Geocosmic Archetypal Integrative Astrology

May Day brings new light and passion to realize our dreams. Beltane celebrates the union of the Earth Spirit with the Sun god Bel. The ultimate union of yin and yang is illustrated when the Moon eclipses the Sun. The solar eclipse on May 10 brings great changes to our world.

Nature spirits appear on Walpurgis Night / May Eve when women dance in ankle bells beating pots with wooden spoons to chase away shades of the old world. Shadows appear before each new dawn and every cyclic shift in time. Seasonal celebrations help shed old ways and renew. Now we leave the mundane world of Malkuth and enter the sphere of the Moon on our way to the higher worlds, this is a night the fairies come out.

On May Eve / May Day, 40 days after Spring Equinox, the Clio muse gate opens as the 40-day period of the Moon sphere Yesod begins. Now we ascend the Tree of Life that grows anew each year. Before entering this realm of imagination and new creation, water and fire rituals clear the psyche so we can dream and realize just what is needed to renew.

Effective practices include ritual bathing, fire gazing, passage between twin fires and clockwise (Sunwise) circle dancing. Fire purifies the mental body, water purifies the astral. Whole body water immersion clears negative emotional memories; Juno re-emerges from her sacred pool with her youthfulness and virginity restored.

Ritual passage between twin fires (candles will do) clears astral shades of disease so health, physical and psychic, is insured. Twin fires at entrance ways keep ill intention from entering. Dancing Sunwise around May Pole or Liberty Tree sets the soul free to divine the future and realize our destiny. To everything there is a season, turn, turn, turn; this is a turning, changing time. Happy May Eve, Happy May Day!

Celebration is key to transformation and renewal. Beltane festivities culminate on May 5, the mid-Taurus solar power gate when the Sun spirit Bel unites with the Earth Spirit. The midpoint of each season focuses energy for the season to come. Bel, the Sun spirit (our Soul) now enters into the fullness of this auspicious Spring brimming with energy to realize dreams. Creative ideas and dreams fertilized during Beltane bear fruit in the Summer of Love to be.

In this Year of the Lovers 2013 whatever two agree in their hearts will come to be, this is how the New World is born. But before we come to this magic turn our old world karma has to be let go, the chains of the devil Key XV must be broken before we can enter the realm of the Lovers Key VI.  It's time now to free our chi and shed our karma, all else follows. We have an opportunity now to let go the trappings of the old world and begin anew.

Karma is fate, dharma is destiny. Karma is in the body as chronic muscle tension that holds encoded past emotional memory. Dharma is our divine purpose to be revealed and realized as karma is let go. Past world patterning or karma can be released through exercise (especially yoga), deep breathing and ritual celebration. Collective karma, the shadow of the age, is up for clearing now. As we clear personal karma we clear world karma. Karma is cleared cosmically by New Moons and by eclipses of the Sun and Moon.

The power of the New Moon is referred to by Nostradamus Century 2 Quatrain 28: “Second to the last of the prophet’s name, will take Diana’s Day as his day of silent rest: he will travel far and wide in his drive to infuriate, delivering a great people from subjection.” Diana is the Moon, Diana's Day is the New Moon. The liberating power of Uranus channels through the New Moon to dissolve the shadow matrix, this frees the people. When the Sun and Moon perfectly align at New Moon a solar eclipse occurs.

While the May 1-5 purification practices are important for every year, they are especially effective this year as we prepare for the powerful solar eclipse at 20 degrees Taurus on May 9/10.

A solar eclipse is Mother Nature's most powerful instrument for transformation. When an eclipse occurs above, things get eclipsed and are transformed here below. Whatever needs eclipsing comes up in the days/weeks before a solar eclipse. An eclipse is an opportunity to eliminate patterns of thought and behavior that trouble our world. This is an ideal time to clear away what stands in the way of dreams being realized. The May 9/10 solar eclipse is the subject of another prophecy by Nostradamus in Century 9 Quatrain 83: "Sun twentieth of Taurus, the Earth will tremble mightily; It will ruin the great theater filled: And so darken and trouble air, sky and land, the unbeliever will call upon God and the saints."

The May 9/10 solar eclipse in the 20th degree of Taurus may bring a great earthquake as Nostradamus predicted. We’re advised to stay away from crowded theaters on this day. Our old world patterns are broken one way or another; we can hope and pray for the kinder gentler way.

Spring comes to flower as the love goddess Venus returns from her rendezvous with the Sun. Venus is empowered to restore the natural order; she brings new love and harmony to the world. Evening Star Venus is called "Venus Hesperus" referring to the magic isle of the Hesperides where the golden apple tree of  Venus grows. This is Avalon, the mythic Apple Isle. Evening Star Venus is called "Venus Cerridwen" in honor of the original Queen of the Western Isle. As the Evening Star Venus, Cerridwen presides over the death and rebirth of the King, the death / rebirth of the order of things.

The Mayan pictogram for Evening Star Venus is the dog Xolotl resting in a cauldron over fire. The Mayans believe this dog a creature of the Sun and they say that Evening Star Venus pushes the Sun into healing darkness. Long held secrets are revealed, wounded heroes and kings are healed, leaders transform or are removed from the scene when Venus Xolotl is seen.

Evening Star Venus appears as the elf queen Arwen (Arwen Evenstar) in the Lord of the Rings. Arwen’s presence is needed for the exorcism of Rohan, the horse kingdom of the West. Attuning to Venus opens hearts and harmonizes relationships. Focus on the light of the Evening Star and breathe deeply to receive the blessings of the love goddess. Send blessings to others by bringing them to mind. Venus now offers the opportunity to purge lower desires and realize the deepest desire of the heart.

This brings us to realize our destiny.

Walpurgis Night/ May Day Muse Gate, Apr 30 - May 1 – Dance to Be Free

May Day brings new light and passion to realize our dreams. In colonial America the Maypole became the Liberty Tree. Dancing Sunwise around pole or tree helps set the soul free to realize our destiny. Muse Gates open every 40 days, 9 each year. Clio “the Proclaimer” is the May Day Muse.

 
"Majestic Clio touched her silver wire,
 And through time's lengthened vista moved a train,
 In dignity sublime;--the patriot's fire
 Kindled its torch in heaven's resplendent ray,
 And 'mid contention rose to Heaven again."
  ~ An Ode To Music by James G. Percival

Clio holds the scroll of fame and fortune; those who gain her favor become stars in this new world. Whatever inhibits creative inspiration, whatever restricts energy flow, comes before the Gate to be let go. This is a time to dissolve body tensions that hold outmoded ways of thinking and feeling. Breathe deeply, move freely, do yoga, tai chi, dance... 

"Dance, when you're broken open. Dance, if you've torn the bandage off. Dance in the middle of the fighting. Dance in your blood. Dance when you're perfectly free." ~ Rumi

Remember to say White Rabbit! - and Happy May Day!

3rd Quarter Moon, May 2-4 (exact 7:15 am 5/2) – Realizing Dreams

This Moon cuts away all that distracts from putting our dreams into action. 3rd Quarter Moon integrates new ideas into creative expression.  It’s time to follow our bliss and do what feels good in concert with the whole.

Beltane Cross-Quarter Day / Cinqo de Mayo, May 5– Celebrate!

Beltane festivities culminate May 4/5 when bonfires light the night. Beltane celebrates the union of the Earth Spirit with the Sun god Bel. This is the Spring cross-quarter day fire festival when the Sun is at the midpoint Taurus solar power gate (exact on May 5 at 4:40 am gmt). Beltane fires fix the vital spirit in earth and stone fertilizing natural growth. Fire purifies and empowers what remains that is true. This we do as we gaze into a candle flame or dance around fire. People and animals pass 3 times between twin fires (candles will do) to clear away astral shadows so the Sun god Bel (our Soul) can enter into the fullness of Spring.

Beltane is the Spring cross-quarter day fire festival that occurs when the Sun is at the midpoint Taurus solar power gate on May 5. Beltane fires fix the vital spirit in earth and stone fertilizing natural growth. Fire purifies and empowers what remains that is true. This we do as we gaze into a candle flame or dance around fire. People and animals pass 3 times between twin fires (candles will do) to clear away astral shadows so the Sun god Bel (our Soul) can enter into the fullness of Spring.

