star trends
Star Trends
Please note the forecasts for each of the constellations concluding this Star Trends column are done in the system of Indian astrology, called Vedic astrology, which uses the observable constellations. These are different than the signs. Even though the names of the constellations and the signs translate the same, they have different reference points in the heavens. You will notice the difference in the dates in this column compared to the typical Sun sign column that Western astrology uses. These dates reflect the constellations, which Vedic astrologers use in their forecasts.
October, November, and December 2021 Forecast
As we enter April of 2020, there is a crisis cloud of uncertainty hovering over the global economy. The extreme downward volatility of Wall Street and global economic indicators in response to the Corona Virus has cast a shadow of doubt on the global outlook for the year. Nations all over the world are declaring national emergencies now that the World Health Organization has declared the virus a global pandemic. Their response to the escalating crises will have far reaching and unexpected consequences to the health of local and national economies. In addition the specter of extreme climate change and its contributing impact to the global economic picture are front and center. The impeachment of a US President, the third in the history has left a shadow of a doubt in regards to confidence in leadership. These are all contributing factors that are dampening consumer spending which is the primary driver of the US economy. We must ask ourselves what lies at the root of our present global uncertainty where world markets turn suddenly on unpredictable events in the 24/7 world of non-stop media onslaught. Have we once again entered the “roaring twenties,” a time of extraordinary and unprecedented change?
In answering that question, I will reprise a past Star Trends tribute to the works and words of futurist Alvin Toffler, who passed away in 2016 at the age of 87. Toffler was a well-known Futurist whose best-selling trilogy started with “Future Shock,” published in 1970. The trilogy was completed with the publication of “The Third Wave” in 1980, and lastly, “Powershift” in 1990. As a social scientist, Toffler’s hypothesized that the emerging triad of science, communications, and capital was synergistically creating a rapidly changing society with no known precedent or historical reference point. Toffler coined the term “information overload” in describing the deluge of information that the digital and communications revolution explosion provided. This “roaring current of change” was overwhelming - personally, socially, and institutionally - creating what he called “confusional breakdown.”
His warnings about the consequences of extreme change were extremely accurate. He accurately predicted the development of the Internet, personal computers, telecommuting as well as genetic cloning. He foresaw that governments, institutions, and societies that failed to embrace the increasingly rapid rate of change would face a catastrophic demise or worse extinction. He was among the first wave of early thinkers to fully comprehend that knowledge would succeed labor and natural resources to become the most valued of all commodities.
Therefore are we surprised when sudden change - no matter what the source, quickly imparts “confusional breakdown,” resulting in increased security anxiety for all? This resulting anxiety is nothing more than a swift response to the immediate stress of change. Rapid change has been and is now part of everyday existence. Like it or not, we have come to accept this change, and accompanying anxiety, even though we may not comprehend at first its immediate impact, trajectory or outcome. Toffler suggested it was more important to understand the general theme of sudden change than the specifics of the change. He explained: “the rate of change has implications quite apart from, and sometimes more important than, the direction of change.” Change is the only constant, and we all implicitly accept that, but not necessarily the speed and accompanying stress that accelerated change brings.
We astrologers, like Toffler, are ancient map-makers. As he eloquently expressed: “We who explore the future are like ancient map-makers, and it is in this spirit that the concept of future shock and the theory of the adaptive range are presented here – not as the final word, but as the first approximation of the new realities, filled with danger and promise, created by the accelerative thrust.” In the ancient stellar map that we astrologers use, the planet of accelerative thrust and sudden change is Mars. When Mars is strong and active, the accelerative push of change comes suddenly upon us. Toffler’s book could well have been entitled “Future Anxiety,” for that is the consequence we all experience in the face of accelerated change. The remedy for this sudden volatility created by Mars is the opposite constant of stability. We must possess it to some degree, to be able to balance change without fear.
If Mars represents accelerated change in our stellar map, then his opposite and reconciling force is the planet Saturn, representing stability, constants we trust implicitly. You must ask yourselves during these times of volatile and violent change, where is that constant in your lives? It is from that unshakeable platform that Saturn represents where you can face the sudden change that Mars brings fearlessly.
2020 will be a remarkable year as Mars will become exceedingly strong as he transits close to the earth in his own constellation of Aries later in the year. In contrast, this is also the year where Saturn is exceedingly strong, as he is traveling through his own constellation of Capricorn throughout all of 2020. The placement of the planet Saturn in your chart is the key to how you can mitigate the fear of “confusional breakdown.” Let Saturn in Capricorn be your rock of conviction and certainty. It is from his fortress in Capricorn that you can counter the stress of Mars’ “roaring current of change” in the new roaring twenties!
October 2021
The month starts with Jupiter, Mars, and Saturn all in Saturn’s constellation of Capricorn. Capricorn is the sign in which Mars reaches exaltation - his most potent expression. As is his nature, Mars will trend to volatility but will be thwarted in his most unstable manifestation by the presence and alignment with Saturn during this time. Mars is best in Capricorn when his powerful energy is focused and goal-oriented, not dispersed and amorphous creating anxiety. Saturn placed alongside will assure Mars’ strength will be productively focused. In the domain of life associated with the sign of Capricorn, this is the time to set your goals and plan reasonable timelines in which to achieve them.
