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Welcome Back! The Astrology A to Z series continues! Next up we have the Letter J. There are surprisingly very few Astrology words or terms that start with the letter J, and I am going to save "Jupiter" for another time. Today we will discuss the Planetary Joys. Planetary Joys refers to a concept from ancient Hellenistic Astrology where the planets were said to "rejoice" in certain houses. This is different from a planet being in Rulership or Exalted - because that relates to what SIGN a planet is in, regardless of what HOUSE it is in. The Joys refer to a HOUSE in which a planet is "strong" or "happy" and "at home", no matter what sign it is in. The Planetary Joys: Sun - 9th House Moon - 3rd House Mercury - 1st House Venus - 5th House Mars - 6th House Jupiter - 11th House Saturn - 12th House As you can see, this does not include the Outer Planets - Neptune, Uranus, or Pluto. This method only applies to the planets that can be seen with the naked eye, as they were the known planets at the time that Astrology was being developed. For this reason, houses 2, 4, 7, 8, and 10 do not have a Planetary Joy. We do know that the planets joys in certain houses have certainly influenced the meaning of each house. In fact, the Planetary Joys are one of the main arguments AGAINST using the "Natural Rulership" system of Modern Astrology. (Also known as the 12 Letter Alphabet) If you would like help in deconstructing your associations with the 12 Letter Alphabet, learning about the Planetary Joys is a good place to start. Interested in why more and more astrologers are abandoning the concept of Natural Rulership and the 12 Letter Alphabet? You can also read more here: https://www.astro.com/astrology/in_twelveletter_e.htm (NOTE - I was also trained with the 12 Letter Alphabet, and have probably even mentioned it in some way in my past blogs. I am not judging those who use it, but I am offering additional information. Personally I have started moving away from the 12 Letter Alphabet system after what I have learned, though I still see why many others would find value in it) Here is another example of the meanings of the Houses, with the Planetary Joys included. You can see how the Planets in these houses would be symbolically "Rejoicing". The place of Joy for a planet does not always mean that it is a good or pleasant place for the client. For example, Mars rejoices in the 6th House because the 6th House represents where we have to work hard. It is also the house of Injuries - and Mars rules over things like injuries and accidents. A Phrase to remember is "What is good for the Planet is not always good for the Native". This relates to the way that sometimes, a planet can have a lot of Natural Dignity - it might be exalted or in rulership or in its house of joy - and that just means the PLANET is having an easy time expressing itself. Mars being empowered to be more Mars-like is not necessarily something that is good for the person under the influence of that chart! However, it does mean that Mars themes might be more prominent in that person's life. When a planet is in it's house of Joy - it is seen as more potent and easily expresses itself. This the benefic planets are more benefic, but the malefic planets are more malefic. Do you have any planets in your birth chart in their House of Joy? Can you think of how this planet has been found to be "Rejoicing" throughout your life? If you want to l earn more about the Planetary Joys - this is an excellent pdf file. The Planetary Joys and the Origins of the Significations of the Houses and Triplicities by Chris Brennan

Let's continue onward with our Astrological Fool's Journey! As a recap of the journey so far: The Fool's Journey Begins with Hope (Aquarius) Fear and Chance (Pisces) Finding Confidence and Bravery (Aries) The Fool has moved on from The Emperor's Kingdom, having survived and learned from the crisis of The Tower, and developing an inner confidence of knowing that in the face of danger they will do their very best to be brave and strong. Our brave Fool traveled forth from that kingdom, the pleasant spring weather making their journey through the countryside very relaxing and enjoyable. The Fool finds plentiful food growing in orchards along the path, tended by happy gardeners who are more than willing to share food and shelter with a traveler if he will work in exchange. The Fool continues on in this way for some time, staying a day or two at a farm where he works in exchange for food and shelter, and then moving on a few miles down the road to the next farm. Everyone seems friendly, and though the work is hard, it is worth it for the soft bed and the fresh warm bread with homemade jam and butter. The countryside is sprinkled with these farms, each one more bountiful and pleasant than the last. Eventually, the fool finds a small town - filled with shops that are selling a wide assortment of pleasant things. Beautiful clothes and soft, supple fabrics. Art and art supplies for the artists. Kitchen gear and cookware for the kitchens. The fool notices that this town lives in harmony with a rhythm and a schedule. The baker buys fruits from one local farm, and flour from another, and makes pies that are sold fresh in their shop window. The town folk all have jobs to do, and they take the money they earned and buy what they want. If they don't have enough money for something they want, they place their money in savings at the towns small bank, and then continue working until they have enough. Curious, the Fool asks if he can meet this town's Lord - for surely a wise leader must be behind this town's prosperity. The townsfolk laugh and smile, and point out to a lush countryside field full of flowers, with a stream of clear clean water running through it. "You will find our Lady - The Empress - out there enjoying the fresh air and sunlight." The Fool follows a trail out into the field - which is lush and overflowing with life. Gardens are exploding with food, and wild birds and rabbits and squirrels skitter about. In the distance, a herd of cows is grazing peacefully. Under the shade tree near a stream of clear and fresh running water, The Empress lounges on a throne of velvet and lace pillows. Her satin dress fits her form perfectly, and she is an image of Beauty and Grace. She smiles at the sight of a visitor, and welcomes The Fool forward to come talk to her. The Fool compliments the Empress on the abundance, friendliness, and pleasantness of her kingdom. The Empress accepts their compliments, and offers them some sweet wine and a place to lounge on nearby pillows. The Fool accepts, and indulges. The Empress speaks of how it is a blessing to live in body that can experience such pleasure, and on a planet that has so much to offer in terms of art and beauty and flavor. The Fool feels themself growing a little groggy from the Wine and asks; "But how do you sustain such luxury? How do you keep the people from drinking all the wine and doing no work to grow more grapes?" The Empress laughs. "That IS the tricky part, isn't it? For I do teach my people to take pleasure when they can, but I also teach them that any pleasure or enjoyment is also worth working for, or saving and maintaining in some way. That is why I have my priests - The Hierophant and his rule-keepers. In the center of my Kingdom, you will find a temple. Go there to learn these mysteries, and come back here any time you want to just sit in the grass with me and drink wine." The Fool, after taking a short nap, walks back into the small town to find a beautiful, yet humble temple in the city's center. It is there that they will meet The Hierophant. There are guards and clerks working at the front entrance of the Temple and the Fool enters cautiously, not quite knowing what to expect. A Worker explains; " The Hierophant is very busy and you will likely need and appointment to meet with him". The Fool approaches a desk to make an appointment and is asked "Which department are you here for? Religion? Marriage? Business affairs? Banking? Agriculture? Schools, Libraries and Education?" "Ummm..." The Fool stammers. "I'm not sure. I didn't realize that the Hierophant oversees all of that. I just want to understand what is happening here". The desk clerk smiles at The Fool, "Oh, you need a basic introduction, why didn't you say so? There will be a general audience with The Heirophant starting in just a few minutes. What good timing you have today! Go ahead through this door, down the hall to the main courtyard." The Fool arrives in the courtyard, where many other people are seated in rows waiting for the Hierophant to appear. Right on time, the stately and somber looking priest arrives and takes a seat in the large throne at the front of the room. "I am the Hierophant, the Priest of our lovely Empress. I am tasked with guardianship over the sacred mysteries of all that is valuable. When you discover something of value, something that is pleasant and helpful, you wish to keep it safe and preserve it, correct?" The people nod and the Hierophant continues. "When you find something that is valuable to the whole community, that needs to be both protected and shared with others. For example one of our farmers learned a technique to keep the bugs and aphids off of his apple trees. He brings this information to me, and I can make sure that the young farmers learn this method in their apprenticeship. I pass on the knowledge that is valuable, and in turn, our city becomes more abundant in apples every year." "You the people decide what is valuable and in need of protecting or sustaining. Things that you enjoy, or things that you need for survival or a thriving city. You bring me these things, and I find a way to preserve them. I have scribes who write down the secrets of Agriculture so that you may learn to grow food. I have priests who guard