The fixed sign midpoints focus the power of the four elemental forces; Beltane focuses the power of the earth element. In the zodiac projected on Earth, the mid-Taurus line goes through Pipestone, Minnesota and Tuxla, Mexico. (Cinqo de Mayo May 5 celebrates Mexican Independence.) Earth (stone) is the sacred element of this region. Pipestone from Minnesota was used to create the peace pipes for all Native American tribes. Beltane is a fire festival, the fire element “fixes” earth/stone and fertilizes vital natural growth.

“This was the time of fruitfulness, and time to plant. During Beltane (May 1-5) the Druids performed magical rites to encourage the growth of crops, and honored Belinus, their Sun god. Before going out to graze in summer pastures, cattle were driven between two bonfires to be purified and to prevent sickness. Dancing was done in Sunwise direction, and torches were carried around the fields following the Sun’s path." - Victoria Williams

The May 1-5 purification practices are important for every year, these may be more important this year as we prepare for the powerful solar eclipse at 20 degrees Taurus on May 9/10.

Balsamic Moon, Apr 5-8 – Make a Wish!

This is the Wishing Moon, the best time to put wishes on the air. It’s also called the Witches Moon, a time to bring to mind those who need healing. Feeling invokes healing, the deeper we feel, the deeper we heal. The deeper we feel, the more Moon magic comes through the new lunar cycle. Shadows before New Moon can be cleared through deep breathing with attention to the light above and focus on love. See the wee waning lunar crescent rising before the morning Sun.

Dark of Moon/New Moon /Solar Eclipse, May 8-10 – Follow the Light Within

The day before New Moon until Sunset a day after is ideal for inner work to seed the new cycle; outer activity is favored after the new crescent appears. Old Moon shadows give way as we connect with the light within. The New Moon is a cosmic spring that flows freely as we slow down. Nostradamus calls New Moon "the day of Diana, a time for silent rest." New Moon is Alice's rabbit hole, great wonders await our following the Moon Hare within. Here we can know what is and how to shape what is to be. This New Moon Solar Eclipse (exact 8:28 pm May 9) is like a cosmic spring that flows freely as we slow down. This is when mystics descend to drink from the magic well within. An eclipse is Mother Nature’s most powerful editing tool. When an eclipse occurs above, outmoded patterns get eclipsed here below. This eclipse begins a month of world changing events with many major breakdowns and wonderful breakthroughs. Old patterns break, new worlds emerge.

Crescent New Moon, May 10-16 – A Time to Sow

The eclipsing Moon tide sweeps away the old world and brings forward what we wish to be realized. Farmers plant seeds when the crescent appears (May 10/11), seeds become fertile on every level, all new beginnings are favored now. Moon magic is strongest from Sunset to Moonset when the Moon is in the 7th House. Meditation opens doorways, wishes take wing and prayers bring blessings for this lunar cycle and the year to be. The New Moon Crescent with Venus and Jupiter brings an abundance of love.

Mother’s Day, May 12 – Honor the Divine Mother

May is the month of Maia/Mary, the World Mother. Today we honor and celebrate our mother, the mother within all women, the soul of the world.

1st Quarter Moon, May 18-20 (exact 12:34 am 5/18) – A Time to Choose

This Moon is like a scythe cutting across the sky, it's time to cut free from the trappings of the past and affirm our purpose moving forward. Sacred to the Druids, this Moon is pivotal in the cycle of creation. Choices made now are likely to be the right ones. Breathing deeply through the light of the crown frees energy flow up and down the spine to clear away old world shadows and power our dreams.

The Sun with the Medusa star Algol at 1st Quarter (exact 8:34 pm gmt 5/17) highlights past life patterns to be cleared; all we need remember is to separate pattern from person (including ourself) and all can go wonderfully well. This is when Gabriel blows her horn calling forth what is essential and true from the dead forms of old ways. Everything shifts forward as the 2 ½ day 1st quarter Moon begins. 1st quarter in this eclipsing Moon cycle can be used to clear away all that keeps dreams from being realized. Just separate the blocking or distorting pattern of thought or behavior and allow apt feeling response to transform it. Large frame patterns can be eliminated more easily during eclipses of Algol (a.k.a. Algol minima). These can be found at the Sky and Telescope website.

Whit Sunday/Pentecost, May 19 – Climbing the Heights. Renewing Spiritual Connection

The disciples of Jesus were “baptized with fire” at Pentecost. “Twelve balls, that seemed like balls of fire, fell from heaven - a ball from every sign of all the circle of the heavens, and on the head of each apostle there appeared a flaming ball of fire.” (Aquarian Gospel, Levi). The apostles were empowered to perform miracles and to speak in words all could understand. More than a thousand years earlier, Moses received the new law on Mt. Sinai. King Arthur was crowned and the Round Table was formed on Pentecost. At Shavuot Moses goes to the mountaintop to receive the new law, on Pentecost disciples go to "the upper room" to receive a new miracle. New law, new vision, new spiritual power are realized in this time. Enlightenment comes to all who ascend to receive the new fire of inspiration. Understanding grows until we know and live our destiny in this new world.

Gemini Full Moon / Lunar Eclipse, May 23-27 – Celebrate!

This Sun in Gemini Full Moon (exact 12:25 am May 25) is called the Festival of Humanity, it is when the divine light and power of Wesak is distributed to the world.  This Full Moon is also a very powerful lunar eclipse.  An eclipse is Mother Nature’s editing tool: when an eclipse occurs above, things get eclipsed here below, outmoded patterns are let go, we have the opportunity to begin anew.

Each Full Moon is a time for revelation and opportunity for healing body, mind and soul. The Full Moon is a pitcher that pours out a healing elixir we can just raise our cups to receive. Meditation, music and dancing help bring in the new divine light. Cosmic energies flow for 3 days following Full Moon. Revelations come in dreams, chance encounters and flashes of inspiration. Stay tuned.

Memorial Day, May 27 (true date May 30) – Remembering, Renewing  Ancestral Connection

Heldengedentag, “Heroes Memory Day,” was the original name for this celebration, it was started by a Union soldier of German descent.  Two women in Mississippi popularized the holiday when they led a procession to place flowers on the graves of Confederate and Union soldiers on May 30th, 1886.  This day coincides with the passing of two great folk heroes:  Joan of Arc and King Arthur.  It is a time to invoke the guidance of our ancestors - the virtues and sacred powers they can bring us are now needed in the world.

Steve Nelson is a professional astrologer who uses Tarot, name analysis, and traditional astrology to help clients understand personal myths and realize natural abilities. He can be reached at 704-375-3759 or email stevenelson@carolina.rr.com

~ Moon Goddess by Josephine Wall

"Draped in her glimmering veil of stars, the Goddess Selene tenderly guides the moon on its celestial journey, keeping watch over the night-bathed Earth. Her face is lit by the gentle glow of moonbeams from the heavens and by the profound power of her own inner peace and love." - J. Wall

April is the month of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of  Love. Everyone becomes a fool for love as Spring comes to flower and the love goddess Venus begins to re-emerge from her rendezvous with the Sun. 

2013 brings the shift of the Ages, the convergence of cosmic cycles and integration of new consciousness for a new time. Myths of past ages come to life, a New World is being born and Love is our guide. The new creation arises from the union of yin and yang at a higher turn of Creation's spiral. This is a dyad creation; the double helix is the source of all life. God moves through equal partnerships, two lasers create a hologram. Tarot Key VI illustrates the new creation with its archetypal New Woman and New Man. Here Eve/Venus stands before her mythic apple tree which bears abundant fruit as the primal serpent is trained upward. The way of training primal energy is remembered in this Year of the Snake 2013. Paradise is regained as we learn the way of the Garden anew. In this Year of the Lovers 2013 whatever two agree in Love will surely come to be, this is how the New World is born.

The Aries New Moon on April 10th begins the first lunar cycle of the new zodiacal year 2013. The small lunar crescent on the evening of April 11th announces the beginning of the Hindu New Year, the Jewish calendar year and the start of the Cherokee Spring Festival. Seven days later at the 1st quarter Moon comes the highlight of the celebration: The Cherokee have their Spring New Fire Ceremony when the lighting of the sacred fire signals the beginning of their new year. Likewise, on the morning of April 19, the Hindu celebrate the birth of Ram, the Aries fire god who begins a new cycle of time.

