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Neptune Retrograde ~ June 3 to November 9, 2011

Neptune and the Sun. Credit and copyright to Hive Studio via National Geographic

Neptune joins Saturn and Pluto in retrograde motion. She'll station on June 3 at 12:27 a.m. PDT / 3:27 a.m. EDT and remain retrograde until November 9th. Neptune governs all that which is hidden and operates in the unseen world -- our subconscious, psychological self, dreams, imagination, and spirituality. She is often associated with confusion (lack of clarity), escapism (drugs/alcohol), creativity (music), transcendence, "oneness," and unconditional love.

Neptune, who came home to Pisces on April 4th, will now retrace her steps from zero degree of Pisces and back to 28 degrees of Aquarius. Neptune returns to Aquarius for the last time on August 4, 2011. Then next year, Neptune re-enters Pisces on February 4, 2012 to remain until 2024/2025.

While Neptune is retrograde, Chiron will also be retrograde from June 8 to November 10. Their energy together offers greater opportunity to give attention to our spiritual side, psychological self, imagination, and ideals; aspects of our selves that we may have neglected during the course of living our busy, daily lives. This is the time to get in touch with realities in the spiritual plane that are just as true and substantial as the realities we face in the physical world. Be wary of excessive escapism, especially with drugs, during this period, especially with Jupiter sextile Neptune also on June 8th. A fog of confusion is also common; don't fear it. Instead, embrace the abyss of the unknown. In surrendering, clarity will follow.

Those born between February 16 to 20 (+/- 2 days) or with personal planets/house angles at zero degree of mutable signs or between 29 and 28 degrees of fixed signs may be experience this Neptunian energy/fog more strongly than others.

How might Neptune's retrograde transit influence your life? Answering the following questions is a good place to start. Where does her current transit fall in your birth chart? Do you have natal planets or house angles within 29 and 28 degrees of fixed signs to zero degree to mutable signs?

Unsure if you have natal planets/house planets between zero degrees of Pisces (or mutable signs) and 28 degrees of Aquarius (or fixed signs)? Cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference -- birth date, time, and place required.

Alternatively, I am also available personal consultations tailored to your needs. Are you celebrating a birthday? Or know someone who is? Schedule your session for a Solar Return (birthdays), 3-Chart Reading (detailed natal & overall outlook for the next 12 months), 24-month Neptune Transit reading or request a quote for a more customized reading tailored to your needs. You might also consider giving a loved one the gift of insight.

Related articles:



Neptune and the Sun. Credit and copyright to Hive Studio via National Geographic.

Jupiter in Taurus ~ June 4, 2011 to July 11, 2012

Sharpening up Jupiter - credit and copyright to the European Southern Observatory

Rejoice, Taurus-Suns! and Taurus-risings :) Jupiter will soon be leaving Aries to visit Taurus for a year! Jupiter represents good luck, joy, expansion, opportunities, higher education, and personal growth through our interests, experience and spirituality. He also governs publishing, travel, foreigners and exposure to other cultures. At best, Jupiter brings a wealth of knowledge, understanding, growth, opportunities, and also financial gains. At worst, overindulgent, excessive, wasteful, and unable to get past "dreaming" to make dreams a reality.

Jupiter enters Taurus on June 4 at 6:56 a.m. PDT / 9:56 p.m. EDT and will stay through July 11, 2012. He retrogrades on August 30 at 10 degrees, turns direct on December 25 at zero degree, and then retraces his steps over the first ten degrees of Taurus all over again before continuing on to transiting the rest of Taurus through July 11, 2012. That's a full year of uninterrupted visit in the sign that governs material worth, financial security, and tangible possessions (in the physical plane); and self-worth, our value system, and special talents/gifts (in the spiritual sense). Maybe our wallets get fatter or maybe we overspend. Maybe we gain a greater sense of self or develop an overblown ego. Maybe we learn to create opportunities for ourselves instead of waiting around for things to be offered to us. Or maybe we learn to recognize when opportunities are knocking at the door. How will you make use of Jupiter's Taurean transit in your life?

Upon entering Taurus, Jupiter quickly allies with Neptune (inspiration/insight), who is transiting her home sign of Pisces and is focused on the higher purpose, our interconnectedness, and how we can all benefit or ruin each other through our decisions/actions/inaction. Jupiter's first week in Taurus can be a period where our actions are inspired by our higher self and thoughts driven by what represents 'the greater good'. Do watch out for overoptimism or being overly generous. Jupiter and Neptune getting along too well might give the effect for a false sense of security.

