want to just “wing it”. Low vibes - Getting ahead of ourselves, over-doing it. Relationships & Sexuality - One thing is for sure, you’ll have an adventure with each other. Due to the mutable nature of this sign the romance can end up either reliable or not. If in a relationship take that couples trip up to cabin or hop on a plane together. It will draw you closer and the excitement will turn you on. (If you make them laugh, excite them, surprise them or suggest trying the Kama sutra, plan to get your world rocked!)

Capricorn Moon- Suddenly aware of the need for structure and rules we are pulled back to earth with this moon. We are driven to succeed, manifest and work toward our goals now. Low vibes - depression, feeling boggled down by reality, unrealistic expectations of other or self.  Relationships & Sexuality - Not a recommended time to start a romance. It is hard to get things going. If in a relationship there may be some challenges to overcome, unless both parties are grounded and mature. In this case you feel secure and content in the partnership. ( If you don’t have you stuff together you have little to no chance. But a polished, confident and stylish suitor may get invited home at the end of the night.)

Aquarius Moon-  Something different is the key term. We crave the unusual, the eccentric and the unexpected. We are open minded and progressive now. Group activities are successful.  Low vibes - emotional detachment, unpredictable. Romance & Sexuality - Suddenly in the mood to take someone home but nothing deeper? This is a moon for it. This moon wants to try new things and change it up. In a relationship, spice things up, you could be so into your own minds and fantasies that you lose emotional touch with each other. Throw the predictable out the window. ( Go to a bar and pretend to be strangers, watch an erotic movie together. Just do something different that is within your comfort zone.)

Pisces Moon- This moon is all about dreams, alternate realities and being in our own world. We want nothing to do with reality, we may find ourselves asking “what else is there?”. This is the best moon for magical, mystical and esoteric activities. Low vibes - extreme introvertism, head in the clouds. Relationships & Sexuality - A time of tender, deeply intimate and emotional romances. Meetings now may feel fated, destined or from past lives. But there is the danger of viewing the romance in rose colored glasses. There may be unrealistic expectations or elements of sacrifice. Make sure both parties are on the same page. If in a relationship keep communication open if feeling misunderstood. If things are good, you may find yourself like two peas in a pod. (Non verbal communication goes a long way now, with the right eye gaze you could go from sitting across each other for coffee to feeling your bodies as one.)

The Sun Signs Part II : The 12 signs and what they have to say for themselves!

Before we dive in a note about the Sun signs:

As we learn more about the birth chart you will come to see and understand that everyone has the 12 signs somewhere in their chart. On top of that our planets are generally scattered into a few signs, not just our own. So that being said, if you don't vibe with your Sun sign don't let that get you down or discourage you from learning more. You may come to find that you have such powerful influence from one or two other signs that they drown out your sun to an extend. As you read on just remember, as mentioned earlier, the sun sign is like the club we belong it. It's basic overall view. Some my deeply or over identify with it, and others rarely or only in very specific circumstances. 

Aries 

Aries are natural leaders with a “what you see is what you get” attitude. They like to be number one, need physical activity and do well in extreme sports and competitions. They can also be aggressive, stubborn and restless. Associated with the Ram, Aries can be quite quick tempered and unless they plan on having a career in professional fighting or sports, should learn positive outlets for their bursts of anger. They are impulsive and this can lead to difficulties and/or accidents because they don't look before they leap. Aries Sun signs are optimistic, quick-witted, brave, take charge people! (Aries is Cardinal Fire sign)

Taurus

Taurus Sun signs are stable and reliable people with strong values. They may seem to move at a slower pace than others, but it's because they like to take their time and do things at their own speed. They appreciate the beautiful things in life and are not afraid of hard work. Well known for their stubbornness, they can have rigid views and be quite argumentative. Trying to get an apology out of a Taurus can be like pulling teeth! With a love of comfort they must watch for laziness, addictions, and overindulgence. Taurus Suns are loyal and loving people who make great friends and partners. (Taurus is a Fixed Earth sign)

