Astrology Report for April By Dorene Carrel Astrology Report By Dorene is part of the monthly Planet Alert mailings. View email in webpage browser format April is an active month, highlighted by three planetary stations and another grand earth trine at the New Moon. Significant transitions can occur this month. Mercury and Mars turn direct by mid-month, allowing us to move forward with new goals and activities. The month begins under the waxing March New Moon in Aries, with an energetic, restless and independent theme. Due to the retrograde cycles, it hasn’t been a good time for taking direct action. We may be feeling impatient and have pent up energies that await release. This is still a favorable time to receive fresh new ideas and insights that may lead to taking action later in the month. On April 4, Mercury turns direct at 24 Pisces. During the past three weeks, we may have felt our energy being scattered in many directions, which has made it harder to stay focused or make decisions. Mercury will be in Pisces until April 17, giving us an opportunity to more finely tune our intuitive senses and inner guidance. Now is a good time to pay attention to our deeper feeling impulses, inspirations and dreams. Creative activities, such as music and art, can also stimulate and expand our intuitive, right-brain side. Mercury enters Aries on April 18, which will be a better time for taking direct action. The Full Moon occurs on April 6 at 17 Libra. Libra themes include harmony, cooperation, equality and seeing both sides of an issue; the shadow side is being indecisive and seeking peace at any price. This is a good period for looking at how we can better meet our own personal needs within close relationships. A Sun/Neptune aspect may bring some confusion, but can also infuse us with greater compassion for ourselves and others. The Sabian symbols for these degrees, “An empty hammock stretched between two trees,” and “Two men placed under arrest” suggest the importance of cooperation and balance in our inner and outer lives. On April 10, Pluto in Capricorn turns retrograde, which allows us to reassess how we are processing deeper issues, especially those connected to finances and relationships. Underlying power and control dynamics can also emerge. Issues from the past can come up to be transformed or released during these next several months (until September 18). Mars in Virgo turns direct on April 13, which brings renewed momentum for accomplishing our personal goals. The retrograde period of the past several weeks may have brought blocks or delays, but now results can manifest in a more tangible form. We can also act with more confidence, organization and discernment. The New Moon occurs on April 21 at 1 Taurus 35. This month will be favorable for examining the areas of finances, personal resources and values. We can see more clearly the relationship between our values, beliefs and what we manifest into our lives. What beneficial changes can we make? Taurus favors taking a more practical, deliberate and patient approach. There is also a harmonious grand earth trine (Sun/Moon, Pluto and Mars) that can open new doors and create opportunities for prosperity. The alignment between the Sun/Moon and Ceres in Taurus reminds us that it is important to support each other and to care for our precious natural resources. This month is also favorable for enjoying sensory experiences, such as going to a spa, having a massage or enjoying a nature walk. The Sabian symbol for this degree, “An electrical storm; the cosmic power able to transform all the implications of natural existence” suggests that we have the power for manifesting positive life changes, which can come very quickly. On April 22, Mercury will align with Uranus in Aries for the third and last time in this cycle. Whatever was planned or started back in early March can now be completed easily and with greater success. We are also more likely to receive creative ideas at this time that appear as sudden flashes of intuition. The month ends on a favorable note, as the Sun makes harmonious trine aspects with both Mars and Pluto from April 23-29 (reinforcing the earlier grand earth trine). These aspects provide a harmonious source of empowerment and outer drive for greater accomplishments and opportunities for fulfillment. Have a great month! May brings a Solar Eclipse in Gemini. Stay tuned! * * * * * * * * Dorene Carrel is a professional astrologer with over thirty years of experience, offering birth chart, transits/progressions and relocation astrology readings. She is certified in Astrocartography. For more information, contact Dorene at dorenea5@yahoo.com. Paypal accepted. Donations also gratefully accepted. Send to P.O. Box 432, Seahurst, WA 98062. Check out my astrology blog at www.astroconnections.blogspot.comfor ongoing astrological observations on current events, people, trends, etc. All references to Sabian symbols are from An Astrological Mandala: The Cycle of Transformation and Its 360 Symbolic Phases, by Dane Rudhyar. Join our mailing list: subscribe Share this email: Asklepius Light Center PO Box 69613 Seattle, Washington 98168 Add us to your address book view email in browser | unsubscribe | update your profile | forward to a friend You are receiving this email because of your request to receive the Planet Alert Newsletter. Copyright (C) 2012 Asklepius Light Center All rights reserved.