From the moment Jupiter begins his transit in Taurus until early 2012, he will be under the umbrella of a semi-sextile with Uranus in Aries (radical change/breaking away from the norm), a sextile with Chiron in Pisces (old wounds surfacing needing to be healed), and a trine with Pluto in Capricorn (restructuring foundation/purging unnecessaries). Since the slower moving celestial bodies are still within the early degrees of the zodiac signs they are transiting, Taureans and those with fixed & cardinal sun signs who are born early in their signs may experience these Jupiter alignments more readily and undeniably than others. Those with natal planets/house angles between 4-6 degrees of fixed and cardinal signs may also notice certain areas within their birth charts triggered and gain extra focus during this time.

For those born with their natal Jupiter in Taurus, you're lucky enough to have your Jupiter Return. Jupiter Returns occur every 12 years, approximately, and usually coincide with major life events in both or either the external world or the more personal, inner journey. Whichever it may play out for you, if you are going through a Jupiter Return, take advantage of Jupiter's blessings especially during the first 12 months of your return. This is typically a time for new ventures.

Jupiter's links with the slower moving celestial bodies will perfect on the following dates. (all dates reflect North America Pacific time zone and influence is strongest within the immediate days before and after the exact dates):

  • June 8, 2011 ~ Jupiter sextile Neptune-rx at 0 degree, 55 minutes
  • June 28, 2011 ~ Jupiter semisextile Uranus at 4 degrees, 20 minutes; 1st of 3 occurrences
  • July 2, 2011 ~ Jupiter sextile Chiron-rx at 5 degrees, 12 minutes; 1st of 3 occurrences
  • July 7, 2011 ~ Jupiter trine Pluto-rx at 5 degrees, 20 minutes; 1st of 3 occurrences.
  • November 18, 2011 ~ Jupiter-rx Trine Pluto at 5 degrees, 57 minutes; 2nd of 3 occurrences.
  • December 6, 2011 ~ Jupiter-rx sextile Chiron at 0 degree, 58 minutes; 2nd of 3 occurrences
  • December 12, 2011 ~ Jupiter-rx semisextile Uranus at 0 degree, 38 minutes; 2nd of 3 occurrences
  • January 17, 2012 ~ Jupiter semisextile Uranus at 1 degree, 16 minutes; 3rd of 3 occurrences
  • February 14, 2012 ~ Jupiter Sextile Chiron at 4 degrees, 32 minutes; 3rd of 3 occurrences. Happy Valentine's Day :)
  • March 12, 2012 ~ Jupiter Trine Pluto at 9 degrees, 20 minutes; 3rd of 3 occurrences.


How might Jupiter's transit in Taurus manifest in your world? Look to the Taurus-ruled house/s in your birth chart. Match the sign with the house cusp/s on your birth chart. Use the list of zodiac sign below to identify the Taurus zodiac sign on your birth chart then click here for an explanation of Jupiter transiting those solar and/or natal houses.



Click image to see larger


For those without a birth chart, you may use your Sun sign or Rising/Ascendant sign, if you know it. Look for your Sun and/or Rising Sign below then click here for an explanation of Jupiter transiting those solar and/or natal houses.
  • Aries-Sun or Aries Rising ~ 2nd House
  • Taurus-Sun or Taurus Rising ~ 1st House
  • Gemini-Sun or Gemini-Rising ~ 12th House
  • Cancer-Sun or Cancer-Rising ~ 11th House
  • Leo-Sun or Leo-Rising ~ 10th House
  • Virgo-Sun or Virgo-Rising ~ 9th House
  • Libra-Sun or Libra-Rising ~ 8th House
  • Scorpio-Sun or Scorpio-Rising ~ 7th House
  • Sagittarius-Sun or Sagittarius-Rising ~ 6th House
  • Capricorn-Sun or Capricorn-Rising ~ 5th House
  • Aquarius-Sun or Aquarius-Rising ~ 4th House
  • Pisces-Sun or Pisces-Rising ~ 3rd House


Alternatively, you may cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference -- birth date, time, and place required.

Are you celebrating a birthday? Schedule a session for a Solar Return (birthdays) or 3-Chart Package Reading (detailed natal & overall outlook for the next 12 months). Or you might consider giving a loved one the gift of insight.

Have a question or need a quote for a more customized reading, ask me here.

