Storm Cestavani's Cosmic Weather Forecast

Get Tomorrow's Scoop Today! Astrological Forecast for September 13, 2011

The combination of the Sun in Virgo and Moon in Aries is interesting because the two signs really have nothing in common.  Virgo likes everything structured, orderly, and understated; whereas Aries is enthusiastic, assertive, and tempestuous.  So, on Tuesday, we may feel like we are emotionally on edge and anxious to move on to the next thing, yet Virgo requires us to be detail oriented and thorough.   Since the Moon and Mars are in mutual reception (fancy term for each other’s signs), we may need to take extra caution or later in the week we may have to redo things to Virgoan standards.

Astro-tidbit:   Anytime two planets are in each other’s signs it is called a mutual reception.  Mutual receptions allow the planets to change places in the zodiac.   In this case, it would place the Moon at 27 Cancer and Mars will be located through the first several degrees of Aries since the Moon moves very quickly.  

The Moon makes several aspects Tuesday including a conjunction with Uranus, a square to Pluto, and an inconjunct to Mercury.  These are very frustrating aspects since they all indicate that emotionally we may feel like we are on a rollercoaster as the day progresses.   My biggest advice for the day is to try not to react (will be hard with Mars’ influence) and just think things out before performing any immediate action.   Make sure that whatever you choose is something you really want to do before moving forward.

In other astrological news, Venus will inconjunct Neptune late in the evening hours.   This aspect is rather undermining because Neptune can make Venus very insecure about our relationships.   If you find yourself questioning your relationships or worried about what your significant other thinks or feels about you try to ignore it at this time.  Venus will soon move into Libra – the sign it rules – and you will begin to feel a little more emotionally secure on Wednesday.

Mercury in Virgo and How It Affects You...

Great News!  For those that were overly frustrated (and according to my social media feed that was most of you) while Mercury spent a significant amount of the summer in dramatic Leo, you can breathe a sigh of relief.  Today, Mercury will move out of shadow as it moves into the sign of Virgo for the 2^nd time this year.  Mercury will remain in Virgo until September 25.   Take advantage of the next 7 weeks because the next shadow period begins on November 5^th, and Mercury will go retrograde on Thanksgiving Day in Sagittarius.

Mercury is most at home in the sign of Virgo because it not only rules the sign but is exalted in Virgo as well.  Mercury rules expression, communication, conversation, and the way we understand life.   The next three weeks will be about analyzing and observing our circumstances especially regarding our jobs and daily habits, and ultimately making changes in our day to day life.   Further, we will find a strong desire to be charitable and will have opportunities to be of service to those that need it.   For those that wish to start an exercise plan or wish to put forth effort in leading a healthier life, Mercury in Virgo is one of the best times to do it.

There are a couple of things that we need to avoid during this transit.  One is attempting to over-analyze a situation, which can lead us to being highly reactive and often we can get in a self-righteous and critical mind set.   The other is to avoid excessive worry and fear based thoughts.   When we allow fear and anxiety to rule this can ultimately lead to problems with the digestive and nervous systems.

How Mercury’s Transit through Virgo Will Affect Your Sign:
(Read for both your Sun and Ascendant signs)

Aries:  Out of all the signs of the zodiac, this transit could prove to be not only frustrating for you but could lead to dramatic changes in your life.   Try not to over analyze situations and circumstances and read more into them than what is really there.  Try to stick to the facts, not to your emotions.   Further, you will need to avoid being emotionally reactive during this time.  

Taurus:  Mercury is traveling through your solar 9^th house, so you will find that learning new things and attempting to understand the larger world will be your mission for the next 3 weeks.   Spiritual thoughts and ideas will be highly important to you.  If you have considered taking a course or a seminar, Mercury in Virgo will provide you with the focus to achieve your goals.

Gemini:  Mercury is moving through your solar 10^th house.   You will be inspired by lots of information about business, job, and career throughout September.  Try to stick to one or two projects because when you have too much on your plate you tend to become bored with everything and nothing tends to get done. 

Cancer:  Communicating with friends and associates will be very important for you during this transit.   You may be presented with opportunities that would not be ordinarily available by networking and linking in with your social scene.   Avoid over thinking circumstances and situations which are beyond your control.

Leo:   Mercury will transit through your 12^th house which will open the flood gates to your already creative nature.   The 12^th house connects us to the larger collective unconscious and Mercury transiting through this house tells us to pay very close attention to your gut instincts and hunches.   If you are inspired by an idea definitely go with it.