the secrets of spirituality so that you can be ministered to when you grow weary. I have created the banks for you to have a place to save the money, since you value this form of trade and barter. I have created institutions of marriage to help you preserve the tradition of union, and I have created institutions of law so that you can learn to protect that which you find valuable in your societies. Thus, order and sustainability are created. If one wishes to know the secrets of one of these institutions, they will have to meet the standards put forth by my gatekeepers and law-keepers. " "This is not to keep the pleasures of our Empress out of your reach - but to have a system of fairness and longevity. For we know that not everyone needs to know how to brew the wine. Some people just wish to drink it. Some wish to grow the grapes, and yet others wish to create the glass bottles that the wine will be stored in to last until next season. Each person can choose their place in the realm, and the jobs they wish to do to help maintain the beauty and prosperity of our kingdom. The wheat and grain does not last forever, but within the books on agriculture there are methods to keep the flour fresh through a whole season. The Orchards do not harvest themselves and all the people of this realm know that there is some price to pay for the pleasure and enjoyment of earth's bounty. If one wishes to eat, one must put some work in to the growing or harvesting of the food, or make fair trade to the workers and farmers who have brought in the harvest. This is but one example of the ways that I preserve and protect the knowledge. I am the Hierophant and I keep all knowledge safe, and I create the systems and institutions which preserve the knowledge, so that your city may be bountiful!" The Hierophant exits the stage, and the crowd disperses. The Fool remains seated in the courtyard for awhile, contemplating what they have learned. Taurus is ruled by the Planet Venus - planet of beauty and love and pleasure. Venus is represented by The Empress - a card symbolizing physical pleasures, fertility, wealth, abundance, and enjoyment. Anything that we enjoy and find valuable, we naturally wish to preserve. We found value in certain systems of growing food, so we created the Agriculture Industry. We found value in committed partnership and shared households, so we created the institution of Marriage. We find value in our spiritual growth and wisdom, so we created Churches and Religions. All institutions or systems that exist were created because at one point in time a collective group of people found something valuable enough to wish to preserve it and protect it and pass it on. This is the nature of The Hierophant - the tarot card that represents the sign of Taurus. The Fool has a lot to reflect on after this journey, and a new respect for hard work. Whenever they drink sweet wine, they will remember The Empress and her lessons of Pleasure and enjoyment. But they will also remember the Hierophant, and all the work and knowledge passed down that has gone into the creation of that sweet wine.

This is a continuation of a series I am writing called The Fool's Journey Through The Wheel of The Year. You can read previous posts here; 0 (intro) - The Fool's Journey Through The Wheel of The Year 1 - The Fool's Journey Begins; Aquarius and Imbolc 2 - The Fool's Journey - Pisces; Fear and Chance Continuing onward with our Astrological Fool's Journey, the Fool next encounters the lessons of Aries season. Previously, through Pisces Season, the Fool traveled through wilderness and was tasked with facing his fears through changing his perspective and trusting in fate or chance to bring them through anything. They continued on down the path and have next found themselves in a very busy, active kingdom. The streets are filled with people who all seem to be quite focused on whatever it is they are doing. Vendors passionately selling their goods. Soldiers are single-mindedly running through drills and sharpening their skills. Artists are applying paint to canvas with fervor and reckless abandon. The Fool walks the streets - hardly noticed by any of the busy people - taking in the busy scene. They eventually find themselves at the doorway of a great hall - swept along by the busy crowd that enters the doors into a giant throne room. There, at the front of the room, seated in a throne is the Emperor. A wizened man in armor, you can tell he has earned his seat of honor through experience. This is not simply a king who was born into a position of power - this is one who has earned it and has the scars to prove it. The Fool feels intimidated by The Emperor's presence - not afraid of this leader but in awe of such a strong and direct force of nature. The Emperor isn't cruel - but he knows that the choices he makes will have consequences and not everyone will be happy. The Crowd gathers in front of their leader, who Welcomes them and begins to tell them stories of his youth. How his days as a young soldier taught him many lessons. With hard work and victory, his eventual promotions to higher rank brought more experience through leadership. He shares that even the battles he lost were valuable lessons of his own strength and resilience. The people listen and they are inspired. They take heed of his lessons - how he did not hesitate to go after what he most wanted in life and that his tenacity and confidence were his greatest strengths. The Fool is inspired as well, finding a fire within that responds to the very presence of the Emperor. The Emperor is the embodiment of Aries energy; Confident, Bold, Active, Impulsive, and Passionate. Just being in the presence of the Emperor feels activating - like you want to go out and prove yourself to the world, find your own success and power and inner strength. The Fool recognizes that self-confidence is an important ingredient for success. And though they are just starting out on their journey and are still young and inexperienced - just meeting The Emperor and hearing his stories has sparked a new fire of passion, confidence, strength, and willpower in The Fool's heart. The day goes on and the crowded hall turns into a party and feast, with everyone drinking and bragging - sharing their own stories of strength and success and their aspirations for greater success in the future. Feasting late into the night, everyone is wrapped up in dreams of their future conquests. Suddenly and without warning, there is a booming crash, a flash of light, and part of the roof of the great hall collapses. There are screams as rocks fall and fire is burning. Smoke fills the air, along with confusion. People aren't even really sure what has happened - but the building has been struck by lighting! As the adrenaline kicks in - the initial shock fades and some people burst into action. The Fool doesn't really have time to think about what to do next, but finds themself running towards a pile of large stones. There are people trapped under the stones, and The Fool is compelled to act - pushing and pulling at the stones to help free the people who have been trapped. Other people have run to fetch water to begin to put out the fire. Through the sudden conflict and terror of the moment - people find a strength that they did not know they had. Artists and Shopkeepers find themselves jumping into action to clear away rubble and put out fires. Adrenaline rushing through their bodies gives people strength and stamina they didn't think their bodies had. And a sense of determination dominates the night - pushing people beyond fear and shock and into action and fight. This is The Tower - the Card of Mars. It is a sudden tragic event that rocks your world, but brings out strength and stamina that you didn't know you had. It is an event that activates the inner warrior. Yes, the great hall is in ruins and many people are injured - but it will be rebuilt, and the people here are forever changed - strengthened through the experience. They now relate to the stories that the Emperor shared - about how experience shaped him and strengthened him; even his losses and defeats. The Fool has been changed by this experience, has earned some confidence by seeing their own strength come out in a crisis. They were inspired by the stories of The Brave Emperor - and now they have found some of that Emperor's strength and bravery within themselves. The Emperor is the card of Aries - it shows us the strength and leadership and courage that the energy of Aries has when it is applied wisely. Of course, there are some who would take this power and strength and corrupt it - and we know many stories of corrupt and cruel emperors or warlords who have used the energy of Aries to destroy rather than build up. We all have a choice of what kind of Emperor we would become - what does our confidence and strength and willpower help us achieve? The Tower is the card of Mars - the planet that rules both Aries and Scorpio. Mars is the planet of battle - and there are some things we can only learn through conflict and crisis. We can train for a fight the way that soldiers train for battle - but even they do not know how they will truly respond once the moment of crisis hits. And there are some who never trained for battle - who never wanted to fight - but when we are thrust into a sudden situation we have no choice but to respond. These are situations in which you will meet the inner warrior; the inner Mars. Take note that this is not the last time The Fool will encounter Mars on their journey - we find this card again in Scorpio season as Mars rules both Aries and Scorpio. ---------------------------------------------- Do you want to learn more about Aries Season? You can get a recording of my Archetype Alignment Series; Aries through Seattle Psychics Association for just $14. Just email info@seattlepsychicsassociation.com to place your order!