Everything prospers in the rising tide of this Spring Moon. All new beginnings are favored now as a new creation begins to flower. As old patterns of thought and habit break, energy is released and naturally flows where our attention goes. It is time to rethink our world, feel what is needed and affirm the ideal we wish to make real. Keeping faith and focus we find our way, make our way, in this new time. Thoughts seeded in this Spring tide shape the year to be. Whatever occurs at this New Moon and in the days that follow carries influence for the new cycle. Take note of significant events in your life. What interesting things do you see and dream?

Seeds sown at New Moon flower at the Full. This first New Moon of Spring flowers forth at Wesak, the most powerful Full Moon of the year. Whatever we plant in our inner garden now flowers through this year and in years to come.

As this 1st Spring Moon grows, attention is drawn to the natural world. Faith is renewed by the smell of spring flowers and morning bird song. Why do the birds stir to life before the Sun and then grow quiet as the Sun rises? Maybe they have something to say; it’s time to get up and listen in.

Each year has a theme and purpose revealed by its numerology and planet of the year. 2013 is a #6 Year of the Lovers Tarot Key VI and Saturn is the planet of the year. Saturn is a planet of focus, structure, and discipline through which great things can be achieved. What we dreamed in Moon Year 2012 becomes manifest in Saturn Year 2013. Manifesting begins from the first New Moon of Spring; this is a time to realize our dreams.

White Rabbit / April Fool’s Day, Apr 1 – Be a Fool for Love

Say “White Rabbit” first thing today for luck throughout the month. The Magician pulls a rabbit from his hat and this is Lepus, the magic rabbit of Spring. April is the month of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and laughter. Everyone becomes a fool for love as Spring comes to flower and the love goddess Venus begins to emerge from her rendezvous with the Sun. Pranks in good humor awaken the light-hearted spirit of Spring; joy frees hearts to Love. Happy April Fool!

3rd Quarter Moon, Apr 2-5 (exact 12:36 am 4/3) – Realizing Dreams

This Moon cuts away all that distracts from putting our dreams into action. 3rd Quarter Moon integrates ideas into creative expression. Moon square Venus with Mars conjurs new love, it’s time to follow our bliss and do what feels good in concert with the whole.

Balsamic Moon / Mercury Prometheus, Apr 5-8 – Make a Wish!

This is the Wishing Moon, the best time to put wishes on the air. It is also called the Witches Moon, a time to bring to mind those who need healing. Feeling invokes healing, the deeper we feel, the deeper we heal. The deeper we feel, the more Moon magic comes through this new Spring lunar cycle. Shadows before New Moon can be cleared through deep breathing with attention to the light within. See the lunar crescent rising with Mercury before the Sun as Mercury Prometheus bringing new fire to mortal minds. This Mercury phase brings 2 months of world changing new discoveries, inspired social interchange and successful new enterprises.

Dark of the Moon/New Moon, Apr 9-11 – Follow the Light Within

The day before New Moon until Sunset a day after is ideal for inner work to seed the new cycle; outer activity is favored after the new crescent appears. Old Moon shadows give way as we connect with the light within. The New Moon (5:35 am 4/10) is a cosmic spring that flows freely as we slow down. Nostradamus calls New Moon "the day of Diana, a time for silent rest." The Dark of the Moon is a psychic black hole like Alice's rabbit hole. Wonders await our following the Moon Hare within. Here we can know what is and how to shape what is to be. This Aries New Moon sets the course of the new zodiacal year.

Crescent New Moon, Apr 11-16 – A Time to Sow

It's time to bring forward what we wish to be realized. Farmers plant seeds when the crescent appears, seeds become fertile on every level. All new beginnings are favored now. What was dreamed in 2012 becomes manifest in 2013 beginning with this first Spring New Moon. Moon magic is strongest from Sunset to Moonset when the Moon is in the 7th House. Meditation now opens doorways, wishes take wing, prayers bring blessings for this lunar cycle and the year to be. Crescent New Moon exalted in Taurus with Jupiter brings abundant natural growth, prosperity and new love.

Everything prospers in the rising tide of this Aries Spring Moon. All new beginnings are favored as a new creation begins to flower. Seeds sown at the New Moon flower at the Full. This first New Moon of Spring flowers forth at Wesak, the Full Moon many believe to be the most powerful of the year. This Aries Moon sets the course of the new 2013 zodiacal year. It also begins the last 4-year phase of the 36-year Renaissance period that completes in 2016. Whatever we plant in our inner garden now flowers through the year and in the years to be.

1st Quarter Moon, Apr 18-20 (exact 8:31 am 4/18) – Time to Choose

This Moon is like a scythe cutting across the sky, it's time to cut free from the trappings of the past and affirm our purpose moving forward. Sacred to the Druids, this Moon is pivotal in the cycle of creation. Choices made are likely the right ones. Breathing deeply through the light of the crown frees energy flow up and down the spine to clear shadows and power our dreams.

Ram Navami, Apr 19-20 – Initiation

The birth of Ram is celebrated and the divine union of Ram and the goddess Sita is re-enacted in Hindu temples. Prayers made to the Sun at Sunrise are one of many practices suggesting this to be a celebration of the renewal of the Sun in early Spring.

Earth Day, Apr 22 – Celebrate the World

The Earth is alive and becoming aware as we become conscious of our global connectedness. Venus in Taurus opposite Saturn in Scorpio and in trine with Pluto highlights and transforms the old world ways of thinking that are troubling the new.

Wesak Full Moon / Lunar Eclipse, Apr 23-27 (exact 3:57 pm Apr 25) – Illumination 

Many believe the Buddha was born, achieved enlightenment and left incarnation under the Wesak (Sun in Taurus) Full Moon. By tradition, the Buddha returns each year for 8 minutes at this Full Moon. Those who are in meditation may receive revelations from the Buddha and might visit Wesak valley and witness the Buddha there. Wesak is the peak of the 2-month spiritual “higher interlude,” the most powerful time of the year. When an eclipse occurs above things get eclipsed here below; a lunar eclipse eliminates astral shadows and purifies the world. Each Full Moon is a time for revelation and opportunity for healing body, mind and soul. This Full Moon is a pitcher that pours out a healing elixir we can just raise our cups to receive. Meditation, music and dancing help bring in the new light. Cosmic energies flow for 3 days following Full Moon. Revelations come in dreams, chance encounters and flashes of inspiration. Stay tuned.

May Eve Gate of Inspiration, Apr 30 12:45 am - May 1 12:45 am

A Muse Gate opens every 40 days, 9 each year. Whatever restricts creative flow comes before the Gate to be let go. This is a time to release body tensions that hold outmoded ways of thinking and feeling. Breathe deeply and move freely (yoga, tai chi, dance) to shed the old and be present to the blessings of the time. It’s the night the fairies come out. Happy May Eve!

Steve Nelson is a professional astrologer who uses Tarot, name analysis, and traditional astrology to help clients understand personal myths and realize natural abilities. He can be reached at 704-375-3759 or email stevenelson@carolina.rr.com

The 2012 zodiacal year continues to unfold its magic with the best to be in the weeks just before Spring Equinox when the new astrological year begins. Love leads with Venus exalted in Pisces, her favorite sign. The best creative dream time in this (2012 zodiacal) year cycle is from March 9 to March 20 when the Sun is in the Ten of Cups "Rainbow Connection" decan of dreamy Pisces. This Scorpio ruled decan is for active dreaming and active transforming of whatever stands in way of dreams being realized. It’s time to catch the leprechaun that will lead us to our pot of gold.

Each year is ruled by one of the 7 visible planets (including the Sun and Moon) in order of their rate of motion in the sky. 2012 has been ruled by the Moon, the fastest point in the heavens; 2013 (starting 3/20/2013) is a Year of Saturn, the slowest of the visible planets. What was dreamed in Moon Year 2012 becomes manifest in Saturn Year 2013.