Virgo:   Speaking your mind and communicating your needs will be important over the next 3 weeks.  This is your time to stay focused on you and what you desire out of life.  In addition, Mercury in your first house could prove to be very beneficial if you are starting a promotional campaign or any form of self-promotion.  The natural sign of the 1^st house is Aries which will give you drive and determination to get what you want.

Libra:  Chances for financial improvement will occur this month if you take advantage of the opportunities that are available to you.  Rather than dismissing things or staying on the fence, you will need to be more aggressive and actually seize the moment.  This may be difficult for you, but the rewards (if you can raise your sword to the cause) will be many.

Scorpio:  Mercury in the third house will present you with a natural ability for you to communicate what you want.   Since Mercury is the natural ruler of this house, you will find your mind will be very adept and your ability to process information will be at an all-time high.  However avoid gossip at all costs because it could prove lethal if your “information” turns out to be wrong. 

Sagittarius:  Problems surrounding your home life may occur while Mercury is retrograde in your 4^th house which could prove to be frustrating.   This includes everything from mechanical breakdowns, to housing repairs, and even arguing with other family members.   This is a month where you should definitely pause before you react to anything as Mercury’s silver tongue could get you in trouble.

Capricorn:  Mercury transiting your solar 5^th house will give you deep insight into yourself and your true desires.   If you are currently single you could find someone of interest around you, or even start a new romantic encounter.   This is a transit where luck is on your side, so if you want to take a risk now would be the time to do it.

Aquarius:  The Sixth house is considered the house of health, jobs, service to others, and day to day activities.  You will notice that one of these areas will be activated during this cycle.   If you are experiencing problems in your work or career this could prove to be a rather difficult 3 weeks for you, but the good news is that things will improve dramatically when we move into October.   An excellent way of relieving stress is working out or beginning an exercise program.

Pisces:  Relationships will be your focus over the next 3 weeks as Mercury transits through your 7^th house.   Since the 7^th house is the natural home of the sign of Libra, you may find communication to be a little stressed.   This is a great time for you to reflect and analyze what you truly want and need out of your relationships, and attempt to convey this to your partner.  

Tarot Tune-Up:   Get out your tarot or oracle deck.  Shuffle the cards thoroughly.   Ask yourself the following question, “How best can I use the energy of the Mercury in Virgo transit in my life?”  Draw a single card from the deck.

I drew the Ace of Wands:   During the Mercury in Virgo transit, I should focus on new opportunities and new projects that are presented to me.  It’s a great time to start something new.

Mercury in Leo oppose Neptune in Aquarius

On Thursday, clouds of confusion will be the major astrological weather maker as Mercury in Leo opposes Neptune in Aquarius.   This can be difficult for more cerebral types who may find it very challenging to stay focused and centered throughout the day.  Pay very close attention to your conversations and what is being communicated to you as it will be easy to misconstrue others peoples words and intentions.  On a more positive note, it is a great day to meditate, due spiritual based activities, or artistic and creative endeavors. 

On the lunar front, the Moon moves into network oriented Aquarius changing our focus from business concerns to our friends, associates, and group activities.   In the morning hours, the Moon will sextile Uranus which could manifest as a surprising turn of events or positive communications that you could directly benefit from.   Whenever Uranus is involved, expect the unexpected!   The Moon will remain in Aquarius until Saturday afternoon.

Tarot Tune-Up:   Get out your oracle or tarot deck.  Shuffle your cards.   Ask yourself the following question,  “What is the most beneficial way for me to work with the Mercury-Neptune energy today?”   Pick a card from the deck.

I pulled the Ace of Cups:   Pay close attention to my creative ideas today.  Some new project that requires emotional connection or intuition may be on the horizon.

What card did you pull?

Cosmic Weather Forecast for September 5 - September 6, 2011

On Monday, the moon will move out of fun and boisterous Sagittarius, and into practical and reliable Capricorn.   For our fiery friends (Leo, Sagittarius, and Aries) this is a real downer because the Labor Day holiday has provided you with a break in the monotony of everyday life.   However, reality calls and it’s back to business as usual.

While the Moon is in Capricorn there will be no planetary aspects so we may notice shifts and changes in our moods especially on Tuesday when the Moon will square Uranus and conjoin with Pluto.  On Wednesday, the Moon will trine Venus providing us with many opportunities to be social.   However, towards the end of the day avoid reacting emotionally as the Moon will oppose smoldering Mars in Cancer which could lead to arguments and disagreements.  

On the business front, the Moon in Capricorn can be beneficial.   During this month transit we can take the reins and move ourselves closer to our goals, organize situations that have become out of control, and set down regulations and guidelines that will provide us a stronger foundation for our future.  However, on Tuesday avoid speculations or stock trading until late afternoon when the Moon will trine Jupiter in money oriented Taurus.

