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I know this year ahead will hold a lot of challenges. As we look forward into 2025, many things are uncertain. In times of uncertainty and fear, we must allow ourselves to find hope. Hope will light the path forward and help us find the strength and motivation to keep going or bring change. With all this in mind, I was inspired to create this Tarot Spread, which can be used to help us find the hope and inspiration to keep going when times are uncertain, to find the empowerment and hope that will allow us to thrive! THRIVE Tarot Spread, by Lilliana Blackstar   THRIVE   A six card spread by Lilliana Blackstar of Hestia's Muse You can use Tarot or Oracle cards for this spread. 1) Tenderness - where in life do you need to be more tender and gentle with yourself? In what ways can you give yourself more grace or forgiveness, or be a little less hard on yourself? Can you also extend more tenderness and grace to those around you? 2) Healing - how can you invite more healing into your life? What kind of healing should you focus on at this time, or who can you connect with to help with your healing journey? 3) Revolutionize - in what ways do you need to try a radically different approach? Doing the same thing has been bringing you the same results - where do you need to step out of the comfort zone and try something different and new? 4) Inspiration - what is your source of inspiration? How can you feel more inspired or who can you look to for inspiration? What is helping you feel motivated? 5) Vitalize - what will bring you more energy, more passion, and help revitalize you when you are feeling worn down? What do you need to remember to bring into your life that helps feed your vitality and brings you energy? 6) Empowered - a reminder of your inner strength and personal power. What makes YOU a powerful person and how can you remind yourself of this inner strength to feel empowered? You are welcome to use this spread for yourself and your own inspiration. If you share this spread with others please include the source. If you would like to hire me to read and interpret the tarot for you using this spread, I am offering this service for just $30 USD. This is a written report, and I will send your reading and interpretations plus pictures of the cards to you in an email within one week of your order. To order this reading please send $30 to one of the following In a note please leave your name and email address, and the word "THRIVE" so that I know what the payment is for! Venmo - @hestiasmuse cashapp - $LillianaFund buymeacoffee.com/lilliana.blackstar or send me an email at hestiasmuse@gmail.com and I can send you an invoice

We are coming up on the end of the year and the beginning of a New Year! I know people have mixed reactions to the concept of "New Year's Resolutions" so I am thinking about this and wanted to share my thoughts. • Humans love patterns, and the beginning of a calendar year gives us a distinct feeling of a "fresh start". It's the beginning of a month, plus the beginning of a year. And, it's right after a long holiday season when we have done a lot of things we don't normally do, taking time off work and travelling etc, so New Year feels like a time to "reset" and refocus. • Of course, we do not have to limit ourselves to this one singular "fresh start". We have the beginning of each season, the beginning of each month, a beginning of an astrological season, a beginning of a Lunar month, our birthdays, and plenty of non calendar events like "first day of a new job". • I think maybe people put too much weight on this one singular chance to start fresh, and if they fail that feels really bad, and so then people have bad feelings associated with New Year's Resolutions. • it's possibly better to remember that you can start fresh any time you want. There is always an opportunity to say "this didn't work out for me, so I'm going to try something different now". You can take some of the pressure off of your goals if you allow yourself to remember we get to "reset" any time we want. • When things are going well, I can use another New Start to recommit. When something isn't working for me, I can use another New Start to set my intentions to try a new strategy or plan, or even abandon the original goal for a new one if my desires and needs have changed. • personally this is why I love Astrology and the Lunar Cycle. By following the astrological seasons I can change my focus and look at different areas of my life every month. By following a Lunar cycle I can start fresh and reset my goals with every New Moon. Whether you believe in any mystical or spiritual energy of the New Moon or not, it gives you a regular cyclical pattern of timing for checking in on your goals. • This year, the Capricorn New Moon occurs the night of Dec 30 and through the day on Dec 31. January 1 is aligned with the beginning of the Waxing Crescent Moon Phase - an ideal time for starting new projects or goals! • Before the new moon we have a Waning crescent and a waning dark moon. These are traditionally periods of release. Spend these next few days before the New Moon thinking about what you would like to let go of or release. Get rid of clutter, take out the trash, detoxify the body, and find ways to let go of the old that you don't want to bring with you into the new year. This helps wipe the slate clean and create an empty space for your goals and intentions to be set with the New Moon. • At the New Moon, set your intentions. Create positive affirmations about your goals. Write down what steps you will take to accomplish these goals. Use the S.M.A.R.T. methodology for your intentions. Outline the baby steps that it will take, be realistic and don't overwhelm yourself with too many changes at once! Focus on a couple changes for the first month, and incorporate more with the next New Moon! • Finally, on New Year's Day with the beginning of the Waxing Crescent phase, begin taking those baby steps. Celebrate each step of progress along the way! Don't punish yourself for slipping up, just start again or re-evaluate the steps to ensure your success! A Capricorn New Moon: Capricorn is the Cardinal Earth sign, ruled by Saturn Capricorn is the sign of Responsibility - the kind of Success that comes from Hard Work and Dedication.  While the success of Jupiter and Sagittarius are related to luck or fortune - the Success of Capricorn and Saturn is brought forth through hard work and a certain application of force and willpower.  The Cardinal Signs are known for having a sense of leadership, initiation, a “start-up” drive or ambition.  The Cardinal Sign of the Winter Season for the Northern Hemisphere has a challenge of being the “leader” that will push us through the winter.  The “success” here is one forged in hardship - the survival of winter belongs to those who can push through rigid and icy boundaries - or create safe warm havens of shelter for the darkest and coldest days. The Southern Hemisphere experiences Capricorn season with the Summer Solstice - the longest days and hottest weather - which also will require a degree of fortitude and determination to push through! The leadership, responsibility, and determination of Capricorn is necessary no matter which Solstice has just passed. The archetype of Capricorn in Astrology is characterized by a grounded and disciplined energy, emphasizing ambition, responsibility , and the pursuit of long-term goals . Ruled by Saturn, the planet of structure and authority , Capricorn embodies a practical and pragmatic approach to life. The main lessons of this archetype involve mastering self-discipline, cultivating resilience in the face of challenges, and understanding the value of hard work and perseverance . Capricorn energy encourages individuals to build solid foundations, both in their personal and professional lives, and to take a strategic and patient approach to achieving success. This archetype teaches the importance of responsibility, integrity, and the gradual climb toward one's aspirations, embodying the wisdom that enduring challenges with determination lead to lasting accomplishments and a sense of self-mastery. Capricorn Key Words: discipline ambition responsibility resilience determination practicality patience tradition integrity success You can use these key words to help you think about your goals or intentions for this month, or to help you write affirmations for this month. It is no wonder that we collectively feel motivated and inspired to create lofty goals for our future success at the New Year! It is not only the beginning of a new month and a new calendar year, but it falls right near the middle of the time the Sun is in Capricorn (Tropical) Capricorn Introspection: As you look ahead for the new year, and for the coming month, it may be beneficial to get specific with some intentions and goals specifically related to the lessons and archetype of Capricorn.  Below are some questions to journal with to help you determine what kind of goals you want to set at this time: What is your definition of success? What will success look like in your life? (be specific!) What is your highest ambition for this year? What are some practical steps that you can take to work toward your ambitions and success? Who are the wise elders or leaders in your family or tradition or field of interest that you can learn from - and what are some specific ways you can learn from them? In what ways do you need to be more disciplined or responsible as you work toward your goals? What specific habits can you work on building that increase your discipline or resilience? SMART Goals: Once you have a goal or two that you want to focus on working on, you can use the SMART model for helping to make these goals more specific and attainable. S  - Specific - what is your specific desired outcome? What needs to be accomplished, and who needs to do each task? M  - Measurable - how can you measure and track your progress?  Can you break it down into smaller steps that can be placed on a checklist?  Is this goal something you can mark as "done" on a daily to-do list? Can you measure your progress in some other way? A - Achievable - is this goal realistic? Can you reasonably accomplish this task or do you need to scale it back? What support will we need to help us attain this goal? We want to dream big, but be reasonable so you aren't setting yourself up for failure and disappointment. Your expectations should align with reality so that you aren't demanding super-human strength from an average human, but you aren't under-setting the goal with child-appropriate expectations for adults.   R  - Relevant - is this goal relevant to the big picture?  Think over your long term goals for success.  Does this goal align with your desires and help you?  Is this goal relevant to your current life situation?  Make sure you aren't wasting time working on something that is not relevant to your big picture. T  - Time-Bound.  This goal needs a deadline or a schedule.  Do you have a deadline for when you want to be finished?  Or is this a "do this three times a week" or "do this every day" type of goal?  What are the boundaries of time that are placed on this goal that will keep you accountable?