Communication channels clear and world changing new ideas come through starting March 4 when a new 4-month Mercury cycle begins. This New Mercury brings a new mind set for a new time. Mercury in mutual reception with Jupiter (they are in each other’s signs) insures success in this time. All new initiatives are well favored beginning March 12 when Mars enters Aries allied with the waxing Moon. Everything prospers in the rising tide of this 2013 Spring Moon.

The year ebbs and flows like an ocean tide. The new tide comes in with the Spring Equinox Moon wave rising to crest at the Summer Solstice Full Moon. In March we catch a new tide of creation in which we all have a special part to play. In this Renaissance year 2013 we realize why we came into this world.  

March is the month of Mars the god of war; Mars is the vital force of Nature and power to realize our ideals. Tradition teaches how the soul is united with the vital force of Spring. During Lent (all this month) we can train our primal energy or “dragon” to realize our dreams. The two week period before Equinox is ideal for this purpose; the 4 weeks after Equinox is for seeding the new creation. Sun in Aries channels our passions to serve our dreams. Whatever we plant in our inner garden now will flower throughout the year.

At Spring Equinox 2013 the Year of Cetus the Sea Dragon begins. This may sound scary yet it is the story that shows us the way from the old Age of Pisces with all its travails into the New Age of Aquarius with its promise of a far better world. But before we can get there the shadow of the old world has to be transformed. How so? By being sensitive to what’s disturbing and then imagining the pattern of thinking, behavior or addiction separate from the person or people involved. These patterns are not who they are as a soul, only trappings of the old world. First feel emotional reaction to the problem pattern, then breathe deeply to fully bring up this emotion. On a final out breath release your emotion as a bolt of lightning to break the pattern. 

When an old psychic pattern breaks energy is set free to be redirected to a good purpose, dream or ideal. Energy flows where attention goes, so the new world comes to be. This is transformation: breaking an old form and moving the energy into a better form. Please note this transforming technique will always work wonderfully well just as long as the soul wishes to be rid of the pattern being targeted, then the soul will co-operate to free the personality from the trappings of the old world.

Each year has a theme and purpose that is revealed by its numerology, the planet of the year and its zodiacal sign and decan mythology. 2013 is a #6 Year of the Lovers Tarot Key VI and Saturn is the planet of the year (beginning on 3/20/2013). Saturn is the planet of limitation but it is also the planet of focus, structure, and discipline through which great things can be achieved. 

Saturn retrograde (Feb 19 - Jul 7) is Saturn in shadow. The shadow aspect of Saturn is embodied in our mythologies as Sauron and Voldemorte and the devil Satan. This figure appears in Tarot as Key XV The Devil who has the symbol for Saturn on his palm. The unhappy couple are chained to the devil's footstool; the breaking of these chains is the chief lesson of the year.

In 2013 the ring of false power is destroyed in the fires of Mt. Doom and the devil is cast into a lake of fire. As the old chains are broken Key XV The Devil becomes Key VI The Lovers. In this year 2013 illusions, trappings and attachments that keep from true Love are transformed in the fire.

In the zodiacal years 3/20/2012-3/20/17 prophecies of the ages are realized: myths come to life, what has been hidden is revealed, there is “a New Heaven and New Earth” and the last will come first as innovators take precedence over the old status quo. There is also a “war in Heaven and Earth,” a war more psychic than physical as the old world shadows come to light to be transformed at the dawning of the New Age. The more this war is won on the astral plane the less war is waged in the outer world. How this war is to be won is communicated in mythology and Biblical lore, in the Lord of the Rings, the Harry Potter books and other mythic stories. Details are found in the works of Alice Bailey by which Tolkien was inspired. 

We can take heart in knowing that people are better than may now appear; there really are no monstrous Orcs lurking about, only astral shades that occasionally (usually in the dark of the Moon) possess weak willed individuals to commit extraordinary acts of violence. In this zodiacal year the shadow of the old world emerges to be transformed as the great shift to the Age of Aquarius continues. The challenge of the old world shadow magic working out awakens our soul powers to meet the needs of our time. 

The 36-spoked World Wheel of Fortune turns one decan each year changing each Spring Equinox. 2012 was/is (until Mar 20) a Year of Pegasus, the winged white horse that Perseus rides to rescue Andromeda from the sea monster Cetus. Pegasus carries the lightning bolts of Zeus and causes earthquakes with his thundering hooves – more Earth changes are in store these next 3 years. The winged horse Pegasus also opens the Fountain of the Muses bringing new Inspiration to the world. And Pegasus evokes the coming of the White Horse Avatar whose names are legion; he/she comes forth in many forms. It is time to realize who we are and bring forth our unique magic to help set right our world. 

The Andromeda story is most important now as we begin the year of Cetus the sea dragon on 20 Mar 2013. Cetus represents the collective shadow highlighted for transformation. Andromeda is the Woman of Revelation and Cetus is the 7-headed dragon Leviathan rising out of the sea. The flesh of Leviathan becoming "as food" means we have the power to transform this shadow into light. Old world patterns breaking free psychic energy for new creation, the new world is born as the Phoenix from the ashes of the old. 2013 is a year of great change and great challenge and yet this year we're given the greatest opportunities to do what is called for by the spirit of our time. 

Each zodiacal Age lasts for 2,160 years with the shift from one age to another during a 36-year Sun Period that brings cultural and spiritual renaissance. The current renaissance period began in 1981 and it concludes in 2016 when the shift to the new era will be complete. During the years 2012 to 2016 the deeper dimensions of the Andromeda myth unfold and we realize its ultimate expression in this new creation story. 

The Woman of Revelation (see Rev. 12) is the newly emerging feminine consciousness that mediates the emergence of the divine masculine (the “boy child” of Revelation). Saturn retrograde evokes the coming forth of the New Woman through direct challenge; when Saturn turns forward her way will be won and she will come to her full power in the world. Key to the story of Andromeda is how Perseus uses the head of snake-haired Medusa (a power within woman) to turn the monster to stone. This sea monster is the dragon of Revelation rising from the sea to threaten our world; it is the shadow of the old world that must be transformed before we can enter the new age.

In Revelation it’s said that the flesh of the dragon Leviathan becomes “as food” for those of good heart. This is the story and hope of our time. We have allies. The winged horse Pegasus carries Andromeda to safety and a great Eagle comes to rescue the Woman of Revelation. This Eagle appears in the heavens as Aquila, the bird of Jove that wields the divine lightning. Our help finally comes from the powers of our own spiritual nature in union with the divine. Psychic lightning is transmitted through the brow when the ajna center is opened; now we learn how. Then we may awaken the ultimate force of transformation, a power long sleeping in the feminine heart of the world. 

When the Medusa archetype is actualized feminine intuition and motivation are activated and woman comes into her ultimate transforming power. Note that it's the power of Medusa, a power within woman, that vanquishes the monster and frees Andromeda. This is an important story to remember now because it is the primary myth playing out at this great new turn in the spiral of time. Events of Winter Solstice invoked this return with the awakening of Kali in India and of her counterpart Medusa in the western world. Algol, the star of Medusa, is in the 41st parallel north where New York City and Sandyhook CN are located.

The sea dragon is again ravaging our coast; it's time for the new heroes and heroines to come forth to save our world.

2013 brings the shift of the Ages, the convergence of cosmic cycles and integration of new consciousness, the fulfilling of the prophecies of the age. Now the myths of all time come to life. A new world is being born and Love is our guide, the new creation comes to be from the union of yin and yang at a higher turn of creation's spiral. In this Year of the Lovers 2013 whatever two agree in love will come to be.

In the Moon Year 2012 we came to envision what we’re to be and do in this new time. In Saturn Year 2013 we bring into manifestation whatever is worthy that we envisioned in the Year of the Moon. It’s time to realize our dreams.
 

Chalandra Marz / Whoopity Scoorie / White Rabbit !  March 1 - Ring Out the Old

Say White Rabbit first today for luck through the month. Number 1 days resonate with the Magician Tarot Key I. The Magician pulls another rabbit from his hat and this is the great March Hare that brings the World Egg of the new creation to be. This World Egg appears in Eostre’s Spring Full Moon.

