Once again, the planet of opportunities, Jupiter, meet up with the planet of radical change, Uranus. This time, they may be more contemplative with a more universal, transcendent approach as they blend energies in the enlightened sign of Pisces. Their first meeting occurred a few months earlier on June 8 and in the bold, enterprising sign of Aries. Prior to their June 8 meeting, Jupiter and Uranus walked side by side, late May, while they were both in the last degrees of Pisces before each of their eventual initial entrance into Aries (Uranus on May 27 and Jupiter on June 6). Their closeness in May finally gets its completion on September 18, while both are retrograde; then, they will conjunct once more in Pisces next year on January 4, 2011.

As taken from previous posts:

• pick up where Virgo-Mercury's retrograde in my natal 12th house (subconscious) left off (August 20 to September 12)
• which reinforces how the Virgo-New Moon influences my chart during this New Moon phase (September 8 to 23)
• and works with transiting Pluto's existing and continuing opposition with my natal Sun (mimicked by Jupiter-Uranus conjunction opposing my Ascendant)
• all the while, ties in to the big celestial events of the past few months -- Capricorn-Lunar Eclipse, Cardinal T-square and Cardinal Cross -- that also touched my birth chart in a very personal way

Finally! Since last month while still in Pisces, Jupiter and Uranus have been side by side with only a few degrees away from each other. On June 8 at 7:27 a.m. EST, Jupiter and Uranus perfect their conjunction at Aries Point in the enterprising sign of Aries. It's a rare celestial event that will not be duplicated again in the near future. The influence of their conjunction (cohesion/alliance) have a long term impact on each of us personally as well as collectively, as a nation and globally.

On a personal level, intensity and depth of influence depend upon how their conjunction touches our individual birth charts. Early born cardinal signs, early-degree cardinal ascendants or those with natal planets in early degrees of cardinal signs, especially Aries on all counts, may experience this conjunction greater and be influenced longer than most. We all, however, can make use and benefit from what Jupiter and Uranus have to offer with their blending of energies in Aries.

This Jupiter-Uranus conjunction in Aries officially kicks off the major celestial events coming up between June and August, where their conjunction is joined by oppositions and squares forming Grand Crosses and T-squares aspect patterns (and some forming in cardinal energies) between other players like Saturn (structure/reality); Pluto (transformation/power); Lunar and Solar Eclipses in Capricorn and Cancer, respectively (endings & beginnings); and Mars (action/motivation). These successive big bursts of celestial energy shifting, moving, expanding, contracting may occur this year, but their impact continue for months/years to come.

As I've written on previous posts:

• Tarot Affirmations: Queen of Cups for Intuition, Insight & Answers by Starcana
• Jupiter Conjunct Chiron ~ December 7, 2009
• Sun in Capricorn ~ December 21, 2009 to January 19, 2010
• Jupiter-rx Conjunct Neptune-rx ~ July 10, 2009
• Jupiter-rx Conjunct Chiron-rx ~ July 22, 2009
• Triple Conjunction in Natal Houses
• Jupiter, Chiron, Neptune Conjunctions ~ May 2009
• Neptune Conjunct Chiron ~ February 16 & 17, 2010
  

• Jupiter Conjunct Neptune ~ December 21, 2009
• Neptune Conjunct Chiron ~ February 16 & 17, 2010

• Jupiter-rx Conjunct Neptune-rx ~ July 10, 2009
• Jupiter-rx Conjunct Chiron-rx ~ July 22, 2009
• Triple Conjunction in Natal Houses
• Jupiter, Chiron, Neptune Conjunctions ~ 2009 to 2010

So they meet again ... and this time might be a bit reminiscent of the last week of May when Jupiter (ideals/opportunities) and Chiron (wounds/healing) last shook hands and joined forces. At 8:00 a.m. Eastern on July 22, 2009, Jupiter and Chiron perfect their alignment again, but their influence remain strong for several more months.

We're once again urged to look within and ask ourselves, "What am I still holding on to and why do I hold on to them so tightly when they have proven to be hindrances?" Our wounds may not necessarily be physical; they can be spiritual, emotional, psychological, as well as physiological. Are we still clinging to beliefs or belief systems that are no longer our own or have never reflected who we truly are? Are we still longing for the physical bodies we had before we aged, before the accident, or before the illness? Are we stuck thinking we ought to be something that is expected of us or that we've identified ourselves as, even if that identity is no longer valid? Are our hearts broken? so broken, we've closed our selves off?

Some of us have made great strides in the past months; others have recently given these calls to action & for change more credence. Yet still, there remain those who (consciously or not) are deaf to the call, blind to the signs, and resistant to the changes necessary that foster personal growth. Perhaps, this time around, the ears perk up, the eyes move to a spot that gives a new point of view, the mind shifts perceptions; and openness to healing, despite the pain, will ensue.

