Inner Shifts: Lunar Eclipse in Taurus 2021

Neil McIntosh from Cambridge, United Kingdom, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon/Partial Lunar Eclipse @ 27 degrees Taurus 14'

November 19, 2021

12:58 AM PST

3:58 AM EST

November's Full Moon in tropical Taurus is a partial lunar eclipse. It will be visible from all of North and South America, Oceania, and most of the Asian continent. The penumbral phase will be visible from portions of Europe and Africa. And since eclipses always occur in pairs, we are now in the thick of eclipse season, with a total solar eclipse to follow on December 4 (visible over Antarctica).

Eclipse seasons tend to correlate with accelerated changes, pushing all of those things pending into motion or in new directions. Occurring along the axis of fixed signs, anticipate changes to things with more consistency and stability, which may explain why they appear more dramatic.

Lunar eclipses are also potentized Full Moons. So anticipate more notable culminations, breakthroughs, resolutions, or crises. And while the pace of outer events can seem more intense than usual, it's always a good idea to reflect more on what's happening internally and not neglect the inner changes (via the emotional, psychic, and perceptual landscapes).

Occurring in Taurus, a fixed earth sign, this eclipse relates to more pronounced shifts and culminations involving physical dimensions of earthly experience. Think bodily sensations, money, food, sex, and the natural world. Further, Venus' trine to Uranus adds spontaneous or surprise minglings or unforeseen changes in attraction or desire.

Jupiter's square to the Full Moon/eclipse axis is the second most notable aspect. It inflames situations for sure or adds an element of overconfidence. Yet, it also represents the emergence of opportunities, where some risks pay off or leaps of faith bear some fruit. Lastly, Pluto's trine to the Full Moon/eclipse might deepen the intensity, but it also opens pathways for insight, introspection, and a more gentle emergence of uncomfortable truths.

Changes occurring alongside this eclipse can feel heavy but also potentially liberating. While the eclipse itself receives supportive aspects, it occurs in the zone of the Mars/Uranus/Saturn t-square. And in the next two weeks, in the waning phase of eclipse season, consider all that you need to let go of to make space for the new horizon coming into view. That will better prepare you for the solar eclipse on December 4, when a more expanded vision or outlook will begin to emerge.

Freeing the Shadows: New Moon in Scorpio 2021

temporalata, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

New Moon @ 12 degrees Scorpio 40'

November 4, 2021

2:15 PM PDT

5:15 PM EDT

November's New Moon in tropical Scorpio represents our collective ingress into the final eclipse season of 2021, kicking off with the partial lunar eclipse on Nov. 19, followed by a total solar eclipse on Dec. 4. Yes, the remaining astrology of 2021 reflects some turbulence, yet also necessary movement and action, especially where there's been stubborn resistance to change.

The New Moon in fixed, water sign Scorpio touches upon the deeper layers of life experience, including emotional, psychic, and psychological undercurrents. It also represents a fresh start relating to situations that have evaded complete understanding, clarity, or acknowledgment. The Scorpio archetype relates to the places where the light of conscious awareness does not fully illuminate, and it stirs fascination with the dark, obscure, taboo, and ignored.

Uranus' very close opposition to this New Moon adds an extra element. As the liberator and revolutionary of the planetary pantheon, Uranus suggests that change is coming alongside this New Moon, and it is likely to be rapid, sudden, or unanticipated. Yet, whatever emerges alongside it, opens a path to a novel direction where greater freedom and autonomy can be acquired or awakened.

Opposing the Scorpio New Moon, Uranus seeks to free us from the grip of that which we've refused to see or that which we literally could not see for whatever reasons. In doing so, this lunation releases the power that ignorance can often have over us. That's because awareness is empowering; it allows us to finally notice potential dangers or problems so they can be appropriately managed and understood.

Saturn's square completes the t-square structure that is central to this lunation and the month of November. Its highest expression represents the wisdom needed to know the appropriate limits of progress, allowing us to create steady, moderated change. Negatively, it can relate to an overbearing hubris or breach of authority as it clashes with radical defiance.

Obstructions can be frustrating until we realize they're often placed for a reason to define what's possible and appropriate for the soul more clearly. Yet, with Mars (the New Moon ruler) now in Scorpio, passion, desire, intensity, and willpower will increase. Directed with intention, we can move creatively and wisely around imposed limitations to accelerate progress and better align ourselves with where we need to go.

Creating Waves: Full Moon in Aries 2021

Via Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon @ 27 degrees Aries 26'

October 20, 2021

7:58 AM PDT

10:58 AM EDT

This month's Full Moon in tropical Aries is undeniably catalytic and fueled with tension, tapping into the Eris/Pluto square via the Full Moon's Eris conjunction. As a recent discovery (as of 2003), Eris hasn't come into complete focus. Still, she seems to carry a powerful theme relating to extreme divisiveness (on a collective level) in addition to a trickster-like nature. After all, she was named after a trickster, chaos goddess whose discovery demoted Pluto and forever altered the solar system (though still hotly debated).