It’s time now to ring out the old to make way for the new. In Switzerland, costumed children parade through streets ringing bells and cracking whips; women beat pots with spoons to chase out “the Boog,” Old Man Winter. Likewise, the Scots celebrate their Whoopity Scoorie to drive out evil spirits and bless the land. The Welsh honor Dewi of Dyfed, their version of St David, the patron of poets. There's magic about for letting go the old and opening to the inspiration for a new creation. 

New Mercury, Mar 4 – Think, Speak, Create Anew

Mercury aligns with Earth and Sun and a new (4-month) Mercury cycle is begun. This Piscean New Mercury makes our ideals real. Communications clear as the new cycle begins (7:58 am). New Mercury brings new mind set for the new time. This cycle of creative thinking, invention and commerce can remake the world.

3rd Quarter Moon, Mar 4-6 (exact 4:53 pm 3/4) – Realizing Dreams

This Moon cuts away all that distracts from putting our dreams into action. 3rd Quarter Moon integrates ideas into creative expression; it's time to follow our bliss and do what feels good in concert with the whole. 

Balsamic Moon, Mar 7-9 – Make a Wish!

This is the Wishing Moon, the best time to put wishes on the air. It is also called the Witches Moon, a time to bring to mind those who need healing. Feeling invokes healing, the deeper we feel, the deeper we heal. The deeper we feel, the more Moon magic comes through the new Spring lunar cycle. 

International Women’s Day, Mar 8 – Celebrate the Women of the World 

Woman empowered frees the world. Women are honored with flowers today. The nature of every fixed date holiday is reflected in its decan constellation story and the Tarot card of the day. March 8 is in the Andromeda decan of Pisces. Andromeda is the Princess who attracts the hero Perseus to slay the sea dragon Cetus. Andromeda is Persephone and her male counterpart is Perseus. Andromeda/Persephone is the New Woman awakening in the world. Tarot Key VIII Strength is the Woman who tames the Lion. She is flower crowned and flower girdled with an infinity sign over her head. She is the goddess Cybele who always appears accompanied by lions. Cybele has power to tame the wild forces of Nature especially male human nature. Tambourines, zills and belly dancing come from the Cybele spiritual tradition. Joseph Campbell believed Cybele the most important feminine archetype to reintegrate into our modern world. Cybele trains the young Dionysus (the new masculine) so he's no longer driven mad by his passions. This myth teaches how to focus primal energy to soul purpose symbolized by the infinity sign overhead.

Dark of the Moon/New Moon, Mar 10-12 – Follow the Light Within

The day before New Moon until Sunset a day after is ideal for inner work to seed the new cycle; outer activity is favored after the new crescent appears. Old Moon shadows give way as we connect with the light within. The New Moon (3:51 pm 3/11) is a cosmic spring that flows freely as we slow down. Nostradamus calls New Moon "the day of Diana, a time for silent rest." The Dark of the Moon is a psychic black hole like Alice's rabbit hole. Wonders await our following the Moon Hare within. Here we can know what is and how to shape what is to be.

 Crescent New Moon, Mar 12-17 – A Time to Sow

It's time to bring forward what we wish to be realized. Farmers plant seeds when the crescent appears, seeds become fertile on every level, all new beginnings are favored now. Meditation opens doorways, wishes take wing, prayers bring blessings for this Moon and the New Year to be. Crescent Moon with Mercury and Mars brings Earth changing discoveries to light. 

St Patrick’s Day, Mar 17 – Wear Green and Celebrate

“The wearing of the green” has its origin in the Green Man who dances in the Spring. People can be “crazy as a March hare” as Spring draws near and sap begins to rise. It’s time to chase out the old Mars (old year shadow) and bring in the new tide. Just as Patrick drove snakes from Ireland with his drum so we can drum out shadows of the past and dance in the Spring.

 1st Quarter Moon, Mar 19-21 (exact 1:27 pm 3/19) – Time to Choose

This Moon is like a scythe cutting across the sky, it's time to cut free from the trappings of the past and affirm our purpose moving forward. Sacred to the Druids, this Moon is pivotal in the cycle of creation. Choices made are likely the right ones. Breathing deeply through the light of the crown frees energy flow up and down the spine to clear shadows and power our dreams. 

Spring Equinox Gate of Inspiration, Mar 20-21 (7 am 3/20 - 7 am 3/21)

Muse Gates open every 40 days, 9 each year. Whatever inhibits energy flow comes before the Gate to be let go. This is a time to release tensions that hold outmoded ways of thinking and feeling. Breathe deeply and move freely (yoga, tai chi, dance) to shed the old and open to new possibilities, new inspiration and the new creative energies of Spring. 

Spring Equinox, Mar 20-25 (exact 7:02 am 3/20) – Be Happy!

As sap flows up through plant stems to flowers, so the vital energy of Nature rises within us opening to bright new possibilities. “Be as happy as can be” today for happiness through the year. Persians call this No-Rooz, New Day or “sniff-the-breeze day.” It is a time for joy making, singing and dancing around bonfires. Making a joyful noise brings joy for the Year, whatever is in the beginning carries on to the end. This is our time to begin anew.

Spring Equinox is the first of the 8 Fire Festivals in the year, fire is key for energy clearing in these times. There is always more fire of war when the way of sacred fire is neglected. The more candles are lit, the more sacred fires burn, the fewer fires of war. Fire has a dual purpose, it purges and transforms outmoded patterns, then empowers what remains to be true. 

Festival of Eostre / Lady Day, Mar 25 – Announcing the New Creation

Spring Equinox culminates with Lady Day, the Feast of Annunciation. 

March 25th is also the Festival of Eostre, Anglo-Saxon goddess of Spring. Her magic rabbit, the “March Hare,” brings the “world egg” containing all that is to be in this new cycle. This “egg” is the Mar 27 Eostre Full Moon. 

Passover/Easter/Shamballa/Holi Full Moon, Mar 25-29 – Celebrate!

Each Full Moon is a time of revelation and opportunity for healing body, mind and soul. The Full Moon (exact 5:27 am 3/27) is a pitcher that pours out a healing elixir we just raise our cups to receive. Meditation, music making, dancing help open to take in the new light. Cosmic energies flow for 3 days following each Full Moon. Revelations may come in dreams, chance encounters and flashes of inspiration. Stay tuned.

The Shamballa Full Moon begins the 2-month “higher interlude,” the most creative period of the year. The new cycle is seeded and set to unfold its magic for the year. Shamballa is the spiritual will center of the world. Sun in Aries Full Moon powers our way forward, we begin to live our new story.

Purim is a raucous Jewish celebration with masquerade and noise making to banish the dark lord Hanuman, the shadow of the old world. Likewise, Holi is a light-hearted Spring festival that combines play (singing, drum-beating), with fire dance to “burn up the old year and usher in the new.” Happy Holi, Happy Spring! 

Easter Sunday, Mar 31 – Meet the Morning Sun

Easter is the 1st Sunday following the 1st Full Moon after Spring Equinox.

The Spiritual Sun is reborn this Sunday at Sunrise following the 1st Spring union of the Sun and Moon. Meeting the rising Sun on Eostre’s Sunday is an ancient shamanic tradition. As the vital spirit of Spring rises to meet the Sun within, we become conscious of who we are in the new cycle of creation. 

Steve Nelson is a professional astrologer who uses Tarot, name analysis, and traditional astrology to help clients understand personal myths and realize natural abilities. He can be reached at 704-375-3759 or email stevenelson@carolina.rr.com    

The New Year seeded at Winter Solstice comes to consciousness during Candlemas (Feb 1-4), the Winter Cross-Quarter. The New Year time spirit quickens to awareness through Candlemas fire, Lunar New Year (Feb 10-25) and Carnival (until Feb 3-13) celebrations. We begin to turn outward again as the spirit of Winter Carnival rises within. It’s time to dance and become as a child again, each of us is a child of the New Year awakening.

Carnival is the season to awaken the dragon that will be tamed during Lent. The bigger the dragon awakened and trained to purpose the more creative energy is available for the New Year. Traditionally lovers are chosen on Valentine’s Day because it’s easier to awaken and tame dragons in twos. While this may or may not be true, the techniques for awakening and taming dragons are pretty much the same for individuals as for twos.  