Jupiter enters the constellation of Capricorn on March 29, where he will remain for approximately three months during this brief sojourn. Capricorn represents the dark part of the year where the light is fading, heralding a time of rest and repose. In that regard, the sign of Capricorn is Jupiter’s weakest placement, as there is not enough light to bring forth the fruits of Jupiter’s generosity. The increasing cycle of light, as represented by the constellation of Cancer and the summer solstice, is the time when Jupiter’s bounty can come to full bloom. Capricorn represents the decreasing light of the winter solstice, which does not have enough light to bring forth growth. Jupiter’s brief sojourn into Capricorn will continue to sow the seeds of economic uncertainty and the fears of a possible recession, exacerbated by the global pandemic. After all, that which goes up must come down. However, you will rarely hear of a declared recession during an election year, only after the fact when everyone knows it has already happened! This is what happened at the end of 2008 right after the US elections when Jupiter entered Capricorn at year’s end. However, the economic decline had already started much earlier.
Venus enters his own constellation of Taurus on March 28, where he will remain for just over four months as this the time when he comes close to the earth. Typically Venus remains in a constellation for about three weeks; however, when close to the earth, he extends his stay exponentially. The planets that best reflect the spectrum of light in the night sky are of the Brahmin caste in Indian astrology. These planets are Jupiter and Venus, and they represent those who are knowledgeable and educated. Venus is more social and sophisticated, drawn to natural beauty and the arts that inspire humanity. Venus will get to shine his light in his own constellation for an extended period, so the domain of life that Taurus is associated with in your chart will taste the sweet fruits of his sojourn. This is an excellent time to reconnect with friends and loved ones as presence, not absence will make all our heart grow stronger. Gradually, as the global pandemic subsides we will all have the opportunity to abandon social distancing and embrace each other more meaningfully. In the meantime we all get by with a little help.
November 2021
Mars will reach his exact exaltation on May 2nd. At exaltation, he represents the dynamics of “roaring change” and “accelerative thrust,” of which Toffler warned. At the last degrees of Capricorn, Mars will be moving beyond the grasp of Saturn, who is slowly separating from Mars in the early degrees of Capricorn. Saturn, at one end of Capricorn, represents the slow rate of change we call stability. In contrast, Mars, at the other end of Capricorn, embodies the rapid pace of change we call volatility - bringing these antithetical principles into direct conflict. These opposing energies explain why people are feeling profoundly ambivalent and conflicted about embracing the rapidly emerging change of our times, or staying with the seeming secure establishment. Regardless of your sign, we will all feel better once this planetary alignment has played out. The tension between Saturn and Mars will slowly abate after May 4 when Mars leaves the sign of Capricorn and enters the constellation of Aquarius. Keep on task and remain goal-oriented during Mars’ exaltation and do not give in to fear and chaos.
The month of May will feature the benefic planets, Venus and Jupiter, as well as Saturn all retrograding in the middle of the month. Planets retrograde as they come close to the earth, which is opposite the Sun. When planets come close to the earth, they appear brighter in the heavens due to their proximity. The slower a planet moves, the more influential the planet becomes. This is more so when planets appear to stop in the heavens and change direction – that is when they are extremely powerful. Saturn will stop and retrograde in the constellation of Capricorn on the 10th of May. Venus will stop in the heavens and retrograde in Taurus on the 13th and Jupiter will stop in the heavens on the very next day, retrograding in the constellation of Capricorn on May 14!
With so many planets stopping and retrograding in the middle of the month, you will likely feel a surge of energy related to the domains of life that Taurus and Capricorn represent in your charts - especially since both Venus and Saturn are retrograding in their own signs. The retrograding and presence of the brightest planets in the heavens, Venus and Jupiter, close to earth during the bright part of the year, is especially auspicious for the affairs of Taurus and Capricorn. This becomes more so for Taurus as Mercury enters Taurus on May 8 and aligns precisely with Venus later on the 22nd of the month.
Venus and Mercury are best friends in Vedic astrology as they are both never far from the Sun. When Mercury aligns or is in aspect to Venus and Jupiter, their collective light lifts him to the abode of the heavens. Mercury will transit the constellation of Taurus from the 7th to the 24th of the month. All during this time, he will be aligned with Venus and benefit from Jupiter’s aspect. This is an excellent time for educational, as well as artistic and spiritual pursuits. The planets of light together can lift Mercury into a more spiritual abode, devoid of the economic and political vitriolic of our time. Take full advantage of this beneficent period to lift your consciousness to a more peaceful above which will calm your uncertainties and fears. You can be the calm change you wish to see in the world and the effect upon others can be profound in this time of chaos.
You do not have to let the content and agendas of the global media and their information outlets determine your reality. What is important to them may not be to you personally. Why not take a media break from the ongoing diatribe during this time? Perhaps go on a media holiday. Enjoy the alignment of Mercury with the benefic planets, rather than the darkened domains of the storm and malefic planets. The difference can be life-affirming.
December 2021
The month of June begins with a lunar eclipse on the 5th at 21 degrees of Scorpio. A partial solar eclipse will follow it on June 20th at 5 degrees of Gemini. Later in the month, Mercury will retrograde in the constellation of Gemini on the 17th. Months that feature eclipses tend to be more intensive and volatile, as the eclipses represent celestial storm patterns. Additionally Mercury will be retrograding in the constellation of Gemini, where the solar eclipse on the 20th of the month will occur. During these celestial storm patterns in the second half of the month, my suggestion is to watch and witness the ensuing change as calmly and detached as possible. Observe the volatility this month without falling into a pattern of reactive decision making.