What significance do planets, signs, and houses have in astrology? Planets have the function, the job to do. The style/manner they will use get that job done is defined by the zodiac sign they occupy. Where in our life the job gets done is determined by the house the planet occupies/transits. So, when Mars (aggression) is in Aries (bold), he is more assertive than when he is in Cancer (sensitive). When traveling through the 10th house (professional life), he may bring his confidence and motivation in matters relating to our career. While in the 11th house (friendships), we may be more inclined to having our social calendar packed with activities. Having the foresight for what may be coming up or receiving confirmation on what may be happening now are ways astrology can be beneficial ... as above, so below.

Related articles:

"Sharpening up Jupiter" - Image credit and copyright to the European Southern Observatory/F. Marchis, M. Wong, E. Marchetti, P. Amico, S. Tordo.

Mercury in Gemini ~ June 2 to 16, 2011

Mercury's Colorful Limb - credit and copyright to NASA

Mercury zips through the zodiac about every 3 weeks. He has been transiting Taurus, where he is thoughtful, careful, practical, thorough, and persistent. In Gemini, he is social, good-humored, witty, quick-thinking, and curious. At best, intelligent, charming, a great conversationalist, friendly, relaxed, secure and expansive. At worst, unfocused, not serious enough, quick to become disinterested, and can be non-committal.

Mercury governs all manners of mental activity, communication, writing/publishing and short travels. He rules the zodiac signs Gemini and Virgo. The planet Mercury is the fastest moving planet in the zodiac. He represents how we think, how we process information, and how we communicate the information we've processed. He also rules commerce and trade.

Mercury is at home in Gemini -- quick thinking, quick-witted, curious, friendly, and versatile with varied intellectual interests. With my natal Mercury in Gemini, I'm a bit partial to this sign placement for Mercury. Gemini is the first Air sign -- cool, detached, logical, objective. Conversations fluid; ideas flowing; interactions friendly. However, despite Gemini-Mercury's vast curiosity, hunger for learning, and active intellectual pursuits, his knowledge can be superficial and at times fleeting; so make sure to write down any brilliant ideas conceptualized during this period.

Mercury in Gemini encourages us to entertain our curiosities; run with small ideas and see where they take us or what they evolve into; collaborate and brainstorm with others because more minds working together is better than one; meet and greet with new people so we can learn from them; get captivated in engaging conversations; and generally, become a sponge for information gathering. As human beings, we are wired to make connections with others. Even an introvert can find comfort and joy in meaningful contact.

This year, Mercury transits Gemini from June 2 at 1:02 p.m. PDT / 4:02 p.m. EDT to June 16 and quickly squares Neptune as she prepares to retrograde on June 3rd, then he moves to sextile Uranus and Jupiter by June 4th -- making his first few days in Gemini exciting and possibly action-packed! While Mercury visits Gemini, the Sun also transits Gemini until June 20th, and Venus joins them both on June 9th.

Related articles:



"Mercury's Colorful Limb" - image credit and copyright to NASA/Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory/Carnegie Institution of Washington.

New Moon/Solar Eclipse in Gemini ~ June 1, 2011

The Colorful Moon. Credit and copyright to the Galileo Project, JPL, NASA

Has it been a crrraaazzzyyy week (or couple of weeks) for anyone else other than me?! Tense, busy, icky energy. Even my usual mild temperament has been easily riled up these days. Maybe it's transiting Pluto oppose my Sun and square my Uranus, while transiting Uranus also opposes my Uranus -- yes, a great, big bundle of cardinal energy nicely packaged in a grand cross. Nuts!

But enough about me... If any of you have also been experiencing funky energy in your immediate environment, we can probably put some of the blame on the upcoming eclipse. Eclipses intensify new and full moons, giving them an extra kick, a bigger dose of potency, and greater reach/influence. A typical new and full moon have about two weeks of influence, while eclipses can have an impact for as long as six months.

In astrology, eclipses trigger necessary changes to one's journey in life. Because these changes are triggered outside of one's own volition, they are often harsh, sudden, and undeniable. The initial shock evoke sadness, confusion, frustration, anger, worry, and possibly depression. However, it is our reaction past the initial shock that defines how we will allow these eclipses to influence us. Click here for a more detailed explanation of Eclipses in Astrology.

June kicks off the month with a New Moon in Gemini (at 2:03 p.m. PDT / 5:03 p.m. EDT), which also happens to also be a Solar Eclipse (at 2:16 p.m. PDT / 5:16 p.m. EDT). This is the second eclipse in Gemini; the previous one occurred on December 21, 2010 and was a Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse, kicking off the Gemini-Sagittarius series of eclipses that are happening from 2010 to 2013.

