Uranus/Pluto in the News: Obamacare Upheld

    Last week the Uranus/Pluto square was exact at 8 Capricorn on June 29, sending waves of change throughout the world.  On June 29, 2012, the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) was upheld in a 5-4 decision by the US Supreme Court, with conservative Justice John Roberts making a surprise vote in favor of the Act.  
      The Affordable Care Act was first passed on March 23, 2010, giving it a remarkable chart with Aries sun, Cancer rising and Cancer moon.  The Cancer moon is only three degrees from the ascendant, which suggests the main focus is to benefit families, women and children.  The Sun is aligned with Uranus, and both form a cardinal grand cross pattern with Saturn and the Moon/Pluto opposition. This dynamic pattern describes the controversial nature of this Act.       
     When the Act was upheld last month, transiting Uranus was aligned with the Act chart's Mercury and made a t-square aspect with the Moon/Pluto opposition, giving this decision a dynamic flavor of rebellion. Justice John Roberts' vote was a definite surprise to many. Though he is a conservative, he is also an Aquarian who has stated that he votes according to his own conscience and not down party lines. On the day of this vote, transiting Uranus was exactly conjunct his Mars in Aries, which means he was motivated to take a sudden, surprising action in expression of his own individual beliefs. Mars in Aries is very independent and can be rebellious as well.
         The Act's Pisces MC describes the disadvantaged population who will benefit, but it also suggests there are hidden elements, both favorable and unfavorable.  Many do not know exactly what the Act entails and how they will benefit. There also seems to be much disinformation going on about it, especially the economic aspect.  A cardinal grand cross makes this a very dynamic situation that will likely undergo many future changes. Jupiter aligned with the MC means there is much room for growth and expansion.  A strong Saturn in the foundational 4th house suggests that the basic ideas behind this Act are solid and likely here to stay. Many believe that Obamacare is a significant first step towards single payer healthcare for all.
 

Astrology Report for July

Astrology Report for July By Dorene Carrel Astrology Report By Dorene is part of the monthly Planet Alert mailings.   View email in webpage browser format             July is highlighted by intense planetary activity, followed by a calmer period that extends from late July into August.  Both Uranus and Mercury turn retrograde in fire signs within two days of each other. This is followed by active Mars transits setting off the Uranus/Pluto square that occurred in June. Both the new and full moons also strengthen these aspects, which could bring unexpected and volatile changes during these periods.           We begin this month still under the June lunation in Gemini, opening us to new information sources and need for discrimination. We are also learning how to be more adaptable and flexible, with the increase of rapid changes coming our way.           The Full Moon occurs on July 3 at 12 Capricorn.  This lunation is aligned with both Pluto and Uranus, which sets up an intense period of dynamic changes during the next few weeks.  Pluto rules death and rebirth, while Capricorn represents the old guard, authority figures and those resistant to change.  Entrenched, unsustainable structures and outworn personal patterns will likely change form at this time. This can set up an intense struggle for power and control, as breakdowns and endings occur both around us and within us. However, cultivating a calm, optimistic perspective helps facilitate a more harmonious rebirth.              The Sabian symbols for these lunation degrees seem to echo the power/rebirth themes of Pluto/Uranus: “A hand with a prominent thumb is held out for study; the power of the will in shaping character,” and “a fire worshipper meditates on the ultimate realities of existence; the subjective quest for ultimates beyond the interplay of life and death processes.”  As we grow and develop new powers and strengths, we are also challenged to act with increased wisdom.            Jupiter aligns with the South Node in Gemini during the first half of July, which can cause a mental overreaction to daily events.  We can get too caught up in details, or even misperception, without seeing a broader view (as represented by the North Node in the opposite sign of Sagittarius). On July 3 Mars enters Libra, which motivates us to act with more balance and harmony to achieve our goals.           On July 12, Uranus turns stationary retrograde at 8 Aries 32.  When planets turn stationary, they increase in strength. During the next five months, we will be looking more closely at life areas that need positive change or an awakening of fuller self-expression.   It would also be  highly favorable to make preparation for increased earth changes during the next week.           Mercury turns retrograde on July 14 at 12 Leo 33, traveling backward through Leo until August 8.  We can constructively use this cycle to examine where we could take a more creative and courageous approach towards our personal goals.  It is important to avoid taking an arrogant or overly rigid stance that could lead to stalemate situations.  Instead exercise more cooperation and willingness to see and appreciate all viewpoints before taking action.           Mars and the Sun are often triggers for setting off resulting actions from powerful conjunctions, such as Uranus/Pluto. This week (late June) the solar aspects to this conjunction brought a significant outcome with long-term effects for the US national health care program. Meanwhile, fires rage in Colorado and Florida is overloaded with water, breaking all records.           On July 17-18, Mars makes a challenging t-square aspect to both Pluto and Uranus. The action of Mars will likely bring sudden change and upheaval to institutions and personal situations, especially those that have been dysfunctional for some time. Individuals with personal planets at 7-8 degrees of the cardinal signs of Aries, Libra, Cancer and Capricorn will likely feel the most impact from July 10-25.  This will also likely be the most volatile period in terms of both personal and world events.           The New Moon occurs on July 18 at 27 Cancer.  This lunation makes a challenging square to Saturn in Libra, which brings up issues connected with personal security, home and family and one’s basic foundations in life.  We may be feeling more protective and cautious about new endeavors this month, also due to the t-square described above.  The Sabian symbol for this degree: “A violent storm in a canyon filled with expensive homes; a confrontation with a social upheaval demanding the reconsideration of static values,” suggests the Uranus themes of equality and change.           On July 21, a favorable Jupiter/Uranus aspect brings greater opportunities for prosperity and harmonious connections.  July 22-28 features a series of beneficial Mercury aspects that will favor communications and creativity.           August will be highlighted by a Blue Moon (two full moons) and Mercury turning direct.  Stay tuned and have a great month! *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *           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 appreciated.           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 June