As a turning point, culmination, completion, or eruption, the Full Moon completes a t-square with the Sun and Mars in Libra. All of this suggests a lunation with assertive or explosive power that is, in some ways, held back or contained via Mars' proximity to the Sun and detriment in Libra. It relates to the ability to acknowledge and bring to consciousness volatile or "primal" urges, feelings, or desires and integrate them civilly, tactfully, and pro-socially.

Pluto's square inevitably involves Saturn, since both planets are nearing their final closest proximity (via conjunction) for this Saturn/Pluto cycle. Still, this doesn't suggest a total lack of heat, intensity, or passion. As such energies emerge under this lunation, they are more readily directed, shaped, or artistically implemented. On a collective level, that brings to the surface issues about overt authoritarianism and the glaringly obvious ways a myriad of social, economic, and political power structures have overstepped their appropriate limits of dominance.

On a more personal level, this lunation invites a shift in our ability to implement a new order in our lives or assert our right to claim some space in the world. In times like these, it's easy to feel disempowered, beleaguered by intrusive agents, or otherwise hopeless in what you can do to make a change. This lunation reminds us that a warrior, chaos goddess, and creative catalyst exists within us all, capable of igniting great ripples and waves if only we are brave enough to confront the shadow and liberate those parts of ourselves.

Renewed Relations: New Moon in Libra 2021

Photo by Chad Woodward, Maui, June 2021.

New Moon @ 13 degrees Libra 24'

October 6, 2021

4:05 AM PDT

7:05 AM EDT

As the Sun and Moon conjoin in tropical Libra this month, they're joined by Mercury retrograde and Mars, forming a cluster of planets in the sign of peace, homeostasis, and relational equanimity. Those, of course, are Libra's positive aspirations, and we can equally anticipate a suppression of honesty for the sake of peacekeeping or losing agency to the needs or demands of others. Also, an inconjunct with Uranus and opposition from Chiron further complicate this lunation.

Classically, a New Moon in Libra is a reset and new start in various relational situations, an opportunity to implement fresh strategies for destressing and cultivating beauty. With a heavy emphasis in this sign under this lunation, and for the next few weeks, the complexity of social interaction is likely to take precedence, and how we achieve homeostasis in our relationships is also expected to change notably.

Mercury's retrograde cycle through this sign requires listening more and perceiving less logically and more heart-centered, opening us to new ideas, perceptions, and dimensions of experience. Alterations to the way we relate, who we relate to, or the pace of interactions are likely as well. Open yourself to new or renewed relational encounters, all of which can provide information and insights under this lunation and the next several weeks.

Mars' conjunction with this New Moon represents the start of a longer range cycle in how we assert/attain our desires, make things happen, or confront fears and challenges. Consider how your passions, sexual relationships, relational goals, and interpersonal battles are being reset or refocused. Also, what might feel like a loss of stamina is really a vital recharging of the inner warrior.

Much of what emerges alongside or around this New Moon conceals an intensity that may not blossom or erupt for a few weeks beyond it. What might seem like a civil and or peaceful interaction/exchange may have more brewing beneath the surface--wildness, passion, or aggression. With Uranus quincunx this New Moon, a disruptive disequilibrium enforces itself, likely inciting unwelcome, unexpected detours and radical departures that have to be contended with.

Lastly, Chiron's opposition to this New Moon points to certain flaws, defects, traumas, or wounds that prevent us from healthy, sustainable relational experiences. Yet, under this lunation are opportunities for healing, for creating new boundaries, asserting needs, opening our hearts to hear what others have to say, or letting down barriers to more loving experiences. The emergence of those wounds is helping to bring consciousness and eventually rapid resolution through critical perceptual changes.

Embracing the Wholeness: Full Moon in Pisces 2021

Photo by Michal Klajban, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon @ 28 Pisces 15'

September 20, 2021

4:55 PM PDT

7:55 PM EDT

This month's Full Moon in tropical Pisces invites us to momentarily step back from the busyness and worry of both the everyday and larger, collective issues. Trying to sort out details or to organize a strategy carefully may lead to more uncertainty, confusion, or frustration than already exists. Instead, diverge slightly from purely rational and pragmatic approaches to gain inspiration or creative input.

A Pisces Full Moon can correlate with a turning point, breakthrough, culmination, or insight relating more to intangible aspects of reality. It can also direct our attention from excessive self-focus to the greater whole--humanity, the planet, or the universe. Neptune's wide conjunction with the Moon can magnify intuitive perception, escapist longing, and overly fantasized perceptions.