New Moons signify rebirth, beginnings, a clean slate, the start of a new cycle. This new moon highlights Gemini qualities (cerebral, social, connections) and 3rd house themes (information, thought, ideas, communication). Gemini is governed by the planet Mercury, who is currently transiting Taurus and will soon be home in Gemini the following day, on June 2nd.

In Gemini, the Moon is energetic, excitable, gregarious, an extrovert opting for logic over emotions. This Gemini-Eclipsed New Moon (blending of heart & soul) allies with Saturn (old/structure) and Uranus (new/radical change) while challenged by Neptune (imagination/enlightenment), Chiron (wounds/healing) and Pluto (purging/transformation). It's mid-year. How has 2011 been for you so far? How much of it is what might have planned or expected? What of it are complete surprises or interesting turn of events?

With the heart (Moon) and soul (Sun) in agreement, it's time to 'see' things/situations/events for what they really are (Saturn). No more turning a blind eye or escaping behind wishful thinking (Neptune). Enough with just living with the hurt or avoiding what must be done to get through painful experiences (Chiron). It's time to break away (Uranus) from what's been keeping you from the life you envision for yourself. So, get to the root of the problem/issue and purge/eliminate what you must (Pluto) in order to have your much needed renewal (New Moon). The path to a new life or a new version of you may not be an easy one, but I have no doubt it's a rewarding one :)

This new moon occurs at 11 degrees of Gemini. Those born within 3 days of June 1st or December 3rd; or have planets/house angles around 11 degrees of mutable signs may experience the effects of this new moon eclipse stronger than most.

For me, as a Virgo-rising, this Solar Eclipse/New Moon falls in my natal 9th house (personal growth/experiences) and also affects my natal 10th house (career/future goals) since Gemini is the sign that governs that house; and as a Cancer-Sun, in my solar 12th house (subconscious/dreams). At 11 degrees, this eclipsed new moon is sextile both my Venus (relationships/finances) and my Chiron, which add intensity to the cardinal grand cross already happening in my transit chart. Hmm...if only I could hide under a rock until things subside a bit. But, alas, no :)

How might this solar eclipse/new moon manifest in your world? Look to the natal house this new moon will occupy in your birth chart. Match the sign (Gemini) and degree (11 degrees) to the sign on the house cusp. Use the list below to identify the Gemini zodiac sign then click here to read about the New Moon in Houses.



Click image to see larger

For those without a birth chart, you may use your Sun sign or Rising/Ascendant sign, if you know it. Look for your Sun and Rising signs below then click here for an explanation of New Moon illuminating those houses.
  • Aries-Sun or Aries-Rising ~ 3rd House
  • Taurus-Sun or Taurus-Rising ~ 2nd House
  • Gemini-Sun or Gemini-Rising ~ 1st House
  • Cancer-Sun or Cancer-Rising ~ 12th House
  • Leo-Sun or Leo-Rising ~ 11th House
  • Virgo-Sun or Virgo-Rising ~ 10th House
  • Libra-Sun or Libra-Rising ~ 9th House
  • Scorpio-Sun or Scorpio-Rising ~ 8th House
  • Sagittarius-Sun or Sagittarius-Rising ~ 7th House
  • Capricorn-Sun or Capricorn-Rising ~ 6th House
  • Aquarius-Sun or Aquarius-Rising ~ 5th House
  • Pisces-Sun or Pisces-Rising ~ 4th House


Unsure if you have natal planets/house angles on or around 11 degrees of mutable signs? Cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference -- birth date, time, and place required.

For those doing the new moon wishes ritual, the moon will be new on June 1 at 2:03 p.m. PDT / 5:03 p.m. EDT and will be void of course on June 3 at 1:08 a.m. PDT / 4:08 a.m. EDT. Click here for Jan Spiller's DailyOm.com article, briefly explaining new moon wishes. (opens a new window)

For new readers of this blog, I am available for personal consultations. Are you celebrating a birthday soon? Or know someone who is? Schedule your session for a Solar Return (birthdays), 3-Chart Reading (detailed natal & overall outlook for the next 12 months) or an Eclipses reading.

Have a question or need a quote for a more customized reading tailored to your needs? Ask me at http://bit.ly/bookwithjan. You might also consider giving a loved one the gift of insight.

Related articles:


"The Colorful Moon" - Image credit and copyright to Galileo Project, JPL, NASA.