Although partial eclipses are not as powerful as total eclipses, the point to remember during eclipses is that something is being cast into shadow, which can distort your perspective. As the saying goes, it will cast a shadow of a doubt. Whatever domain of life Gemini represents in your natal chart, it will be experiencing a celestial revision. Once some distance on the eclipse has been achieved, the ramifications and results will become clearer to access.
There is a great deal of collective lore on Mercury retrogrades being a challenging time to make critical decisions. Often Mercury Rx is scapegoated for a host of maladies that are not of his making. The truth of the matter is this - it all depends on the constellation and the planets associated with Mercury during his retrograde period. During his retrograde cycle, Mercury will remain in a constellation for approximately two months, rather than his usual two-week sojourn. Experience has shown it is usually best to avoid the day before, the day of, and the day after Mercury stops in the heavens to make important decisions. The times when Mercury retrogrades and spends two months with the naturally benefic planets, Venus and Jupiter, especially in benefic constellations, the results trend positive. The times when Mercury retrogrades with the naturally malefic planets Mars and Saturn - especially in the malefic constellations, the results trend negative. When Mercury retrogrades with Rahu and Ketu, the planets that cause eclipses, those times trend more unpredictable and chaotic.
This Mercury retrograde will be in Gemini, where the solar eclipse of June 20 will occur. The eclipse planets Rahu and Ketu are transiting Gemini and Sagittarius respectively and are in alignment with this Mercury retrograde period. This implies this Mercury retrograde is trending more volatile and negative for important decisions that are associated with the domain of life that Gemini is associated with. Further, the naturally malefic planet Mars will enter Pisces on June 18 and cast his glance upon Mercury until August 1, raising this Mercury to trend more negative to volatility and confusion. Stay calm and keep cool during this ballistic period for uncertainty and misinformation will abound. There will be lots of time to look back after the fact - and you will be glad you did not give in to a pattern of reactive decision making.
Personal Forecast for Each of the Constellations
For those born under the constellation of Libra October 17th – November 15th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Saturn and Mars are transiting the domain of life associated with home and family. This is an excellent time to make long-range plans to live in an area or neighborhood that will support your age-appropriate life goals. The place where you live is the rock bed of your existence, as that environment impacts your consciousness every day. Now is the time to ask yourself, is the community you live in for the short run or the long run? Once you realize this, the necessary steps you will need to take will become self-evident. Saturn favors older, historic neighborhoods where change occurs more slowly, less dramatically. Your planet Venus is transiting close to the earth, so don’t forget to engage in the pursuit of happiness during this time.
July, August, September 2021 Forecast
As the summer of 2021 begins, Jupiter is tenanting the constellation of Aquarius. Due to the increasing success of the Covid-19 vaccine roll-out, the global economy is taking off, and many international economists predict strong growth of over six percent. This fact has created an unprecedented shift favoring workers over employers, as the economic boom has led to an increase both in jobs and wages. Consequently, it has also led to the specter of price increases and inflation.
The constellation of Aquarius is opposite the constellation of Leo, ruled by the Sun. It is a royal sign representing the affairs of the kings and leaders. Aquarius is ruled by Saturn. It is a sign of the people, representing the affairs of humanity. The constellation of Aquarius is known as the “Water Bearer,” and many mistakenly believe Aquarius to be a water constellation. They are often surprised to find that Aquarius is a representative of the air constellations. The symbolic waves of Aquarius represent the thought realm of humanistic ideation. We first have to imagine a better world for all before we can begin to create it.
Now that Jupiter, the most brilliant planet of light, is in the humanistic sign of Aquarius, we are not surprised that the celestial weather is trending in favor of the people and humanistic endeavors. One such representative is Horace Mann, considered “The Father of American Public Education.” He was born with Jupiter in Aquarius. Born into poverty and childhood labor, he rose to become valedictorian of Brown University’s graduating class of 1819. After Law school, he became a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives and later the Senate. The reforms he brought to teaching and education spread to other states resulting in a revolution in public education.
Mann became President of Antioch College in Ohio toward the end of life from 1853 to 1859, espousing his humanitarian values. He is remembered for his commencement message to the graduating class of 1859 - the last year of his life: “Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity.” This message of hope and inspiration is repeated for each graduating class at Antioch.
The constellation of Aquarius is opposite the constellation of Leo, ruled by the Sun. It is a royal sign representing the affairs of the kings and leaders. Aquarius is ruled by Saturn. It is a sign of the people, representing the affairs of humanity. The constellation of Aquarius is known as the “Water Bearer,” and many mistakenly believe Aquarius to be a water constellation. They are often surprised to find that Aquarius is a representative of the air constellations. The symbolic waves of Aquarius represent the thought realm of humanistic ideation. We first have to imagine a better world for all before we can begin to create it.
With Jupiter’s light now shining through the constellation of the people, the trend is currently favoring the Individual. Government Anti-Trust lawsuits aimed at monopolies have gained momentum. If successful, these hold the promise of increased competition resulting in lower-cost benefits for all. The rising cost of college education and the soul-crushing debt students have incurred now are a matter of public record. The debate has shifted from discussion of reforms on the state level to discussion of debt relief and free public college education at state-sponsored colleges. Dialogue has begun on both the state and federal levels regarding the college student debt crises. Federal debt forgiveness is at the heart of those discussions. Now that Jupiter has returned to Aquarius - where it was in Horace Mann’s chart - he would be beaming with egalitarian pride in light of these humanistic events.