Many celebrate Carnival and avoid Lent, others observe Lent but ignore Carnival. In general, those who ignore Carnival are more likely to be repressed emotionally while those who celebrate Carnival but avoid Lent are more apt to be dominated by their own passions. When both Carnival and Lent are given their due the vital force (symbolized by serpent or dragon) is stirred to life and integrated to power our new creation.

Carnival and Lent are important pagan fertility rites partially adapted by the Catholics. Placing ashes on the forehead was originally an Anglo-Saxon shamanic practice performed in the weeks before Spring Equinox. The purpose of ash (think carbon rings charged with solar energy) is to stimulate the brow chakra and draw up the spine the primal energy awakened in winter carnival. 

Every year is a new creation, a new Genesis. The New Year time spirit takes form in the womb of Winter and the world is born anew in Spring. This is a dyad creation, the double helix is the source of all life. God moves through equal partnerships, two lasers create a hologram. As yin and yang agree it will be, this is how the new world is born. 

2013 is the Year of the Lovers Tarot Key VI. This card illustrates the new creation with its archetypal New Woman and New Man. Here Eve/Venus stands before her mythic apple tree which bears abundant fruit as the primal serpent is trained upward. The way of training primal energy to soul purpose is being remembered now and will be restored in this Year of Snake 2013. Paradise is regained as we learn what to do with the snake in the garden.

The Chinese New Year, beginning on Feb 10 also signals an awakening of vital forces, it is celebrated by dragons dancing in the street. The dragon appears to be chasing (or is led by) a bouncing ball suggestive of dragon training or focusing on a goal.

When does a year really begin? Different cultures celebrate New Year at different times because the year begins on several levels. The Lunar New Year celebrated in China adds the vital emotional dimension. Each lunar year is symbolized by an animal, element and color. 2013 is a yin, water, or Silver Snake Year. The Chinese New Year celebration culminates with the Lantern Festival on the Feb 25 Full Moon.

The Lunar Year of the Snake happens once every 12 years and this is a special year when many millions of people gather in India for the great Khumba Mela. Now it is believed a giant serpent churns the ocean to bring up a giant pot filled with the nectar of immortality, the essence of all that was and is to be. But first, before the healing elixir can be received, the accumulated poison of the era has to be transmuted. The great god Shiva swallows the toxic liquid which turns his throat blue. What this means is a puzzle but it’s curious the throat is ruled by Taurus which is ruled by Venus whose color is blue. However this may be, it is true in the natural scheme of things that whenever a great transformation is happening whatever needs transforming is churned up before. Now the shadow of the passing Age  is transformed and what follows is a mystery. Perhaps these next few weeks will bring the real activation, ascension or avataric awakening forecast for 2012. (Zodiacal year 2012 began 20 Mar 2012, it ends on 20 Mar 2013).

Morning Star Venus rises now blessing this new world. Rising before the Sun awakens us to the magic of this time. Venus rising in Aquarius bridges the way to a new more artful age. A planet long shrouded in mystery, Venus reveals many of her secrets this year. Insights channel through the arts in signs and symbols by way of Venus, the ruler of the Libra part of Aquarius we enter  now in the great cycle of the age. New symbols are energized to bridge our way to the new high culture for which the world is so ready. What better emissary to lead us there than the goddess of Love…

Imbolc / White Rabbit Day, Feb 1 – Beginning Anew

Say White Rabbit first thing today for luck throughout the month. Number 1 days are like the Magician Tarot Key I. It’s time for a new magic rabbit to come out of the hat. The Celtic celebration Imbolc (Gaelic for “in the belly”) marks the first stirrings of Spring in the womb of Mother Earth. The vital forces of Nature are quickening now for a new cycle of creation to be.

Ground Hog Day, Feb 2 – Forecasting

This Imbolc holiday tradition grows out of an old Celtic custom of scrying the future through animal signs. Birds and burrowing animals are the special messengers in this time. What was conceived in the unconscious at Winter Solstice becomes illuminated as we, like the groundhog, come out of our winter homes to stand in the light of a new creation. All the world comes round right as the shadows of winter night give way to this new light.

Candlemas, Feb 2-4 – Illumination

By the light of candles three
Golden flames reveal to me
A path, a sign, an omen fair,
To guide me to my destiny.

The New Year quickens to life in the fires of Candlemas, the cross-quarter day that honors Celtic fire goddess Brigid. The Irish summon her to chase away winter. In Christian tradition Candlemas marks the purification of Mary. Candlemas also honors Demeter the goddess who carries a torch into the underworld in search of her daughter Persephone. The exact Candlemas cross-quarter (midpoint of Winter) is 11:15 am est Feb 3.

The lights of Candlemas symbolize Ceres torch lit search for her daughter Persephone. The rediscovery of Persephone is the first glimmer of conscious light in the dark of winter. Now the nature of the new cycle can be gleaned, visions of the future can be seen. 

The Mysteries of Persephone are celebrated now in the Greek mystery tradition. Persephone returns from the underworld  with her torch bearing mother Demeter (America’s Liberty). Demeter and Persephone reunited bring blessings to the world. Cairleach, the Celtic crone of winter now gives way to Bride/Persephone, the rejuvenated/rejuvenating goddess of the new cycle. Persephone presides over the death, rebirth and healing of the king - and the coming forth of the true king - in this cycle. The feeling need for a true king, avatar or champion is a collective invocation in this time. In her quiet and solitude woman invokes the divine return.

The Candlemas Purification of Mary is the clearing of Earthly consciousness for reception of Divine light. Candles are blessed to protect from lightning and other natural disasters. Mary mediates the forces of Nature including lightning. In her Magdalene form, she is Mary of the Tower. Psychic lightning bolts are invoked to clear psychic shadows from the astral world.

In ancient Greece the Mysteries of Persephone celebrated at this cross-quarter were preparatory for the autumn Mysteries of Eleusis. Persephone is accompanied by serpents and their appearance in nature (or in dream) portends her emergence. Long before the groundhog came to represent this time the Celtic people looked for serpent signs.

The snake emerging in the natural world parallels a force rising within which, when trained and focused to purpose, can work miracles. The serpent is the kundalini which raised rejuvenates life. The stirring of new life is the rising of primal energy for a new creation. Training this energy is the purpose of the season's ritual celebrations.

Candlemas Ritual for Scrying the Future, Forecasting the Year

The future doesn't just happen, we create the future given the energetic resources and understanding we have available. What will become is partly set by destiny defined by laws and cycles of nature and is partly determined by free will. The better we know and live in concert with natural cycles the more free we are to express our self and shape the future. In the words of pioneering scientist Francis Bacon, "Nature is commanded by obeying her."

Every cycle has 8 pivotal times or turning points when what is to unfold can more readily be determined. During these times free will is augmented. Particularly effective for initiating change are the midpoints of the fixed signs Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius. These fixed sign midpoints focus elemental energies and shape what will be in the following season.

This Candlemas/Imbolc ritual can effectively be done any time between Feb 2 and Feb 18 when the Candlemas Hora ends. It might be repeated in this time until the future forecast is clear and what is to be is envisioned satisfactorily. Forecasting is both passive predicting of influences and active envisioning and shaping what is to be. This is our time to scry and shape the future of our dreams.

The set up for the Candlemas ritual is simple: First place a small (ideally silver) bowl filled with water in the middle of your celebration space. Put in the bowl 3 round stones perhaps from a creek or beach or gem shop, round is key. Then arrange 3 candles to form an equilateral triangle around the bowl. Optionally, small vines or other greenery may be placed about the bowl. Use vervain if available, this is the traditional  herb for the celebration. It's purpose is purify and protect against astral influences. Dance and merry making will do this too.

The celebration: Light the 3 candles moving clockwise (Sunwise) and then just walk or dance clockwise around the center. Chanting or singing simple songs can quicken the energy and help synchronize breath with movement. Dancing 3 times around sets and clears the circle. Circling clockwise 7 times will dispel illusions and break all shadow spells. You might invoke the presence of spiritual forces and then put intentions on the air. Some may spontaneously speak in rhyme after setting the circle.