The Fool's Journey through the Wheel of The Year continues with Pisces season. Previous Posts: Post 0: The Fool's Journey Through The Wheel of The Year (Introduction) Post 1: The Fool's Journey Begins - Aquarius and Imbolc In this series we allow ourselves to imagine The Fool's Journey taking place not as a numerical journey through the Major Arcana, but a seasonal and astrological journey. We began last month with Imbolc and Aquarius the Fool's journey started with The Star and The World. Full of Hope and Faith, our carefree and innocent hero gathered his supplies and started on his journey. Very early on this journey, just beyond the boundaries of familiar home – our Hero's hopeful optimism begins to falter. Perhaps realizing HOW BIG the world is, or how strange and unfamiliar the wilderness feels in the dark of night - and therefore feeling small and vulnerable – the Fool encounters Fear. Tarot Card 18 – The Moon – relates to feelings of fear, confusion, illusion, or a sense of being lost and directionless. It is a card deeply connected to the emotions, the psyche, changes in mood, and psychic sensitivity. The imagery on the traditional Rider-Smith deck shows us a crustacean that has just crawled out of the ocean onto the beach. It is nighttime and, in the distance, dogs are snarling and howling at the full moon. The oceans of the water represent a place where we felt safe, protected. Crawling out onto that beach, there is a feeling of being exposed. Bombarded by lights and sounds and cold air; this change is overwhelming. Our imagination begins to race, and we think of all the scary horrible things that wait for us out there in the darkness. It is so tempting to turn around and dive back into the water. The Moon card is related to the astrological sign of Pisces. Pisces is associated with deep emotion, psychic and intuitive gifts, and a creative and artistic mind. Being able to see things beyond the physical reality is a gift – but can also be a curse. As we can see from the illustration of The Moon Card – Pisces exists on that boundary of change – where emotions can become reality. Our Hero, having just left home – must face their own fears. The reality sinks in that this journey they has embarked on is different from how they had imagined it to be, and there are unseen dangers lurking in dark corners. Will one continue, or turn around and go back home? We face this type of energy often when we are starting something new. Even when we are highly intuitive and use tools to help us enhance our psychic gifts – we do not truly know what lies ahead. We can easily get caught up in fears, and our imagination creates scenarios that are so terrifying we are frozen in place. OR – that same imagination can allow us to creatively envision the bright future and positive outcome that we can find if we are willing to move past our fears. So which one will it be? Will our hero keep going and find a positive outcome just around the bend in the path? Or will they meet an untimely end, perhaps eaten by wolves? This is where our Hero encounters the energy of The Wheel of Fortune. This card relates to cycles of change that are somewhat out of our control. Sometimes a person is just lucky or unlucky, and their fate will come to them one way or another. The Wheel of Fortune relates to the planet Jupiter – the ruler of Pisces and planet of Luck. The Wheel of Fortune reminds us that even doing nothing is a choice that has consequences, and no matter what we do or how we prepare – there will always be moments in life that bring the unexpected. Change is inevitable, and inescapable. The Fool could choose now to turn around and go home – but even that would not guarantee their safety and a long happy life. Tragedy and accident can occur anywhere. And what about the great adventure that they longed for? What of their fortune and destiny that lies ahead that they will never discover unless they take this journey? Our brave hero contemplates all of this, trying to decide whether or not their journey is worth the Risk. Perhaps you also feel a bit different than you did at the beginning of the year. At Imbolc you were setting goals and intentions and you started on your journey to find yourself overwhelmed and afraid. Or with a sense that you actually have no control over your fate at all. What will you do? How do you keep going? The Fool's Journey through Pisces season has one more lesson. Here we find The Hanged Man – major arcana card 12 and corresponding with the planet Neptune – modern ruler of Pisces. The Hanged man teaches us about slowing down to meditate, and specifically how to change perspective. This man is hanging upside down – not because he has been captured and tied up by bandits! But because he has chosen to meditate in this awkward position. It is like the Yogis of India who spend hours in meditation while their body is contorted into and uncomfortable yoga pose. Yet through this discomfort, (fasting, yoga, meditation, etc) - through the sacrifice of comfort, The Hanged Man has gained new perspective. The Hanged Man challenges our privileged idealism and tells us that there is a whole different way of viewing this situation. He says, "stop resisting the lesson" and invites The Fool to hang upside down from the tree with him for awhile in silence. The Fool joins him, and suddenly realizes that while they were busy being afraid of this very strange and new environment, they had forgotten to enjoy the beauty of it. Their fear of change and the unknown was holding them back from being able to see how wonderful this change might be, and how interesting this unknown world is. Looking out over the moonlit beach while hanging upside down, they have now observed their situation from a different perspective, and somehow the answer is more clear. The Fool has had a moment of enlightenment, but only once they were willing to Sacrifice the ego and Surrender to the unknown. That is a scary thing to do. Ready at last to continue, The Fool thanks The Hanged man for this Wisdom, tosses the dice and spins the wheel, and then continues up the beach to the path beyond. Dogs howl in the distance and the fool is grateful for the light of the moon and curious about what they will encounter next. As you yourself journey through The Wheel of The Year, consider these cards as you experience your own adventure through Pisces season.