JULY 2021
July starts off with Mars in Cancer coming opposite Saturn in Capricorn on the 1st of the month. Mars in Cancer is transiting his weakest constellation, while Saturn in Capricorn is in his own sign. If you are feeling run-down at this time, you are not alone. It has been a long slog to get to this point in the pandemic. Although the Summer Solstice light beckons, you may feel like your get-and-go has gotten up and gone. This time will trend to deliberative rather than spontaneous action. Saturn’s strong influence on Mars can help to reduce that pent-up “to-do list” but embrace it steady - one day at a time.
Mars will conjoin Venus for a brief respite and libation on the 12th of the month. He will move on to his exact degree of weakness at 28 Cancer on the 16th, where he will run out of gas. Mars then leaves Cancer and Saturn’s influence, coming into the sign of Leo on the 20th. Mars does exceptionally well in the sign of the Sun, his fiery friend. While in the sign of Leo, Mars will be found under the aspect of best friend Jupiter, who is in the aforesaid opposite constellation of Aquarius. At the month’s end on the 29th, Mars and Jupiter will be in exact aspect, from the opposite signs of Leo and Aquarius.
In effect, Mars will be obstructed and run down until the third week of July, when he changes signs and comes under the benevolent aspect of Jupiter. In Indian mythology, Mars and Jupiter are brothers, with Jupiter being the older and wiser of the two. The energetic juice you thought was gone early in July will start to return in full regalia toward the end of the month. The building enthusiasm will punctuate the areas of life that these planets rule. In the forecasts for each of the constellations, you will find how their transits will impact you.
Mercury starts the month in the constellation of Taurus, where he has been aligned with the shadow planets - Rahu in Taurus and Ketu in Scorpio. He leaves the storm planets behind when he enters his sign of Gemini on the 6th. In his own sign, Mercury favors commerce and business while transiting Gemini. Mercury will be under the beneficial aspect of Jupiter from Aquarius until the 23rd of July. Mercury favors business dealings and decisions and considering Jupiter’s aspect while in Gemini - training and education. Take advantage of this time - because, on the 23rd, Mercury will come under the deliberative influence of Saturn in the opposite sign of Capricorn, which will slow things down.
August 2021
The month of August begins with Mercury in Cancer precisely aligning opposite Saturn in his own sign of Capricorn. While in aspect to Saturn, Mercury will be deliberate and exacting in his judgments and discernments - as the sages say, “the devil is in the details.” On the 8th of the month, he enters Leo where he leaves the aspect under Saturn and glances toward Jupiter transiting Aquarius. Venus, who is Mercury’s best friend, is already in Leo and will playfully travel with him until Mercury comes exactly opposite Jupiter on August 10th. The sign of Leo is royal but playful, and this trends to be a good time for festivities and to entertain while Venus and Jupiter are in aspect with Mercury.
August will also feature Mars’ transit through the sign of Leo under the aspect of Jupiter. Jupiter’s influence on Mars trends to more benevolent actions rather than the usual self-serving ones. Mercury in Leo leaves behind his relationship with Venus/Jupiter and embraces his liaison with Mars/Jupiter after the 10th. Although Mars will be under the influence of beneficient Jupiter, he and Mercury will come to exact alignment in Leo on the 18th of August, signaling a time of caution.
Mercury is the most sensitive of the planets. We use his metal to measure the temperature, watching the quicksilver rise and fall in response to the changing weather. Mars is a fiery planet, and when he comes into contact with Mercury, the global and celestial climate will increasingly heat up, as their alignment is in the fire constellation of Leo! In addition, the Sun, the lord of Leo, will transit his own sign the second half of August to the first half of September. Mercury will be in fiery Leo with both of these planets until the 25th of the month. August is trending to be one hell of a hot month. Caution is advised for travel in areas where there are drought conditions; be prepared for the threat of heat, fire, and smoke. Heed your local weather and air quality forecasts during this critical time. Be careful in engaging with “hotheads,” as they most likely will be overheated and ill-tempered during this time. Conflicted and argumentative madcaps will have their day so try your best not to make crucial decisions – don’t let the heat overwhelm you. Once the fire starts, it will be hard to extinguish as temperatures will be at the kindling point.
Mercury will thankfully leave Mars and the Sun behind when he enters his own sign of Virgo on the 25th of August. He will reunite with his best friend Venus while in Virgo until month’s end. This will trend to be a more progressive time to make decisions as Mercury will be more sociable and fun-loving under the influence of Venus. You can get a lot more bees with honey.
September 2021
Mercury will remain in his own sign of Virgo with Venus until the 5th of this month, helping cool down Mercury from the Dog Days of August. The respite is short-lived as Mars will enter the sign of Virgo on the 5th as well. Mercury, moving faster, and transiting in later degrees of Virgo, will thankfully not precisely align with Mars during their joint transit of Virgo. The Sun will enter Mercury’s sign of Virgo on the 16th. So once again, until this aspect passes - the heat is on in the domain of life that Virgo represents in your natal chart. Cooler heads prevail in cooler times is the global mantra we all should be reciting.
Mercury’s movement will start to slow while in Virgo in preparation for his retrograde cycle at month’s end, which heralds his closest approach to the earth. He will remain in Virgo until the 25th of the month. Once again, the fleet-footed messenger will escape the grasp of Mars and hang out with his best friend Venus - but this time in Venus’ own sign of Libra. In effect, Mercury’s thermometer will be getting a run for its money this summer north of the equator.
