Planetary Cycles
Sun Signs For February 2008
Sun in Aquarius—the Sign of the Humanitarian
The sun entered the sign of the humanitarian, Aquarius, on January 20. The symbol for Aquarius is the man pouring the waters of consciousness upon the earth, and the glyph is the two waves of energy spaced equally apart, yet operating synergistically. With a broad worldview, Aquarius has a natural concern for the welfare of humanity and will give altruistically to promote everyone's well-being. While the sun is in Aquarius, we have a natural attunement to the pulse of the planet and we are more aware of the state of humankind, and we may be more willing than usual to take steps to ameliorate suffering or promote good causes. People born with the sun, moon, or rising sign in Aquarius may be eccentric, and are certainly independent and future-oriented thinkers. Aquarians gift to humanity is a positive vision of the future.
Following a period of review, we choose new ventures
As the sun makes its way through Aquarius, we experience several quite significant planetary events that help to shape our collective experience. The first is Mars, returning to direct motion after having been retrograde (apparent backwards motion) since November 15 of last year. Mars is the planet representing our urge to survive, to thrive, and to succeed, and, of course, what we do to make a living. While Mars is retrograde, our work, practice or business undergoes review, revealing changes that must be made in order to continue successfully, and this has been happening now for two and one-half months. Having served its purpose, Mars returned to direct motion in Gemini on January 30, releasing energy to now be put in forward motion. As we move into February, it will become apparent which tasks, projects, alliances, or ventures to put our energy toward.
Major planetary events herald important decisions
Additionally, the planet of communication, Mercury, turned retrograde in Aquarius on January 28, stimulating a review of our communications and social and business connections that will last until February 18. The question we will be asking ourselves is:
“To which people or groups or businesses will I commit my time, resources and energy?” The answers will become clear as the transit progresses into the third week of the month. Another major planetary event happened on January 25, as Pluto, the planet of transformation, changed signs from where it had been in Sagittarius for the past twelve years, and entered Capricorn for a sixteen-year-long transit. While Pluto is in Capricorn, we will be changing the way we manage our individual lives, as well as the way we as a society and a world community manage our collective resources. The institutions we have taken for granted for decades will be undergoing transformation, the beginning of which we will see in the first one-half of 2008.
Solar Eclipse shakes up our social networks, bringing change
On February 6, we have a Solar Eclipse in Aquarius that brings significant changes to the way we interact within our social networks, to the nature and quality of our communications, and to the friendships and alliances we embrace. Joining the eclipse is Chiron and Mercury, along with the visionary planet Neptune. This line-up of planets at the eclipse point serves to emphasize the impact into our lives. A key to the highest use of this energy is to be willing to release all that does not work in our lives, and equally willing to fully embrace that which does work, in that it serves the greater good for all concerned. The planet of action, Mars, energizes the eclipse point, giving us the thrust needed to make changes, so follow the vision that your inspiration brings.
Sun in Pisces attunes us to the higher realms
The sun completes its journey through Aquarius, entering Pisces on February 18. The last sign of the zodiac, Pisces symbolizes completions. In the crystalline energy of late February and early March, the winter season comes to a close, drawing, in its last month, the reflection of the past season and the past year, then distilling experience into meaning. Through its natural affinity to the inner realms of experience and wisdom, Pisces represents that process of finding meaning in life. Also on February 18, Mercury resumes direct motion in Aquarius, giving us a pause to reflect upon our role within the larger framework of our society and humanity as a whole. Having hopefully completed unfinished business, as is necessary while Mercury is retrograde, we have less “baggage” to bring into the creations of our new year.
Lunar Eclipse calls forth great discernment in our choices
On February 20, we have a near total Lunar Eclipse participating in the somewhat rare “mystical rectangle” planetary configuration. A lunar eclipse brings significant changes into our lives that can be understood by looking at where the eclipse falls in your own astrology chart, but will have some common themes for all of us. Falling in the sign of Virgo, the lunar eclipse asks us to refine some area of our life that needs improvement. In particular, we can look at any area where there is a disparity between our ideal vision and what we are actually creating and experiencing; this is the area that we must improve. The mystical rectangle involves several planets in aspect to the eclipse. Mars helps to motivate us to make changes, Pluto serves to break down patterns of resistance, encouraging healing, transformation and renewal, and Saturn offers the structure and discipline to follow through. As February draws to a close, we have been asked to embrace many changes, and the more we do, our spirits soar with the freedom of a light-filled heart.
Aries – The solar eclipse on Feb. 6 ignites your interest in group-related activities and inspires vision for your future. Pluto, the planet of transformation, has just entered the part of your chart related to your career, and you may be feeling the winds of change. Get to your deepest truth about what you are dedicating your life to, and trust it. With a lunar eclipse on Feb. 20, the last ten days of the month will be conducive to a fairly major overhaul and improvement of your daily life routines.