For the sake of transparency, and to set an example for other readers, I would like to have my personal ethics posted on my website. If you are considering hiring me as a Spiritual Consultant, Astrologer, Guide or Coach - here are the standards to which I hold myself. I will not engage in unsolicited advertisement. This means that I will not randomly send people I do not know messages on social media to advertise my services. I can use my social media pages and websites to advertise my services, but I understand that sending unsolicited private messages to strangers is unprofessional and distasteful. You will not receive a private message (DM) from me unless you have contacted me first. You will not receive an email from me unless you have signed up for membership on my website, Patreon or a mailing list. (Or if you have emailed me first, asking questions or wanting to book a session.) I will not make claims that my readings or healing sessions are 100% accurate or 100% effective all the time. I will help my client understand that my services are offered to support their path towards a balanced life; not to be seen as an “Instant Fix” or final solution. I do not personally use Astrology or Tarot to predict the future. I believe that Astrology and Tarot can be used as intuitive tools for self-awareness and for goal setting and self-improvement. If you want a psychic to predict your future, I am not the reader for you. I will not use fear tactics or coercion to attract clients or convince a client that they need to pay for my services. For example, I will not tell people that they are cursed, sick, or haunted and that they will need to purchase a session with me in order to have the curse removed or be healed. I will never tell a client that they will have bad luck or bad health if they do not return to me for another session or see a different metaphysical healer. I will inform all my clients that I am not a Medical Doctor, a licensed Therapist, or Psychiatrist and therefore will not provide a health diagnosis or psychological counselling. I will encourage my clients to see a doctor or mental health professional if needed and offer my readings or healing sessions as Spiritual Support for their overall health and wellbeing. My work will be focused on helping clients gain confidence and spiritual or energetic balance in their lives. I encourage my clients to accept responsibility for their lives and the choices they make, but I will never force my clients to accept what I am telling them. I will strive to honor the point of view of others, even if they are different from mine. I honor the Relative Truth and Free Will of others. While I may be asked to inform and guide my client’s choices, I will remain mindful that it is their choice to follow any guidance I offer. I confirm that my practice is informed by professional education and training, and I have demonstrated my competence and skill. I agree to only offer services that are within my scope of training and I will not claim accolades, titles, or experience that I have not fairly earned. I will strive to be continually learning and enhancing my skills. I will set my fees, prices and energy exchange rates fairly and within balance of my skills and experience level, without any hidden costs, unfair fees, or added on extended sessions. It is not my intent to charge the client as much as possible or coerce them into buying more sessions. I will vigilantly avoid fraudulent practices and will not make claims or promises that are beyond my ability. I will always strive for quality and integrity in my readings and metaphysical work. I keep the welfare of my client in highest regard, yet I willingly admit my own boundaries. If at any point I realize that I cannot serve this client because they need a service or counselling that is beyond my training or expertise, I will end the session. I will do what I can to help the client find a reader or healer to better suit their needs, and offer a refund if necessary. I can tell a client “No” if they are asking for a service that I do not offer or for something that I do not ethically align with, or if they make me uncomfortable. I am not obligated to serve anyone who makes me feel unsafe, and I will strive to establish and hold my own boundaries without being rude or disrespectful. I honor the privacy of my clients and I will not share personal information about readings or counselling and healing sessions with others. I will not share my client’s contact information or other personal information with others. I will get my client’s full consent before adding them to any mailing list or forwarding any type of advertisement to them. I do not do third-party readings. I just don't do a reading involving a person who isn't there. My reading is meant to help YOU - the Client - improve your life and make informed choices. But I will not read cards or charts to see what other people feel or think. If the reading involves a relationship, I will focus on what YOU need to know in that relationship. I do not do "Twin Flame" or "Soul Mate" readings. I can give you relationship advice by reading YOUR chart or YOUR cards, but I will not read for another person without their knowledge and consent. In addition to the above, I also follow the Code of Ethics for Members of the Seattle Psychics Association. As part of my credentials, I have been vetted by SPA to show that I do my best to follow this Code of Ethics.

Blessed Imbolc! "Imbolc" is the name that many modern Neo Pagans use for the cross-quarter solar celebration that occurs around February 1st of our Calendar year. For those in the Northern Hemisphere it is the Mid-Winter Festival; about six weeks after Winter Solstice (beginning of Winter) and about six weeks before the Spring Equinox. Wheel of The Year; Quarters and Cross-Quarters - The Basics The word Imbolc is Gaelic in origin and means "In the Belly" or "In the womb" - relating to the final period of gestation before the season of birth that occurs with the Spring Equinox. It is a time for us to think about our goals and desires for the year ahead as seeds that are planted under the soil. They are not quite sprouting - but these goals still need our care and protection while they gather strength and nutrients in the soil so they can grow. In our modern calendar year, we celebrate Imbolc on February 1st. Astrologically, Imbolc - or the mid-winter point that is half way between Yule and Beltane - is when the sun is at 15° Aquarius. This year - Astrological Imbolc is on February 3, 2022 No matter what day you celebrate, it is a great time for Goal Setting. I prefer this as the best time for "New Year's Resolutions". This year we also have the Aquarius New Moon (Lunar New Year) at the same time as Imbolc, so there is extra energy supporting this as a great time to set your intentions and resolutions for the year ahead. The Fool's Journey Begins; Aquarius and Imbolc With my Pagan Temple (The Aquarian Tabernacle Church), we often take an Astrological approach to a Goal-Setting Ritual at Imbolc. We set the Sacred Space and then write down a total of 12 goals or wishes for the coming year; one for each House of the Zodiac Wheel. The Houses relate to different areas of Life - you can read more about the Houses HERE. We write each goal in the form of an Affirmation that is positive and present tense, and then bless or charge each goal in the manner of our choosing; one could bless each goal with incense or oils, or by candle light, song, chant, prayer, etc. You may wish to put your affirmations somewhere that you will see them often, or even turn them into part of your daily prayer or affirmation practice for the year. Additionally, if you are going to grow a garden this year - you could plant 12 seeds at this time - one for each of your goals. Then as you nurture and nourish the seedling, you are also energetically nurturing your goal or wish - and have a daily reminder to work toward your goal. However you choose to set your goals and intentions for this year; remember to treat yourself with loving kindness. You are not a failure if your goal does not come to fruition - it just means that the circumstances of your life were not yet ideal for the growth of that seed. YOU still have value and worth no matter what seeds grow in your garden of life. You have made it half way through another Winter, Spring is approaching and you can now decide who you want to be, what you want to focus on, and what kind of energy you are going to bring with you into the next year. HAPPY IMBOLC!