On September 14th Jupiter will leave the constellation of Aquarius and retrograde back into the latter degrees of the constellation of Capricorn. While in Capricorn, Jupiter will shine his light on Mercury in Virgo, helping to illuminate his path forward until the 25th of the month. Jupiter will remain in Capricorn until the third week of November when he again moves forward into the Water Bearer sign. Capricorn is the Winter Solstice sign, and while Jupiter is in Capricorn, he will once again be transiting with Saturn in Saturn’s own sign. The humanistic economic and educational trends that Jupiter has championed in Aquarius will be put to the test. We shall see whether these trends suffer a setback or develop the strength to stand the test of time.
Mercury and Venus will blissfully reside in Libra until the month’s end. This favors delightful social gatherings for the young and young at heart. Mercury favors youth, and our young have been highly challenged during the pandemic. Don’t forget to celebrate the Fall Equinox on September 22nd - one of only two equal days of the year. This alignment favors social connections as students return to school and college. Take full advantage of this short window to reaffirm your friendships. Mercury will retrograde on September 27th at 1 degree Libra. He will only remain with Venus in Libra until the last day of September - so enjoy the good times and good light, however fleeting at the end of September.
Personal Forecast for Each of the Constellations
For those born under the constellation of Aries, April 14th – May 14th, or who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, your planet, Mars in Cancer, will be transiting opposite strong Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with home and family. The trend for the Ram until the 3rd week of July: less is more. This is a great time to take a break and get away from it all. Your planet Mars enters the regal sign of Leo later in July and continues to transit opposite Jupiter in Aquarius until early September. Now that Mars has escaped Saturn’s grasp, this time favors a fully charged Ram. The opposite alignment of Mars and Jupiter influences the domains of life associated with your creativity and friendships. This favors your progeny and is an excellent time to connect with your children. Engage in positive, constructive activities to rebuild their confidence and competitive spirit due to the effects of the pandemic. This is the time for the Ram to seize the day.
For those born under the constellation of Taurus, May 15th – June 14th, or who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Mars in Cancer will be transiting opposite strong Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with siblings, education, and travel. The Bull tends to plow through, but alas, your bullish mind can be writing checks that your body can’t cash during the first weeks of July. This is a grazing time, not a plowing time for Taurus. Mars will enter the sign of Leo later in July and continues to transit opposite Jupiter in Aquarius until early September. This opposite alignment of Mars and Jupiter is influencing the domains of life associated with family and career. All this favors a productive and fruitful professional time for the Bull. Mars in the realm of home and family suggest caution so family matters do not become overheated, resulting in family squabbles and conflict. The Bull needs to be cool-headed during the Dog Days of August.
For those born under the constellation of Gemini, June 15th – July 15th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Mars in Cancer will be transiting opposite strong Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with finances and debt. Although mobile Gemini undoubtedly has pent-up travel fever, take care not to exhaust yourself and your funds in your travel planning. Later in the month, Mars will improve as he comes opposite Jupiter in Aquarius. This opposite alignment will positively influence the domains of life regarding travel and siblings. It represents a good time for summer travel and connecting with brothers and sisters. This opposite alignment also favors travel and education. If you are a student, the time is favorable for returning to school or college. Gemini needs comradery to remediate the pandemic Blues. Mobile Gemini needs to log off their mobile app and expand their social circle in person.
For those born under the constellation of Cancer, July 16th – August 16th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Mars in Cancer will be transiting opposite strong Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with you and your relationships. This can be a challenging period for the Crab in regard to romance. Particularly if you are experiencing that the love is gone, and you just can’t get it back. Focus more deliberately on self-need and self-esteem during this time. Later in July, Mars moves into Leo and comes opposite Jupiter in the domains of life associated with food, finance, and debt. This can be an excellent time to embrace a post-Covid-19 diet plan - especially if you have put on 19 pounds during the time of Covid! If you have saved money during the pandemic, now is the time for the Crab to hang onto that stash with both Claws and pay down your debts. Avoid the temptation to engage in retail therapy. This is the path forward. The Crab craves financial security and the emotional rewards it brings.
For those born under the constellation of Leo, August 17th – September 16th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Mars in Cancer will be transiting opposite strong Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with health, hygiene, and repose. The Lion needs to chill in July to restore their fabulous feline spirit. The journey of a hundred miles starts with one step in a new direction. This is the time to take that deliberate step toward restoring the Big Cat’s work/rest balance. Healthy habits regarding diet, coupled with proper rest, will get the Regal Lion feeling like they are back in the game. Later in July, Mars moves to Leo and comes opposite Jupiter in Aquarius in the domains of life associated with you and your relationships. Their opposite alignment is positive for the Big Cat. If your love life has felt muted recently, this is the time when it can come roaring back. Improvements in health, relationship, and marriage are on the rise for Leo.
For those born under the constellation of Virgo, September 17th – October 16th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Mars in Cancer will be transiting opposite strong Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with friends and creativity. Virgo’s usual supportive social circle may have just have run out of gas. Don’t fret - once Mars clears Saturn’s influence later in the month, your friends and social networks will start to pick up steam. Creative energy is also low, so best to finish up old projects before you create new ones. Later in July, Mars moves to Leo and comes opposite Jupiter in Aquarius in the domains of life associated with health, hygiene, and rest. Jupiter in Aquarius continues to favor changes in health and diet. The good habits Virgo has recently developed will continue to bear fruit if followed. However, Mars in Leo can disturb your rest and repose, so Virgo needs to power down before bedtime. Focus on peaceful thoughts before the lights go out.