When the dance movement feels complete sit and gaze into the water pool between the candles to gain insight regarding the future year and the role you may play. Remember that the water element connects us with our unconscious and the collective unconscious of the astral world. It is here we find the shape of what's to be. In focusing on the glimmering water, remember the Genesis quote "and the spirit of God moved on the face of the water." Here at the edge of water and air the future is seen.

This scrying ritual is best done at night preferably in the hour beginning at sunset or at midevening (halfway between sunset and true midnight). The hour half way between true m and sunrise is also good if you're an early riser or just happen to wake up then. This hour resonates with the Candlemas hora (15 day period Feb 2-18) in the year.

Another tradition is to wet the right forefinger in the bowl of water then hold it up high and draw a circle in the air above. This is to open a window into the future. You might also put water on the brow center to help open the inner eye. Candlemas is all about clearing and seeing the way forward. This is magic time, a time to create anew.

“Held to mark the ‘quickening of the year,’ the theme of lighting fires to call back the Sun from its winter retreat has been consistent in all incarnations of this festival. Imbolc falls in the Druid tree month Rowan, or ‘quickbeam.’ … On Candlemas, candles are lighted and bonfires burn outside, echoing the great ritual fires lit by Druids on this night. In wooing back the Sun we are also starting fresh both outwardly and inwardly. As fire illuminates the darkness and the Sun brings back warmth and richness of the Earth, we lighten the load of external burdens and inner attachments, looking deep into our own darkness to discover the new light."  ~ Victoria Williams, Ritual Fire and Feasting 

3rd Quarter Moon, Feb 3-5 (exact 11 pm Jan 4 est) – Realizing Dreams

This Moon cuts away all that distracts from putting our dreams into action. 3rd Quarter Moon integrates ideas into creative expression; it's time to follow our bliss and do what feels good in concert with the whole.

Balsamic Moon, Feb 6-8 – Make a Wish!

This is the Wishing Moon, the best time to put wishes on the air. It is also called the Witches Moon, a time to bring to mind those who need healing. Feeling invokes healing, the deeper we feel, the deeper we heal. The deeper we feel, the more Moon magic comes through the new lunar cycle. Shadows before New Moon can be cleared through deep breathing with attention to the light of the crown. See the wee crescent rising before the Sun with bright Venus, the goddess of Love.

Gate of Inspiration, Feb 8-9 (9:40 am 2/8 - 9:40 am 2/9) – Open to Receive

A Muse Gate opens every 40 days, 9 each year. Whatever blocks our energy flow comes before the Gate to be let go. This is a time to release tensions that hold outmoded ways of thinking and feeling. Breathe deeply and move freely (yoga, tai chi, Pilates, dance) to shed the old and open to the new light with new possibilities, new inspiration, and new creative energies. The Muse Urania brings new knowledge of the celestial bodies and cycles of heaven.

Dark of the Moon/New Moon, Feb 9-11 – Following the Light Within

The day before New Moon until Sunset a day after is ideal for inner work to seed the new cycle; outer activity is favored after the new crescent appears. Old Year/ Old Moon shadows give way as we connect with the light within, and breathe. The New Moon (2:20 am est 2/10) is a cosmic spring that flows freely as we slow down. Nostradamus calls New Moon "the day of Diana, a time for silent rest." It is like a psychic black hole, Alice's rabbit hole. Many great wonders await our following the Moon Hare within. Here we can know what is and how to shape what’s to be. This Lunar New Year Moon (2/10-3/11) brings our dreams to life.

Chinese New Year, Feb 10-25 – Awakening, New Life Energy (Chi)

A year has several beginning times on different levels of being. The Year conceived at Winter Solstice / New Year comes to life on the emotional level at this Lunar New Year and becomes physically manifest in Spring. 2013 is a Year of the Snake. In Chinese astrology, the snake is associated with wisdom, esoteric knowledge and spiritual discovery. Snakes are sacred in many ancient cultures and are often seen as a sign of healing. “Mine is the wisdom of the ages. I hold the key to the mysteries of life. Casting my seeds on fertile ground, I nurture them with constancy and purpose. My sights are fixed, my gaze unchanging. Unyielding, inexorable and deep I advance with steady, unslackened gait, the solid earth beneath me. I am the snake.” -Theodora Lau 

Crescent New Moon, Feb 11-16 – A Time to Sow

It's time to bring forward what we wish to be realized. Farmers plant seeds when the crescent appears, seeds become fertile on every level, all new beginnings are favored now. Meditation opens doorways, wishes take wing, prayers bring blessings for this Moon and the New Year to be. Moon with Mercury and Mars brings bold new discoveries to light.

Valentine’s Day, Feb 14 – Celebrate Love

Birds choose their mates on this day and so do we. Valentine’s Day began as a pagan festival when lovers were chosen in games of chance. On Lupercalia Eve (the evening of Feb 13) the names of girls were written on pieces of paper and put in a jar from which each young man would draw a name. This would be his “girl-friend” for the year. This is the origin of Valentines. Number 14 reduces to 5, the number of Venus, goddess of Love.

1st Quarter Moon, Feb 17-19 (exact 3:31 pm 2/17) – Time to Choose

This Moon is like a scythe cutting across the sky, it's time to cut free from the trappings of the past and affirm our purpose moving forward. Sacred to the Druids, this Moon is pivotal in the cycle of creation. Choices made are likely the right ones. Breathing deeply through the light of the crown frees energy flow up and down the spine to clear shadows and power our dreams. 

Full Moon Lantern Festival, Feb 23-27 (3:26 pm 2/25) – Celebrate! Strange things can happen at the Full Moon when the lunar orb passes through the Earth's magnetotail. Then, for 5 days, solar plasma flows strongly through the Earth-Moon connection and the Moon becomes so charged electrically that Moon dust floats over the lunar surface. Solar prana and consciousness is drawn most strongly through the Earth - and through our bodies - when the Moon is Full.

At this Full Moon, Chinese New Year festivities culminate with the lighting of lanterns for health and good fortune. Each Full Moon is an opportunity for revelation and for healing – body, mind and soul. This Aquarius lunar cycle Full Moon is a pitcher that pours out healing elixir. Meditation, music making and dancing help open to receive; physical movement is key. Cosmic energies flow for 3 days following the Full Moon. Revelations come in dreams, chance encounters and flashes of inspiration. Stay tuned.

Steve Nelson is a professional astrologer who uses Tarot, name analysis, and traditional astrology to help clients understand personal myths and realize natural abilities. He can be reached at 704-375-3759 or email stevenelson@carolina.rr.com   

Morning Star Venus rises now blessing this New World. Rising before the Sun helps us awaken to the new magic of this time. A planet long shrouded in mystery, Venus will reveal many of her secrets to us this year. Blessings can be received directly by focusing on the light of Venus and breathing deeply fully in and fully out. Venus rising before the Sun invokes the transforming power of love. Love rules this new world.  

2013 is the Year of the Lovers Tarot Key VI. This card illustrates the new creation with its archetypal new woman and new man. The couple depicted  here are Adam and Eve or Venus and Mars for this new world. Eve/Venus stands before her apple tree which bears abundant fruit as the primal serpent is trained upward. The training of primal energy to soul purpose is a key element of the ancient wisdom tradition that is being remembered now and will be restored in this Year of Snake 2013. For lack of this basic training the world goes mad; as the ancient way of spiritual culture is recalled all is set right in this realm. Venus, goddess of the new dawn, empowers us to transform shadow to light and primal nature into love and bountiful creation. 

Every 2160 years a new zodiacal age begins and everything changes as new symbols and new myths come to life. As the Sun transits Aquarius this year Jan 19 - Feb 18, mysteries of this New Age will be revealed. We enter the Age of Aquarius by way of the Libra decan which Venus rules; Venus is our guide into this new time. Venus rising before the Sun aligned with the galactic center at Winter Solstice signaled the birth of this New Age; now we come to know the part that we are to play in this time. 

By the ancient doctrine of correspondences all things reduce to number and Tarot. The Death card Key XIII also plays a role in 2013 as this is the 13^th year of the century 21. Number 13 reduces in turn to 4 the Emperor or high king that is identified with the planet Jupiter now prominent in Gemini where Venus is the soul ruler. 2013 begins with the great benefics Venus and Jupiter in a harmonious mutual reception that is a blessing for all our relationships in the coming year. In this cycle Venus channels the transformative power of Key XIII presiding over the death, rebirth and healing of the king (masculine nature). She brings forth the true king in his season, this is now. 