I mentioned in my previous post - The Fool's Journey Through The Wheel of The Year - there is an alternate order of exploring the story of the Major Arcana. This journey is cyclical - a wheel that doesn't have a beginning or an end; but stories need beginnings, so we are going to start with Aquarius season and Imbolc. Aquarius season is approximately from January 19 through February 19 each year. In the Northern Hemisphere, Imbolc is the celebration of mid-winter - we are at the half-way point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. Astrologically, Aquarius is the middle of the Winter Quadrant (Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces) and Imbolc is celebrated at the Middle of Aquarius Season - when the sun is at 15° Aquarius. With our modern Calendars, we celebrate this on or around February 1. (If you prefer astrological precision, you can always find out when the Sun will be at 15° Aquarius; in 2022 this falls on the night of February 3) At this time of year, we collectively experience a feeling of starting over again - starting fresh. On New Year's Day we set Resolutions, and for many people at Imbolc - it is a time of making wishes and setting our goals for the coming year. Spring is beginning in about 6 weeks - but any gardener knows that a successful garden begins before the seeds are even planted in the soil! There is some planning that happens; what kind of seeds do we want to get? How do we need to prepare the soil? Some plants need to be started indoors, and some need to be planted while it is still cold. But before all this comes one important thing - the decision to plant a garden or seed! The choice to try something new, or to have a goal is where we begin. This is where we first meet The Fool - Major Arcana 0. Full of childlike exuberance, innocence, and even a bit naive - our fool has decided to try something new. Whether it is the garden that one is going to plant, or some other new adventure - the choice has been made and preparations begin. Traditionally, we see The Fool dancing joyfully along some mountain path - a knapsack of just a few of their necessities on their shoulder. The whole world lays out ahead of them waiting - which path will they choose? There is a sense of danger with the cliffside that the fool precariously walks upon; as with any journey if one is not careful things can quickly go awry. And this is the first time The Fool has walked this path - they do not know the way or what dangers lie ahead! But that does not stop our youthful and optimistic Hero - a soul who is determined to go out there and do the thing! Most cards also depict a companion animal like a small dog at the feet of the Fool - happily playing but also perhaps barking a warning for the Fool to look out and watch their step. The dog is the Fool's instincts - which are the true guides at the beginning of any journey. The Fool corresponds with the planet Uranus; "The Awakener". Uranus brings change - and seeks out the path of change that will bring the greatest good to all. Uranus also serves as a planet of inspiration and enlightenment - though these things do not come easily or without cost. In the tarot, we can see the archetype of Uranus in The Fool; one who has been struck with inspiration to go on a journey to seek enlightenment. He does not know what this journey will hold, only that he must go. Much like us - at Imbolc each year. We know Spring is coming and a whole new year lies ahead of us. We don't know what will happen, but we know that we must move forward. We usually have some inspiration and goals that we carry with us - what we hope to accomplish or learn on our journey. And Hope is another key to where this journey begins. The Star - Major Arcana 17. The key words of this card are Hope, Inspiration, Vision, Insight, and Spiritual Enlightenment. This is The Fool's Home - or the starting point of the journey. It begins with Hope. Without hope we do not dare dream or envision a different future or make plans for something new. From Hope we develop our dream, we breathe life into our vision, and we believe that there is something worth taking this journey for. The Fool has drunk deeply from the spring of Hope in this garden of The Star - as should we when we are making our wishes and goals for the journey ahead. Astrologically, The Star corresponds to the Sign of Aquarius - which is ruled by Uranus in Modern Astrology. You can see why this could be considered the starting point of the Fool's Journey. I doubt the Fool would have the same hopeful, adventurous, determined spirit if this place -The Star - were not their "home base". The Fool even sometimes looks to be a bit drunk - which I imagine anyone would be if they had just drunk their fill from this spring of Hope and Inspiration. However, this isn't all that the Fool has brought on their journey. They do have some provisions packed in that sachet on their shoulder - indicating that they have somewhat thought ahead and planned for their trip. Of course, it is hard to plan for a journey when you don't know exactly where you are going or what will happen next - but the fool has likely at least brough some food and money for the first leg of the adventure. There is obviously some faith that more provisions will be found along the way, but we can't carry with us a whole year's worth of food and still travel efficiently and with the carefree heart of The Fool! Yet - something has been packed. Shoes are on, the faithful companion is by their side, and the weather looks fair. All of this indicates some practical planning - The Fool is no idiot. Traditionally, the astrological ruler of Aquarius is Saturn; planet of Responsibility, Boundaries, and Restrictions. This is why we also include The World - Major Arcana 21 at this part of the Journey. The World card key concepts are: Discipline, Structure, Accomplishments, World Travel, Journey, Isolation, and Success. As wild and carefree and unruly as The Fool might appear, they will only be successful in his journey if they heed the messages of Saturn and The World card. Discipline; one will not get far if they give up at the first struggle or hardship. There will be setbacks and it takes Discipline and Determination to keep going. Structure; sometimes it is best to break free and rebel - but sometimes you will actually make it farther if you comply with the rules or follow some kind of structure. Isolation; in some parts of your journey - you will be alone. You will meet others along the way and some of them might even help you for a time. But your dream belongs to you alone and you must sometimes be alone in your journey to achieve it. Thus you have seen how The Fool's Journey through the Wheel of The Year begins. As you celebrate Imbolc you can consider the lessons of The Fool, The Star, and The World cards to help you begin to plan for your own journey.