For those born under the constellation of Libra October 17th – November 15th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Mars in Cancer will be transiting opposite strong Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with home, family, and career. Due to the influence of both Mars and Saturn, lovely Libra may have lowly feelings about being left behind in the economic uptick regarding career. This is only temporary - so do not believe for a moment that your career path is stuck in the mud. Once Mars moves to Leo later in July, you will feel momentum return. As Mars in Leo aligns opposite Jupiter in Aquarius, it will influence the domains of life associated with friends, goals, and creativity. This is the time to plan your upward trajectory. You need not do it alone, as we all rise with a little help from our friends. Creativity is on the rise, and social Libra will benefit significantly from schmoozing - not snoozing - with work colleagues. You may make some new friends in the process.
For those born under the constellation of Scorpio, November 16th – December 15th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, your planet, Mars in Cancer, will be transiting opposite strong Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with travel, education and the fine arts. Mars and Saturn here discourage travel as Saturn is generally indicative of delays and obstructions. It will be a better time for Scorpio to journey later in September. Your planet Mars is tired in Cancer, and while opposite Saturn, it is best not to take on any additional projects during this time. Later in July, when Mars enters the sign of Leo beyond the reach of Saturn, your Martian Mojo will undoubtedly return. Mars’s transit in Leo opposite Jupiter in Aquarius influences the domains of life associated with vocation, home, and family. This planetary combination favors both career and family matters. They present a progressive time, as the celestial playing cards are stacked favorably rewarding these domains of life.
For those born under the constellation of Sagittarius, December 16th – January 13th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Mars in Cancer is transiting opposite strong Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life debt and finances. If the pandemic drained your resources resulting in debt, this is the time for the Archer to take charge of their financial situation. Develop a deliberate plan to reduce your debt obligations gradually. Later in July, when Mars enters Leo, he will transit opposite your planet Jupiter in Aquarius, influencing the domains of life associated with travel, education, and the fine arts. This is an excellent time for the Archer to travel, not just for pleasure but for educational and artistic pursuits. Whether in the worldly or spiritual realms, continuing education inspires the Archer on their onward and upward trajectory. Once your arrows aim high again, you will feel back on target - up where you belong in the heavenly realms.
For those born under the constellation of Capricorn, January 14th – February 13th, or those of you who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Mars in Cancer will be transiting opposite your planet, Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with partners, relationship and You. Capricorns, generally speaking, are usually risk-averse, and they trek a sure-footed path to self-sufficiency. It is best to step steady on meeting your own needs at this time. Your partners and significant others may be too bogged down with their own responsibilities to offer the help you deserve. Later in July, when Mars enters Leo, he will transit opposite Jupiter in Aquarius, influencing life's domains associated with debt and finance. Jupiter in Aquarius is excellent for increasing the financial security the Goat craves. Be wary of Mars urging you toward impulsive, expensive purchases which can increase your debt load exponentially. No matter how much you may deserve the momentary satisfaction of those purchases - the debt and buyer’s remorse will last infinitely longer!
For those born under the constellation of Aquarius, February 14th – March 13th, or those of you who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Mars in Cancer will be transiting opposite your planet, Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with health, hygiene, and repose. Your planet Saturn is urging deliberate repose. This can be an excellent time to take a vacation, as in stop the world - I want to get off! Vacation or retreat will provide marvels for the Water Bearer and wonders for your wonderful imagination. By nature, Aquarians are social, but they also need to recharge to get the electricity flowing again. Later in July, when Mars enters Leo, he will transit opposite Jupiter in Aquarius in the domains of life influencing partnership, relationship, and self. This exciting combination of planetary energy can send more sparks flying than fireworks on the 4th of July! All the more reason for Aquarians to recharge earlier so they can be on their A-game romantically.
Those born under the constellation of Pisces, March 14th – April 13th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, Mars in Cancer will be transiting opposite strong Saturn in Capricorn, influencing the domains of life associated with creativity, progeny, and friends. The needs of children may call to you during this time, so do not be distracted. You will want to be fully available in your maternal and paternal roles. Friends that have fallen on difficult times may wish to tail-gate, and by all means, let them join you as you swim upstream. Later in July, when Mars enters Leo, he will transit opposite your planet, Jupiter in Aquarius, and influence the domains of life associated with health, hygiene, and repose. Your empathy for others is the hallmark of the Fish. But you cannot be there in the continuing role of Fish on Call unless you take the time to examine your own needs in the calms pools of self-reflection. Jupiter in Aquarius will provide that clear, reflective-looking glass for you during this transit in Aquarius.
April, May, June 2021 Forecast
The astrology and cosmology of India divide the planets of our solar system into two distinct groupings: luminous and non-luminous. The luminous grouping ends with Saturn, the last of the planets that the rays of the Sun grace, and the last planet that can be seen in the night sky with the naked eye. Beyond Saturn the astrology of India recognizes many more non-luminous planets where the solar rays do not reach. That is consistent with the view of modern astronomy as we now know that all that darkness beyond the light is not merely dark space. There are many non-luminous planets well past Pluto into the Kuiper belt and beyond that are currently being discovered.
The salient point being that none of the planets have their own light; they receive light from the Sun. It is the Sun — the source of all light in our solar system — that creates growth. That is why our third planet from the Sun, Terra Firma, continues to flourish and grow due to its fortunate proximity to the light. Light is necessary for growth, and as it becomes diminished, growth slows down and ceases all together as darkness approaches.