At the time of Solstices and Equinoxes, I like to give a bit of a refresher course on how Tropical Astrology aligns with these Seasonal Points of the Year. Many Astrology books leave this out, and the result is that we have Astrologers who have learned Tropical Astrology without understanding its fundamental roots; The Tropical Year is all about the Equinoxes and Solstices. When you understand this, you understand why the seasons of the sun do not align with the constellations that they were named after, and you can allow yourself to see Tropical Astrology as less connected to the constellations and more connected to the earth and our experience of the seasons and the length of day and night. Then, when people ask you why the signs are not aligned with the planets in Tropical Astrology the way they are in Sidereal Astrology, you will be able to explain that it is because Tropical Astrology is not about the constellations - it is about the tilt of the earth and our subsequent seasons. In the system of Tropical Astrology, we do not link the solar months (Astrological Seasons of the Sun) with stars or constellations. We mark the beginning of Astrological Seasons with the Solstices and Equinoxes - and then divide each season into three solar months. the division of signs into seasonal quarters in Tropical Astrology In Tropical Astrology, each Astrological Season begins with either a Solstice or an Equinox, to which we give the designated point of Sun at 0° of a Cardinal Sign. Each Cardinal Sign marks the beginning of an Astrological Season. The middle of the Astrological Season holds the Fixed sign, and the end of an Astrological Season holds the Mutable sign. Thus, we have our Astrological Wheel of the Year with 12 Solar Months, divided into Four Astrological Seasons with three signs each. It does not matter what stars or constellations are aligned with the Sun at the beginning of each tropical season - because Tropical Astrology relates to these seasonal points in our earthly experience. In this system, Capricorn will always be the beginning of Winter in the Northern Hemisphere, regardless of the drift of constellations. Please note, this is not an argument against Sidereal Astrology or systems that use Sidereal Astrology such as Vedic Astrology. These are ancient and wise systems of Astrology that have great value. Sidereal Astrology does  take into account the sun's alignment with constellations for their solar seasons and I am not saying it is wrong to do this! I am explaining that Tropical Astrology is a completely different system and it would be unfair to claim that one is better than the other or that one is "right" and the other is wrong. I have encountered enough people learning and engaging with Tropical Astrology who don't fully understand how it differs from Sidereal, and my purpose here is to help those people understand the basis of the Tropical System. Now, when someone says to you, "But the moon isn't even next to the constellation of Capricorn today - my star app shows that it is in the constellation of Sagittarius right now, your astrology can't be right!" - you will have the knowledge and tools to explain to them that Tropical Astrology is not linked to the constellations and why. This foundational understanding of Tropical Astrology will also help you understand why in Tropical Astrology there will always only be 12 signs. A 13th Sign does not work in this system, and claims of a 13th sign are always based on constellations; this very premise does not apply to Tropical Astrology. Let's take a Look at the Tropical Astrological Calendar: The Winter Solstice  (Northern Hemisphere) Sun at 0° Capricorn  (Tropical Astrology) Sun's ray's are more directly aimed at the Tropic of Capricorn. The Astrological Winter Quarter begins. In Tropical Astrology, we align the beginning of Capricorn Season with the Winter Solstice - the longest night of the year and the time that the earth is tilted in such a way that the Northern Hemisphere is tipped farthest away from the sun, and the sun is more fully aligned with the Tropic of Capricorn  - a line marking the midway point between the equator and the Antarctic Circle. At this time, the Southern Hemisphere is experiencing their Summer Solstice and their longest day, while the Northern Hemisphere is experiencing their Winter Solstice and their longest night. An illustration of the tilt of the Earth at the time of the Northern Hemisphere's Winter Solstice, illustrating the sun's most direct rays are reaching the Tropic of Capricorn. From the point of Winter Solstice forward, the tilt of the earth will gradually and slowly change, tilting the southern hemisphere farther away from the sun and the northern hemisphere gradually tilting back towards the sun. There will be three Astrological Solar Months between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox - these are Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. About three months after the Winter Solstice, the earth has tilted back into a more "Upright" position andthe sun's rays will be more aligned with the Equator , and the length of day and night in both hemispheres will be equal; this is the Spring Equinox. An illustration showing the tilt of the earth at the time of Equinox At the date of the Spring Equinox, this is when Tropical Astrology marks the beginning of Aries Season - the sun is considered to be at 0° Aries and the Astrological Spring Quarter Begins. The Spring Equinox  (Northern Hemisphere) Sun at 0° Aries  (Tropical Astrology) Sun's ray's are more directly aimed at the Equator. The Astrological Spring Quarter Begins There will be three Astrological Solar Months between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice: Aries, Taurus, and Gemini. After the Equinox, the tilt of the earth continues to gradually change, shifting to tilt the Northern Hemisphere towards the sun and the Southern Hemisphere away from it. In about three months after the Spring Equinox, the Northern Hemisphere will experience the Summer Solstice. This is the longest day of the year and the time that the earth is tilted in such a way that the Northern Hemisphere is tipped closest to the sun, and the sun is more fully aligned with the Tropic of Cancer  - a line marking the midway point between the equator and the Arctic Circle. At this time, the Southern Hemisphere is experiencing their Winter Solstice and their shortest day, while the Northern Hemisphere is experiencing their Summer Solstice and their longest day. An illustration showing the tilt of the earth at the time of the Northern Hemisphere's Summer Solstice In Tropical Astrology, we align the beginning of Cancer Season with the Summer Solstice. We will give the Sun the zodiac degree of 0 degrees Cancer (regardless of what constellation the sun is aligned with) The Summer Solstice  (Northern Hemisphere) Sun at 0° Cancer ( Tropical Astrology) Sun's Ray's are most directly aimed at the Tropic of Cancer. The Astrological Summer Quarter Begins The Astrological Summer quarter contains three solar months: Cancer, Leo, and Virgo. From the point of the Summer Solstice, the tilt of the earth will gradually begin to it's tilt back towards a more upright position, where it will find its way back to another Equinox about three months after the Summer Solstice. An illustration of the tilt of the earth at the time of the Fall Equinox At the date of the Fall Equinox, this is when Tropical Astrology marks the beginning of Libra Season - the sun is considered to be at 0° Libra and the Astrological Fall Quarter Begins. The Autumn Equinox  (Northern Hemisphere) Sun at 0° Libra  (Tropical Astrology) Sun's ray's are most directly aimed at the Equator. The Astrological Fall Quarter Begins There will be three Astrological Solar Months in this quarter: Libra, Scorpio, and Sagittarius. Through this season, the tilt of the earth continues to change, bringing us back to another Winter Solstice and the cycle begins again. An Illustration of the Seasonal Division of Signs in Tropical Astrology So When is the Beginning of the Year? In a Circular Wheel of Time, it is always hard to decide when the "beginning" is.  When is the "New Year" when so many different cultures and religions celebrate it at different times? Our Western Calendar has the New Year at January 1, about a week and a half after the Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemsiphere. Some people may choose to celebrate the Solstice itself as their New Year. Others may choose to celebrate New Year at Imbolc, or at the first New Moon after the Solstice. There are even some who celebrate the New Year at Samhain. Personally, I like to celebrate New beginnings all the time!  The Equinoxes and Solstices mark Four distinct beginnings through the solar year - and the start of each season is a great time for us to celebrate a new start.  And then we have a new start with the beginning of each Lunar Month at the New Moon, and a new start at the beginning of each new day when we wake up! Neo-Pagan Sabbats The concept of 8 Sabbats marking the Solar Festivals of the Year hasn't been uniformly celebrated by any one group in history until the modern era, but we can find historical reference marking celebrations close to these Solar Points of the year throughout many cultures and many times. Our modern day "Wheel of The Year" has combined the important seasonal points of Tropical Astrology with a variety of folk traditions and festivals found around the world (though primarily in European Folk Traditions). We know that some of the names of these seasons have been invented ( or appropriated ) in modern times and are not fully traditional names for these celebrations found in history, but these names nonetheless seem to have stuck and we can each choose whether to use these names or call them something else. Whether or not you are bringing in traditions and folklore from these various traditions or not, you can still celebrate the Tropical Astrological dates as relevant and important if you wish to track the changing of seasons and the impact these changes have on your modern life. An illustration of the Modern Neo-Pagan Wheel of The Year For the Northern Hemisphere these astrological festivals are every six weeks and they are: Winter Solstice - Sun at 0° Capricorn: The beginning of Astrological Winter, also known as Yule Mid Winter - Sun a 15° Aquarius: The middle of Astrological Winter, also known as Imbolc Spring Equinox - Sun at 0° Aries: The beginning of Astrological Spring, also known as Ostara Mid-Spring - Sun at 15° Taurus: The middle of Astrological Spring, also known as Beltane Summer Solstice - Sun at 0° Cancer: The beginning of Astrological Summer, also known as Litha Mid-Summer - Sun at 15° Leo: The middle of Astrological Summer, also known as Lammas Fall Equinox - Sun a 0° Libra: The beginning of Astrological Fall, also known as Mabon Mid-Autumn - Sun at 15° Scorpio: The middle of Astrological Fall, also known as Samhain I made this graphic below for stuy notes within my own neo pagan magical tradition - certain parts might not apply to your practice but it is another way of viewing the Astrological Year - a Light Half and a Dark Half. Again, these apply to the Northern Hemisphere. An alternate illustration of the Wheel of The Year, as a Light Half and Dark Half for the Northern Hemisphere a table outlining the Sabbats Notice that the Quarters are the Solstice and Equinox points, celebrated at the beginning of a Cardinal month, and Cross-Quarters are the middle of a season, celebrated in the middle of a Fixed month. Also notice how the celebrations can be seen as pairs - each six months apart; Yule & Litha (Winter Solstice and Summer Solstice) Capricorn & Cancer - Cardinal Signs, six months apart Imbolc & Lammas (Mid Winter and Mid Summer) Aquarius & Leo - Fixed Signs, six months apart Ostara & Mabon (Spring Equinix and Fall Equinox) Aries & Libra - Cardinal Signs, six months apart Beltane & Samhain (Mid Spring and Mid Fall) Taurus & Scorpio - Fixed Signs, six months apart ------- I hope you find this helpful in understanding Tropical Astrology and the seasonal celebrations of the Wheel of The Year! May you find many blessings in the next turn of the wheel, and many reasons to celebrate!