If you have studied Tarot you have likely heard of "The Fool's Journey" - a conceptual and metaphorical journey of The Fool – card 0 – through the other 21 Major Arcana Cards. The Fool departs on his journey, innocent and hopeful and naïve; and encounters each of the Major Arcana cards where he learns an important life lesson and then continues on his journey. As I reflect on this Fool's Journey I contemplate how it is a classical and traditional way to learn about the Major Arcana – but in reality there is no set order in which the Fool might encounter each of these lessons. Tarot is like a book in which the pages are constantly rearranged and placed in a different order; this is the nature of the lessons and the readings we give with the cards. Yes, Card 2 The High Priestess comes after Card 1 The Magician. But every time the Fool embarks on his journey, he might not encounter The Magician before he meets The High Priestess. Then I asked myself – what if we look at The Fool's Journey in terms of The Wheel of The Year; with an astrological "Order". This combines our Tarot learning with any Astrological study we might be doing – and helps us engage with The Wheel of The Year in yet another level of intentionality. We would meet cards in sets of two or three cards and see how they work together – the Astrological Sign of the Season, and the Planetary Rulers of the Season. It would look something like this: 0, 17, 21 / 18, 12, 10 / 4, 16 / 5, 3 / 6, 1 / 7, 2 / 8, 19 / 9, 1 / 11, 3 / 13, 20, 16 / 14, 10 / 15, 21 (Dates are approximate and may be slightly different each year) Aquarius Season (Jan 20 – Feb 18)IMBOLC – Feb. 1 The Star (Major Arcana 17. Card of Aquarius) The Fool (Major Arcana 0. Card of Uranus) The World (Major Arcana 21. Card of Saturn) Pisces Season (Feb 19 – March 20) The Moon (Major Arcana 18. Card of Pisces) The Hanged Man (Major Arcana 12. Card of Neptune) The Wheel of Fortune (Major Arcana 10. Card of Jupiter) Aries Season (March 21 – April 19)OSTARA – Spring Equinox – March 21 The Emperor (Major Arcana 4. Card of Aries) The Tower (Major Arcana 16. Card of Mars) Taurus Season (April 20 – May 20)BELTANE – May 1 The Hierophant (Major Arcana 5. Card of Taurus) The Empress (Major Arcana 3. Card of Venus) Gemini Season (May 21 – June 20) The Lovers (Major Arcana 6. Card of Gemini) The Magician (Major Arcana 1. Card of Mercury) Cancer Season (June 21 – July 22)LITHA – Summer Solstice – June 21 The Chariot (Major Arcana 7. Card of Cancer) The High Priestess (Major Arcana 2. Card of The Moon) Leo Season (July 23 – Aug 22)LAMMAS – Aug 1 Strength (Major Arcana 8. Card of Leo) The Sun (Major Arcana 19. Card of the Sun) Virgo Season (Aug 23 – Sept 22) The Hermit (Major Arcana 9. Card of Virgo) The Magician (Major Arcana 1. Card of Mercury) Libra Season (Sept 23 – Oct 22)MABON – Fall Equinox – Sept 23 Justice (Major Arcana 11. Card of Libra) The Empress (Major Arcana 3. Card of Venus) Scorpio Season (Oct 23 – Nov 21)SAMHAIN – Nov 1 Death (Major Arcana 13. Card of Scorpio) Judgment (Major Arcana 20. Card of Pluto) The Tower (Major Arcana 16. Card of Mars) Sagittarius Season (Nov 22 – Dec 20) Temperance (Major Arcana 14. card of Sagittarius) The Wheel of Fortune (Major Arcana 10. Card of Jupiter) Capricorn Season (Dec 21 – Jan 19)YULE – Winter Solstice – Dec 21 The Devil (Major Arcana 15. Card of Capricorn) The World (Major Arcana 21. Card of Saturn) You will notice that some cards have repeated through the year; sometimes there are three cards in a season rather than two. This is because in Traditional Astrology the Inner Planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn) each had rulership over two signs. I like to include Traditional Rulerships with the Modern Rulerships – because I do not believe the discovery of Outer Planets (Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) have overthrown the traditional rulers as much as joined them. When we encounter a card for the second time, we can begin to see it's dual nature and find deeper meaning. As The Fool goes on his journey sometimes he might meet certain people or lessons more than once – but we know that there is more than one thing to learn from a friend or teacher or place we visit. What do you think of this alternate order to The Fool's Journey? Would you like to explore it more with me over this next year? I will be posting a series here on this blog; 'The Fool's Journey Through The Wheel of The Year' where we can take a deeper look at each part of The Fool's Journey as we progress through The Wheel together. Check back often or subscribe so you don't miss any posts! (This series is also being published through The Ever Green Hearth)

For my Astrology A to Z series we have reached the Letter I [ i ] The Imum Coeli is often simply referred to as the IC, it is one of the four Angles of the chart (the other three being the Ascendant [AC], the Descendant [DC] and the Mid Heaven [Medium Coeli or MC] ) The IC is located in the bottom part of your chart, near the middle, and it is exactly opposite from your MC at the top of your chart. The MC (Mid Heaven) represents a very public part of you - the part that is seen collectively by others and involves your participation with the public such as your career and social status. The IC (Imum Coeli) therefore represents the opposite; it is the part of you that is most private and hidden - it is how you behave when no one is watching. The Imum Coeli represents the subconscious drives, it is a foundational part of our personality - often unseen or unknown even to us because it is a part of your core. I think of it like the internal organs . . . we SEE the outer part of our body so this is what we recognize and identify as "self", but we cannot SEE the internal organs, so we don't often identify ourselves with those. Nonetheless, they are a part of us and crucial to our daily functioning. Yet the IC is less about this hidden part of our physical bodies and more related to the hidden parts of the psyche. The IC is therefore the most vulnerable part of ourselves, and the place where we are alone. Hellenistic astrologers considered the IC to be The Underworld, or Hades. It is the deepest hour of Night - if the sun is located near the IC you were born close to Midnight or in the middle of the night, hours before sunrise. Using a quadrant-based House system such as Placidus or Porphyry, the IC will be the line that divides the 3rd house from the 4th House - it is the place where the 4th House begins. Therefore, the sign of your IC will also be the Ruler of your 4th House. The 4th House relates to our home life - therefore we see how the IC can represent who we are when we are alone. The MC is how we are perceived publicly - the faces we put on when we are outside the home. The IC is how we are when no one is around to see us. Yet we often don't give much conscious thought to this part of us! The Imum Coeli can be a powerful tool for helping you do some Shadow Work*. By "Shadow Work" I mean the modern psychology practice described by Carl Jung; the process of seeing and integrating the hidden or unseen parts of yourself. It can be difficult to Identify with the traits of the IC - this is a part of our psyche we often hide from ourselves. It is also deeply connected to the Inner Child and our forgotten past; therefore, a wound or trauma that we do not wish to look at can be hidden here. The true function of Shadow Work as described by Carl Jung is to simply SEE these rejected parts of the self and accept them without judgement. Examining the SIGN in which your IC resides is a great step in beginning the process of Shadow Work - which many people hear about but do not know where to start. If you have planets near the IC these may also hold clues to the Hidden parts of yourself, your Inner Child, and your subconscious. The Imum Coeli - as ruler of the 4th House, can also teach us a great deal about what kind of nurturing we need, the type of home life we crave, and the basic structure of our innermost emotional world. It relates to our upbringing, our relationship with our parents, and even hold keys to how we can connect with our ancestral roots. As the point that is related to the Undwerworld and therefore our connection with our Ancestors, I believe that the IC can show us which of our ancestors we should work with in this lifetime - or what our Ancestors hope to teach us in this lifetime. As a suggestion if you have a practice that involves Ancestral work - study the meaning of the sign of your IC and have a conversation with your Ancestors about it - see how they respond! Additional reading on the Imum Coeli: https://themagichoroscope.com/astrology/imum-coeli https://askastrology.com/the-imum-coeli/ https://www.wellandgood.com/imum-coeli-astrology/ *A note on Shadow Work: The point of Shadow Work is to acknowledge a part of your subconscious that may be suppressed or rejected. We all have parts of ourselves that are "shadow" - a desire or instinct that we hide away from ourselves or the people around us. In Shadow work you acknowledge this part of yourself and accept it. This doesn't mean you have to behave in the manner of your shadow self, but it is simply bringing this part of yourself into your conscious awareness so that acting or not acting in this way is a conscious choice rather than a subconscious action. Some behaviors we suppress for good reason – maybe acting a certain way is destructive or harmful. But we should acknowledge that the urge to act in that way exists – therefore giving us more conscious control over that part of ourselves. There are other parts of our shadow that we were conditioned to suppress – perhaps we were told this part of us was bad or shameful as a child by our parents or a religious institution. In this case the suppression of the shadow might not be healthy, and we can decide as an autonomous adult whether to free that part of ourselves or not