Therefore the sages of India divided the planets into four categories ranking each according to its ability to reflect light. The planets reflecting light consistently in the night sky were accorded the highest class or caste. These are Jupiter and Venus and are of the Brahmin class. Brahmins are representative of knowledgeable people of light who are gurus, teachers, trainers, and advisors whose wisdom and counsel we seek.
We astrologers are always looking to observe where Jupiter and Venus are presenting themselves in the heavens. Whatever constellations they transit, they bring illumination and growth to the affairs of that constellation. We especially look forward to when they transit their own constellations singularly, and even more so when they transit a constellation in tandem, which they only do for a short time each year.
This November 4th Jupiter will enter his own constellation of Sagittarius, and Venus will join Jupiter in Sagittarius from the 20th of November to the 15th of December. Jupiter and Venus will exactly conjoin on November 24th for the first time this year, illuminating the constellation where Jupiter, king of the planets, is king in his own domain.
The constellation of Sagittarius needs the celestial light of these bright planets as the shadow planet Ketu, who causes eclipses, has been aligned with Saturn for the past several months. These are shadowy times for Jupiter's sign due to the current dark celestial forces. Jupiter, during his tenancy in his own sign with Venus, will bring all that Sagittarius represents into the light — taking names, cleaning house, and illuminating the dark shadows. Whatever domain of life Sagittarius represents in your chart you will experience Jupiter's light to be the best disinfectant!
November 2019
November starts with Mercury having gone retrograde on October 31st. He will retrograde in close proximity with Venus, along with Jupiter, in the final degrees of the constellation of Scorpio. Whatever domain of life Scorpio rules will experience the combined light of all three of these planets for a very brief time as Jupiter leaves Scorpio on the 4th of November, and Mercury retrogrades back into Libra on the 7th of the month.
Not all Mercury retrogrades are negative to dispel a common myth. When Mercury retrogrades with natural benefic planets of light, he becomes positive, and when he retrogrades malefic planets of lesser light, he becomes challenged. The days before and after he stops and changes direction are best to be avoided for important decisions, in addition to his combustion with the Sun.
This Mercury retrograde starts out well, for although Mercury is exchanged with Mars, he is aligned with Venus and Jupiter. However, after the 7th of the month he regresses into the constellation of Libra where Mars will join him in Libra starting on the 10th, and he will combust the Sun on the 11th. This portends a problematic time of conflict, and important decisions should not be made under the heat of discord and duress. Changes in weather can make travel plans evaporate in an instant, so have a back-up plan just in case. Mercury thankfully leaves Libra the first week of December.
The highlight of November is Jupiter’s sojourn into his own constellation of Sagittarius on November 4th, where Venus joins him on the 19th. They will travel in tandem, exactly conjoining on the 24th, until Venus says goodbye moving into Capricorn in the middle of December. Sagittarius, having been besieged by Saturn and the eclipse planets, will really benefit from the extraordinary combined light of Jupiter and Venus. Jupiter's presence in his own sign will help to restore the lofty aims of the Archer. The higher ideals of spirituality, knowledge, and education will gain traction during this time dramatically pushing back against the more pedestrian forces of shadow and misinformation. Whatever domain of life Sagittarius is associated with will return to the light during this time.
December 2019
December starts with Mercury leaving contentious Mars behind in Libra as he exits that sign and moves into Scorpio once again on the 4th of the month. Mercury will have sufficient distance from the Sun and be clear of malefic association, so his time in Scorpio is good for incisive investigation and research.
Jupiter and Venus continue to shine their light on the constellation of Sagittarius until Venus moves into Capricorn on the 15th. The highlight of their transit occurs during the full Moon of December 11th, which happens with the Moon exalted in Taurus. This delightful full Moon forms the auspicious Chandra Adhi Yoga as all the benefic planets of light, Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter are spaciously opposite the Moon and close to the Earth. This full Moon with such a benefic planetary association so close to the Winter Solstice speaks to an uplifting time for celebration during the festive holiday season. Plan your holiday celebrations and travel around this unique period of light, for after this particular time the Moon will wane as we come to the Winter Solstice on the 21st.
There is a great deal of planetary transition around the Christmas holiday of December 25th. Mars will leave Libra and enter his own constellation of Scorpio on the 25th, which will embolden him to push forward with the domain of life that Scorpio is associated with in your chart. Mercury will leave Scorpio and enter Sagittarius, where he will align with Jupiter — the king of the planets of light — well into the New Year.
However, December 25th is also a partial Solar Eclipse at 9 degrees Sagittarius. Before the Moon is eclipsed, he will align precisely with Mercury earlier in the day; later, after the eclipse, he will align with Jupiter. When benefic planets of light bracket an eclipsed Moon they mitigate the darkness of such a period of time. Such is the effect of this holiday eclipse. Let the festive holiday lights from all the various solstice and religious traditions remind you that this is a time of celebration, and the darkness is only temporal — not absolute. Spend your holiday season with those people and sources who are representative of the light, not those who formulate discontent in the shadows as we close out this decade in preparation for 2020.
Personal Forecast for Each of the Constellations
For those born under the constellation of Aries, April 14 – May 14th, or who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been urging you to relinquish educational and travel pursuits these past several months. That now changes as both Jupiter and Venus come to domain of life associated with travel, as well as spiritual and educational advancement. Jupiter and Venus’ combined light illuminates your higher educational and spiritual path during this time. While their influence is active and present the Ram can set new goals for future projects and educational advancement. It is best to travel earlier in the month of December rather than during the holiday eclipse.