One cannot speak of a Neptunian moment without mentioning the tendency to lose clarity, and deception and glamorized appearances dominate. However, Neptune can also indicate the need for humility and surrender, where approaching situations with less certainty and more receptiveness works better. In regards to poignant world events, utilize healthy skepticism and await more details.

This New Moon also strikes an opposition with Mars in Libra, where desired endpoints can suddenly evaporate, or a specific objective becomes more complex and nuanced than previously anticipated. Step back and refocus to avoid getting consumed in frustration. If pushing ahead or trying to force an issue/project keeps hitting resistance, seek a new vision for proceeding differently.

Keep in mind that Mercury is nearing its retrograde station on September 26/27. As we come down from this Full Moon, momentum will slow, and changes in agreements, opinions, and perception will follow. Take more time before taking a position, coming to conclusions, and especially thinking you have the complete picture in view. The image is likely to change over the next few weeks, and with it, a profound adjustment to how we relate to the other.

Optimal Flow: New Moon in Virgo 2021

Photo by Chad Woodward, June 2021.

New Moon @ 14 degrees Virgo 38'

September 6, 2021

5:52 PM PDT

8:52 PM EDT

This month's New Moon in tropical Virgo correlates with a reset and new start that can help us rapidly increase improvements to various facets of our lives. Virgo, an earth sign ruled by Mercury, highlights ideals about how things should optimally function. Anticipate a sudden kickstart that can recharge a commitment to getting better or becoming more efficient at particular tasks, routines, or practices.

The first challenge of this New Moon lies in its wide conjunction and co-presence with Mars. Aggravation with details or minor occurrences can get in the way of the more productive aspects of this New Moon. Yet, Mars equally excels at inciting motivation, even if that manifests as some uncomfortable situation or realization.

Mercury, the New Moon ruler, also opposes Chiron, accentuating fault finding or a myopic fixation with personal defects. Dissatisfaction can motivate action and catalyze movement toward a more optimal way forward. Additionally, greater awareness of what needs attention can help open healing dialogues and pathways toward resolution.

Uranus's close trine to this New Moon dominates the aspectual picture. It offers to liberate all of those mundane aspects of daily existence in the form of an unusual path, approach, tactic, or technique. That might look like making some simple adjustment to a routine, but its impact can feel almost revolutionary. Follow gut impulses toward changing something up and stick with it; the freedom it brings will be worth it.

A Different Turn: Full Moon in Aquarius 2021

Jacqui Barker, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon @ 29 Aquarius 37'

August 21, 2021

5:02 AM PDT

8:02 AM EDT

August's Full Moon is the second to occur in tropical Aquarius in 2021. And straddling the final degree of Aquarius (known as the anaretic degree), there is likely an explosive quality to this lunation, one that feels like an inevitable or fated culmination and conclusion that can pervade both personal and collective dimensions.

Like the Aquarian Full Moon in late July, the polarity of personal versus collective desires is central here. Is what's best for the collective always best for every individual? Is what's best for the individual sometimes hindering collective agendas?

There is a breaking point being reached here in this current conversation that will continue as Jupiter and Saturn transit through Aquarius, and even further and more seriously as Pluto enters Aquarius beginning in 2023. We will face the apparent consequences to the extreme points of view come 2023 and beyond.

However, Jupiter's conjunction to this lunation adds an expansive, optimistic, and opportunistic dimension, bringing to fruition rewards, open doors, and a peak to inflammatory situations. Jupiter augments collaborative endeavors as well as genius, lone-wolf strategies. What emerges alongside this Full Moon can empower us further toward both freedom and interconnectedness.

A Full Moon in Aquarius conjunct Jupiter can also emphasize taking bold and unusual actions. Be mindful of how far you expand or how radical the position you take over the next few days. However, connecting in with this lunation deeply can give us access to greater authenticity and truth. Listen to your calling and choose the open doors that feel right for you.

Creative Detours: New Moon in Leo 2021

Photo by Chad Woodward, June 2021.

New Moon @ 16 degrees Leo 14'

August 8, 2021

6:51 AM PDT

9:51 AM EDT

As the lunar cycle resets, the Sun and Moon conjoin in tropical Leo. As it is with every New Moon, something is brewing beneath the surface of our lives, and new paths are taking root. With Leo, we are invited to cultivate joy and tap into new ways of putting our creativity, talent, or personality out into the world.

The playfulness of Leo adds a lightness to this New Moon that can be healing and enlivening within the context of the challenging background astrology that's been underway. Jupiter's backtrack into Aquarius pulls much of the expansiveness of the last several months out of focus forcing us into more reality-checking rather than fantasy indulgence.