H is for Houses, a part of my Astrology A to Z series. Houses are an important part of chart interpretation. When looking to a planet in a chart, you will generally interpret its temperament and lessons based primarily on what Sign it is in and what House it is in. What are the Houses and where are they? Simply put, the Houses are "areas of the sky". These Areas of the Sky have been assigned different meanings, and as planets and stars move through these areas of the sky, our relationship with them and interaction with them also changes. The Houses are always located in the same part of the Chart. As the earth spins on its daily axis, we observe the sun and stars "moving" through the different houses. It is like how in your home, at different times of day the sun will shine through different windows. Since you generally spend a day on the same basic location on the planet, your point of view of what is above you vs what is on the horizon only changes as much as the Earth spins on its axis. This is why you need to know time of birth and location of birth in order to accurately cast a Natal Chart... because the earth spins and therefore the signs & planets that are near the horizon will change throughout the day. However, the houses will remain in the same place, in the same way that the windows in your home stay in the same place throughout the day. Below is a diagram of the Houses and their positions. Look at this wheel and think of yourself on earth in the middle. The upper half of the wheel is what is above you in the sky. On the left side where it says AC is the Eastern Horizon, where the sun rises. At the top of the wheel where it says MC is the highest point in the sky above you, where the sun will be at noon. And on the right side of the wheel where it says DC, is the western horizon, where the sun will set in the evening. You can see the numbers in the middle of this wheel, showing the house numbers. These are the divisions of the parts of the sky. Houses 7 through 12 are what we can see above the horizon. Houses 1 through 6 are below the horizon. Notice that as the sun rises at the AC, it will move "backwards" through the houses throughout the day (12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7) Then during the night after the sun sets, it will move through houses 6 to 1, rising again into the 12th house the next morning. The AC means "Ascendant" and this is also known as your "Rising Sign". It relates to what Sign is "Rising" on the Eastern horizon at the time of your birth and your location of birth. So as you can see, the SIGNS move through all the houses each 24 hours, as the Earth (in the middle) spins on its axis. The planets move through the signs, and the signs move through the houses. Now, because of the Houses always being in the same place, you can look at your birth chart and see what planets were above the horizon at your time of birth. Were they near the Western horizon - houses 7 or 8? Were they near the Eastern horizon - houses 12 or 11? Or were they higher above you in the sky - houses 9 and 10? If planets in your chart are in houses 1 through 6, you know they were below the horizon - on the other side of the Earth. Neat, huh? Why do some charts show houses bigger or smaller? Depending on the House system you use (placidus or porphyry) and the location on the planet, some houses might be smaller or bigger. This relates to the tilt of the earth's axis which can result in the sun appearing to remain in one part of the sky longer than other parts of the sky, depending on the season. The farther away from the equator you are and the closer to winter or summer solstices, the sun will appear to move through certain sections of the sky more quickly or more slowly. A very large house shows that the sun took a longer amount of time to move through that portion of the sky. A very small house shows that the sun appeared to move through that section of the sky very quickly. What do each of the Houses represent? The Houses in a chart relate to different Areas of Life. Think again of the image of a large house. There is a kitchen, a living room, an office, an art studio, a play room or music room, a library or study, and a bathroom. You do different things in each room, right? In the kitchen you prepare meals for your family, in the library you study and learn new things. In the bedroom you sleep or make love. In the bathroom you tend to your hygiene and appearance. There are also different times of day that you are more likely to use certain areas of the house depending on your schedule and lifestyle. Some members of the household might use the Art Studio often, while other members of the household hardly use the art studio at all. The children in the household might use the playroom far more often than they use other areas of the house. The Living room might be the favorable place for gatherings with guests and friends, but it would be a little awkward if you tried to host a dinner party in the bedroom or the bathroom! Think of the Houses of the chart as "Areas of Life" that are common to the human experience. Some people are more focused on different areas of life than you are; perhaps you know someone who is more focused on career, while you are more focused on education and learning. And yet another person is focused on family and their home, while someone else is more focused on Art and Music. However, everyone has different levels of access to all these areas of life, and together they make up the complete human experience. In a birth chart, you can see a person's general aptitude towards a certain area of life depending on what planets they have in certain houses. The Sun or Venus in certain houses will give clues to what areas of life a person generally enjoys. You can also see the areas of life in which a person might experience harsher lessons, hardships, or restrictions - usually related to what houses Saturn or Pluto reside in. The Sign that rules a House will "flavor" and influence the experience of that area of life as well. The Sign of the house will influence the energy and aesthetic of those experiences. For example think of the Library or Study room of that big house again. This room might be like the 9th House in the chart - it is the House of Higher Education and Philosophy. However, how might this library be different if it was decorated and stocked by an Aries vs if it was decorated and stocked by a Virgo? This is an example of how the House is influenced by the Sign, even if there are no planets in that sign or house! The planets bring yet another layer of influence if present, but you still have this room in your house even if you don't have planets in it! However, without planets in the house, it might be a room that you're not frequently called to use, or you just don't have major life changing events occur when you are in that room. Also, there is great significance in the Houses related to transits. Transits are the current movement of planets compared to a birth chart. For example; Saturn is currently moving through the sign of Aquarius. You can find Aquarius in your birth chart - what house (or houses) are in Aquarius? This can show you the "area of life" that Saturn is influencing for YOU as he moves through the sign of Aquarius. I am not going to include the meanings of all the houses in this post, but I do plan to start including a series on the Houses on my Blog in 2022. Otherwise, the internet is full of great resources for understanding the individual meanings of each house! I do hope that this post has helped you understand Houses a bit better! Happy Learning!