Following last night's super charged solar eclipse, with its power still lingering in the air, the tension and frustration we felt, we might still be feeling ... but what matters -- is how we will react. Where do we go from here? In a few hours, the Sun will join the Moon and Mercury in courageous and strong-willed Leo, where the self must be expressed. Together with the energies of the Leo-Sun, the eclipse, and the many planets currently in retrograde, let's turn our focus inward, seek within, and heal what keeps us from being "whole."

This blending of energies between Jupiter and Chiron occurs at 25 degrees of Aquarius. Although we are all beneficiaries of the healing and inspired energy this conjunction offers, those with natal planets/house angles at 25 degrees of fixed signs (Leo, Aquarius, Taurus, Scorpio) or air signs (Aquarius, Libra, Gemini) may be influenced more strongly than others. Unsure if you have natal planets/house angles at 25 degrees? Cast your own birth chart if you don't already have one -- birth date, time, and place required. schedule a session or request a quote for a personalized reading.

• Jupiter-Chiron-Neptune Conjunctions ~ May 23-27, 2009
  
• Jupiter-rx Conjunct Neptune-rx ~ July 10, 2009

• Triple Conjunction Transiting Natal Houses
  
• Jupiter Retrograde in Aquarius ~ June 15 to October 13, 2009
• Neptune Retrograde in Aquarius ~ May 29 to November 4, 2009
• Chiron Retrograde in Aquarius ~ May 30 to October 31, 2009
• Solar Eclipse in Cancer ~ July 21/22, 2009
• Sun in Leo ~ July 22 to August 22, 2009
• Mercury in Leo ~ July 17 to August 2, 2009
  

Since their rendez-vous on April 21st when Mars swept Venus off her feet upward and through those dreamy Piscean clouds, Venus (love/relationships) has been busy chasing after Mars (sex/motivations). Their romantic interlude was brief but stirred interest for more. Venus' efforts are rewarded as she gets some face time with Mars on June 21, perfecting their blending of energies at 9:09 a.m. (Eastern) and giving the new week a bright beginning!

This time around, the couple meet in the comfort-seeking, sensual, and grounded sign of Taurus. Their kiss may not be as "romantic" as last April's but it promises "more" than just a dalliance, as both Venus and Mars form a harmonious link to Saturn (longevity) in Virgo (practical). Saturn's influence on the couple results in the meticulous (Virgo) laying out of their realities, limitations, and challenges, including the hard work involved with being in a healthy and successful relationship. Adding to his reach and influence is the Moon (heart) in Gemini's (cerebral) antagonistic link to Saturn, where our emotions (Moon) take a back seat to reason and logic (Virgo/Gemini).

Elsewhere in the sky, the Sun (conscious will), newly in Cancer (intuitive) and at Aries Point (greater strength), in conflict with Pluto (power/transformation) and the North Node (life path) adds even more depth and weight upon this Venus-Mars blending of energies.

New relationships may find the Taurean stability of this Venus-Mars meeting comforting and encouraging. Existing relationships that may have been troubled the past few weeks/months may now find a more grounded redefinition and/or cohesive foundation to their coupling. Others may come to the conclusion that the challenges are just too great and a breakup may be the better choice. Couples who have been and remain solid may find this energy validation of their relationships' strength and lasting power.

On a deeper level, as our relationships of all types take center stage (intimate, platonic, familial, with the self, etc.), we are asked to determine or be reminded of who/what may take importance in our lives, becoming the motivation behind our actions. Are these people, things, or goals worthy of our time and energy? Are we driven (Mars) by love or lust (Venus), fear or power (Pluto), obligations or pride (Saturn), volition or purpose (Sun/North Node), greed or materialism (Taurus)? While we remain under the umbrella of the Jupiter-Chiron-Neptune triple conjunction and while all three are in retrograde motion, we are encouraged to seek within and right wrongs, even at the cost of complete ruin so that we may begin to correct/heal as we continue each of our journey to personal growth.

For me personally, my natal Saturn feels the weight of this Venus-Mars conjunction and their alignment to transiting Saturn. All three transiting planets now grow closer to blending energies (Venus & Mars) and declaring war (transiting Saturn) with my natal Saturn. That's more than enough Saturn action for me! My realities, obligations, limitations, and obstacles are clearly defined and laid out for me. Some are self-imposed, while others are unavoidable and thrust upon me, but all are necessary to move me forward. Many figurative valleys and mountains to climb as this Venus-Mars conjunction fall in my natal 8th house of shared resources, debt, endings, and transformation. I'm up for the challenges before me; it's a part of my journey, and I accept it.

Who might be most influenced by this Venus-Mars hookup? Those with Venus-ruled Sun, Moon, Venus, and Mars; Venus-ruled 1st, 5th, or 7th houses; or have house angles and/or personal planets at 15 degrees of Taurus, Libra, Aquarius, Leo, and Scorpio; and especially, those born May 5-7 and October 8-10.