Sun in Gemini ~ May 21 to June 20, 2011



The Sun represents our external drive, our potential, our conscious will. In Taurus, where the Sun has been for past 4 weeks, he is somewhat cautious, practical, grounded, determined, dependable, and driven by material security. In Gemini, the Sun is social, gregarious, cerebral, intelligent, witty, and driven by intellectual and experiential pursuits. At best, the Sun in Gemini is easygoing, understanding, curious, funny, solutions-oriented. At worst, indecisive, non-committal, shallow, unfocused, duplicitous.

Gemini is the original multi-tasker of the zodiac. They can get at least twice the amount of action items done in less time than most people; and they can't quite sit still. Their minds are just as busy and are often thinking of something completely different from whatever actual conversations they are seemingly engrossed in. Geminis are without a doubt intelligent people, but to keep them interested in friendships and other interpersonal relations, mental stimulation is a MUST. Animated and engaged interactions required. Otherwise, it's easy to 'check out' and move on to the next interesting thing, person, topic, object, whatever :)

The Sun in Gemini reminds us that there is more than one way to do things or get to a destination. There are always other points of view to consider and some may be just as credible or feasible as the existing norm, other ideas in development, our personal opinions, etc. Knowledge can be gained from anywhere -- books, people, ideas; it's all around. Even the simplest of concepts can make an impact. A whisper can evoke a loud response. A chance meeting can evolve into a beautiful friendship. A heated debate can produce enough passion to effect a course of action that ultimately results in a change -- hopefully, for the better. Thoughts are valuable. Exchange of ideas are essential for growth, improvement and change, as well as pleasure.

This year, the Sun begins his transit in Gemini on May 21 at 2:21 a.m. PDT / 5:21 a.m. EDT, where he remains until June 20th. Mercury joins the Sun in Gemini on June 2, and Venus follows suit on June 9.

Related articles:



Gemini image by Johannes Hevelius, who drew the constellation in Uranographia, his celestial catalogue in 1690 via Wikimedia Commons.

Mercury in Taurus ~ May 15 to June 2, 2011

Bull. Original image source unknown.

About an hour after Venus begins her visit in Taurus, Mercury follows suit. He leaves fiery Aries for earthy Taurus.

Mercury governs all manners of thinking, communicating, transportation and commerce. In Aries, Mercury is quick-thinking, impulsive, creative, can be rash when making decisions and pushy to get their way. In Taurus, Mercury is practical, thorough, considerate, slower to decide, can be stubborn if change is necessary and lazy if things aren't progressing as they desire.

At best, Mercury in Taurus is reliable, determined, persistent, patient, purposeful with a clear, and exhaustive mind. At worst, unyielding, frustrated, unmotivated, possessive, and greedy.

While Mercury is in Taurus, we are encouraged to take our raw ideas and develop a plan to implement them, think beyond the now, and secure future goals. Make some commitments or do right by existing commitments. There is no reason to rush when Taurean energy is at the helm. What matters, however, is that each step taken is measured and decisions made are well thought out. In our interactions, Mercury in Taurus will require tangible proof -- some or all of the five senses will need to be satisfied before something can be declared fact or real.

Don't get too pushy while Mercury is in Taurus. Things need to marinate. There's a level of comfort required before Taurean energy can make concessions. Patience. Recognize the benefits of thinking things through and respect the process necessary to accomplish goals with determined actions.

On the day Mercury and Venus (relationships/finances) enter Taurus, both immediately form a harmonious, opportunistic alignment with Neptune (compassion/insight). This energy might be reminiscent of the previous week, when Mercury and Venus were inches from each other and both were also commingling with Jupiter (ideals/opportunities) in Aries.

Mercury enters Taurus on May 15 at 4:18 p.m. PDT / 7:18 p.m. EDT and will stay through June 2. While in Taurus, Mercury will align with the following celestial bodies (all dates reflect North America Pacific time zone; allow +/-2 days for life span of influence):

  • May 16 ~ Mercury conjunct Venus and both sextile Neptune. covered above
  • May 19 to 22 ~ Mercury conjunct Mars, both sextile Chiron and trine Pluto-rx, while Mercury also quincunx Saturn-rx. Let heart, mind and soul reflect our thoughts, words, actions within our relationships and in our interactions. Be aware of where our thoughts and actions are rooted from. We can heal the self, help others heal, or get stuck in reliving painful experiences/memories or be the cause of someone else's sorrow. Mental blockages or communication breakdown may be additional challenges due to Saturn's influence. Also on May 21st, Sun enters Gemini.