Mercury Retrogrades Until April 4

Now that we have passed the first week of Mercury retrograde, how are you all doing? Mercury retrogrades through the signs of Aries and Pisces during this 3-week period. The signs most affected, besides Aries and Pisces, will be the cardinal signs of Libra, Cancer and Capricorn and the mutable signs of Virgo, Sagittarius and Gemini. Compounding this year's Mercury retrograde is an ongoing Mars retrograde in Virgo until April 14. So Virgos (and the other mutable signs) are doubly affected. All of us will more likely experience slow downs, glitches or various communication misunderstandings during this period. However, it is good to remember that the real purpose for retrograde periods is so we can turn inward, re-evaluate and become more conscious about our intentions and actions in the world.

Already I have heard of two accidents that have occurred to a Virgo and a Gemini during this retrograde period. The Virgo woman fell down in her apartment and her right arm got pulled out of its socket. She has been laid up with her arm in a sling, unable to drive. The Gemini woman ate an egg that was too hot, and when it popped she got blisters on her lips. This was just before a major trip. These accidents both happened partly because these ladies were in a rush to do something. During this period, it is important to slow way down and only do one-half of your normal daily routine.

Slowing down is especially crucial when Mercury is in the most impatient sign of Aries from March 3-23. We have also seen acts of heroism and courage (Aries) too, such as the mother who protected her children from a tornado, but lost both her feet. A positive use of Mercury in Aries is trying out new ideas and non-risky activities. On March 24, Mercury enters Pisces until April 16, which is the sign of going with the flow and is more patient and laid back. This will be a good period for introspective inner work, such as meditation, visualization, journal writing, or just getting caught up with reading/research.

There is a very good article about Mercury Retrograde in Horoscope Magazine for March, entitled "Mercury Retrograde: Retreat or Rejuvenate," by Sister Ray. She says that some rules to follow during this period include: Reflect, Read, Refresh, Review, Redirect, Repair and Rejuvenate. Then she goes on to write about how each sign will respond to Mercury retrograde. In general, any activity that begins with the prefix "re" is considered a good one for this period. This would be a wonderful time for going to a retreat, where one can release, relax and renew. Often one can hear from old friends and partners during this period, or a past unresolved situation can resurface along with a new approach. Even a missing object can suddenly reappear during this time!

We only have 2 more weeks to go! Hang in there, slow down and redirect your energies to flow better. Happy Spring Equinox!

Dennis Kucinich Loses Re-election Bid on 3/6/12

Dennis Kucinich lost his re-election bid for another term in Congress after serving for six terms in his Ohio district. He was forced to run against another Democrat after his old district was re-sized due to redistricting. Unfortunately this process turned out to favor his competitor. It is tragic that we have lost his strong progressive voice standing up for our rights against corporate interests.

Dennis is a Libra Sun, with Aries rising and Moon in Pisces. This shows him to be very sensitive to equal rights for all, and often taking a feisty lone stand against more conservative forces in his own party. Transiting Pluto over his Capricorn MC at this time suggests that he can likely find another position that would give him an influential platform to express his ideas and work towards his ideals.

Dennis's progressed chart (Solar Arc) for his election bid, dated March 6, 2012, reveals the pattern that brought his defeat. His progressed Sun at 20 Sagittarius is making a mutable grand cross in his natal chart, which directly squared his Moon in Pisces, Uranus in Gemini and Part of Fortune in Virgo. Uranus is the planet of change and upheaval, which is likely to occur when triggered by a progressed or transiting planet. This pattern will be in effect over the next couple of years, making any other attempt to run in an election also likely to be unsuccessful.