Unsure of what natal house/s this Venus-Mars meeting will fall in? Cast your own birth chart for use as reference -- birth date, time, and place required. Or request a quote for a paid personalized reading. (both links open a new window)

Related articles:

• Mars-Venus Conjunction in Pisces ~ April 21, 2009
• Mars in Taurus ~ May 31 to July 11, 2009
• Venus in Taurus ~ June 6 to July 5, 2009
• Sun in Cancer ~ June 21 to July 23, 2009
• Saturn Direct (in Virgo) ~ May 16, 2009
• Jupiter, Chiron, Neptune Conjunctions ~ Long-term influence
• Neptune Retrograde ~ May 31 to November 4, 2009
• Chiron Retrograde ~ May 30 to October 31, 2009
• Jupiter Retrograde ~ June 15 to October 13, 2009

Request a reading (opens a new window).

Image of Sandro Boticelli's Venus and Mars, 1843, courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Mars finally caught up to Venus! A smooch is the perfect reward after a 6-week long Venus retrograde period. In the loving and dreamy sign of Pisces, this kiss cannot be any more romantic! Adding to their sweet meeting in sky is the blending of energies between the Moon and Uranus; both are also in the gentle, insightful sign of Pisces.

These two celestial hookups tug at our idealism and optimism. We each carry varying degrees of hopefulness. Those who are naturally idealistic may easily enjoy and welcome the good feelings evoked. Others who are normally less optimistic may feel the need to question all this seemingly wholesome goodness, but will be unable to resist it :)

There is one caveat, however. Careful that we don't give in to escapism, with the intent of avoiding our realities. While Venus was in retrograde motion, many of us may have reflected on our current attachments, reviewed our value system, reconnected with old friends, rekindled past loves, remembered relationships lost, or stumbled upon secrets that have now been revealed. Some relationships may have gone on a "cooling" period, while others may have ended relationships altogether. Our new realities, which emerged during this retrograde period, might leave little to be desired. A glimmer of hope for what once was may be tempting to pursue. Just remember what was learned, uncovered, or evidenced during the the past weeks. Be reminded of what the decisions made were rooted in.

Perhaps the "cooling" period resulted in strengthening bonds; this romantic meetup may indeed be a new beginning of sorts for that relationship. Alternatively, the "break" may have been a much needed change; therefore, to return or yearn for what was lost is unhealthy and does not promote growth. Regardless of what the case may be, allow the Sun's growing harmonious alignment with Pluto to help us dig deep into the heart of the matter.

Apart from what may be going on with each of us, be encouraged. The sky smiles upon us by giving us hope through this kiss between Venus (how we love & how we want to be loved) and Mars (what drives/motivates us). As above, so below...

Who might be most influenced by this Venus-Mars linkup and the recent Venus retrograde? Those with Venus-ruled Sun, Moon, Venus, and Mars; Venus-ruled 1st, 5th, or 7th houses; or have house angles and/or planets within 0-15 degrees of Aries or 29 degrees of Pisces.

A related article on Venus Retrograde Period (March 6 to April 17, 2009) may be found by clicking here.

Above illustration of Mars, Venus, and Amor by Titian courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

In the days approaching Tax Day (April 15) here in the U.S., the meeting in the sky between Mars and Uranus grew closer and became stronger. Both are in the watery sign of Pisces. With the exception of Scorpio (the sign Mars jointly rules with Pluto), Mars is naturally uncomfortable in water signs. He represents action, drive, directness. In a water sign, he feels subdued; his aggression is internalized and becomes passive, non-confrontational. All that energy, just brewing beneath the surface, is now co-mingling with Uranus. Uranus is radical, abrupt, rebellious; he likes to stir things up, break away.

What may have been unsatisfactory for quite some time, might now suddenly require immediate attention. This cohesion of Mars-Uranus energies produces dramatic stirring/awakening, creating a tsunami within the usually calm Piscean waters. Now, a spotlight shines upon what has been neglected and needs doing, needs action, needs changing. What may have been ignored is now a priority! A bit fitting for Tax Day; most wait until the last minute to get it done. It's an unpleasant task for many.

Personally, this meeting occurs in my natal 6th house of health. Late last week, I decided to do a 7-day cleanse. This is drastic for me, who eats whatever and whenever, without any real regard to health consequences. I have been aware that as I age, my physical body and its organs age with me. However, it's been difficult (or maybe I've been unwilling) to give the appropriate attention to making lifestyle changes and developing healthier habits. This cleanse may not reset my body to its optimal state, but it does provide a good start to a healthier way of living. I've already begun plans on substituting what I snack on throughout the day. Replacing other unhealthy habits with healthier ones, I expect will soon follow. Now, if I can just get enough sleep every night... *sigh* ... someday :)

Today's Mars-Uranus meeting is joined by a blending of energies between the Moon and Pluto. Underlying things now surface and confront us with its truth. Mercury forms a harmonious link with Saturn, giving us mental stability and focus needed to follow through. The Sun in Aries is bold, assertive, and confident that we will get whatever needs doing, done. A harmonious alignment between the Sun and Neptune offers up a little bit of faith that there are forces working behind the scenes on our behalf.