Gemini

The sign of the twins, Gemini may seem and feel like two people in one. With split minds, interests and needs. They are communication oriented, active, affectionate and generous people. But can also be complex, contradictory and restless. They have a need for change and can hop from one thing to another because of it. Ever date a person who seemed really into you on Monday and disinterested on Tuesday? Was probably a Gemini! These playful intellectuals love mental challenges, and do well in anything from debate to technology. Their minds seem to move at the speed of light with their bodies struggling to keep up. Gemini Suns are multi-talented, determined, popular and stimulating people. (Gemini is a Mutable Air sign)

Cancer

Cancer Sun signs are highly intuitive, protective and emotional beings. They are family oriented, love their privacy, and have a strong need for comfort and security. You know that friend who makes you feel like the most important, and most understood person in the world? She's probably a Cancer! They experience the world so intensely that need time to hide from the world around them to recharge their batteries. Because of this hermit like nature they can get lost in their own minds, dwell in the past, and suffer from melancholy. Cancers tend to jump into their shell at the slightest sign of trouble, because of this life could be passing them by while they are too busy protecting themselves. Cancers are strong, creative, dedicated, romantic and loyal people. (Cancer is a Cardinal Water sign)

Leo

Leo Sun signs are strong-willed, loyal and independent people. The natural actors of the zodiac they love to be the center of attention. Motivated and determined, they are extremely sensitive to criticism, and are slow to forgive when hurt. They can be stubborn and temperamental beings, and without direction can be arrogant or overly demanding. Leo Suns can also be conceited and self absorbed, worst case scenario doing anything possible to remain in the limelight. This of course causes many problems for them from addictions, bad life choices and negative affects on their social life. That vibrant multi-talented soul in the room that everyone is pulled to is most likely a Leo! Leo Suns dream big, demand respect and love to live full and fruitful lives. (Leo is a Fixed Fire sign)

Virgo

Virgo Sun signs seek perfection in everything! They are very charming, fastidious, intellectual and methodical people. Because of a need to compartmentalize everything in their life, it's important for them to practice balancing the mind and body. They have a tendency to micromanage and be over-critical of others. This is because they suppress their emotions to exercise self control. If they are not careful they can become hypochondriacs, worry wort's and Nagging Nancie's. They can't control everything, and it's a hard lesson for them to learn. If they are true to themselves and open with others they can overcome the cold impression they give off. They are smart, hardworking and dedicated people who need to take time to relax and enjoy the world around them. A Virgo who knows how to let her hair down is fun and intellectually stimulating company! (Virgo is a Mutable Earth sign) 

Libra

Libra Suns work their whole lives for the achievement of balance and harmony. They are social and popular people with good taste and an eye for beauty. The desire for peace is so strong for them that they often compromise their personalities to keep things peaceful around them. Libra Suns can be flighty, shallow, indecisive and "people pleasures".  This can make them seem untrustworthy or manipulative in certain situations because they will play both sides of the fence to please the other parties. For example if caught in the middle of a fight, Libra might side with both friends. Despite Libra's good intentions this may cause more harm than good. These sensitive and understanding people are often artistically gifted with a strong dislike of conflict and drama. A balanced Libra is lovely and inspiring being. (Libra is a Cardinal Air sign)

Scorpio

Oh Scorpios!I have a soft spot for them, and with a stellium in Scorpio in my own chart I feel the need to represent them in a better light. We've all heard the words “intense, vengeful  private and calculating” in regards to this sign. Since their negative traits have been beaten to death let’s talk about the good stuff. Did you know that they are as sensitive as you can get? They are strong willed, self-reliant people with a special something that either attracts, intimidates or repels others. They have deep imaginations, great analytic skills and strong powers of reason. Are you into the occult? Healing work? Anything metaphysical? Get a Scorpio friend with the same interest and watch the magic happen! Moderation in anything is hard for these passionate souls, but once they learn self control they can get more out of life than they did by having their cake and eating it too. (Scorpio is a Fixed Water sign)