Mars generally spends about two months traveling through each sign, and it takes around 2 years to move through all 12 signs of the zodiac wheel. Mars retrogrades occur every other year, and last from 8 to 11 weeks. The last Mars retrograde we experienced was in late 2022, in the sign of Gemini (tropical). MARS Mars is named after the Roman God of War, known to the Greeks as Ares.  To the Ancient Romans, Mars is the principle masculine Deity of warfare, but also a protector (protector of crops and herds) and the God of Dance.  Mars was also called; The Warlike One, The Spear, The Watchful One, Protector of the Fields, and Lord of The Measured Pace.  The Ancient Greeks also had many epithets for Ares; The Mighty One, Giver of Courage, Upholder of Law, The Leveler, and Inspirer of Daring Deeds. Energetically, Mars rules over Aggression, Courage, Strength, Battle, Competition, Action, Passion, Sex Drive, Stamina, Martial Arts, Leadership.  Mars represents the force of ego in action; man's willpower expressed outwardly upon the world around him.  Mars is one's fighting spirit; the desire to succeed.  It represents the dynamic forces of both destruction and creation, and the trancendence of personal desires into reality.  " Mars represent the force of life expressing itself into the external world.  One needs a relatively strong Mars in their horoscope in order to have the courage, stamina, and physical energy to meet with life's difficulties and pressures ."  - Alan Oken Mars is considered a powerful and assertive planet, associated with energy, motivation, and the pursuit of individual desires. It is named after the Roman god of war, and represents courage, vitality, and a strong determination to take action. Mars has a significant influence on how we assert ourselves, pursue our goals, and express our passions. It is often linked to our physical energy and how we approach life's challenges, symbolizing the force that drives us forward.  Mars can be seen as the planet of our basic animal instincts and drives for survival, as well as the motivational force that energizes us to push through challenges and the courage to face adversity.  The more passionate we feel about something, the more driven we are to fight to attain or protect that thing.  Mars can be representative of the strength of our willpower and the spark that ignites our projective and active modes of operation.  This fiery and passionate energy is also what drives our aggression, anger, and our combative or competitive nature.  The energy of Mars can be useful when we need it, but it can also be destructive and harmful if it is wielded carelessly or selfishly.  Mars is brave and motivational, but also represents the part of human nature which is combative, aggressive, and competitive. Mars Retrograde:  Dec 7, 2024 - Feb 23, 2025 Mars retrograde is a transit that prompts a rethinking and reevaluation of how we assert ourselves, pursue goals, and manage our energy. Mars, the planet of action, drive, and ambition, typically encourages forward momentum and decisive action, but during its retrograde period, its outward expression is slowed or reversed. This can result in feelings of frustration, delays in achieving goals, or difficulty expressing anger or passion effectively. The lesson of Mars retrograde is to take a step back and reassess how we channel our energy and whether our actions align with our true intentions. It’s a time to address unresolved conflicts, refine strategies, and conserve energy for when Mars turns direct, ensuring future efforts are more focused and purposeful. When Mars is retrograde: Delays to action, things moving slowly, goals take longer to achieve False starts, trouble with getting things started or taking initiative Lacking awareness of the needs of others; Selfishness, self-centered Indecisive; lacking confidence that is needed to make choices Impulsiveness: frustration with things taking slowly pushing you to make impulsive choices or alter course in a wreckless manner. Accidents and Injuries as a result of rushing around or being impulsive and wreckless resistance to compromise or collaboration having a "mean streak" or a "short fuse" Look to your birth chart and find the houses that are ruled by Aries and Scorpio. These houses are Ruled by Mars, and you may notice some themes or challenges of the Mars retrograde will manifest in the areas of life that correspond with those houses in your birth chart. Additionally, this Mars retrograde will take place in the signs of Leo and Cancer, so there will be themes of this retrograde relating to those signs. Mars in Leo: Nov 3 - Jan 6 When Mars transits through Leo, it fuels us with boldness, confidence, and a desire for creative self-expression. Mars, the planet of action and drive, aligns with Leo’s passion and charisma to inspire us to pursue our goals with flair and enthusiasm. This transit encourages us to lead with our hearts, taking bold steps to make a mark or showcase our unique talents. The archetype of Mars in Leo is the "performer" or "champion," representing courage, pride, and the willingness to stand out. The lessons of Mars in Leo focus on self-confidence, the importance of authenticity, and the power of bringing our creative visions to life. This transit reminds us to embrace life with passion, to pursue goals that resonate with our true selves, and to lead with a joyful, generous spirit. While Mars in Leo brings confidence and creativity, it can also lead to stubbornness, ego-driven actions, and a need for validation that may overshadow collaboration. This energy can manifest as an inclination toward dramatics or pride, making it difficult to accept criticism or compromise, especially when personal recognition is at stake. Mars is emboldened by Leo and it can have people feeling overly sure of themselves, deeply competitive, and triggered to anger when not feeling validated or recognized for their efforts. The tarot card that corresponds with Mars in Leo is the 7 of Wands - this card can represent some of the lessons and energy that will be present with Mars Retrograde in Leo. Mars Retrograde in Leo:  Dec 7 - Jan 6 For the first month of the Mars Retrograde, it remains in the sign of Leo. When Mars retrograde occurs in Leo, the energy for reevaluation centers around creativity, self-expression, and personal leadership. Leo, a sign associated with confidence, passion, and the desire to shine, typically amplifies Mars' assertive qualities. However, during the retrograde, this vibrant energy can feel stifled, leading to self-doubt or frustration in areas where you seek recognition or want to take bold action. This transit challenges individuals to reconsider how they express their individuality and whether their ambitions truly align with their authentic selves. The lesson is to reconnect with your inner sense of purpose and reignite your passion in a sustainable way. It’s an opportunity to refine creative projects, strengthen your sense of self-worth, and practice patience as you prepare to step forward with renewed clarity and strength once Mars turns direct. The retrograde is taking place in the first decan of Leo which relates to the Five of Wands. This is another cards that can be examined for additional insight into the lessons of Mars retrograde in Leo for the period of December 7 through January 6. Mars retrograde in Leo will form opposition with planets in the early degrees of Aquarius, and it will form square aspects with planets in the early degrees of Scorpion and Taurus. You may wish to look at these sections of your birth chart to see what kind of challenges this retrograde might bring to you. Mars in Cancer:   Jan 6 - April 18, 2025 Mars was previously in the sign of Cancer from Sept 4 - Nov 3, 2024. It will return to this sign during the retrograde in 2025. Mars, the planet of action, drive, and ambition, typically encourages direct and bold behavior, while Cancer, a water sign, is associated with emotions, home, and nurturing. When Mars transits Cancer, our actions and motivations become closely tied to our feelings, family, and need for security. This transit can lead to protective and defensive behavior, as well as a strong desire to care for loved ones or defend personal boundaries. Mars is "Fallen" in the sign of Cancer, in opposition to Capricorn where it is exalted. Fallen Mars struggles to assert itself in the sign of Cancer, where empathy, emotion, and compassion are prioritized. The lesson of Mars in Cancer is to learn how to channel assertive energy in a way that respects emotional needs and prioritizes the well-being of oneself and others. It's a time to balance action with empathy, using passion to support and protect rather than to confront or compete. Mars Retrograde in Cancer: January 6 - Feb 23, 2025 When Mars retrograde occurs in Cancer, the energy for reevaluation shifts to themes of emotional expression, home, and security. Cancer, a nurturing and intuitive sign, influences Mars’ usual assertiveness, channeling its drive into protecting loved ones and maintaining emotional stability. During the retrograde, this energy can feel stifled or misdirected, leading to frustration, passive-aggressive tendencies, or difficulty asserting personal needs. The transit challenges individuals to revisit how they handle emotions and address conflicts, especially within family or domestic settings. The lesson of Mars retrograde in Cancer is to cultivate patience and find healthy ways to express emotions and assert boundaries. It’s a time to strengthen your emotional foundation, revisit old family dynamics, and realign your actions with your deepest sense of security and care. Mars is already "Fallen" in this sign, so the difficulties of Mars in Cancer are likely to be amplified during this retrograde period. Mars will primarily retrograde in the third decan of Cancer - and this section of Cancer corresponds with the 4 of Cups in tarot. This card can possibly offer more insight into the retrograde period of Mars in Cancer. Mars in Cancer will form oppositions to planets in the late degrees of Capricorn, and make square aspects with planets in the late degrees of Aries and Libra. You may wish to look at these areas of your birth chart to find how the Mars retrograde might impact you. ----------- As always, you can contact me to schedule a one-on-one Astrology Reading! I am happy to schedule a transit reading in which we can specifically look at and interpret this Mars retrograde as it applies to your birth chart! email me at hestiasmuse@gmail.com to schedule your reading! The current holiday special gives 20% off the usual price for this reading - so if you book before the end of December it is only $57!