Yet, this New Moon in Leo adds an element of instability and unanticipated changes of focus. Uranus' square and Saturn's wide opposition invite contrasting desires for spontaneous change and preservation of the status quo, desiring to break free into new directions and yet feeling restrained by past commitments, responsibilities, or limitations.

In exploring creative and self-expressive paths opening up now, consider the importance of maintaining a balance between both spectrums. Drawing upon past wisdom and mastery can better inform and support any radical breaks or wild changes that might present themselves. Avoid drama and extravagant displays for carefully considered creative detours.

Greater Heights: Full Moon in Aquarius 2021

NASA Earth Observatory, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon @ 01 Aquarius 26'

July 23, 2021

7:38 PM PDT

10:38 PM EDT

Just as the Sun moves into tropical Leo, its home sign and place of maximum dignity, the Full Moon culminates in Aquarius, passing between Saturn and Pluto. While this lunation can bring about some heavy, sobering realizations and issues, don't let the energy of this Full Moon distract you from the creative and relational opportunities occurring alongside it.

While Saturn is now in Aquarius, its conjunction with Pluto will be in orb until the end of this year. The Sun in Leo will last longer than this lunation, so the next few days can quickly pull us into a more objective frame of mind to gather perspective and assess critical matters. The closing of 2021 correlates with the gradual dissipation of the Saturn/Pluto slog we've been potently transversing since 2019, but especially since its peak in early 2020.

The Full Moon here is likely to pull on many of those Saturn/Pluto themes--the emergence of hard truths and heavy-hitting realities. Yet also, in places where we've been working to gain greater freedom/independence, potential breakthroughs or culminations are possible. Look also for building confidence in being authentic or in expressing a unique point of view.

The Aquarian archetype emphasizes individuality, freedom, and collaboration. The tension inherent in this Full Moon likely lies in balancing personal desires with others, especially against larger collective or communal objectives. With Venus' opposition to Jupiter alongside this lunation, look for opportunities to reach beyond differences as well as expansions in various relational dialogues.

Society can benefit from both cooperation/collaboration and individuals taking a stand for what they believe or understand. Sometimes overt self-interest can be detrimental to society, and also overt conformity can turn maladaptive and stifle progress. And always, there is nuance in between the extremes and places where compromise can be found. In times like these, pay closer attention to those grey areas and work to understand more than one point of view.

Opening to Love: New Moon in Cancer 2021

Sunset behind Molokai; photo by Chad Woodward, June 2021.

New Moon @ 18 degrees Cancer 01’

June 9, 2021

3:17 PM PDT

6:17 PM EDT

As the Moon resets this month, it aligns with the Sun in tropical Cancer. As a sign that emphasizes intimacy, inwardness, and emotional perception, this New Moon helps us recharge and cultivate our inward lives. The Moon, in its home sign, can significantly magnify domestic interests, issues, and themes relating to safety, protection, and intuitive awareness.

Uranus' sextile to the New Moon stimulates radical breaks and diversions from the usual flow. That might show up as a desire to change up routines, innovate self-care, or as inspiration to shift things on the homefront. Combined with Pluto's opposition, Chiron's square, and the cardinal energy of Cancer, there is both momentum and friction for initiating significant life shifts with this lunation.

Pluto's opposition and Chiron's square to the New Moon present both challenges and opportunities in confronting fears, defects, and wounds relating to various Cancerian themes--belonging, giving/receiving love, safety, and emotional honesty. Anticipate a new beginning in relating and connecting on more profound levels alongside this lunation.

Additionally, look for both culminations and starting points in various relationships around this New Moon and beyond. Venus and Mars' conjunction (exact on July 13) will correlate with the desire to assert new needs and boundaries, allow space for novel connections, and significant shifts in creative and sexual activities.

Together, these New Moon archetypes are opening up venues for intense, intimate encounters, inward growth, and exciting foundational changes. Under such energies, we might deeply question where and with whom we truly belong. Consider also the seeds now being planted to help confirm or discover the answers to these questions and how we can open ourselves further to love, connection, and healing.

The High Road: Supermoon/Full Moon in Capricorn 2021

VinceTraveller, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon @ 3 degrees Capricorn 27'

June 24, 2021

8:40 AM PDT

11:40 AM EDT

After a month of 2021's first eclipse season, a renewed vision, perception, or understanding has likely taken shape, and this Full Moon in tropical Capricorn can help us to solidify all that we've been reworking and adjusting the past several weeks. With Mercury's direct station, there can still be lingering annoyances, technical glitches, and delays of various kinds. However, much of this will begin to fade over the following week.

A Supermoon/Full Moon in Capricorn can bring about a culmination to something we've been working hard on, planning, or preparing for. It can also bring to our attention anything that needs improvement or where we need to be more accountable. Capricorn can also find itself fixated on end-goals and current ambitions. Be mindful not to lose sight of the Cancerian end of this Full Moon, and remember to tend to the emotional, psychic, and inward dimensions also taking precedence.