Astrology Report for June By Dorene Carrel Astrology Report By Dorene is part of the monthly Planet Alert mailings.

View email in webpage browser format             June is another powerful and action-packed month. The planet Venus takes center stage, bringing us into direct alignment with the feminine Goddess energy.  There are two periods when this energy will be especially potent: on June 5 when a rare Venus/Sun transit will occur, and on June 27 when retrograde Venus makes a direct station.           This month also features a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse on June 4, which is  when Neptune turns retrograde. On June 11, Jupiter enters Gemini and Chiron turns retrograde. In addition, the first of seven Uranus/Pluto squares is exact on June 24, which is also when Saturn turns direct.  Another energetic gateway is the Summer Solstice on June 20.           We begin this month under the influence of the May 20 New Moon in Gemini, with the themes of education, communication and flexibility.  With the Gemini focus, we are looking at how we choose and process information and how this influences our beliefs, ideas and actions. It is favorable to open to new ideas, but to also be discerning about what resonates with one’s own authentic truth and values.           On June 4 a Full Moon Lunar Eclipse occurs at 14 Sagittarius. Sagittarian themes include seeing things from a higher perspective, along with being idealistic, benevolent, truth-seeking and freedom-loving. A mutable grand cross is formed by the Sun, Venus, and Mercury in Gemini with the Moon in Sagittarius, Mars in Virgo and Chiron in Pisces. This mutable formation will greatly enhance the quickening effect for events. Since Venus is square Mars, relationships may undergo more changes at this time. The challenge will be to stay focused and grounded enough to integrate and respond effectively to all the information and events coming in at such a rapid pace.  Neptune in Pisces also turns retrograde today (still aligned with Chiron), which reminds us to take time for self-care and spiritual/healing activities.           The Sabian symbols for these degrees are: “Two Dutch children talking to each other, exchanging their knowledge; the need to clarify one’s experience through actual contacts with like-minded individuals (Gemini),” and “The ground hog looking for its shadow; the value of anticipating new turns of events and ascertaining future prospects (Sagittarius).” These symbols speak to the value of community members coming together to teach and learn from each other.           A rare Venus/Sun transit/eclipse will occur on June 5 at 16 Gemini. This is the second of a pair of Venus/Sun transits, with the first one occurring on June 8, 2004. The next ones will be in 2117 and 2125. Venus is the esoteric ruler of Gemini, which symbolizes the principle of the unification of opposites. The Sabian symbol for this degree, “A woman activist in an emotional speech dramatizing her cause; a passionate response to a deeply felt new experience,” suggests the trend towards more women reclaiming their power and men embracing their feminine side.  Besides standing for love, harmony, beauty and relationship, Venus also represents coming together in collaboration and community. The visible conjunctions of Venus and Sun form a 5-pointed star (or pentagram) in the sky, which is also why the Mayans thought 2012 was so significant. This also coincides with 2012 being a 5 year, which represents embracing freedom, change and individual expression.             On June 11 Chiron turns retrograde and Jupiter enters Gemini.  This combination reminds us of the potential power of our communications to either harm or heal. The Jupiter passage will open up new sources of higher information and perspective over the next year, while the Chiron retrograde through Pisces can result in the healing of older conditions with newer, more effective approaches.           The New Moon occurs on June 19 at 29 Gemini. This lunation is energized by being opposite the Galactic Center and near the Summer Solstice. The Gemini/mutable themes are extended over the next 1-2 months, giving us more opportunity to be focused and discriminating as we open to new information and experience.  A square to Mars in Virgo can bring challenges to our adaptability, but can also be used to make constructive changes in work and health matters.  The Sabian symbol for this degree, “The first mockingbird of spring; the creative exuberance of the human soul in response to basic life experiences,” suggests that important new beginnings in creative collaboration and learning can be made at this time.           The first of seven challenging squares between Uranus and Pluto occurs on June 24 at 8 Aries/Capricorn. This slowly moving aspect will bring revolutionary social, economic and technology changes to our world over the next several years.  On a personal level, the areas where this aspect falls in one’s chart will likely undergo a fundamental change or upheaval. On this same day, Saturn turns stationary direct at 23 Libra, which brings opportunities to take direct action to accomplish our goals over the next several months.           On June 25 Jupiter forms a square to Neptune at 3 Gemini/Pisces.  This aspect can help us connect to other dimensions of experience, although there is a possibility of confusion or deception.  The idealism generated can be used in service to those who are less fortunate. The Saturn planetary station (around midnight) should help us to stay grounded during these few days.           Venus finally turns stationary direct on June 27 at 7 Gemini 29.  At this time we can begin moving forward with personal activities related to finances, relationships and values.  We may have gained some important insights during this retrograde period that can lead to constructive changes in these areas.           On June 29, the Sun opposes Pluto and squares Uranus.  This can be a trigger for events related to the Uranus/Pluto square.  Another similar time will be in mid-July when Mars transits will trigger this same degree area. These are good times to be prepared for Earth change events.           In July, Mercury and Uranus turn retrograde.  Best wishes for a joyful and prosperous month!   *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *             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 appreciated to support this work.  Please 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