It is time for the Mutable Fire Season of the Zodiacal Year!The sun entered Sagittarius in Tropical Astrology on November 21 at 11:55 am PDT / 2:55 pm EDT. Sagittarius is the Mutable Fire sign of the Zodiac, the 9th sign of the Astrological year.  It is ruled by Jupiter and the symbol of Sagittarius is The Archer or The Centaur.  In the Northern Hemisphere, Sagittarius season brings the end of Autumn, ending just before the Winter Solstice. (Though through weather patterns and holidays many of us think of this time of year as Winter - in Astrology the Winter Quarter begins with Capricorn season on the Winter Solstice.  Keep in mind an Astrological season is not about weather patterns as much as it is about the sun's journey along the ecliptic and the tilt of the earth causing solstice and equinox points, which mark the beginnings of each astrological season) Sagittarius energy relates to the search for wisdom and knowledge, having beliefs and ideals, higher education, adventure, and long distance travel.  The key phrase for Sagittarius is "I understand".  Sagittarius is the part of us that seeks understanding and wisdom - which are beyond simple knowledge and learning.  We can learn and "know things" but true wisdom and understanding comes from experience - which is often gained from adventure, travel, or seeking out teachers and gurus. We can break down the nature of Sagittarius energy like this: A Fire Sign : Impulsiveness, Drive, and Adventure seeking. A Mutable Sign : A willingness or desire for change, or resistance to stagnation. Ruled by Jupiter : planet of expansiveness, growth, knowledge, beliefs, and justice. Polarity Point: Gemini.   The sign that is opposite from Sagittarius in the Wheel is Gemini. We can learn a lot about signs when we learn about them as interconnected pairs; Sagittarius and Gemini learn from each other and balance each other out. The Full Moon in Sagittarius Season will be in the sign of Gemini. Key Phrase:  I UNDERSTAND, or I SEEK UNDERSTANDING Key Words:  Adventure, Aspiration, Beliefs, Carefree, Education, Enthusiastic, Expansive, Freedom-Seeking, Higher Learning, Honest, Idealistic, Jovial, Judgmental, Justice-Seeking, Knowledge-Seeking, Optimistic, Philosophical, Questioning, Spontaneous, Tolerant, Truth-Seeking, Versatile Jupiter Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system and symbolizes expansion, abundance, and the principle of growth. Often referred to as the "Great Benefic," Jupiter exudes an optimistic and generous energy. It rules over the higher mind, philosophy, and beliefs, encouraging individuals to seek wisdom and a broader understanding of life. Jupiter's influence is associated with luck, opportunities, and a sense of abundance, inspiring individuals to reach for higher goals and embrace a more expansive view of the world. In an astrological chart, Jupiter's placement is seen as a source of enthusiasm, optimism, and a desire for meaningful experiences. It encourages a spirit of exploration, both intellectually and experientially, fostering a sense of purpose and an openness to the possibilities that life has to offer.  Overall, Jupiter embodies the principle of abundance, inspiring individuals to reach for their highest aspirations and explore the boundless possibilities that the universe has to offer. The Sagittarius Archetype The archetype of Sagittarius invites societies and cultures to embrace diversity, seek truth, and approach life with a positive and open-minded attitude. It is expansive in the sense that the search for knowledge and adventure will bring new experiences and broaden your perspective. When you interact with people who are from different places and cultures or with different life experiences, your understanding of the world grows and expands beyond your own personal experiences. When you travel to new places you experience first hand the way that things are different - and the ways that things are the same, developing a more informed world view. The lessons imparted by Sagittarian transits involve fostering a spirit of adventure, embracing different belief systems, and understanding that wisdom can be found in various forms. It encourages societies to value honesty, humor, and a generous outlook, promoting a collective journey towards a more expansive and enlightened worldview. Think of Sagittarius as the archer, a fitting metaphor for those who love envisioning their future and targeting their life's desires. What better time to set your sights on personal goals and dreams than during the New Moon in Sagittarius? This sign, governed by Jupiter, embodies the skilled archer—a symbol of advanced education aiming directly at their desired target. Imagine an archer on a mountaintop, wise in knowing when to release their arrows and when to hold back. Extensive travel and learning contribute to their broad worldview, aiding in goal-setting and strategic bow release. Sagittarius signifies higher education, travel, the pursuit of masters or gurus, and eventual mastery and teaching. With expanded knowledge, the world unfolds in new and exciting ways—a symbol of seeking, learning, and teaching. Reflect on your journey this year; you've traversed significant ground and absorbed valuable lessons. Now is the time to apply the wisdom gained to craft the ideal future you desire. What do you genuinely want, embodying true optimism? Identify what more you need to learn, see, or experience to reach your dreams. Consider additional education and the guidance of teachers or gurus. Are you ready to step into the role of a teacher and mentor others? Sagittarius season encourages reflection and growth as you navigate your path forward. Sagittarius Season is a great time to commit to your journey of learning a philosophy or spiritual topic. If you wish to seek greater understanding of your Birth Chart or a specific Astrological Transit, I can help! email me to schedule an Astrology Reading! I also offer monthly mentorship sessions through my Patreon if you are ready to take the next step in your study of Astrology!

"I intend to put up with nothing I can put down."  ~ E A Poe.  What does this phrase mean to you?  The Poe Tarot has chosen this quote for the Temperance card. Temperance is traditionally a card of balance and moderation, reminding us that all things must be limited in some way: the dose is the difference between medicine and poison.  In the letter in which Poe is quoted to have said this, he is responding to a fan who had written to him to "warn" him of negative reviews being published about his work. Poe thanks him for alerting him of the negative publications, stating "It is always desirable to know who are our enemies, and what are the nature of their attacks."  However, Poe continues by stating that he isn't too worried, and that he is ready to dismiss the complaints as easily as he can put down the paper and walk away from it. Why should we carry around the insults or criticisms of strangers or of those who we do not respect? What does it matter if someone does not enjoy your work, your art, your efforts?  With the lessons of Temperance combined with this Poe quote, we can be reminded to take the criticism and insults of others all in balance and moderation.  Is there something we can learn from our critics? Of course! Do we need to carry the burden or worry or fear of these enemies around, beyond taking the constructive criticism that helps us grow? Take the medicinal dose of what you need for your growth, and then put down the remainder that would be poison to your wellbeing.  Take note of who you can trust, and who your enemies are, and then proceed with your life with this knowledge added to how you move forward.  Put up with nothing you can put down - and only respond when necessary - not because you are bothered, but because you are Wise. As we begin Sagittarius Season, I am inspired to work with The Temperance Card and meditate upon it's many potential lessons. Today I felt called to work with The Poe Tarot by Trisha Leigh Shufelt and to share some of my thoughts with you. I hope that if you have found this post, you are encouraged or inspired by this message. For full context of Poe's letter which includes this quote - https://www.eapoe.org/works/letters/p3908080.htm Do you want a Tarot Card Reading for Sagittarius Season? I have a variety of readings you can order here https://forms.gle/gwCKLfMY711xqXTGA

Pluto enters Aquarius: Nov 19 It is finally here - Pluto has officially exited the sign of Capricorn for the last time in our lives, and will now be in the sign of Aquarius until 2043! Pluto, the planet of transformation, regeneration, and uncovering hidden truths, moving through Aquarius—a sign associated with innovation, humanitarianism, and progressive ideals—brings a powerful shift toward rethinking societal structures, our approach to technology, and our concepts of power and freedom. This transit encourages deep change in how we view communities, equality, and individual rights, often leading to revolutions in social norms, governance, and the way we connect as a global society. However, Pluto’s transformative energy can be intense and uncomfortable, as it challenges existing systems and forces us to confront outdated structures that no longer serve the collective good. The lessons of Pluto in Aquarius involve learning to balance individual freedom with the welfare of the group, questioning who holds power and why, and embracing a more inclusive, forward-thinking approach to building communities. This transit asks us to reimagine a future where technology and innovation serve humanity, where diverse voices are empowered, and where collective progress becomes a transformative force for all. Pluto's transit through Aquarius is a significant astrological event that affects society as a whole rather than individuals in a personal way. It is a time of collective transformation, challenging outdated structures and systems and ushering in a new era of innovation and social progress. Aquarius is concerned with Social Dynamics, Humanitarianism, Invention, and Technology.  All of these areas relate to the Aquarian desire for and Ideal and more Perfect world, in which all people have the ultimate Freedom.  Thus, inventiveness and technological advances seek to free people from hardship of labor and lack.  Humanitarianism and Social Advancements seek to free people from oppressive ideologies or governments, and provide equity and freedom to everyone.  Pluto is a planet of Change, Transformation, Power, Intensity, and the Soul of Humanity.  As Pluto moves through Aquarius it will challenge and change the Power Structures that relate to Social Dynamics and the Aquarian Ideal.   