For those born under the constellation of Taurus, May 15th – June 14th, or who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the domain of life associated with legacies and taxes. That now changes as both Jupiter and Venus come to this domain and shine their collective light. Jupiter is lord of this domain, and his presence here bodes well. Now is the time to consult knowledgeable financial consultants to gain insights on how you can reduce your tax liabilities – just like the large corporations who pay fewer taxes than the Bull! Perhaps you too can become a corporate tax haven, or at least start to think like one to lessen your tax burden and focus more on your legacies.
For those born under the constellation of Gemini, June 15th – July 15th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the domain of life that is associated with romance and your significant relationships. That now changes as both Jupiter and Venus come to the rescue. Now is the time to attend those festive holiday parties and keep a sharp eye out for those who are smart, charming and, most importantly – available for romantic partnership. Light changes everything, so take advantage of the combined grace of these planets to plant new romantic seeds, clear out the weeds, and push back the shadows to see who is available under this auspicious holiday light.
For those born under the constellation of Cancer, July 16th – August 16th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the domain of life associated with your health and hygiene. If you have followed a careful regimen of self-care, the combined light of both Jupiter and Venus should start to pay fast dividends. Jupiter owns this domain of life, and now that he has entered his own sign you may actually begin to feel more competitive and spirited. Venus loves the company of others, so use the time to find like-minded people who are following the same regimen. Great minds think alike, and besides it is just so much easier to follow through with help from friends.
For those born under the constellation of Leo, August 17th – September 16th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the domain of life associated with your creativity and children. That now changes as both Jupiter and Venus light up the creative road ahead. It is time for Leo to become inspirited as the reign of the dark planets has passed. Embrace new projects and endeavors, and you will find your mojo will return – and others will notice and respond. The Regal Lion is the pride of their progeny, so make doubly sure this holiday season they know it by spoiling them and spending extra time with them to your Lion-heart’s content.
For those born under the constellation of Virgo, September 17th – October 16th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the domain of life associated with home and family. If you felt separated from family and loved ones, take advantage of this time with Jupiter and Venus in Sagittarius to cast back the dark shadows and step confidently into the light. You are not just loved, but adored by those you consider family. Jupiter owns the domain of the family, and his transit here with Venus portends a delightful time to frolic at home with loved ones and realize how truly loved you are. Quality time with all the family members is in order for Virgo this delightful holiday season.
For those born under the constellation of Libra October 17th – November 15th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the domain of life associated with comradery and siblings, generating feelings of isolation and solitude. That now changes as Jupiter and Venus tenant that domain to help lift you up and shine you on. Jupiter owns this domain, and his association with your planet Venus portends a time to exit your self-imposed sabbatical and become your usual sociable self with brothers, sisters, and your buds. Deeply connecting with others inspires Venus and returns him to brilliance. Be your brilliant best in the blissful company of others this holiday.
For those born under the constellation of Scorpio, November 16th – December 15th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the part of your chart associated with food, finance, and domesticity creating turmoil. That now changes as Jupiter and Venus transit together this area of your life. It is now time to create a domestic and diet lifestyle that gives you the energy you really need to be your competitive self. You can revitalize your lifestyle by carefully preparing your own food, saving money at the same time by not busting the budget wining and dining. Think of it as a temporary financial plan to sock away more money for your holiday spending!
For those born under the constellation of Sagittarius, December 16th – January 13th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the domain of life associated with you – which has been suggestive that the Archer was more of an observer of events than a participant. That all changes now as your planet Jupiter comes to his own domain in tandem with social Venus. Now is the time this holiday season for Sagittarius’ hermitage to end. Attend all the autumnal and solstice gatherings, for you will meet kindred souls who will restore your faith in others. A special friendship has the potential to become romantic for the Archer so stay on target with your heart.
For those born under the constellation of Capricorn, January 14th – February 13th, or those of you who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the domain of life associated with health and repose. That all changes now as both Jupiter and Venus come to align with your planet Saturn, lighting the path forward to regeneration and revitalization. The exhaustion the Goat has experienced will now give way to spiritual renewal, revealing the true meaning of the winter solstice, and heralding a post-harvest time of gratitude as all that has been sown has now been reaped. The Goat knows this and rejoices steadily on in unison with Father Time and Mother Nature.
For those born under the constellation of Aquarius, February 14th – March 13th, or those of you who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the domain of life associated with your friends and sangha. A step back from social and group activities has given the Water Bearer perspective. That all changes now as both Jupiter and Venus come to Sagittarius and align with your planet Saturn. Jupiter is now in his own domain, and he promotes friendship and intentional community. Now that you have perspective, it is time to engage in communities that reflect your more serious and humanistic values. Pour forth with like-minded others during this particular time.
For those born under the constellation of Pisces, March 14th – April 13th, or those who have their Vedic Moon or rising sign therein, the Saturn-Ketu alignment has been in the domain of life associated with your career and place in the world. The time of equivocation is over now that Jupiter and Venus have entered Sagittarius. Your planet Jupiter has come to his own sign of work and career, and he is offering you light and growth to swim in career waters that are teeming with joy and gratitude. Jupiter is on top of the world right now, so make time this season to take in the view from this zenith. Once you see where the growth opportunities are in your profession you can begin the migration upstream.