However, I'm sure that Dennis will continue to make his voice heard. What new format could he take to promote his progressive ideas? His progressed Sun in the 9th house suggests he may travel widely, be involved with educational work or perhaps a nonprofit foundation. He will likely strive to be as independent as possible and may still be seen as a lone maverick who speaks the truth as he sees it.

What do others think is Dennis' greatest legacy? What should he do after his term ends?

Astrology Report for March 2012

Astrology Report for March By Dorene Carrel Astrology Report By Dorene is part of the monthly Planet Alert mailings. View email in webpage browser format March is featured by the New Moon and Uranus aligned with the Sun and Mercury. This can bring us flashes of insight throughout the month. Mid-March brings a grand earth trine between Pluto, Jupiter, Mars and Venus, which opens the way for us to receive opportunities and prosperity. Mercury turns retrograde in Aries on March 12. The Spring Equinox occurs on March 19, which ushers in the beginning of the astrological New Year. As March begins, we are still in the waxing phase of the February New Moon in Pisces, with its spiritual and idealistic overtones. In late February we entered the shadow phase of Mercury retrograde. As Mars is also still retrograde until April, it is timely to review our goals for the next two years and be more patient towards oneself and others. The first week of March may be a bit challenging for relationships. On March 3, the Sun in Pisces opposing Mars in Virgo tends to make cooperation difficult. On March 4, Venus in Aries opposing Saturn in Libra can lead to freedom/closeness dilemmas. Expressing one’s sincere intentions may restore clarity and balance. On March 5 Mercury conjuncts Uranus at 3 Aries, which is the first of three alignments due to Mercury’s retrograde motion. The next two weeks can be a very stimulating period, filled with new and unusual communications and experiences. It may also be a period of flux, with changing, erratic people, traffic or computer issues. With both Mercury and Mars retrograde, there are likely obstacles to action, so it is best to take a slower, more cautious approach. On March 8 the Full Moon occurs at 18 Virgo. In Virgo, we can strive to use analysis and discrimination to further reassess and refine our original ideas and visions (Pisces). The alignment with Mars in Virgo inspires us towards pragmatic and productive activities. This is a good time to bring current and ongoing projects to completion. The Sabian symbols for this degree speak to a transfer of power and knowledge and “the stimulation that comes from a group effort toward a spiritual goal.” Mercury turns retrograde on March 12 at 6 Aries 49, and will travel back into Pisces before turning direct on April 4. Taking the usual precautions with computers, travel and decision-making is advised. Mercury in Aries tends to act and communicate impulsively or willfully, which can lead to possible accidents or regretful verbal disputes. March 12-14 features a harmonious Grand Earth trine pattern with Pluto in Capricorn, Venus/Jupiter in Taurus and Mars in Virgo. This can be a very flowing and abundant period, filled with opportunities and favorable developments. If one has worked hard towards a financial or other tangible goal, the benefits are likely to arrive now (especially if you have planets in earth or water signs). The second Mercury/Uranus conjunction in Aries occurs on March 18, bringing further stimulating events and intuitive insights. Mercury in Aries continues to bring a faster life pace and quickening of events. The third Mercury/Uranus conjunction will occur on April 22 (Earth Day). The Spring Equinox occurs the next day, on March 19, which is a good time to set new intentions and resolutions. The New Moon occurs on March 22 at 2 Aries 22. Aries themes include pioneering and inspired actions, along with being energetic, courageous, competitive and independent. This is a favorable month to take a fresh new direction in an ongoing situation or project. This lunation is aligned with the Super Galactic Center, along with Mercury and Uranus, which can bring us important spiritual messages through our dreams and meditations. The Sabian symbol for this degree speaks to the power of our collective energies: “The sustaining power of the Whole, as the individual identifies himself with Its life.” Mercury re-enters Pisces on March 23, where it stays until April 17. This is a favorable period for meditation, visualization and further developing our intuitive guidance. However, be sure to double-check all outer communications. On March 24 the Sun conjuncts Uranus in Aries, which brings more unusual, new and unexpected events. Nervous tension can be present, along with a more independent detachment. On March 29, the Sun makes a challenging square to Pluto, which can bring out power struggles, willful or manipulative tendencies. The Mercury/Venus sextile in Pisces/Taurus on this same day reminds us that we can draw on our peaceful inner resolve to rise above any conflicts. In April Mercury and Mars turn direct, while Pluto turns retrograde. Have a wonderful Spring! * * * * * * * * Dorene Carrel is a professional astrologer with over thirty years of experience, offering birth chart, transits/progressions and relocation astrology readings. She is certified in Astrocartography. For more information, contact Dorene at dorenea5@yahoo.com. Paypal accepted. Donations also gratefully accepted. Send to P.O. Box 432, Seahurst, WA 98062. Check out my astrology blog at www.astroconnections.blogspot.com for ongoing astrological observations on current events, people, trends, etc. All references to Sabian symbols are from An Astrological Mandala: The Cycle of Transformation and Its 360 Symbolic Phases, by Dane Rudhyar. Join our mailing list: subscribe Share this email: Asklepius Light Center PO Box 69613 Seattle, Washington 98168 Add us to your address book view email in browser | unsubscribe | update your profile | forward to a friend You are receiving this email because of your request to receive the Planet Alert Newsletter. Copyright (C) 2012 Asklepius Light Center All rights reserved.