Astrology Report for May 2012

Astrology Report for May By Dorene Carrel Astrology Report By Dorene is part of the monthly Planet Alert mailings.

View email in webpage browser format           May is highlighted by two of the most significant cycles of the year. We will experience the first of two solar eclipses for this year and Venus turning retrograde.  We will also have another grand earth trine in mid-month.  The focus on Gemini makes this a critical period for examining our sources of information, beliefs and patterns of communication. The secondary focus on earth signs encourages us to express our values and ideas in tangible ways in the outer world.           The month begins under the waxing April New Moon in Taurus, with a focus on personal finances/resources and taking a more practical, patient approach. On May 2-3, a favorable sextile aspect assists us with resolving any conflicts and creating harmonious communication.           On May 5 the Full Moon occurs at 16 Scorpio.  Scorpio traits include being powerful, intense, resourceful, penetrating, controlling, compulsive and secretive.  This lunation is also a Super Moon in opposition to Jupiter and Ceres, which heightens the intensity over the next few weeks, while a Mercury/Saturn opposition increases the need for control. Also favored is in-depth research that uncovers hidden secrets, enabling us to gain a more truthful perspective. The Ceres focus can reveal new ways we can support and care for ourselves, each other and the earth.  The Sabian symbols for these degrees in Scorpio/Taurus encourage us to be true to our own higher ideals.           On May 13 the Sun aligns with Jupiter at 23 Taurus, providing us with abundant optimism and an expansive viewpoint.  This transit favors all educational and writing/publishing pursuits. From May 13-16, an earth grand trine pattern occurs between Mercury in Taurus, Mars in Virgo and Pluto in Capricorn. This pattern will help us put our creative ideas into tangible forms that will lead to gaining more prosperity.            Venus turns retrograde on May 15 at 24 Gemini.  Venus has the least amount of retrograde cycles than any other planet. This cycle will last until June 27, allowing us time to re-evaluate our personal resources, values and relationships.   These areas are influenced by outer sources of information (Gemini), such as the media, family and friends. This cycle provides us with an opportunity to re-evaluate our own inner truth and how best to express our ideals and needs.  On May 15 a difficult Mars/Saturn aspect can cause some temporary frustration. It would be best to not make any important decisions or purchases during the day before and after May 15, if possible.           The New Moon Solar Eclipse occurs on May 20 at 0 Gemini 21. The eclipse increases the potency of this new moon and the likelihood of major changes that can happen this month (and up to six or more months from this date).  If it aligns with a personal planet in one’s chart, that will indicate an important area of change this year. Gemini rules our sources of information (such as the mass media, family and friends), as well as how we perceive, communicate and learn.  Gemini traits include being versatile, flexible, articulate and quick-witted; the shadow side is being superficial and scattered. The alignment with optimistic Jupiter helps us to dream on a larger scale, but the challenging aspect to Neptune warns of deception and illusion.  The Sabian symbol for this degree, “A glass-bottomed boat reveals undersea wonders; the revelation of unconscious energies and submerged psychic structures,” suggests that we may have hidden gifts and potentials that lie waiting to unfold as we experience and integrate the newer frequencies and dimensions.           The harmonious Mercury/Jupiter alignment on May 21 brings a new optimism to our thinking and communications.  Abundant opportunities can manifest now, along with creative energy for new projects. On May 25, the Mercury/Neptune square can bring temporary confusion and possible errors in details. However, unique and innovative improvements can be made on May 27-28 with the favorable Sun/Mercury/Uranus alignment.  Blessings for a prosperous month!           June features a rare Venus transit across the Sun.  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

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?