The View of "The Chew"

On September 23, a celebrated era of ABC Daytime Television will come to an end.  After 41 years, iconic “All My Children” will cease broadcasting on television and will be replaced by a talk show called “The Chew”.   Over the past several years, Brian Frons – the President of ABC Daytime – has consistently denied that ABC had any plans to make any changes to its Daytime TV structure.  Fans of “All My Children” are outraged, betrayed, and resentful over the cancellation of the series, and the apparent end of the characters they have grown to love.  

Brian Frons told the Huffington Post that changes in viewer habits who were looking for different forms of programming is the reason that the daytime soap was cancelled.   Frons further states,  “They [the viewer’s] are telling us there is room for informative, authentic, and fun shows that are relatable, offer a wide variety of opinions and focus on ‘real life’ takeaways.”  Despite ABC’s statements the ratings of daytime television have declined significantly since more woman have entered the job force.  However, the daytime audiences of the 70’s and 80’s have turned to recording their daytime serials and viewing them when time permits.   

Susan Lucci (Erica Kane) has added explosive accusations in her paperback release of her autobiography, “All My Life:  A Memoir.”  Lucci blames Brian Frons for the cancellation of “All My Children,” and believes that Frons made the decision because he was afraid of losing his job as President of ABC Daytime.  She further states that Frons was a “fatal combination of arrogance and ignorance,” and believed the cancellation was mainly attributed to network greed.

Brian Frons states that he expects some backlash, and for the loyal viewers of the shows (One Life To Live will be no longer air in January) to be very angry.  

So, under such a toxic environment how will “The Chew” fair?

The Ascendant for the debut of the chew is in energetic Sagittarius with Jupiter (ruler of Sag) in Taurus retrograde in the 5^th house of gambling.   The ruler of the ascendant being retrograde could be a problem for the show and reflects that ABC may revisit whether or not “The Chew” is a viable daytime property.   In addition, complicating Pluto in the first house and ruling the 12^th could reflect power plays and problems with the “format” could prove difficult.   This is amplified by the ruler of the 10^th (ABC) applying to a conjunction with limiting Saturn. 

Everything though comes down to the viewers, and whether or not they believe that the show is worthy of watching.   Mercury in balance oriented Libra rules the audience.   Mercury opposes rebellious Uranus and squares complicating Pluto.  Since Pluto is the ruler of the 2^nd house of money, I feel implies that ratings of the show may not be where the network would like them to be.   Further, the ruler of the 4^th house end of the matter is in the 8^th house of death.

After viewing the event chart for the debut of the show, I feel that the viewers might not have a real appetite for “The Chew”.  Loyal soap fans will probably gravitate over to CBS (who has contracted with a few All My Children fan faves) to watch “The Young and The Restless” or NBC’s “Days of Our Lives,” leaving ABC to find a new audience to sup with the daytime chefs.   Unfortunately in this economy they may all be working.

What do you guys think?

It's Time To Lend A Helping Hand

The tragedy and devastation that occurred with Hurricane Irene has crippled much of the Northeastern United States.   After having email exchanges with several friends whom are currently paralyzed by the storm; it appears that there is no end in sight.   Many are still without power and running water with no estimation date to when their utilities will be restored.  It has truly been an awakening for those that believed a Category 1 Hurricane would be nothing for the Northeast to bear – when it actually could come close to rivaling Hurricane Katrina in estimated damage costs.

As an astrologer, it has been very difficult to watch.   Since I do know enough astrometeorology to be dangerous, I have written several times about an East Coast Hurricane occurring around the time of the grand square in August.  We are not out of the woods yet, it is possible for another major storm to strike the United States in the month of September. 

On a much more positive note, this weekend could prove to be the beginning of relief for the storm ravaged areas on the East Coast.   The Sun in Virgo (help and service to others) will make a trine to Jupiter in Taurus.  This is a great aspect for lending a helping hand, as well becoming more optimistic about the future.   For those suffering through the hardship of the storm, this could prove to be comforting.   For those not affected by the storm, Sun trine Jupiter will provide you with self-confidence, hopefulness, optimism, and you will feel that luck is on your side.    However, be careful not to be self-indulgent and self-righteous.    If you get a chance to lend a hand to others take advantage of the good karma points this will provide.  You may need to spend them later!

Over the Labor Day weekend, the Moon will move through Scorpio until Saturday evening when it will transition into Sagittarius.   The Moon in Scorpio can make us feel very intense, and since the majority of the aspects on Saturday are difficult we could find ourselves feeling anxious (Mercury) and a bit off-center (Neptune).  It will be imperative that we think things out before reacting to them, because things may not be as they seem and we will find our emotions running wild. 