The last time Pluto was in Aquarius was the years 1777 - 1798. This was the peak of the Industrial Revolution with massive changes in machinery and technology that changed human life dramatically. It was also a period of many social revolutions which included the French Revolution (1789 - 1799), the Haitian Revolution (1791 - 1804), and the Irish Rebellion (1798). Key Themes and Potential Impacts: Technological Advancements:  Aquarius is associated with technology, innovation, and the future. Pluto's transit through this sign can bring about rapid advancements in technology and communication. There are a lot of predictions already about massive changes related to AI and Computing, as well as changes to travel modes that include flight and space travel. Social and Political Upheaval:  This transit can be a time of social and political upheaval, as people challenge outdated systems and demand change. Social Justice movements will rise in response to old our outdated systems from the past, as Aquarius is a sign associated with Advancement and Freedom. Collective Consciousness:  Pluto in Aquarius can awaken a collective consciousness, inspiring people to work together for the greater good, or fight for change against systems of oppression. Humanitarian Efforts:  This transit may foster a greater focus on humanitarian issues, as people become more aware of the interconnectedness of humanity. Environmental Awareness:  Aquarius is also associated with the environment, and Pluto's transit through this sign can increase awareness of environmental issues and inspire collective action. As Aquarius is an Air sign we may see more drastic changes to wind storms, air currents, and air temperature changes causing different or unique storm patterns due to climate change. There will be so much more to explore as Pluto moves through Aquarius for the next 19 years, and we will learn so much from this transit. Some of which will be predicted by astrologers, but so much more will be revealed to us all as time passes. Personal Transits: Pluto in Aquarius will impact all of us globally, but it will have a more direct personal impact for some people more than others. Those who will notice the strongest personal impact are people with personal planets in your birth chart in the Fixed Signs; Aquarius, Leo, Scorpio, and Taurus. There will also be some notable impact for people with personal planets in the birth chart in the Air Signs: Aquarius, Libra, Gemini. The generation of Pluto in Scorpio will experience the transit of Pluto Square Pluto at some point during the Pluto in Aquarius Transit. This is generally seen as a period of intense upheaval and change - a "Dark Night of the Soul" that forces introspection and encourages you to release the identity of the past that does not serve your true authentic purpose in life. Overall, this transit is slow moving, so some of you with these placements will still not have these transits for another 10 to 15 years. The first round of Pluto in Aquarius Transits are going to impact those who have planets in the FIRST DECAN of the Fixed signs and Air Signs - so look to see if your planets in those signs are within the first ten degrees. Pluto will travel through the first ten degrees of Aquarius from now through the end of the year 2030. If you want to take a deeper look at how Pluto in Aquarius might impact you personally, contact me to schedule your Pluto in Astrology Reading! On special through the end of 2024! email hestiasmuse@gmail.com  to book your Pluto Transit Reading for just $60 if scheduled before the end of 2024! AstroCartomancy of the Pluto in Aquarius Transit: Pluto corresponds with the Tarot card Judgement.  Aquarius corresponds with the Tarot card The Star. The first decan of Aquarius, where Pluto will be from now through November 29, 2030 - corresponds with the Five of Swords. The court card associated with Aquarius is the King of Swords (although there may be different court card associations found elsewhere) Judgement: The Judgement card in Tarot represents a powerful moment of awakening, transformation, and self-evaluation. It symbolizes a time of reckoning, where we are called to take stock of our past actions, accept responsibility, and make peace with the choices we’ve made. This card often signals a turning point, where clarity and insight lead to renewal and a deeper understanding of one’s purpose. It invites us to release guilt, forgive ourselves and others, and embrace a sense of rebirth as we move forward with newfound wisdom. While the energy of Judgement can be intense, it ultimately leads to liberation and spiritual growth, urging us to step into our higher calling and align with our authentic selves. The challenges of this card lie in facing our truths honestly and having the courage to let go of what no longer serves us, but the reward is a profound sense of freedom and transformation. The Judgement card is deeply connected to the energy of Pluto, the planet of transformation, rebirth, and uncovering hidden truths. Like Judgement, Pluto’s energy is intense and uncompromising, bringing profound change and encouraging us to confront the deeper layers of our psyche. Pluto rules over themes of death and rebirth, much like the symbolic “resurrection” depicted in the Judgement card, where individuals rise from their past selves into a new phase of existence. Both Pluto and the Judgement card remind us that growth often requires letting go of what is stagnant or outdated, pushing us to evolve through self-awareness and surrender. The connection between the two lies in their shared message of powerful transformation, uncovering truth, and moving beyond the limitations of the past to embrace a more authentic and purposeful path. Together, they guide us through the process of deep self-reflection and the eventual empowerment that comes from facing and embracing change. The Star: The Star card in Tarot symbolizes hope, inspiration, and renewal, often arriving as a beacon of light after a challenging period. It represents a time of healing, optimism, and reconnecting with a sense of purpose and faith in the future. The Star encourages us to dream big, trust in the guidance of the universe, and believe in our ability to manifest our highest aspirations. It speaks to a deep inner alignment with creativity, spirituality, and authenticity, urging us to stay open to possibilities and embrace a sense of calm and clarity. However, its challenges lie in the need to maintain hope and trust when outcomes aren’t immediately clear, requiring patience and perseverance. The lessons of The Star remind us to focus on our inner light, nurture self-belief, and allow ourselves to be inspired by the beauty and potential of life, even in the face of uncertainty. The Star card is closely associated with the zodiac sign of Aquarius, as both reflect themes of vision, inspiration, and connection to the greater good. Aquarius is a forward-thinking, humanitarian sign that values innovation, individuality, and the pursuit of progress, aligning perfectly with The Star’s energy of hope and purpose. Just as The Star inspires us to align with our authentic selves and aspire to higher ideals, Aquarius urges us to think beyond personal limitations and work toward a brighter, more inclusive future. Both the card and the sign emphasize creativity, freedom, and a connection to universal truths, encouraging us to trust our unique path while contributing positively to the collective. Together, The Star and Aquarius remind us that personal growth and vision have the power to inspire and uplift not only ourselves but also the world around us. Five of Swords: The Five of Swords is a tarot card that represents conflict and tension. It depicts a figure holding three swords, with two swords lying on the ground. This card symbolizes a victory that comes at a cost, reminding us that winning over others may lead to strained relationships. It encourages us to examine our motives and actions, and consider the consequences of our victories. The Five of Swords highlights the potential pitfalls of ruthless ambition and the importance of finding peaceful resolutions. It prompts us to reflect on the ethical implications of our choices and the value of fairness.  This card is about self-interest and how we can balance our own concerns with those of others. If we view ourselves as individuals separate from the community, our interests become limited to only how we can serve ourselves. However, we are all connected, and what we do to the world, we do to ourselves. This understanding is fundamental, but we often forget it in our day-to-day lives. The Five of Swords reminds us to consider the bigger picture and strive for harmony rather than fueling discord.  Remember that with the Fives in the tarot there is always a choice , and the outcome of the image on the card will change drastically depending on what choice is made. The Figure in the card can see the suffering of others, and with compassion he can choose to go help them and comfort them, or he can choose to collect his swords and go about his business, caring only for himself.   You can review my podcast episode about The Five of Swords here: https://youtu.be/o7T2behIdqE?si=yF-hpvmRwwbAhAzT Note - the Five of Swords is the tarot card for the first leg of Pluto's journey through Aquarius, from now through 2030. In December of 2030, this will shift to the Six of Swords, and then in late 2036 it will shift again to the Seven of Swords. We can look at these tarot cards to help give more context for our study and predictions on the focus of Pluto in Aquarius Lessons. How do these cards inform your understanding of this transit, and what changes do you think Pluto in Aquarius will be bringing us? The Age of Aquarius? This phrase gets thrown around a lot when there are any major transits in the sign of Aquarius. Pluto in Aquarius does not mark the beginning of "The Age of Aquarius" - although we might very well be in the beginning of the Age of Aquarius, the movements of Pluto do not correspond with the begging of an Age. People have argued for a long time about when the Age of Aquarius officially begins - and well; the jury is still out on that one.  The entry of Pluto into Aquarius on November 19 was not  the definitive beginning of the Age of Aquarius.  This is because the beginning or ending of an Astrological Age has nothing to do with planets aligning in a sign.  The Ages are marked by the point of the Vernal Equinix aligning with a certain constellation. The Precession of the Equinoxes relates to the slow long term movement of the equinoxes aligning with different constellations - a Great Year that lasts approximately 25,920 years - with about 2,160 years per constellation.  An "Age" refers to the astrological period of about 2,160 years in which the spring equinoxes align with one constellation before moving to the next one.  The alignment of specific planets in the sign of Aquarius have nothing to do with an Astrological Age. However, because the constellations overlap somewhat in the night sky, and there is no clear definitive point in which one constellation ends and another begins - there are various beliefs among astrologers of when The Age of Aquarius begins.  The beginning of the next astrological Age will depend on when you believe the Age of Pisces began - and what you think The Age of Aquarius means energetically.  The general consensus is that we are in the end of the Age of Pisces AND the beginning of the Age of Aquarius - which - when you're talking about periods of time that last over 2,000 years; the "cusp" or "ingress" time can take a few hundred years and there is an energetic overlap.  Some believe that The Age of Aquarius began with the Industrial Revolution in the late 1700's.  Some believe the Age of Aquarius began in the late 1900's, while others believe it will not begin until the year 3573! My personal Conclusion is that the Age of Aquarius will begin around the year 2100. I feel that we are in the last 80 years of the Age of Pisces, and The Age of Aquarius will begin sometime at the end of this century.  In terms of Astrological Ages, 80 years isn't very long.... this would be akin to comparing the end of an Age to the end of one sign's season - so this next 80 years is like the last "day" of the "month" in a Great Year.  (If each Age is a "month" in the Great Year" - with each "month" being an Age that lasts about 2,160 years)  So we are very close, and I understand how some will feel that it has already begun - however - my main point is that the movement of Pluto into Aquarius not a marker for the beginning of this Age.  The Ages are not marked by planets in the signs - but by the alignment of the vernal equinox with constellations. I will personally cringe a little when I hear this called "The Age of Aquarius" - but I'm working on accepting that people find some comfort or meaning in calling it that while seeking to gently and kindly educate people on the true meaning of an Astrological Age. The Pluto in Aquarius ERA We can still see that the next 20 years will experience profound energy shifts related to the transit of Pluto in Aquarius. While it is not "The Age of Aquarius" - it is The Pluto in Aquarius Era  - just as the time period of 2008 through 2024 has been The Pluto in Capricorn Era. It is still a dynamic and profound cycle of time to be aware of, and to embrace and celebrate! It is a time of exciting change, revolutionary action, social justice, and technological advancements. While some of it will very likely be frightening and disturbing, I hope that the overall outcome is that we find greater unity and collective freedom. Pluto lessons are not the comfortable or "safe" kind of lessons, but Aquarius urges us to work towards collective resilience and advancement. Change is scary, and also necessary. In Life, growth is uncomfortable, but the alternative is to not grow or change, which is not life at all. If you want to take a deeper look at how Pluto in Aquarius might impact you personally, contact me to schedule your Pluto in Astrology Reading! On special through the end of 2024! email hestiasmuse@gmail.com  to book your Pluto Transit Reading for just $60 if scheduled before the end of 2024!