The Sun in Cancer can help clarify, deepen, and connect to the emotional terrain. The Sun's trine to Jupiter enlargens our ability to feel and intuitively perceive. It might also correlate with expanding our reach in the world and opportunities for more authentic expressiveness.

Yet, such increased sensitivity can also feel beleaguered by a sometimes harsh and uncaring world. Chiron's wide square to the Full Moon axis can amplify vulnerabilities, preventing us from feeling safe enough to take risks or challenge our routines. A key to resolving hesitations might be in setting firm boundaries, asserting ourselves, and realizing we each deserve to take up space in the world. Recognizing the power we inherently have in being embodied and alive can go a long way in protecting us from intrusive, external forces.

Much can quickly be transmuted under this Full Moon in Capricorn, especially if we realize that perhaps a lot of what we fear is magnified by an emotional response. Of course, honoring your fears and perceptions is essential, but equally acknowledging your strength can have a shielding effect, boosting confidence in dealing with the challenges of surviving in a complex world. Try your best to rise above any emerging negativity and take on obstacles head-on. There is more support than you might think.

Divergent Paths: New Moon/Solar Eclipse in Gemini 2021

Horseshoe Bend; photo by Chad Woodward, September 2018.

New Moon/Annular Solar Eclipse @ 19 degrees Gemini 47’

June 10, 2021

12:53 AM PDT

3:53 AM EDT

This month's New Moon is also an annular solar eclipse in tropical Gemini. Additionally, it conjoins Mercury retrograde one day prior to Mercury's exact inferior conjunction with the Sun. In typical Gemini style, there can be a high influx of information/communication overload that can feel overwhelming. So, pace yourself and take your time in making sense of new ideas, perceptions, and data.

Gemini can also have an inherently scattered and meandering quality. Trying to focus on a single task, conversation, or project might be difficult, but there is sometimes an advantage to briefly sampling options instead of myopically fixating on a single one. Detours can often reveal new directions and insights you might have otherwise overlooked.

While New Moon's are beginning points, and north nodal eclipses direct us to the future, Mercury's retrograde conjunction pulls us to the past. Together, this solar eclipse/New Moon can correlate with renewing or rekindling the past or forging a new relationship with things that have been developing.

This New Moon's challenge is Neptune's square from tropical Pisces. Obtaining clear answers or a fully coherent viewpoint may not be entirely possible at the moment. Take time in gathering more information and careful in discerning the truth from obfuscations. However, Neptune's square can also stimulate the desire to push the limits of perception and deeply question reality.

Considering the nature of eclipses, and the Gemini/Mercury archetypes, there can be many new perspectives surfacing alongside this New Moon, all of which can alter what we believe and understand. And an accelerated pace of events and circumstances can make this lunation stimulating but also potentially aggravating. Step forward with caution and patience in the week or so beyond this eclipse.

The Simple Path: New Moon in Taurus 2021

Photo by Chad Woodward, August 2020.

New Moon @ 21 degrees Taurus 18'

12:00 PM PDT

3:00 PM EDT

This month's New Moon in tropical Taurus restarts the lunar cycle and acts as a symbolic transition point for the first eclipse season and second Mercury retrograde cycle of 2021. Keeping things slow and simple is good advice before the potentially more erratic archetypal field we're heading into.

The Taurus archetype connects us to the inner animal, the earth, and eternal stillness. Consider simple ways to cultivate joy, relaxation, self-care, or pleasure. Also, consider that whatever is emerging now might require careful thought, consideration, and patience to enact or come to decisiveness.

Mercury will turn retrograde at the end of the month, and beyond this New Moon will be two eclipses (total lunar eclipse May 26 and annular solar eclipse June 10). Dramatic shifts in attitude, plans, or perception are likely over the next month, so move ahead carefully, mindfully, and gradually.

The New Moon vibes naturally draw us inward and internal, and Taurus emphasizes the moment and maintaining a simple focus. Yet, Venus, the New Moon ruler, is now in Gemini along with Mercury. There could be some tension between the body and mind, the intention to expand outward conflicting with a more sluggish response on the material plane.

The Gemini archetype will eventually come to predominate, so take this time to rest up and recharge before the acceleration of eclipse season and detours of Mercury retrograde take hold. With the New Moon square the Jupiter/Saturn midpoint, this can be an excellent time to take the initiative in carefully plotting ahead and assessing benefits versus risks of various situations.

Neptune's sextile to the New Moon stimulates creativity, inspiration, and interest in the numinous/mystical. With Neptune exciting this Taurus lunation, we might note a greater desire to engage in the moment through contemplation, meditation, or a deeper connection to whatever we're engaged with.