Astrology Report for February 2012

Astrology Report for February By Dorene Carrel Astrology Report By Dorene is part of the monthly Planet Alert mailings. View email in webpage browser format February is highlighted by Neptune entering its own sign of Pisces, along with Saturn turning stationary direct in Libra. Saturn will provide us with needed grounding as we open to the more subtle other-worldly energies of Neptune. We begin the month under the waxing cycle of the January Aquarius New Moon, which brings focus to balancing individual self-expression with joining forces with like-minded others. Mars in Virgo continues in its retrograde cycle until April, giving us the next several weeks to review and plan how to best use our physical energies in the next two years. One’s chart can reveal the specific areas affected according to the transiting Mars house position and aspects, along with the best approach to take to actualize personal goals. On February 3 Neptune makes its final entry into Pisces, where it will travel for the next thirteen years, opening us to higher dimensions of awareness. During this period, we will be more attuned to the finer, more subtle energies (frequencies) of things/people, as we learn how to access and trust our intuitive intelligence for guidance. According to Penney Pierce, finding your home frequency is a big turning point in the transformation process. Her book, Frequency provides instructions on how to access one’s own home frequency. During this cycle, the feminine side will become enhanced, as taking a more heart-centered approach prevails. On February 7, the Full Moon occurs at 18 Leo 32. This cycle brings focus to our use of creative self expression, leadership, confidence and enthusiasm. The shadow side of Leo is being arrogant and ego-centered. The alignment with Mercury and Uranus will encourage us to take a unique approach with our communications, while being open to new insights and ideas. The Sabian symbols for these degrees emphasize breaking free from rigidly structured social behavior and taking courageous action to control destructive impulses. Also on February 7, Saturn turns retrograde at 29 Libra 31. Saturn is at this critical 29 degree point from January 14-March 2. It will travel back to 22 Libra in June, and then reach 29 Libra again in late September, before entering Scorpio on October 6. During this retrograde period we can expect old relationship patterns (Libra) to surface so we can finally resolve and heal them. We will also be looking at how we can incorporate the Libra traits of harmony, balance, detachment and equality into our relationships. Venus aligns with Uranus in Aries on February 9, which may bring new energy to existing relationships or a focus on how to resolve our needs for both freedom and closeness. This is a good time for trying out some unique and bold strategies for making new social connections. On February 13, Mercury aligns with Neptune and makes a harmonious trine with Saturn. These few days can be used for introspective or creative types of activities, especially where some type of organization is beneficial. A favorable Mercury/Jupiter alignment on February 16 can bring new prosperity or creative ideas to bring a financial increase. The solar alignment with Neptune on February 19 favors meditation and creative visualization. The New Moon occurs on February 21 at 3 Pisces. It makes aspects with Neptune, Chiron, Jupiter and Venus. This cycle will emphasize the qualities of being spiritual, intuitive, artistic, compassionate and visionary. The shadow side of Pisces is