Uranus In Taurus Transmission: I have been meditating a lot recently on the transit of Uranus in the sign of Taurus. Uranus has been in the sign of Taurus since 2018 and remains here through 2025. Uranus is known as "The Great Awakener" and Taurus is a sign that corresponds with our Food. I have spent a lot of time over the past several years deconstructing my beliefs about food and health, and having my own "Awakening" about the Health and Wellness industry and I wanted to share my thoughts and research with you. This is not my usual type of content, and I'm not a doctor or an expert in health and wellness. I am an Astrologer and Tarot Card reader, and my main focus when I write is to bring my community advice for their spiritual and emotional wellbeing. However, I do know that there is quite a big crossover between those who are interested in metaphysical topics & spiritual wellness with the Health and Wellness community. As Spiritual people we tend to look at health and wellness in a holistic way - understanding that our physical health is connected to our spiritual wellbeing and vice versa. I myself am frequently researching health and wellness topics as I struggle to maintain my physical health while living in a country where I have limited access to proper healthcare. Through my personal experiences, I have often found myself online searching for Yoga and Exercise to help with chronic pain and hypermobility, as well as diets and food advice for helping me with Chronic Migraines, Perimenopause Symptoms, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, and more. Much to my dismay, I have found that searching these topics will often lead me into spaces that are full of misinformation and conspiracy theories - bumping up alongside or entering into realms of Ableism, Racism, Classism, Fatphobia, and a myriad of Toxic Positivity and Spiritual Bypassing practices. There are "Wellness Influencers" on social media with hundreds of thousands of followers that are promoting their "hot takes" on health and wellness trends while ignoring the scientific research that backs up the opposite of what they promote. Some of these influencers end up promoting flat-out dangerous practices or misinformation, and even the most educated people can end up falling for the hype as it spreads around social media. A lot of this is spread through fear. Fear of "chemicals", fear of Sunblock, "Big Pharma", pasteurized milk, vaccines, GMO's, and "Processed Foods" is rampant and prevalent among the people who also search for Astrology and Tarot content. In fact, the success of the Wellness Industry and the Wellness Influencers is dependent on keeping you afraid and paranoid - so they can sell you the solution to the problem that they invented or inflated. Common Misperceptions I have Encountered: Chemicals in Food are Bad! Why are all these Chemicals added to my food? - It is important to remember that "Chemical" is not synonymous with "Dangerous". The food labeling for a lot of foods in America requires that some foods are labeled with the chemical compounds of certain preservatives or additives. Preservatives and Additives are often added to help make the food shelf-stable (keeping it from going bad before it gets to the store shelf and then to your home), and the chemicals that are in these ingredients are not necessarily dangerous or harmful in the very small doses that are present in your food. Sometimes the chemical name of an ingredient is listed and it is scary sounding because we are not chemists and we do not recognize the name, but it is actually a very well known ingredient that we add to food ourselves when cooking! For example, "Tocopherols" are commonly known as Vitamin E - a group of fat-soluble organic compounds that act as antioxidants and are essential for human health. "When we think of chemicals it’s easy to think they’re artificial, human-made additions to our lives, rather than the foundation of our lives. Even things we may not think of as chemicals, like water, oxygen, sugar, protein, DNA are all examples of chemicals." https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/chemophobia-fearing-chemicals Sure, it is reasonable and healthy to look at the ingredients in your food, and it is acceptable to want food with less additives, but it is good to remember that not all "Chemicals" are some lab-created poison. Everything has a chemical makeup, including water and fruit and your own cells. *note - there are legitimate food allergies and sensitivities that require people to avoid certain ingredients and I am not disparaging or dismissing those struggles and realities. This post is about being aware of where we are getting our health information to avoid scams, grifts, and misinformation. If I want to be healthy I should avoid Processed Foods! - "Processed Food" is any food that has been altered in some way during preparation. Flour has been Processed because the wheat grain has had the chaff removed and it has been ground into a fine powder. Coconut Milk has been processed because it has been drained from a coconut and strained, and heated for purifying out any bacteria that may have contaminated it during the straining process. Usually when people are talking about Processed Foods, they are imagining that their food has been damaged, corrupted, or altered in ways that are somehow removing the health benefit from the food. Truthfully, the act of changing a food from it's original form into another is processing it. If we grow our own tomatoes and then make them into a home made tomato sauce, we have just "Processed" our food. If we limited ourselves to unprocessed or minimally processed food, we would have an extremely limited diet - and one that just isn't accessible to people who live in food deserts or are unable to grow and prepare their own foods. It is true that the food that is best for you is fresh and minimally processed - Fruits and vegetables, legumes, eggs, nuts and seeds are examples of foods that have been minimally processed. Even these have sometimes been mildly processed by washing and packaging them. Beyond this, there are other minimally processed foods that include adding one or two ingredients or extra steps to alter the food in some way such as through drying, freezing, boiling, fermenting, and pasteurizing. Most of the foods in our grocery stores have had a lot of Processing, because they have had ingredients mixed together and some things added to enhance flavor (like salt or sugar) and have had preservatives added to help stabilize the food for shelf safety and helping it to last long enough to make it from the factory to your home. Ultra-Processed Foods are those that contain five or more ingredients and are usually pre-made for immediate consumption after heating or some minimal home preparation. These are foods typically formulated with 5 or more ingredients, including preservatives, stabilizers and hydrogenated fats. Think frozen pizza, breakfast cereals, frozen dinners and canned soups. Again, it is probably wise to limit the ultra-processed foods in your diet, but the fact that something is processed does not make it inherently unhealthy or unsafe. Conclusion: Your food choices should not be based in fear or shame. Your food choices are going to be unique for you and your body, and the choices in your dietary needs should be informed by your Doctor and well-researched scientific information. Additionally, your choices will be based on your income, the availability of food in your area, your allergies and overall health, and your physical needs. Being Mindful about How We talk about our Food Choices: Meals made from scratch aren't always more nutritious or "safer", (have you seen your grandmother's recipes for chocolate cake or fried okra from scratch?!?) but cooking from scratch does require more time and labor. While it is easy to feel good about ourselves when we have taken extra effort to process our own foods at home and avoid ultra-processed storebought foods, we still should be mindful of how we talk about these foods because there is a lot of privilege involved in being able to do this. Many Disabled people do not have the ability to cook meals for themselves and cannot afford a home health nurse to cook meals for them. Low Income people often work hard labor and many hours and they might not have the time or energy to cook meals for themselves from scratch or be able to afford the minimally processed ingredients. Some people live in food deserts where they only have one or two grocery stores within travel distance of their home so their food choices are limited by availability. Additionally, the focus on "Clean" foods and "Safe" foods in Wellness media and social media has added to an increase in Eating Disorders and Food Anxieties in our modern culture. We must remember that "Fed Is Best" and it is better for our friends and family to eat what is available to them rather than to avoid eating because of fear of chemicals or processed foods. Finally, we need to be aware of the way that the Wellness Industry is indeed an INDUSTRY - there are companies making money off of our fear of processed food and chemicals. There are people who are intentionally fearmongering on social media about food and diets and wellness - and most often these people are selling you something: a supplement or their "Master Class" or their fancy Wellness Retreat and their book about their secret "Detox Diet". When you go looking for recipes and advice and health or wellness information, remember to BEWARE: HERE THERE BE GRIFTERS. Last but not least, nestled safely within these Wellness Grifts are pipelines to Fascist, Racist Extremism. There is a pipeline from the Wellness Industry into QAnon Conspiracies, Anti-Vaccine Conspiracies, the Conservative Alt-Right, Fascist Extremism, and White Supremacy. We need to arm ourselves with information about these dangerous beliefs and how these extremist groups recruit people from within the Wellness and Spirituality community so that we can protect ourselves from their often subtle indoctrination. Below, I have compiled a list of links to sources that I have found helpful and informative. I would consider this a Primer for arming yourself with knowledge to avoid Health and Wellness Misinformation and Grifts. The High Cost of Wellness Conspirituality: Derek Beres and Julian Walker https://www.conspirituality.net/episodes/brief-high-cost-of-wellness   The Problem With Clean Eating Veggies & More: By Alina Petre, MSc. RD. https://morethanjustveggies.com/problem-with-clean-eating/   Chemophobia: Don’t Fear Ingredients in Your Food IFAC https://www.foodingredientfacts.org/chemophobia/   When Chemicals are Used To Scare You About Food The Washington Post: Cara Rosenbloom https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/wellness/when-chemicals-are-used-to-scare-you-about-food/2019/05/06/81a5cd20-6ced-11e9-a66d-a82d3f3d96d5_story.html   Chemophobia - Fearing Chemicals Michigan State University: Elisabeth Anderson and Jinpeng Li https:// www.canr.msu.edu/news/chemophobia-fearing-chemicals   Should Processed Foods be Feared? Dietetically Speaking: Sophie Gastman https://dieteticallyspeaking.com/should-processed-foods-be-feared/   The Wellness to Woo Pipeline Rethinking Wellness: Christy Harrison, MPH, RD and Laura Thomas, PhD, RNutr https://rethinkingwellness.substack.com/p/repost-the-wellness-to-woo-pipeline   Why are So Many Popular Wellness Influencers RedPilled? Rolling Stone: EJ Dickson https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/conspirituality-wellness-world-red-pilled-1234770419/   The Wellness to QAnon Pipeline Maintenance Phase: Aubrey Gordon and Michael Hobbes with Mike Rothschild https://maintenancephase.buzzsprout.com/1411126/episodes/8492774-the-wellness-to-qanon-pipeline   Racism in Wellness Culture Conspirituality: Derek Beres and Julian Walker with Dr Natlia Petrzela & Dax-Devolon Ross https://www.conspirituality.net/episodes/4-racism-in-wellness-culture-natalia-petrzela-dax-devlon-ross   How Wellness Makes Us Sick Siris Health: Derek Beres https://substack.com/@derekberes/p-150638060   Why Smart People Fall for Wellness Misinformation Rethinking Wellness: Christy Harrison, MPH, RD https://rethinkingwellness.substack.com/p/why-smart-people-fall-for-wellness   Snake Oil Maintenance Phase: Aubrey Gordon and Michael Hobbes https://maintenancephase.buzzsprout.com/1411126/episodes/7615234-snake-oil   How Companies Manipulate the Wellness Science Siris Health: Derek Beres https://substack.com/@derekberes/p-151575433   The Gospel of Wellness Conspirituality: Derek Beres and Julian Walker with Rina Raphael https://www.conspirituality.net/episodes/121-the-gospel-of-wellness-rina-raphael   How to Fight Wellness Misinformation and Counter Conspiracy Theories Rethinking Wellness: Christy Harrison, MPH, RD and Seema Yasmin, PhD https://rethinkingwellness.substack.com/p/repost-how-to-fight-wellness-misinformation   Why Public Health Collapsed - and How To Reclaim It ReFrame: Derek Beres  https://substack.com/@derekberes/p-150144640   Why Wellness Sells - The Benefits and Harms of Wellness Culture Rethinking Wellness: Christy Harrison, MPH, RD and Colleen Derkatch https://rethinkingwellness.substack.com/p/repost-why-wellness-sells-the-benefits   I Track Wellness Misinformation For a Living - So Why Did I Fall For It? Cosmopolitan: Cécile Simmons https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/body/health/a45708686/wellness-misinformation-conspiracy-theories/   Can we Stop Abusing Fat People? Conspirituality: Derek Beres and Julian Walker with Aubrey Gordon https://www.conspirituality.net/episodes/130-can-we-stop-abusing-fat-people-aubrey-gordon   Cooking Without Wellness Rules, and How Social Media is like Diet Culture Rethinking Wellness: Christy Harrison, MPH, RD and Julia Turshen https://rethinkingwellness.substack.com/p/repost-cooking-without-wellness-rules   The Detox Industry is Selling You Snake Oil MotherJones: Adrienne Matei https://www.motherjones.com/environment/2024/08/wellness-detox-industry-fraud-false-health-snake-oil/   Parasite Cleanses are full of Sh*t Conspirituality: Derek Beres and Julian Walker with Mallory Demille https://www.conspirituality.net/episodes/131-parasite-cleanses-are-full-of-shit-mallory-demille   Why the Gut Health Trend is Mostly Empty Hype Rethinking Wellness: Christy Harrison, MPH, RD and Timothy Caulfield https://rethinkingwellness.substack.com/p/microbiome-myths-and-realities-timothy