Lastly, as you step ahead of this New Moon, look for ways to simplify all that you're presently taking on. That's what Taurus does best, and in this potent Taurus moment, we can unburden ourselves slightly by finding an easier path to follow. The following weeks will give us a lot more time to reconsider, unpack, and meander. Take your time for now.

Mindful Emergence: Supermoon in Scorpio 2021

Ken Bosma, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon @ 07 degrees Scorpio 06'

April 26, 2021

8:32 PM PDT

11:32 EDT

This month's Full Moon in tropical Scorpio is also the first Supermoon of 2021. The Moon will appear notably larger than usual, especially when rising or setting near objects on the horizon. Expect also a potential augmentation of the psychic/emotional landscape.

Scorpio, too, is a water sign. A trine between the Full Moon and Mars in Cancer also amplifies the watery archetype, increasing sensitivity and awareness of perceptions that lie beneath our logical/rational faculties. At least for a few days, feelings will pervade.

As this Full Moon peaks, it correlates with a culmination, breakthrough, or crisis involving the Scorpionic dimension: experiences of deep intimacy, vulnerability, and authenticity as well as sexual, emotional, and psychic intensity. Anything subjugated, repressed, or hidden can also suddenly emerge during a Scorpio Full Moon.

To add to the complexity inherent to the Scorpio archetype is a t-square involving an opposition from Uranus and a square from Saturn. Uranus adds the "unexpected" and a desire to break with past restrictions while Saturn pushes for growth and conservatism.

There are several conflicts within this Full Moon between complexity/simplicity and revolution/preservation. The challenge lies in strengthening our position while also mindfully moving through paradoxical feelings and emotions.

While Saturn can help pull back excessive or unfocused rebelliousness, it can also direct radical impulses toward constructive pursuits and endeavors. And as the Sun aligns with Uranus over the next few days, expect the desire for change and liberation to become increasingly louder.

With this lunation, listen and speak from the heart and step deeper into the emotional dimension to feel your way through to a new way of life. A lot can shift alongside this lunation, no matter how subtle, so remain open and surrender to the changes emerging now. While frustrations can quickly arise, they will likely dissipate over the next week as we move to a slighter, calmer vibe.

First Steps: New Moon in Aries 2021

Photo by Chad Woodward, August 2020.

New Moon @ 22 degrees Aries 25'
April 11, 2021
7:31 PM PDT
10:31 PM EDT

This month's New Moon in tropical Aries occurs during a brief reprieve from significant retrograde activity. With Aries as a cardinal fire sign, there is lots of focused momentum to help with various new starts and fresh beginnings. Pluto's square and Eris' conjunction to this New Moon present some tension and challenge that both motivate and inhibit action.

Eris, a recently discovered dwarf planet (as of 2003), is not fully understood in its astrological significance. However, named after the Greek goddess of chaos and discord, she appears to have a volatile, trickster quality that might disrupt and alter the status quo.

And considering the New Moon's conjunction with Venus, this can be an exciting restart in various relational and creative situations that might disruptively shake some foundations and lead to new directions.

Pluto's square to Eris, Venus, and the New Moon can bring to the surface some uncomfortable truths, insights, or realizations in various relationships. Additionally, watch for power struggles, over-heated confrontations, and energy-draining encounters.

However, Pluto's square can also motivate movement, especially after a lengthy, collective stalemate. Consider that the dark side of this New Moon might also provide the impetus to take some first steps in the direction of deeper, transformative change.

For those this New Moon directly touches, keeping things as they are is not likely an option. If there's a choice in the matter, intentionally look deeper, reflect on, and consider what surfaces now, primarily via your connections to others.

The Aries archetype invites courageous action, and the overall landscape of this New Moon suggests this is a powerful lunation for getting proactive. Look for healthy ways to express, channel, and release this building energy over the next two weeks. The moment is ripe for whatever new start you intend, all while remaining mindful of the limitations of the moment.

Getting Better: Full Moon in Virgo 2021

Photo by Chad Woodward, August 2020.

Full Moon @ 08 degrees Virgo 57’

February 27, 2021

12:17 AM PST

3:17 AM EST

With the Sun and Venus now in Pisces, this Full Moon in Virgo briefly highlights these two signs' polarity. There can be a momentary tension between the Piscean proclivity for the transcendent, mystical, or fantastical and Virgo's more grounded, earth-based pragmatism. Yet, conflicts are also opportunities for integration, where the Virgo/Pisces polarity can bridge the numinous and the mundane.

As with every Full Moon, you'll often note a significant turning point flavored by a sense of something budding, culminating, or resolving. Think peak experiences but with a Virgo quality: seeing the results of hard work/effort, organizational strategies reaching efficiency, or a greater sense of competence, skillfulness, or usefulness.