Sagittarius

Sagittarius Sun Signs are big hearted, optimistic, adventurous and independent people. They are passionate about justice, insistent on freedom and love travel. They see life as an adventure and because of that attract others easily, making them quite popular. They even seem to collect friends! They can be restless, inconsiderate, afraid of commitment, and brutally honest. When angry they are known to hurt others with their words because they have a habit of speaking first and thinking later. They can also shoot off at the mouth, and shout over the other person instead of listening. Or scrutinize someone for doing something that they themselves did a week earlier. They must practice caution with their risk taking natures to avoid getting into dangerous situations. Sagittarius Suns are fun, idealistic, lively and active people. I am lucky to know a few of them and I'm always excited to be in their company. (Sagittarius is a Mutable Fire sign) 

Capricorn

Capricorn Sun signs are practical, self-confident, hardworking and determined people. They often see things through to the end and have no problem rolling up their sleeves to get the job done. Caps are resourceful and disciplined people who seem aloof or rigid to others. They have a tendency to take themselves too seriously, can be overly cautious, pessimistic and become workaholics.  Ever date someone who was too busy for you and spent all their time at work? Familiar with the story of the pros porous husband who worked all the time and only after his divorce realized he should have given his marriage more attention? Have a friend who is such a penny pincher but is NEVER behind on bills and actually has a savings account? Maybe these people were Caps! I have some wonderful Capricorns in my life, and all they need to add to their tool kit of success is some laughs, some good friends and a weekly spa day. They are clear headed, determined, rational people with great memories. (Capricorn is a Cardinal Earth sign)

Aquarius

Aquarius Sun Signs are free-spirited, innovative and eccentric. These intellectual outsiders are gifted with an analytical mind and often seem strange or just plain hard to read to others. They can be high stressed, worrisome, detached, afraid of commitment and cold. When they shut down it is near impossible to get them to open up. And trying to figure out what they are thinking is almost an impossible task. Aquarians like to share their knowledge, but they run the risk of coming off as "know it alls" at times. They are more comfortable in the world of ideas and must learn to live in reality and connect to others emotionally. Aquarius Suns are outgoing, charming, smart and funny people with more than 2 cents to offer to any conversation. Need help with a creative project? Want to go out for some laughs and a good time? Need a friend to do that thing with you  that all your other friends are too chicken to do? Call up an Aquarius! (Aquarius is a Fixed Air sign)

Pisces 

As a Pisces one of my pet peeves is the way MANY sources start a Pisces description. We are unique, multi layered beings and sadly get simplified under “emotional and easily hurt”. So as a Pisces I will defend my army! Pisces Suns signs are spiritual, compassionate and loving people. They are often misread or misunderstood. Did you know that Pisces is a combination of all the signs before it? Does that weird Pisces at your job make more sense now?

With strong intuition, deep emotions and instincts they tend to stay to themselves and observe the world around them before participating in it. Besides Gemini, Pisces is the only other double sign with two versions of themselves. One side is involved in reality, the other in the realms beyond. Because of this Pisces are in danger of feeling lost, confused and being “spaced out”. They can also fall into escapism to avoid dealing with reality, therefore making addictions a possibility. Their physical world is closely tied to their emotional, so their inner antenna can dictate the way they live their lives. This can make Pisces seem unreliable, dramatic and easily distracted. If Pisces is not careful, and doesn't stay grounded they do become these things! The goal is to unite the two energies to exist happily on the road between reality and dreams. Pisces are creative, psychic, loving and loyal beings with a flare for the metaphysical and the things we cannot see. (Pisces is a Mutable Water sign)

Up next.....The Rising Signs!

The Birth chart

One of the most common questions from skeptics is, "If astrology is true, how could it possibly describe everyone? Not all (inject sign) are alike." That is where the birth chart comes in! The sun sign is the most basic description of a personality type. It is where the Sun was located at the time of your birth. Compare it to times when you have to "describe yourself in a few words." The birth chart acts as your personal blueprint, it is a snapshot of where all the planets were, and what they were doing the moment you were born.