How might Mercury transit in Taurus manifest in your world? Look to the Taurus-ruled house/s in your birth chart. Match the sign with the house cusp/s on your birth chart. Use the list of zodiac sign below to identify the Taurus zodiac sign on your birth chart then click here for an explanation of Mercury transiting those solar and/or natal houses.



Click image to see larger


For those without a birth chart, you may use your Sun sign or Rising/Ascendant sign, if you know it. Look for your Sun and/or Rising Sign below then click here for an explanation of Mercury transiting those solar and/or natal houses.
  • Aries-Sun or Aries Rising ~ 2nd House
  • Taurus-Sun or Taurus Rising ~ 1st House
  • Gemini-Sun or Gemini-Rising ~ 12th House
  • Cancer-Sun or Cancer-Rising ~ 11th House
  • Leo-Sun or Leo-Rising ~ 10th House
  • Virgo-Sun or Virgo-Rising ~ 9th House
  • Libra-Sun or Libra-Rising ~ 8th House
  • Scorpio-Sun or Scorpio-Rising ~ 7th House
  • Sagittarius-Sun or Sagittarius-Rising ~ 6th House
  • Capricorn-Sun or Capricorn-Rising ~ 5th House
  • Aquarius-Sun or Aquarius-Rising ~ 4th House
  • Pisces-Sun or Pisces-Rising ~ 3rd House
Alternatively, you may cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference -- birth date, time, and place required.

Are you celebrating a birthday? Schedule a session for a Solar Return (birthdays) or 3-Chart Package Reading (detailed natal & overall outlook for the next 12 months). Or you might consider giving a loved one the gift of insight.

Have a question or need a quote for a more customized reading, ask me here.

What significance do planets, signs, and houses have in astrology? Planets have the function, the job to do. The style/manner they will use get that job done is defined by the zodiac sign they occupy. Where in our life the job gets done is determined by the house the planet occupies/transits. So, when Mars (aggression) is in Aries (bold), he is more assertive than when he is in Cancer (sensitive). When traveling through the 10th house (professional life), he may bring his confidence and motivation in matters relating to our career. While in the 11th house (friendships), we may be more inclined to having our social calendar packed with activities. Having the foresight for what may be coming up or receiving confirmation on what may be happening now are ways astrology can be beneficial ... as above, so below.

Related articles:

Bull. Original image source unknown.

Venus in Taurus ~ May 15 to June 9, 2011



Venus follows Mars' lead and leaves Aries. She is homebound to Taurus, where she joins the Sun and Mars [and where Mercury will soon be joining]. Venus represents love (how we love & how we want to be loved), relationships (how we relate to others & the self), worth (material and self), our values and personal tastes.

In Aries, Venus is instinctive, independent, confident, ardent, bold, and magnetic. In Taurus, Venus seeks stability and longevity in her relationships, is sensual, pleasure-seeking, comfort-loving, and driven by material security. Love is an investment. Relationships are grounding. A simple touch evokes depth of meaning. A mere look can unleash a host of intentions.

This year, while Venus is in Taurus, the Sun (conscious will), Mercury (thought/communication), and Mars (action/assertiveness) are also in Taurus. Great energy for Taurean-Suns/Risings or earth Suns/Risings. Fire and Air signs would benefit most if they are open to allow some of Taurus' slow but sure approach into their day to day. Moving too fast might be met with blockages, missteps, or miscalculations. Impulsiveness may prove too costly on one's wallet, reputation, or even lost/wasted time and energy.

On the day Venus enters Taurus, Mercury is right behind her and both quickly form a harmonious, opportunistic alignment with Neptune (compassion/insight). This energy might be reminiscent of the previous week, when Mercury and Venus were inches from each other and both were also commingling with Jupiter (ideals/opportunities) in Aries.

Venus enters Taurus on May 15 at 3:12 p.m. PDT / 6:12 p.m. EDT and will stay through June 9th. While in Taurus, Venus will align with the following celestial bodies (all dates reflect North America Pacific time zone; allow +/-2 days for life span of influence):

  • May 16 ~ Mercury conjunct Venus and both sextile Neptune. covered above
  • May 19 to 21 ~ Mercury, Venus and Mars sextile Chiron, while trine Pluto-rx. Let heart, mind and soul reflect our thoughts, words, actions within our relationships and in our interactions. Be aware of where our thoughts and actions are rooted from. We can heal the self, help others heal, or get stuck in reliving painful experiences/memories or be the cause of someone's sorrow. Also on May 21st, Sun enters Gemini.
  • May 23 ~ Venus conjunct Mars and quincunx Saturn-rx. Last time Venus and Mars met this way (blending energies in Taurus) was in 2009. The celestial energy surrounding them then is much different than now. There may be a bit more tension now or maybe more restrictions/limitations with Saturn looming in the scene. But the extra challenge can be used to produce something that is positive and encourages growth and harmony.