Something you've been working to improve or perfect could reach a critical milestone under this Full Moon, aided along by a sudden surge in progress or a light-bulb revelation. Uranus' trine to this lunation is brief but dynamically innovative and liberating. And Venus' opposition from Pisces adds the ability to more effectively make connections across time and space.

However, Mars' wide square also poses a challenge that can incite aggression and aggravation as much as it pushes for action, bravery, and assertion. Mars can also correlate with taking the initiative in getting better organized or finally putting together an effective self-improvement strategy. Nit-picking, fault-finding, and overly critical assertions can peak, so be wary of such tendencies in yourself or others.

Two quincunx aspects to this Full Moon from Chiron and Saturn also form a unique yod configuration. The Virgo Full Moon is the focal point, adding a symbolic layer suggesting that for the sake of healing and tending to responsibilities, we might feel inevitably compelled to get our lives in better order. A sense of fate might be at play surrounding this.

The Virgo archetype embodies the humility required to get better at anything. To step up and improve, we have to admit that whatever we're doing or wherever we're at isn't quite at that perfect place (despite perfection never really being a realistic goal). Those admissions, confessions, or realizations can come erupting forth alongside this Full Moon, so take notice and correct the most essential or critical. Yet, on the flip side, those steps we've already taken and those admissions we've previously made can also bear significant fruit.

Alternate Paths: New Moon in Aquarius 2021

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado; Photo by Chad Woodward, August 2020

New Moon @ 23 degrees Aquarius 13'

February 11, 2021

11:07 AM Pacific Standard Time

2:07 PM Eastern Standard Time

As this month's New Moon arrives, we are given greater space to move more freely. With Venus, the last inner planet to clear the Saturn/Pluto conjunction zone, a significant layer of personal and collective weight has been lifted. Symbolically, this New Moon brings with it fresh currents to filter and clear any stagnant air in the form of new ideas, conversations, and perspectives.

Occurring in tropical air sign Aquarius, there is an emphasis with this New Moon on distinct Aquarian themes: individuation, collaboration, alienation, and innovative maneuvers. And with six objects currently occupying this sign, the Aquarian archetype dominates the moment.

One critical piece of this lies in Uranus and Mars' square to the Aquarian cluster zone. The inherent Aquarian polarity of individuation/alienation becomes significantly louder here, adding friction necessary to draw new distinctions between oneself and the tribe.

Yet, also at this moment, the individual and its agency, subjective experiences, and unique points of view can easily get drowned out and lost. Thinking for ourselves can be challenging when inundated with endless objective data points to reflect on. Groupthink or a herd mentality are pitfalls of Aquarius, in addition to apathy or antisocial tendencies.

As with every New Moon, there is something beginning to take hold, tangibly as much as psychically. Perhaps that represents a step forward in the direction of greater individuation, embracing new ways to think and act in accordance with authenticity. Mars' square compels action and initiation through the prodding of personal and collective agency.

Facing fears related to embodying individuality, such as the fear of rejection or cultural/social exclusion, can also emerge with this New Moon. Taking a unique path connected to that, perhaps stepping forward in a more confident way, or maybe backing and limiting some interaction altogether.

Mercury's retrograde cycle here in Aquarius urges a rethinking and retooling of how we are to represent ourselves and our collective endeavors, as well as our thoughts, perceptions, or opinions related to anything outside the bounds of normalcy. The modern Aquarian carries an edge, one that challenges the consensus as much as it seeks to distinctly define itself admist the herd.

And while there is some conflict contained in this fresh, new emergence (via a square to Mars), there is also a greater sense of expansion and a willingness to embrace alternative ideas, tactics and approaches. It's usually a good idea to trust the more unusual path when it comes to anything Aquarian, despite the inevitable detours and unforeseen end results.

Emerging Light: Full Moon in Leo 2021

WillMatt4, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon @ 09 degrees Leo 05'
January 28, 2021
11:16 AM Pacific Standard Time
2:16 PM Eastern Standard Time

With the first month of 2021 nearly over, we are greeted by a tension-filled and dynamic Full Moon in tropical Leo. While this lunation's thrust is initially uncomfortable, it brings about synchronistic wild cards sure to bring some surprising breakthroughs and turning points.

The sign of Leo emphasizes several archetypal dimensions. There is an emphasis on playfulness and the cultivation of joy, as well as the pursuit of visibility--putting oneself "out there" through various means of self-expression. And as Full Moons so often correlate with budding and erupting, there is likely to be the debut of some interesting performative displays.

The tension and inevitable uncomfortable factor of this lunation likely acts as a catalyst to push something or someone more into view. For anything that's been hiding out, this lunation can help bring it forward into expressiveness. Jupiter's opposition and solar conjunction add optimism, confidence, and opportunities to expand an audience.