deception, escapism and delusion. Chiron brings a healing prospect to events that occur now, and can bring focus to releasing limiting beliefs connected to relationships and prosperity. The Sabian symbol for this degree, “Petrified Tree Trunks Lie Broken on Desert Sand,” emphasizes preserving the records of achievement of fully matured cultures. The month closes with harmonious solar alignments with both Jupiter and Pluto from February 25-27. This is a good week to focus on financial expansion and personal empowerment. In March, Mercury in Aries turns retrograde. Stay tuned! * * * * * * * * Dorene Carrel is a professional astrologer with over thirty years of experience, offering birth chart, transits/progressions and relocation astrology readings. She is certified in Astrocartography. For more information, contact Dorene at dorenea5@yahoo.com. Paypal accepted. Donations also gratefully accepted. Send to P.O. Box 432, Seahurst, WA 98062. Check out my astrology blog at www.astroconnections.blogspot.comfor ongoing astrological observations on current events, people, trends, etc. All references to Sabian symbols are from An Astrological Mandala: The Cycle of Transformation and Its 360 Symbolic Phases, by Dane Rudhyar. Join our mailing list: subscribe Share this email: Asklepius Light Center PO Box 69613 Seattle, Washington 98168 Add us to your address book view email in browser | unsubscribe | update your profile | forward to a friend You are receiving this email because of your request to receive the Planet Alert Newsletter. Copyright (C) 2012 Asklepius Light Center All rights reserved.

Uranus Direct Activates US Chart, OWS Movement

Uranus, the planet of change and upheaval, goes direct tonight at 11:05 PM, PST. This station occurs on the 4th house of the US Sibley chart, which rules our inner and outer foundations of security. Planetary themes usually become stronger when planets station. Uranus rules the theme of revolutionary change, which is demonstrated now by the Occupy Wall Street movement. It looks likely that there may be some stronger changes/shifts within OWS in the next few days or the coming week.

OWS, which began on September 17, 2011, can clearly be seen in the US chart. The OWS natal Uranus is strongly placed in this chart, which shows its potential for a real transformation in the foundation of our country. Uranus stands for equality, brotherhood and independence of expression. A challenging alignment with Pluto over the next three years will certainly bring a change of power dynamics. Pluto in square aspect to the OWS Venus shows a transformation of social values, along with the US financial system.

The US is now in its Saturn return cycle, which happens every 29-30 years. This is a time filled with change, as older outgrown structures are thrown out and replaced with ones that are more in alignment with our new values. The Saturn alignment with Juno and Venus in Libra show that equality is a strong theme in the OWS chart. Mars in the last degree of Cancer shows the strategy of passive resistance, along with a strong expression of solidarity.

What changes are next on the horizon for the OWS movement? Stay tuned, as I think they will show up soon.

ASTROLOGY REPORT FOR DECEMBER 2011

By Dorene Carrel

December is another powerful month, highlighted by a Lunar Eclipse and the three planetary stations of Uranus, Mercury and Jupiter. The Sun and Mercury in Sagittarius remind us to give priority to nurturing our inner spiritual visions and discover what really inspires us. The Winter Solstice on December 21 provides clarity for these new visions.