Taurus – After three months of reviewing the results of past actions, the solar eclipse in early February catalyzes important changes in your career, opening the door to greater success and more abundance. The Feb. 20 lunar eclipse invites you to find the perfection in everything you have experienced, and allow yourself to learn necessary lessons. You may work harder now, but you will be filled with inspiration and a sense of purpose that makes your work a joy.
Gemini – When the voice of Spirit knocks at your door, will you listen? Stay tuned early this month for a transmission of vision and inspiration that helps you aim your life in a new or improved direction. Travel and/or higher learning will be in the picture. The planet of transformation, Pluto, has completed twelve years of intense relationship curriculum, and is now moving into the more subtle realm of deep emotional connection and mutually beneficial partnership. Oh, and if that isn't enough, your living situation may be changing as well.
Cancer – Pluto's entry into Capricorn brings a significant change as it enters your relationship arena for the next sixteen years, transforming the basis and expression of your primary relationships while challenging you to find out where you stand, and claim it. The February 6 solar eclipse invites you into deep, mystical connection with your most intimate partner or friend, awakening your soul to the higher realms of existence. The lunar eclipse on the 20th encourages open, honest, and effectively discerning communication with loved ones and partners.
Leo – The Feb. 6 solar eclipse brings positive changes with partners or lovers, with whom you create mutually agreeable goals that serve you now and in the future. Transformative Pluto has begun its' sixteen-year-long trek through the health and well-being area of your chart, inspiring you to create new exercise, sleep, work, and dietary routines to inspire the highest possible physical, mental and emotional health. A lunar eclipse on Feb. 20 stimulates financial renewal; planting the seeds now will ensure an abundant crop in the future.
Virgo – Early in February, broad, sweeping changes are called for in the way you manage your daily life, especially your work and dietary habits. New activity in your career or business requires extra input from you, but will serve you well in the future. Pluto begins a long trek through the creativity arena of your chart, compelling you to delve deeper into the wellspring of your creative genius to redefine leadership. A lunar eclipse in your sign on Feb. 20 signals greater responsibility on your part for the outcomes you enjoy.
Libra –– An eclipse on February 6 stimulates changes for you in terms of your relationship to the children and/or creative projects in your life. You may be traveling or embarking on a new educational journey that will enhance your creative inspiration, and be fun! Pluto, the planet of transformation, enters the home and family sector of your chart, bringing changes that will affect not only your family life, but also will positively transform the foundation upon which you base your life. Deep reflection toward the month's end will result in greater understanding of the meaning behind the current changes in your life.
Scorpio – The month begins with a solar eclipse indicating changes either within your family or home, as well as a shifting of the foundation upon which you base your life. Business partners bring favorable financial opportunities that assist with implementing your desired next steps. After a dozen years in your financial arena, the planet of transformation, Pluto, begins working its change-agent role in your communications, and this month, provided you are clear, gives you carte blanche to write your own ticket in terms of getting what you want. A lunar eclipse on Feb. 20 signals a favorable time to move forward with plans and agreements made with associates.
Sagittarius – A Feb. 6 solar eclipse in your house of communications sets the month off to a flying start with much social activity involving neighbors, relatives, and partners. If you state your truth clearly, it will be understood and honored, and your desire for more satisfying connections will be fulfilled. The planet of transformation, Pluto, enters the money and values sector of your chart, beginning the process of uprooting old ideas and values about money and self-worth. This month, Pluto empowers your drive for expansion, bringing more opportunities to create abundance, and a lunar eclipse Feb. 20 brings changes in your work, business or career.
Capricorn – The solar eclipse in Aquarius early this month activates the financial area of your chart, bringing a greater flow of money as well as a deeper understanding of the nature of money as a form of love and energy exchange. Pluto has just entered your sign for a sixteen-year foray into the depths of your being. Leaving no stone unturned, Pluto ferrets out any aspects of your self-concept that need healing, and this month, the process is facilitated by favorable aspects that reveal your inner strength and beauty. The lunar eclipse on February 20 underscores the theme of positive personal transformation, bringing higher understanding.
Aquarius – The solar eclipse on Feb. 6 occurs in your sign, bringing big changes and shedding much light on your sense of self and purpose. Powered by a favorable aspect from Mars, you experience a creative revolution. Following twelve years of transformation of your future goals with shifting sands in terms of your groups of friends and associates, Pluto now begins stimulating a transformation of your sense of spirituality. A lunar eclipse on February 20 brings what seems a miraculous solution to a partnership dilemma involving mutually held assets.
Pisces – This is your month to awaken more fully to your divine nature. A solar eclipse on Feb. 6 activates your higher spiritual centers, and you receive a transmission of light that brings everything into perspective. Pluto enters a new sphere and begins its work of promoting the transformation of your long-term goals, social network, and your connection to various groups or associations. A lunar eclipse in Virgo on February 20 brings changes in your primary love relationship or business partnerships that support your life heading in a new direction.
Carolina Eastwood provides in-depth personal astrology readings that open the doorway to fulfilling your life-purpose. Offices in Solana Beach and Poway. www.earthstarconsulting.com. or: Phone: 858/259-1590
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