Say there are two people, both born on January 3rd in New York, NY. Person A was born in 1984 at 10 am and person B in 1985 at 11:35 am. Both Capricorns, they share a sun sign but have different birth charts. The planets have mostly moved since 1984 giving person B a different set of planet locations.

The Birth chart, what's it made of?

The birth chart is comprised of many parts and requires some specific information to calculate correctly. One would need to know the day, month, year, exact time and place of birth. Don't know all of that? That's okay too, charts can be done with less information, but for accuracy it's important to have all the details. Think of it as the ingredients to that special pie that only you know how to make. Miss an ingredient or two and it's still a pie, but not as special as it could be. One of my favorite descriptions of the birth chart comes from the book Secrets from a Stargazer's Notebook. The author Debbi Kempton-Smith refers to the birth chart as, "A big pizza pie divided into twelve pieces." In astro talk, these pieces are referred to as houses. There are twelve of them in total and each house has a specific meaning and purpose.

Before we get to that, I'd like to address the Rising Sign, also known as the ascendant. The first house is also the home of ones Rising sign. The rising sign is the first impression we give. Have you ever heard someone say, "you are hilarious, you seemed so serious when I met you" or "you are so quiet, that night we met you were talking a mile a minute." Those are perfect examples of how the rising sign works. It is who we are to the world, the faces and roles we play, the way people see us at first, or the way associates and strangers see us.  The rising sign isn't all superficial though, it can be a wonderful tool to use in conjunction with your sun sign. For example, meet Sara : She is a quiet Cancer who loves to stay home and has friends over more than she goes out. Her rising sign is Leo, the complete opposite of a home body. She looks like a Cancer except for the fact that she is an eccentric dresser and loves to wear lipstick everywhere. Sara is comfortably using her Leo ascendant to an extent. But to get the maximum benefit she could tap into that lion energy and become the life of the party instead of leaning against the wall and talking to the people she already knows.

How do you find out your rising sign? This is where those details come in handy. With all the ingredients to the pie, one can find their rising sign sitting high and mighty at the first house in their chart. The rising sign changes with the hours throughout the day, making it possible for people born the same day to have different ascendants. Imagine two babies born on February 3rd, one is born at 10 am and one at noon. Baby A and baby B are both Aquarius but baby A is an Aries rising and baby B is a Gemini rising. Both grow up and use that Aquarian genius and become inventors. Baby A invents a new innovative fitness clothing line and baby B invents a new way to communicate and surf the web faster than ever before. See how that worked out? Aquarians are known for their great ideas, with an Aries rising baby A was interested in movement therefore drawn to fitness. And baby B with a Gemini rising was naturally drawn to communication and technology.

The rising sign can also affect the way we look, move, talk, and the way we want to be treated. In combination with your sun, the ascendant gives you your own individual style of expressing your sign. The sun sign is the cake and the rising sign is the type of icing on top.

Stay tuned for part two of this entry! I will continue to discuss the 12 houses and what they each mean.

Our individual road map: And how I got started

I started my journey into astrology land in high school. I was fed up with the newspaper horoscopes and the run of the mill descriptions in the available books. I reached a point where I raised my fists in the air, shaking them madly and declaring "There must be more to this! And I'm going to discover what that is!"

And thank goddess I sure did. When college came around I didn't have much time to study astrology, I was working on theater homework and criminal psychology papers instead. But I always made some time to sit by the lake with a book, a pen and paper to take notes. Astrology my dear, I always found time for you. Over the years I learned the beauty of our individual road map that is the birth chart.

The beauty of astrology is simple to me, once you begin you are an eternal student. There are so many layers! So much to learn when every tiny little thing, every degrees, every aspect means something. Now, how can that be a crock of bull? If so, it's one hell of a painstaking crock of bull don't you think?

The challenge of learning something that requires so much time and effort (thanks to my mars in Scorpio) excites me. I realized over the years just how excited I get when I meet an astrology newbie, how happy I am to explain what it is and how it works. Honestly, I'm pretty much a dork about it all. After all this time of denying myself a platform, I'm feeling that lioness roar and I'm ready to ramble about what I love to the public. Let's open up our 9th houses and get this road trip started!