However, with the Sun, Jupiter, and Saturn opposing the Full Moon from Aquarius, there is equally an invitation to consider the balance between self-expression and collaboration, as well as the interplay between subjective and objective points of view. The tendency to get stuck in self-focused pursuits can lead to missing a more realistic perspective.

Mars and Uranus' square can also lead to arrogant overconfidence or hypervigilant overactions. Oversee aggressiveness and impulse with this Full Moon since things can quickly move above and beyond what is necessary. Yet, Uranus and Mars also relate to a sudden challenge to pursue a unique approach, style, or tactic.

Whatever shows up for you with this Full Moon, it's likely a culmination of something in which you can be recognized, acknowledged, or appreciated. Leo's innate message is that we all have a place to shine in the universe, and doing so (within reason) is a fundamental right to being alive. In times like these, we could all use a little light and a boost of confidence to nudge us further along.

Pushing Through the Shadows: New Moon in Capricorn 2021

Scott Wylie from UK, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

New Moon @ 23 degrees tropical Capricorn 13’

January 12, 2021

9:00 PM PDT

January 13, 2021

12:00 AM EDT

2021's first lunation is a New Moon in tropical Capricorn. With the New Moon in conjunction to Pluto and the Moon in detriment, this can feel like a heavy and stoic few days. Additionally, Mars' building conjunction with Uranus and square to Saturn and Jupiter add further tension and instability to this New Moon moment.

However, despite all that's emerging externally on the world stage, utilize this New Moon for self-reflective insight acquisition, solitude, or honing in on specific tasks or projects. As with every New Moon, this is a fresh start, but one that can help narrow and prioritize both dreams and responsibilities.

While the Capricorn archetype's streak of conservatism is likely to play some role during this New Moon, Saturn's conjunction with Jupiter and square to Uranus adds a unique dimension. It challenges us to break the mold, liberate our routines and daily structures, and incorporate radical new ideas or approaches.

Pluto's central role with this New Moon also speaks to the necessity of utilizing our agency to willingly confront the ways in which we've allowed limiting beliefs about reality to stifle progress. Saturn and Jupiter's transits through Aquarius tilt the emphasis away from solidifying structures toward their innovation.

And always with Pluto, there may be a test to see how far we've pushed and plunged our inner darkness. With this New Moon, there may be subtle reminders of the power we've attained from facing blindspots, as well as reminders of those we've yet to confront. The intensity of this New Moon lies in the synchronistic emergence of an inward call. If we heed it over the next few weeks and remain honest with ourselves and others, we can break through to new vistas and possibilities.

Deeper Wisdom: Full Moon in Cancer 2020

Uoaei1, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Full Moon @ 08 degrees Cancer 53'

December 29, 2020

7:29 PM PST

10:29 PM EST

What is arguably the most challenging year in modern history ends with a Full Moon in tropical Cancer. Perhaps it's appropriate that the final lunation of 2020 is not necessarily an easy one. Forming a t-square with the centaur object Chiron, there is an element of tension that pushes this Full Moon to a heavier vibe. However, there is a catalyzing thrust to this lunation, bringing both climax and resolution that can generate motivation and proactivity.

Chiron's "wounded healer" mythology tends to play a role whenever it's prominent in astrological events. Chiron's square to this Full Moon is not comfortable. It stimulates greater awareness of pain, defects, and flaws--physical, emotional, or spiritual. The emotional terrain can feel especially active under any Cancerian Full Moon, but especially one triggered by Chiron where there can be an excessive focus on what hurts us rather than what's going right.

A Full Moon in Cancer magnifies issues in our intimate lives, drawing us inward despite the Full Moon's extroverted emphasis. Mercury's opposition invites contemplation of strategy and pragmatics, while the Moon in Cancer pulls us more toward matters of the heart. A conflict arises between how we feel versus how we think about a problem or issue at hand. However, this Full is fleeting as much as it is dynamic, generating a few days of movement that can free unexpressed or unacknowledged emotional and psychic content.

Often with Chiron, there's a need to look beyond the symptoms to the deeper attitudinal or perceptual problems. Sometimes it's in seeing things differently that we can finally make the appropriate shifts, and healing can begin. If or when you've exhausted all of the standard, topical methods for dealing with a problem, open your heart and mind to new possibilities. A trine to Neptune and sextile to Uranus suggests opportunities abound for freeing ourselves from perceptual traps that limit our ability to fully heal ourselves.

If you find yourself stuck alongside this Full Moon, try actively surrendering to something larger than yourself--your body's wisdom, the natural world, or a higher power (whatever that looks like for you). A tendency to overthink or dwell on a problem can actually prevent resolution, but sitting back and disengaging a bit might provide insights worth pursuing and integrating. While this Full Moon's initial thrust might not feel good at first, consider it necessary to redirect our focus and engage more with the wisdom inside and all around us.