This blog post was originally posted on my Patreon on September 4. Please join the Patreon if you would like to see all my blog posts, I am more actively posting there. " Hestia, in the high dwellings of all, both deathless gods and men who walk on earth, you have gained an everlasting abode and highest honor: glorious is your portion and your right.  For without you mortals hold no banquet, —where one does not duly pour sweet wine in offering to Hestia both first and last . "[Homeric Hymn to Hestia] Asteroid Hestia Asteroid 46, Hestia.  Not considered one of the main Goddess Asteroids that people often look at, but I find value in following her transits.  I often look to both asteroid Hestia and Vesta together, seeing them as "sisters" or different aspects of the same energetic signature. Hestia brings a sense of comfort and devotion to whatever sign she is moving through.  We find a warmth by her fire that we wish to continue, so we find ways to help keep that fire lit.  We may also experience themes of self-sacrifice or rejection - but these serve to help us identify and strengthen our own sovereign willpower and sense of purpose. When looking at the asteroid Hestia in transits or in a birth chart, you can consider it to have influence over themes of: Home and Hearth:  Hestia represents the concept of home, both as a physical space and as a symbol of inner sanctuary. Its placement in a chart can indicate one's relationship with their home environment, their sense of security and stability within it, and their ability to create a nurturing space for themselves and others. Emotional Security:  Hestia's influence extends beyond the physical home to encompass emotional security and inner peace. Its placement may indicate how an individual finds comfort, solace, and emotional nourishment, whether through solitude, domestic routines, or connections with loved ones. Spiritual and Sacred Space:  In ancient Greece, Hestia was also revered as the guardian of sacred spaces, such as temples and altars. Astrologically, Hestia may symbolize one's connection to spirituality, devotion, and rituals that provide a sense of meaning and transcendence in life. Personal Boundaries:  Hestia's archetype emphasizes the importance of personal boundaries and creating a safe haven where one can retreat and recharge. Its placement in the birth chart can indicate how an individual establishes and maintains boundaries in relationships, as well as their need for privacy and autonomy. Domestic Responsibilities:  Hestia's influence includes domestic responsibilities and the duties associated with maintaining a household. Its placement may reflect one's approach to homemaking, caregiving, and domestic tasks, as well as their attitudes towards traditional gender roles and societal expectations related to family life. Inner Peace and Balance:  Ultimately, Hestia encourages individuals to cultivate inner peace, balance, and harmony within themselves and their surroundings. Its placement in the birth chart may highlight areas where one seeks to create a sense of equilibrium and tranquility, whether through domestic bliss, spiritual practices, or nurturing relationships. Hestia in Libra in 2024, the Asteroid Hestia will be in the sign of Libra from Sept 3 - Nov 21 Libra is the sign of Balance. A Cardinal Air sign ruled by Venus. The archetype of Libra embodies the energy of balance, harmony, and all cooperative relationships, focusing on the pursuit of fairness, justice, and aesthetic beauty. Governed by Venus, Libra is deeply concerned with creating equilibrium in all areas of life, from personal relationships to social interactions and decision-making processes. This sign values diplomacy, cooperation, and the art of compromise, striving to foster peace and understanding between individuals. Libra’s lessons center around finding middle ground, cultivating mutual respect, and recognizing the importance of both giving and receiving in partnerships. Additionally, Libra teaches the appreciation of beauty, grace, and refinement, encouraging a life enriched by art, culture, and meaningful connections. Hestia in Libra brings a a strong desire for harmony and fairness in our home environment, as well as a longing for balanced relationships in our family or home, emphasizing the creation of a peaceful, beautiful, and welcoming environment. This transit encourages the cultivation of fairness, diplomacy, and cooperation within family and partnerships, making the home a sanctuary of aesthetic appeal and emotional equilibrium. Lessons revolve around finding and maintaining balance in relationships, resolving conflicts with grace, and fostering a space where both personal and shared needs are honored. Ultimately, Hestia in Libra teaches the value of creating harmony both within the home and in the connections that sustain it. Here are some ways that we may connect with the energy of Hestia in Libra: Focus on Relationship Dynamics: During a transit of Hestia in Libra, there may be a focus on relationships within the home. This could be a time to address imbalances or tensions in family or romantic relationships, aiming to restore harmony and cooperation. Enhancing the Home Environment: This transit is an ideal time to make changes or improvements to the home that enhance its beauty and balance. Whether it’s redecorating, rearranging furniture, or introducing art and design elements, the goal is to create a more harmonious living space. Diplomacy and Fairness: Hestia’s transit through Libra encourages diplomatic and fair-minded approaches to resolving conflicts or making decisions within the household. It's a favorable time for discussions that require tact and mutual respect. Social Gatherings: Libra’s social energy, combined with Hestia's focus on the home, can inspire hosting social gatherings or family events. These gatherings may be characterized by a focus on creating an atmosphere of peace, beauty, and togetherness. Balancing Personal and Shared Spaces: This transit may bring attention to the need for balance between personal space and shared living areas. It can be a time to ensure that everyone in the household feels comfortable and that their needs for privacy and companionship are both respected. A Prayer to Hestia: "Beloved Hestia,You who are both First and Last,Keeper of the Sacred Flame,Guardian of Home and Hearth,Gentle Goddess of warmth, purity, and compassion.I honor you and thank you for all your blessings.I call upon you for your wisdom.May your Light guide me and bless my home!Io Hestia!"

The Asteroid Vesta in Astrology represents The Goddess Vesta (counterpart of the Greek Goddess Hestia). Vesta is the Goddess of the Sacred Flame; representing Purity, Devotion, Service, and Sacrifice. In modern astrology, the Asteroid of Vesta can represent a place of devotion and dedication in the chart - it is where we are tending an inner Sacred Fire. Fire needs tending, care, and mindfulness so that it doesn't burn out; or burn too hot and get out of control. We give offerings of fuel (service, time, energy) in order to keep the fire lit. We must practice care and dedication, paying close attention to this fire so it does not go out. The transits of Vesta can show us an area of life which we are feeling called to direct more care, devotion, and service. The sign that Vesta is transiting through represents the archetype or energy that is asking for more dedication, focus, and devotion. Vesta also embodies the archetype of service and self-sacrifice. It suggests a willingness to dedicate oneself to the service of others or to a higher calling, even at personal cost. We can look to the transit of Vesta to receive guidance as to what aspects of life we should direct some extra dedication, devotion, and service to. Think of the Asteroid Vesta as a Sacred Fire that helps us connect with something Sacred in each sign that it visits. When we discover something sacred, we recognize that we have a responsibility to protect, preserve, and serve that sacred thing. When the asteroid Vesta is in the sign of Libra, whether in a natal chart or during a transit, it merges Vesta's themes of devotion, focus, and service with Libra’s qualities of harmony, balance, relationships, and beauty. The archetype of Libra embodies the energy of balance, harmony, and relationships, focusing on the pursuit of fairness, justice, and aesthetic beauty. Governed by Venus, Libra is deeply concerned with creating equilibrium in all areas of life, from personal relationships to social interactions and decision-making processes. This sign values diplomacy, cooperation, and the art of compromise, striving to foster peace and understanding between individuals. Libra’s lessons center around finding middle ground, cultivating mutual respect, and recognizing the importance of both giving and receiving in partnerships. Additionally, Libra teaches the appreciation of beauty, grace, and refinement, encouraging a life enriched by art, culture, and meaningful connections. Here are some associations of Vesta in Libra: Vesta in Libra: October 27, 2024 through January 2, 2025 Focus on Relationships:  When Vesta transits through Libra, relationships and partnerships come into sharper focus. People may feel a heightened desire to invest time and energy into strengthening their connections with others, particularly through creating harmony, balance, and mutual respect. Harmonizing Energy:  This transit often brings an opportunity to bring balance to areas of life that may have become out of alignment. People may feel motivated to create more equilibrium in their relationships, work-life balance, or personal routines. It’s a good time to focus on restoring peace and calm in relationships. Commitment to Fairness:  Vesta’s transit through Libra can inspire a deeper commitment to ideals of fairness and equality. Individuals may be drawn to work for causes that promote justice, human rights, or equality. Diplomatic efforts are favored during this transit, as there’s a strong focus on resolving conflicts through cooperation and compromise. Artistic Devotion:  This transit can also highlight a deep appreciation for beauty, art, and design. People may feel called to devote time and energy to creative projects or to beautifying their surroundings. Artistic expression, especially those related to balance and harmony, can be particularly fulfilling. Challenges in Balance:  The need to balance devotion to others with self-care is especially important during this transit. People may feel pulled in multiple directions, trying to meet the needs of others while also maintaining their own well-being. Learning how to find balance in relationships, work, and personal life is a key theme during this time. Overall, Vesta in Libra emphasizes devotion to relationships, fairness, and beauty. It encourages individuals to seek balance in their personal and interpersonal lives, with a focus on harmonious connections and creative expression. Both in natal charts and during transits, the lessons of Vesta in Libra revolve around finding equilibrium between serving others and maintaining personal well-being. Additional Insights:   Look to your birth chart to see what HOUSE is ruled by Libra. This house can give you additional clues to the area of life that Vesta is encouraging more devotion to right now. If you have Vesta in Libra in your Birth Chart, you are having a Vesta Return! These themes come naturally to you and are likely a focus through your whole life. Let me know in comments if you have Vesta in Libra and how you feel about the above description of this placement. If you don't know where Vesta is in your birth chart, contact me to schedule an Astrology Session  and I can help you find Vesta as well as interpret other parts of your chart. VESTA is joining the Asteroid HESTIA in Libra for a brief period. Hestia has strong similarities to Vesta - so we have already been feeling some of this in our lives thanks to Hestia in Libra. These feelings are amplified with both Hestia and Vesta in the same sign - although Hestia will be moving into the sign of Scorpio November 21 on September 3.