Due to its retrograde cycle, Mercury will be in Sagittarius until January 7. This will bring us more opportunity to release judgments of self and others, along with cultivating a generosity of spirit during this holiday season. During this retrograde period (November 23-December 13), it is best to allow more time to complete projects and be more flexible with plans, etc.

December 3-5 could bring some challenges for mental activity and communications when a difficult aspect pattern is formed between the Sun, Mercury, Mars and Saturn. During this time there is an increased tendency towards misunderstandings and disagreements. Remember that Mercury is still retrograde for another nine days. It is more favorable to use this energy to break through inner barriers to understanding. On December 5, a Mars/Venus trine in Capricorn/Virgo brings more ease, appreciation and perhaps some romantic meetings.

December 9-13 will likely be the most changeable period of the month. Uranus turns direct at 0 Aries on December 9, encouraging revolutionary or progressive activities that bring greater independence. As this is the World Degree, expect more sudden world events or earth changes. Mercury turns direct at 4 Sagittarius on December 13, which can bring the realization of new directions and possibilities. Now we can move forward with more clarity and confidence.

The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse occurs on December 10 at 18 Gemini. Gemini themes include information, siblings, communication, education and thought. This is a South Node eclipse, which offers an outlet for the release of old energy. The Uranus station and this Gemini eclipse will provide the detachment to let go of old patterns, beliefs and relationships that are no longer useful. It is favorable to be open to new sources of information and guidance that are more in alignment with one’s higher growth. Eclipses are usually in effect for one month before and about six months after they occur. The Sabian symbols for these degrees emphasize the importance of traditional wisdom and seeking safe and wholesome surroundings.

During the Winter Solstice on December 21, the Sun enters Capricorn and makes a harmonious trine to Jupiter in Taurus on December 22. This is an expansive aspect that brings new confidence and opportunities for prosperity on all levels. This is a good time to get in touch with some new visions and intentions for the New Year.

The New Moon occurs on December 24 at 2 Capricorn 34. Capricorn rules business, government, tradition, career and security issues. This lunation aligns with Pluto, Uranus and Jupiter, providing the opportunity to make more meaningful and deeper life changes that will bring greater inner security. In the outer world, this combination awakens revolutionary impulses as people strive for greater equality of resources. A current example is the Occupy Movement now occurring all over the world. This month may provide a heightened preview of the upcoming long-term square between Pluto and Uranus that will occur from 2012-2015. From a higher perspective, Pluto assists us in letting go of fear-based thinking, while Uranus encourages us to be more authentic in expressing our true purpose. Jupiter provides us a broader viewpoint and alignment with our highest visions. The Sabian symbol for this degree speaks to the importance of spiritual community during this time: “A powerful yearning for whatever will increase the scope and depth of one’s contacts with other living beings.”

Jupiter turns stationary direct on December 25 at 0 Taurus 22. This will be a good week to strengthen your faith and trust in life through contact with nature, meditation, visualization, etc. This station heightens the Jupiter energy, which brings an enlivening social atmosphere for the holidays, while Taurus encourages us to strive for simplicity and sustainability in our activities.

On December 28, the Sun aligns with Pluto in Capricorn, which will be a good day for a ceremony to release the past. It is best to be extra careful on New Year’s Eve, as a Mercury/Mars square could lead to conflicts and accidents.

Mars retrograde begins in January. Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

* * * * * * * *

Dorene Carrel is a professional astrologer with over thirty years of experience, offering birth chart, transits/progressions and relocation astrology readings. She is certified in Astrocartography. For more information, contact Dorene at dorenea5@yahoo.com. Paypal accepted.

Background and previous columns can be found at www.alcseattle.com. Donations also gratefully accepted. Send to P.O. Box 432, Seahurst, WA 98062

All references to Sabian symbols are from An Astrological Mandala: The Cycle of Transformation and Its 360 Symbolic Phases, by Dane Rudhyar.