The New Year time spirit seeded at Winter Solstice comes to creative expression through the 12 days of Yule culminating with Epiphany Jan 6. Yule means “wheel” and this wheel spins out from Winter Solstice, the 4 days Dec 21-24 when the Sun “stands still.” What was seeded in the dark of the unconscious at Solstice comes to light during Yule. These 12 days of Christmas or Yule symbolize the zodiacal New Year in embryo from Aries Dec 26 to Pisces Jan 6. Dreams and omens of these 12 days portend what will be in the coming year. The New Year spirit or “zeitgeist” is fully formed by Jan 6, this day is the last spoke in the wheel of Yule. 

Epiphany means "manifestation of divinity." Epiphany celebrates the birth of Jesus, his baptism in the river Jordan and changing water to wine at the wedding feast of Cana. This is Three Kings Day, the day the 3 wise men came bearing gifts: manifestations of divinity. Jan 6 is the original gift giving day for good reason; it is when the spirit of the new year takes physical form.

On Epiphany Eve in waters blessed,
lights divine are manifest;
 
Gifts presented at this time
fix a magic power sublime.
 
Join we now in Love’s bright circle:

the template of the future world. 

The Egyptians celebrated the Nile Festival this day, Jan 6, when the goddess Kore gives birth to the Aeon, the child spirit of this new time. The Egyptians celebrated the Korion with purification and invocation attended by singing with flutes and tambourines. Celebrants immersed themselves in the waters of the Nile before Sunrise. Water immersion is customary on Jan 6 when the waters of the world are imbued with healing power. All who immerse are blessed with love, health, and abundance for the year. Norwegians cut holes in the ice and dive in for the blessings this will bring. A hot tub or pool will  also do; total immersion is needed for the full healing effect. Drinking fresh spring water also helps absorb the healing chi of Epiphany.

Epiphany is the subject of Shakespeare's play "Twelfth Night." The 12th night Feast of Fools festivities were banned in the Middle Ages because they were so effective in lampooning the established order. 12th Night (Jan 5th) is the best time for old world pattern breaking. The more merrymaking now, the better the way is cleared for for fresh new beginnings in the New Year.

Epiphany is celebrated with merry making that includes water immersion and sacred fire: "The fires of 6 January, the last day of Yule, were regarded with reverence .. many were lit as beacons on headlands and high places, others were regarded as having a definite function in increasing the fertility of fields and orchards...These blazes are often associated with mummers - people dressed up in strange clothes - who use the occasion for feasting.” - Shirley Toulson, The Winter Solstice 

As New Year 2013 begins, the Moon shines bright in Leo forming a fortunate grand trine with Venus now happily positioned in fun loving Sagittarius. This grand trine is completed by the mysterious new planet Eris a.k.a. Persephone who is located at 22 Aries, the degree of Los Angeles in the zodiac on Earth. Here in this Venus ruled decan of Perseus a new heroic consciousness is invoked to set things right in our world. A great horn is blown that calls forth the avatar in everyone. This Saturn ruled year will not be easy yet it may bring forth the best in us all. The 2013 Times Square Crystal Ball is inscribed with these invocative themes: Let there be Peace, Let there be Friendship, Let there be Love, Let there be Courage, Let there be Joy and Let there be Light. Let’s ring in all these blessings now.

New Year Gate of Inspiration, 2 am 12/31- 8 am Jan 1 – Begin Anew

A Muse Gate opens every 40 days, 9 each year. Queen Cerridwen stirs her cauldron for a year and day to make the brew of Inspiration. 9 maidens, the Muses, alternate their breaths to keep her fire burning. Polyhymnia is the muse of divine song, singing channels energy to create the world anew. Now is the time to dissolve body tensions that hold old year ways of thinking and feeling. Breathe deeply, sing and move freely (dance!) to shed the old and open to the light of the New Year. Say White Rabbit first thing today for luck throughout this month and year. The Moon Hare is our magic guide in this new time. Happy New Year!

3rd Quarter Moon, Jan 4-7 (exact 11 pm Jan 4) – Realizing Dreams

This Moon cuts away all that distracts from putting dreams into action. Moon in Libra grand trine with Mars and Jupiter blesses new relationships and all creative endeavors. 3rd Quarter Moon integrates ideas into creative expression; it's time to follow our bliss and do what feels good in concert with the whole.

Epiphany Eve /12th Night / The Feast of Fools, Jan 5 – Time to Party!

Yuletide festivities culminate with the 12th Night “Feast of Fools” on Jan 5. This is a great night to party and ideal time for exchanging gifts. 12th Night celebrations were banned during the late Middle Ages as these became occasions for lampooning the established order of church and state.

Epiphany / The 12th Day of Christmas, Jan 6 – Expect a Miracle

In Christian tradition Epiphany celebrates 3 special events related to water: the birth of Jesus, baptism in the river Jordan and changing water to wine. Epiphany also honors the 3 Kings who bring gifts for the new born child. The Egyptians celebrated the Korion or Festival of the Nile on this day when waters of the world are blessed with healing virtue. At this time, Kore (Persephone) gives birth to the Aeon, the child spirit or zeitgeist of the New Year. An old cycle ends, a New World begins, everyone is born again.

Balsamic Moon, Jan 7-9 – Make a Wish!

This is the Wishing Moon, the best time to put wishes on the air. It is also called the Witches Moon, a time to bring to mind those who need healing. Feeling invokes healing, the deeper we feel, the deeper we heal. The deeper we feel, the more Moon magic comes through the new lunar cycle. Shadows before New Moon can be cleared through deep breathing with attention to the light of the crown. See the wee crescent rising before the Sun with bright Venus, the goddess of Love. Make a wish!

Dark of the Moon/New Moon, Jan 10-12 – Going Within

The day before New Moon until Sunset a day after is ideal for inner work to seed the new cycle; outer activity is favored after the new crescent appears (Saturday night). Old Moon shadows give way as we connect with the light, and breathe. The New Moon (2:45 pm 1/11) is a cosmic spring that flows freely as we slow down. Nostradamus calls New Moon "the day of Diana, a time for silent rest." The New Moon is like a psychic black hole, like Alice's rabbit hole. Many great wonders await our following the Moon Hare within. Here we can know what is and how to help shape what’s to be. This Moon (1/11-2/9) brings many new discoveries apt to remake the world.

Crescent New Moon, Jan 13-17 – A Time to Sow

It's time to bring forward what we wish to be realized. Farmers plant seeds when the crescent appears, seeds become fertile on every level, all new beginnings are favored now. Meditation opens doorways, wishes take wing, prayers bring blessings for this Moon and the New Year to be. Moon with Mars in Aquarius powers new discoveries and all innovative actions.

1st Quarter Moon, Jan 18-20 (exact 3:19 am 12/20) – Time to Choose

This Moon is like a scythe cutting across the sky, it's a time to cut free from the trappings of the past and affirm our purpose moving forward. Sacred to the Druids, this Moon is pivotal in the cycle of creation. Choices made are likely the right ones. Breathing deeply through the light of the crown frees energy flow up and down the spine to clear shadows and power our dreams.

Sun in Aquarius Full Moon, Jan 24-28 – Transformation / Liberation

Each Full Moon brings revelation and opportunities for healing body, mind and soul. This Full Moon brings good fortune and revelation of nature’s mysteries as the Sun trines benefic Jupiter and Uranus in a mystic triangle focused through the Moon in revelatory Leo. Light is shed on extraordinary new technological discoveries that will reshape the world to the benefit of all. The Full Moon is like a pitcher that pours out a magic elixir we raise our cups to receive. Cosmic energies flow for 3 days following Full Moon (exact 11:38 pm Jan 26). Revelations come in dreams, chance encounters and flashes of inspiration. Stay tuned!

Steve Nelson is a professional astrologer who uses Tarot, name analysis, and traditional astrology to help clients understand personal myths and realize natural abilities. He can be reached at 704-375-3759 or email stevenelson@carolina.rr.com