How might Venus' transit in Taurus manifest in your world? Look to the Taurus-ruled house/s in your birth chart. Match the sign with the house cusp/s on your birth chart. Use the list of zodiac sign below to identify the Taurus zodiac sign on your birth chart then click here for an explanation of Venus transiting those solar and/or natal houses.



Click image to see larger


For those without a birth chart, you may use your Sun sign or Rising/Ascendant sign, if you know it. Look for your Sun and/or Rising Sign below then click here for an explanation of Venus transiting those solar and/or natal houses.
  • Aries-Sun or Aries Rising ~ 2nd House
  • Taurus-Sun or Taurus Rising ~ 1st House
  • Gemini-Sun or Gemini-Rising ~ 12th House
  • Cancer-Sun or Cancer-Rising ~ 11th House
  • Leo-Sun or Leo-Rising ~ 10th House
  • Virgo-Sun or Virgo-Rising ~ 9th House
  • Libra-Sun or Libra-Rising ~ 8th House
  • Scorpio-Sun or Scorpio-Rising ~ 7th House
  • Sagittarius-Sun or Sagittarius-Rising ~ 6th House
  • Capricorn-Sun or Capricorn-Rising ~ 5th House
  • Aquarius-Sun or Aquarius-Rising ~ 4th House
  • Pisces-Sun or Pisces-Rising ~ 3rd House


Alternatively, you may cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference -- birth date, time, and place required.

Are you celebrating a birthday? Schedule a session for a Solar Return (birthdays) or 3-Chart Package Reading (detailed natal & overall outlook for the next 12 months). Or consider giving a loved one the gift of insight.

Have a question or need a quote for a more customized reading, ask me here.

What significance do planets, signs, and houses have in astrology? Planets have the function, the job to do. The style/manner they will use get that job done is defined by the zodiac sign they occupy. Where in our life the job gets done is determined by the house the planet occupies/transits. So, when Mars (aggression) is in Aries (bold), he is more assertive than when he is in Cancer (sensitive). When traveling through the 10th house (professional life), he may bring his confidence and motivation in matters relating to our career. While in the 11th house (friendships), we may be more inclined to having our social calendar packed with activities. Having the foresight for what may be coming up or receiving confirmation on what may be happening now are ways astrology can be beneficial ... as above, so below.

Related articles:

"The Flight of Europa" by Paul Manship. Original image source unknown.

Mars in Taurus ~ May 11 to June 20, 2011


Sunset as watched by Mars rover Opportunity, November 2010. Credit and copyright to NASA.


Mars leaves his home sign of Aries to transit the slower-moving, more sure-footed Taurus on May 11 at 12:03 a.m. PDT / 3:03 p.m. EDT, where he'll remain until June 20. Taurean energy pulls a fast and hard brake to Mars' "ready for action" energy. Mars represents our physical drives, aggression, passions, anger, self-assertion, confidence and the motivation behind our efforts.

In contrast to Aries, where Mars has been for several weeks and where ignition, motion and immediate action are the goal, Taurus is a sign that cares about what sticks around. Taurean energy needs to have a backup plan... sometimes, a backup to the backup :) So, although Mars in Taurus may take its sweet time to get moving along, steps are greatly measured and follow the well thought out plan as closely as the actual situation/s may be playing out.

The period that Mars transits Taurus could very well be a productive time for us, personally as well as in business/at work. What Mars in Aries may have begun, we now have the opportunity to develop so that our efforts to date could be something that have lasting effects. What may have been difficult to initiate during Mars in Aries because there might have been too many ideas or missteps or impulsive acts, could have a chance in becoming a reality with Mars in Taurus at the helm.

Taurean energy is reliable, steadfast, and stubborn enough to be determined in achieving its objectives. Sometimes, however, the stubbornness can be a hindrance in moving things forward, due to not giving others or their ideas an opportunity to truly be heard or considered. Allow Mars in Taurus to make what's already good and great to something that is built to last or something that gains a more profound meaning/importance within your personal world and/or beyond.