Continuing with my Astrology A-Z series, we are now at letter F. F is for Fixed "Fixed Signs" relates to Modality - there are three class divisions of signs known as "modes" or "modality" (also sometimes referred to as "Qualities"); they are Cardinal, Fixed or Mutable. For a greater understanding of this, please also read my previous post - C IS FOR CARDINAL When the Wheel is divided into four equal quarters, and you apply one season to each quarter - the Cardinal signs mark the beginning of the season, the Fixed signs mark the middle of the season, and the Mutable signs mark the end of the season. Acknowledging that where you are on the globe along with climate change; the weather patterns might not line up exactly with these seasons - but these are the "Astrological Seasons". However, understanding the nature of "Beginning, Middle, and Ending" will help you understand the nature of the Modalities. Taurus - Fixed Earth - Middle of Spring Leo - Fixed Fire - Middle of Summer Scorpio - Fixed Water - Middle of Fall Aquarius - Fixed Air - Middle of Winter With the Fixed Signs representing the Middle of a Season - we find that Season is stabilized and "fully rooted". The middle of Summer (in the Northern Hemisphere) is Leo Season - with the Sun as Leo's ruler this time of year is ruled by the Sun - it is commonly a Hot and Dry time of the year. The Middle of Fall is related to Scorpio - a Water Sign - and commonly a time when the rains begin, and we witness the cycle of decomposition as the leaves fall from trees and begin to decompose into the earth. One could say that the Fixed signs are the best at expressing their Element, since they express this element in the most solid, concentrated, and focused way. Thus the Fixed signs are associated with personality traits or expressions of stubbornness and determination - but each expressed through it's own Element. Stubbornness of Earth energy may express quite differently than stubbornness of Fire energy etc. The Fixed Signs are accumulative by nature, collecting and containing energy and stabilizing it or solidifying it. If a person has planets in Fixed signs in their Birth Chart, those planets will often express themselves in a very solid, concentrated matter. Fixed Squares & Oppositions Square Aspects occur when two planets 90° away from each other. If the wheel (360° ) is divided into four quadrants, each quadrant has 90° in it, so the Fixed signs all form either Squares or Oppositions to each other. (Oppositions are aspects of planets that are 180° apart - opposite sides of the wheel) Squares are traditionally seen as "hard" or challenging aspects - the planets involved have some kind of tension or friction between them that creates discomfort. However, this discomfort is what urges us to take action to make change or improve our life situations. Fixed Sign Squares involve two planets that are operating from very solid, stubborn, resolute points in the chart, so it can be difficult for these parts of the self to integrate or find compromise. Taurus squares Leo and Aquarius Leo squares Taurus and Scorpio Scorpio squares Leo and Aquarius Aquarius squares Taurus and Scorpio Opposition aspects can be challenging as well - but they also bring an opportunity for balance and integration. The Fixed Oppositions are Taurus & Scorpio and Leo & Aquarius. The Fixed Axis of Taurus and Scorpio is the Axis of Power and Value - hashing out the different types of Power that come from different sets of Values. The Fixed Axis of Leo and Aquarius is the Axis of Creativity and Expression - here we learn to balance between Individual expression vs Group Expression and find Creativity important on both sides. Succedent Houses Fixed energy is also found in the Succedent Houses. These are Houses 2, 5, 8 and 11. The Succedent Houses deal with Stability found in a variety of different resources, and planets in these houses will be more stubborn and resistant to change - similar to planets in fixed signs. Personal Chart Exploration: What planets do you have in Fixed Signs? Do you have planets in Fixed signs that are Squaring or in Opposition to each other? What planets do you have in Succedent Houses? Can you feel how those planets carry some Fixed energy influence even if the sign is not Fixed? ----------------------------------- If you enjoy my posts, consider signing up for my Patreon! For a small monthly donation you can help support my writing & Astrology updates here on my Patreon blog and on social media! There are also higher tiers for exclusive content & Astrology lessons. Your support helps me continue to bring you posts like this one!

A thru Z Astrology Series; E is for Equinoxes "Equinox" means "Equal Night" and refers to the time of year when the length of Day and Night are equal. We have two equinoxes each year - one in the spring and one in the fall. These are related to the earth's tilt of axis, which gives us our seasons. When the Northern Hemisphere is tilted towards the sun, we have longer days and shorter nights - our summer. And when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the sun, we have longer nights and shorter days - our winter. At the time of the equinox, Day and Night are equal and we are directly in between summer and winter. A note on the Solstices The tilt of the earth's axis has the Northern Hemisphere tilted farthest away from the sun at the time of the year when the sun enters Capricorn. In 6 months time, the tilt of the earth's axis will have the Northern Hemisphere tilted closest to the sun - this is the Summer Solstice and the beginning of Cancer season. We even have named certain parts of the Earth's circumference lines after these points; the Tropic of Capricorn and the Tropic of Cancer. The Equator is between the two - and it is the point tilted closest to the sun during the Spring and Fall equinoxes. As we annually orbit around the sun, the moments of these seasonal shifts of the solstices and equinoxes make up the key points in our Astrological Calendar using Tropical Astrology. (Also known as Western Astrology) This is why the signs might have slightly different starting/ending dates each year - as the points of the solstices and equinoxes do not fall on the exact same calendar day every year. Understanding this concept will also help you understand why Tropical Astrology does not align with the placement of constellations. The Astrological Year of Tropical Astrology is designed to line up with seasonal points of time in our orbit around the sun - not with the alignment of the sun with certain constellations. Sidereal Astrology sets the timing of the astrological seasons with the constellations - but not Tropical Astrology. I think both forms of astrology are valid and useful, but generally people will choose one or the other to study and practice. (I work with Tropical Astrology) Tropical Astrology (in the Northern Hemisphere) 0° Aries - The Spring Equinox - The sun's ecliptic path is aligned with the Equator 0° Cancer - Summer Solstice - the sun's ecliptic path is aligned with the Tropic of Cancer 0° Libra - Fall Equinox - the sun's ecliptic path is aligned with the Equator 0° Capricorn - Winter Solstice - the sun's ecliptic path is aligned with the Tropic of Capricorn From these points, each sign is divided into 30 degrees, making a 360° wheel equally divided among 12 signs. These points of the Equinoxes and Solstices all fall in the Cardinal Signs. Cardinal Signs are related to Leadership and Initiation - so it makes sense that these four signs "lead" the change or initiation into each seasonal shift of the year. As a side note - once you understand that Tropical Astrology (Western Astrology) is designed based on the division of 12 signs through the alignment of the sun's elliptical path with the equinox and solstice points - you understand why the "13th Sign" Ophiuchus is just not a thing. The basis for the 13th Sign of Ophiuchus is rooted in placement of a constellation along the elliptical path of the sun. The signs were named after nearby constellations, but the system of Tropical Astrology is not based only on constellations; it is much more based on the seasonal points of the year on earth. I don't know exactly why the ancient astrologers chose to name the season of Scorpio after the smaller constellation of the Scorpion rather than the larger constellation of Ophiuchus, but the existence of this constellation does not change the 12-sign system. Previous A - Z Astrology Series posts: A is for Astrology B is for Birth Chart C is for Cardinal D is for Decan ---------------------------------------- If you enjoy these posts, please consider supporting me so I can continue to bring you more content. You can join my Patreon with tiers between $5 and $50 a month. You can also support me by scheduling a private astrology reading by emailing me at hestiasmuse@gmail.com or contacting me on Facebook