With the Sun in Virgo as well as the Asteroid Vesta in Virgo, I have noticed a lot of people feeling motivated to clean and organize their living spaces. I'm not the most organized person in the world, and my home will never look like a picture from a magazine, but I have discovered some tricks and tips over the years that helped me feel less overwhelmed by the task of housekeeping. The tips that I have found most useful along the way are the ones that recognize some level of neurodivergence, disability, and that life is complicated and overwhelming. One such tip is about Prioritizing your home care tasks. By prioritizing your home care tasks, you can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed as it provides a clear starting point. Health and Safety tasks are of utmost importance as they form the foundation for maintaining a healthy and safe living environment for yourself and others in the household. Tasks beyond these foundational ones are considered less critical, so during times of fatigue, overwork, illness, or while managing disabilities, it is acceptable to concentrate solely on the essentials. I made this Pyramid graphic to help demonstrate the way to begin prioritizing your home care tasks. #1 Top Priorities are at the bottom - these are the foundational tasks for Survival and basic Functioning. These are the tasks that should be prioritized because they impact the health and safety of the living environment. Here are some examples of tasks that can be considered foundational and placed at the bottom of the Pyramid. These tasks may require daily, every other day, or weekly attention to ensure the safety and health of your home. It's important to note that not every corner of a room needs to be spotless and organized. For instance, while the entire kitchen doesn't have to be perfectly tidy, it should provide a hygienic space for food preparation and clean dishes for dining. I may not wash dishes daily, but I do ensure that dirty dishes are confined to one area of the kitchen, without hindering my ability to cook or maintain hygiene. To start your own Priority list, focus on one room at a time and consider health and safety first. Identify the essential Health and Safety tasks that must be completed in your living room, bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. Forget about arranging, beautifying, or adhering to your grandmother's cleanliness standards - view each room as if you were a safety inspector. A pile of laundry in the corner is not an issue if it doesn't pose a tripping hazard or isn't located near the fireplace, candles, or electrical outlets. Once you have identified the main health and safety priorities related to essential tasks, you can move on to creating a list of secondary priorities. These tasks focus on enhancing comfort and functionality within your home. For instance, that heap of laundry on the chair in the corner could be one such task to consider, as finding a more suitable place for it could allow you to enjoy reading a book comfortably in that chair. These are the tasks that can be postponed if you are feeling exhausted, unwell, or just in need of a break. They contribute to increasing your comfort and convenience at home - completing them simply makes you feel better! While not necessarily posing a health risk if left undone, these tasks do contribute to your overall sense of well-being when completed! Now you can continue making your priority list, focusing on one room at a time and adding these Level 2 priorities to the list for each room. Now you are beginning to get a clear list of what needs to be done first in each room, and what can be done next if you have the energy and time to continue. At the pinnacle of the Pyramid, similar to the cherry on top of a cake, are the lowest priority elements. These are added once all essential aspects have been addressed, allowing for the inclusion of elements that bring enjoyment or enhance beauty. This category encompasses activities such as space decoration, art installation, detailed cleaning, and more. While this stage is the most pleasurable, attempting to incorporate aesthetic elements into a cluttered or hazardous environment may lead to dissatisfaction. Consider these elements as a reward for achieving tidiness and safety - now you have a suitable space to showcase your artwork or elegant goddess figurines, ensuring they are both noticed and appreciated. Here is an example of a prioritized cleaning list for my bedroom: High Priority: Safety and Health Daily - pick up items off the floor (no tripping hazards since I sometimes need to walk through this room in the dark) Daily - remove any empty cups or dishes (if I ate any food in my room, remove the dishes) Weekly - empty the trash bin Weekly - wash a load of my personal laundry (having clean underwear is a Health need) Level 2 Priority: Comfort and Ease Daily - make my bed Daily - tidy up my desk Weekly - Put away my clean laundry Weekly - dust or polish flat surfaces Weekly - straighten up my altars Monthly - Declutter and Organize paperwork or items inside desk drawers, declutter the closet, get rid of unwanted items Monthly - vaccuum the carpet Level 3 Priority: Fun and Joy decorating refreshing and redecorating my altars organizing my books and tarot decks Another way I can look at this list is by Color-Coding the Priority Items. #1 Priorities listed in Red, # 2 Priorities are in Yellow, and #3 Priorities are listed in Green. This way if I am low on energy and time, I can just start with the items in red. If I have time and energy remaining, I can work on the items in yellow. and I can tend to the items in green as a reward, or the "finishing touches" if I have energy and time. My Bedroom tasks: DAILY Pick up items off floor Remove dishes and cups make my bed tidy up my desk WEEKLY (Every Monday) Empty the trash Bin Wash a load of Laundry put away clean laundry dust and polish flat surfaces straighten altars MONTHLY Organize Paperwork Declutter Desk Drawer Declutter the closet Decorating Organizing books and tarot decks refreshing and redecorating my altars Eventually you may want to make prioritized lists like the examples above for each room. But remember not to overwhelm yourself or be too much of a perfectionist with these lists. These might not work for everyone - if they work for you and help you feel less overwhelmed, then feel free to follow these tips. If they don't work for you, it does not mean that anything is wrong with you, it just means this isn't a method that works for you!

The Asteroid Vesta in Astrology represents The Goddess Vesta (counterpart of the Greek Goddess Hestia). Vesta is the Goddess of the Sacred Flame; representing Purity, Devotion, Service, and Sacrifice. In modern astrology, the Asteroid of Vesta can represent a place of devotion and dedication in the chart - it is where we are tending an inner Sacred Fire. Fire needs tending, care, and mindfulness so that it doesn't burn out; or burn too hot and get out of control. We give offerings of fuel (service, time, energy) in order to keep the fire lit. We must practice care and dedication, paying close attention to this fire so it does not go out. The transits of Vesta can show us an area of life which we are feeling called to direct more care, devotion, and service. The sign that Vesta is transiting through represents the archetype or energy that is asking for more dedication, focus, and devotion. Vesta also embodies the archetype of service and self-sacrifice. It suggests a willingness to dedicate oneself to the service of others or to a higher calling, even at personal cost. We can look to the transit of Vesta to receive guidance as to what aspects of life we should direct some extra dedication, devotion, and service to. Think of the Asteroid Vesta as a Sacred Fire that helps us connect with something Sacred in each sign that it visits. When we discover something sacred, we recognize that we have a responsibility to protect, preserve, and serve that sacred thing. When the asteroid Vesta is in the sign of Virgo, it combines Vesta's themes of devotion, focus, and service with Virgo's qualities of precision, practicality, and a strong work ethic. Vesta in Virgo: Aug 24 - Oct 26, 2024 Increased Focus on Health:  When Vesta transits through Virgo, there is often an increased focus on health, wellness, and self-care. People may feel motivated to adopt healthier habits, improve their diet, or engage in regular exercise. It’s a good time for organizing and implementing routines that support well-being. While Vesta is in Virgo we may find a deep commitment to health and wellness, both for ourselves and others. There may be an increased desire to learn about health and wellness; particularly in fields like nutrition, holistic health, or alternative medicine, and there may be renewed dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Dedication to Work:  This transit can bring a heightened sense of dedication and discipline in professional matters. Individuals may find themselves working more diligently, paying close attention to details, and striving for excellence in their tasks. It’s a productive period for tackling projects that require precision and careful planning. Vesta in Virgo can have us feeling highly detail-oriented, with a natural ability to focus on the finer points of any task or project. It will feel more natural to take pride in doing things well and to have a strong drive for perfection in our work. Purification and Refinement:  Vesta in Virgo’s transit can inspire a desire to purify or refine various aspects of life. This might involve decluttering physical spaces, refining work processes, or seeking to improve one’s skills. The energy supports efforts to simplify and streamline. It will be an excellent time to refine our daily routines, and purify our physical spaces with cleaning and decluttering. We may likely be drawn to creating better habits and routines for the care of our homes and property, and find the motivation to get rid of stuff that does not serve our lives in some beneficial way. Spiritual Devotion:  Additionally, this transit can bring a renewed sense of Spiritual Devotion, or a return to the practical daily Spiritual Practices that bring fulfillment. It is important to express our spiritual beliefs through practical, everyday actions. We may be drawn to routines, rituals, or practices that bring a sense of order and clarity to our lives. Vesta in Virgo reminds us that healthy spirituality is often grounded in practicality and a desire to improve ourselves and our surroundings. We can use this transit to help solidify some personal daily rituals like gratitude, meditation, prayer, etc. Service and Volunteering:  The theme of service is prominent during this transit, and people may feel a stronger calling to volunteer or help others in practical ways. It’s an excellent time to engage in community service or contribute to causes that focus on healing, health, or improving conditions for others. Vesta in Virgo often activates a strong sense of duty and dedication to serving others. There is a tendency to be more meticulous and conscientious in work, and an increased sense of fulfillment in roles that involve helping, healing, or improving systems and processes. Perfectionism and Stress:  The combination of Vesta’s intensity and Virgo’s perfectionist tendencies can sometimes lead to stress, especially if individuals become overly focused on flaws or minor details. It’s important to balance this energy with self-compassion and to recognize that striving for perfection doesn’t mean achieving it at the cost of well-being. While there is an increased dedication and attention to detail, we may experience a struggle with self-criticism and perfectionism. There may be a tendency set very high standards for yourself and others, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or stress if those standards are not met. Look to your birth chart to see what HOUSE is ruled by Virgo. This house can give you additional clues to the area of life that Vesta is encouraging more devotion to right now. If you have Vesta in Virgo in your Birth Chart, you are having a Vesta Return! These themes come naturally to you and are likely a focus through your whole life. Let me know in comments if you have Vesta in Virgo and how you feel about the above description of this placement. If you don't know where Vesta is in your birth chart, contact me to schedule an Astrology Session  and I can help you find Vesta as well as interpret other parts of your chart. VESTA is joining the Asteroid HESTIA in Virgo for a brief period. Hestia has strong similarities to Vesta - so we have already been feeling some of this in our lives thanks to Hestia in Virgo. These feelings are amplified with both Hestia and Vesta in the same sign - although Hestia will be moving into the sign of Libra on September 3. You can review this post about Hestia in Virgo here.