Do watch out for the temptation to be lazy, being too comfortable to attempt change, or becoming overwhelmed by the gravity of situation/s. There's movement in little steps. There's impact in small efforts. What matters more is what drives our actions and what motivates our decisions.

As soon as Mars enters Taurus, he quickly aligns with Neptune (compassion/insight) who is happily at home in Pisces. Allow Neptune in Pisces to tap into our deeper self and may our actions truly reflect the change we want to see in ourselves and in our world. Elsewhere in the sky on this same day, a triple conjunction in Aries between Mercury (thought/communication), Venus (relationships/finances), and Jupiter (ideals/opportunities) is also happening. A last push ... a final hurrah for Mercury and Venus before they leave Aries to transit Taurus beginning May 15th.

While in Taurus, Mars will align with the following celestial bodies (all dates reflect North America Pacific time zone; allow +/-2 days for life span of influence):
  • May 12 ~ Mars sextile Neptune. covered above
  • May 18 ~ Mars sextile Chiron. Sometimes, it's when we are brave enough to allow ourselves to truly feel our pain, our deeply-rooted wounds, without judgements that we are able to release what may have been holding us prisoner. This energy between Mars and Chiron encourages healing within the self, as well as helping others with healing their wounds, but not at the cost of our own growth or well being.
  • May 20 to 21 ~ Mercury, Venus and Mars trine Pluto-rx. Let heart, mind and soul reflect our thoughts, words, actions within our relationships and in our interactions. Be aware of where our thoughts and actions are rooted from. The urge to buy may also be great :) Also on May 21st, Sun enters Gemini.
  • May 23 ~ Venus conjunct Mars. Last time they met this way was in 2009. The celestial energy surrounding them then is much different than now. There may be a bit more tension now, but that tension can be used to produce something that is positive and encourages growth and harmony.
  • May 25 ~ Mars quincunx Saturn-rx. What we must do goes against what we'd like to do. But we are bound to the 'shoulds' and not so much 'coulds'. There is a time and place for our desires. But, alas, today may not be that day.


How might Mars' transit in Taurus manifest in your world? Look to the Taurus-ruled house/s in your birth chart. Match the sign with the house cusp/s on your birth chart. Use the list of zodiac sign below to identify the Taurus zodiac sign on your birth chart then click here for an explanation of Mars transiting those solar and/or natal houses.



Click image to see larger


For those without a birth chart, you may use your Sun sign or Rising/Ascendant sign, if you know it. Look for your Sun and/or Rising Sign below then click here for an explanation of Mars transiting those solar and/or natal houses.
  • Aries-Sun or Aries Rising ~ 2nd House
  • Taurus-Sun or Taurus Rising ~ 1st House
  • Gemini-Sun or Gemini-Rising ~ 12th House
  • Cancer-Sun or Cancer-Rising ~ 11th House
  • Leo-Sun or Leo-Rising ~ 10th House
  • Virgo-Sun or Virgo-Rising ~ 9th House
  • Libra-Sun or Libra-Rising ~ 8th House
  • Scorpio-Sun or Scorpio-Rising ~ 7th House
  • Sagittarius-Sun or Sagittarius-Rising ~ 6th House
  • Capricorn-Sun or Capricorn-Rising ~ 5th House
  • Aquarius-Sun or Aquarius-Rising ~ 4th House
  • Pisces-Sun or Pisces-Rising ~ 3rd House

Alternatively, you may cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference -- birth date, time, and place required.

Are you celebrating a birthday? Schedule a session for a Solar Return (birthdays) or 3-Chart Package Reading (detailed natal & overall outlook for the next 12 months). Or consider giving a loved one the gift of insight.

Have a question or need a quote for a more customized reading, ask me here.

What significance do planets, signs, and houses have in astrology? Planets have the function, the job to do. The style/manner they will use get that job done is defined by the zodiac sign they occupy. Where in our life the job gets done is determined by the house the planet occupies/transits. So, when Mars (aggression) is in Aries (bold), he is more assertive than when he is in Cancer (sensitive). When traveling through the 10th house (professional life), he may bring his confidence and motivation in matters relating to our career. While in the 11th house (friendships), we may be more inclined to having our social calendar packed with activities. Having the foresight for what may be coming up or receiving confirmation on what may be happening now are ways astrology can be beneficial ... as above, so below.

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Sunset Watched by Opportunity, November 2010. Credit and copyright to NASA.

 
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