On Saturday evening, The Moon will move into Sagittarius and we will notice a huge change in the energy.   Sagittarius is known for its ability to have fun so take advantage of that energy while it is available.  The aspects of the Sagittarian Moon on Labor Day are very positive so make sure you take a day to relax, recharge your batteries, and celebrate your accomplishments of the past year.

Tarot Tune-Up:   Get out your tarot or oracle decks.  Shuffle the Cards.  Ask yourself the following question,  “What can I do to be a blessing to others?”  Draw a card out of the deck.   What card did you draw?

Beyonce Is Pregnant

The MTV Music awards have made an American tradition out of shock and awe.  On Sunday evening, everyone expected that shock and awe to come from opening act Lady Gaga.   True to form, Gaga was shocking performing her single, “You and I,” as her alter ego Jo Calderone and attempting to kiss Britney Spears while presenting her with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.   However, much to everyone’s surprise the nights shocking moment was from Beyoncé who revealed she was pregnant with her first child -- simply by holding her baby bump on the red carpet.

One of Beyoncé’s publicists later confirmed the “Baby Boy” singer’s pregnancy to the Associated Press.

This is not the first time at the rodeo for the 24 hour celebrity press to jump on the Beyoncé pregnancy bandwagon.   In March 2010, rumors surfaced of a pregnancy that was later denied by Beyoncé’s publicist.  Later, unnamed sources claimed that Beyoncé had miscarried – which I did not psychically feel.   In November, another pregnancy rumor surfaced that was denied by Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles. 

All The News That’s Fit to Predict:

Let’s find out the future of Beyoncé’s pregnancy.

I cast a horary (the moment of a question) for the moment I realized (this was before it was confirmed by the AP, and was not just a publicity stunt) that Beyoncé was pregnant.   Beyonce is represented by the first house of the chart with fiery Aries rising, which describes Beyonce’s personality perfectly.   The ruler of Aries, Mars is in mother oriented sign of Cancer, and in the fourth house of family.  Further, the Moon is located in the fifth house of children.   The chart confirmed that Beyoncé was indeed pregnant.

Beyoncé’s health is ruled by Mercury – the ruler of her 6^th house.  Mercury is in Leo, but in mutual reception with the Sun.   Beyoncé’s health is stable and it appears that she will have a very productive relationship with her doctor and a supportive husband during her pregnancy.  This is indicated by Venus being the ruler of the 7^th house which rules both the doctor and Jay-Z.  

The only warning in this chart is Saturn which is in the 6^th house and ruler of the 10^th house career.  Beyoncé will have to take time off and relax during the pregnancy despite her high standard of work ethic.   Since Saturn rules bones and skin, Beyoncé could find her back being more strained than normal during the pregnancy.  Overall, her pregnancy looks like it will go forward with minimal risks.

What will the baby be?

I pulled a tarot card to find out about the sex of the baby.   The card is the King of Wands.   All indications are that the child will be a boy.

I wish Beyoncé a relaxing and stress free pregnancy.

Jupiter Retrograde in Taurus

Just when we thought the retrograde madness was over as Mercury turned direct Friday in Leo, the big kahuna Jupiter will go retrograde this week.  Now before you scream or pull your hair out of your head, Jupiter is always benefic regardless of whether or not it is direct or retrograde.   For those of you that did not listen, I will wait while you super glue your hair roots back into your head.

So, how do we work with Jupiter retrograde?  First, let’s describe what Jupiter does in the horoscope.   Simply put, Jupiter is our enthusiastic faith that although life may be difficult our situation will improve.  When we hear phrases such as, “this too shall pass,” or “the glass is half full,” the words of Jupiter are whispering in our ears leading us to look at life in an optimistic way.  When Jupiter is direct, he is the great explorer leading us towards a vision of life being better, and provides us with concepts and philosophies that allow us to continue to have belief, faith, and enthusiasm about the dreams of a better tomorrow.  When Jupiter is retrograde, he is still beneficial and does not affect us in a personal way as the inner planets (Mercury, Venus, and Mars) do.   Instead, Jupiter tends to simplify things that we have learned, philosophies we have studied, and education we have received and apply it in an applicable way to our lives.  Our attention moves from a focus on outer expansion and moves us towards inner growth.

Since Jupiter is in Taurus, our finances become an issue that we need to dress on the inner level rather than the outer.   We can use this retrograde period – which lasts until December 25^th – to ask ourselves what money really means to us, and are we spending our financial resources in a way that gives us what we need, yet provides the energy of money the respect it deserves.   This could not come at a better time with the world being in a financially turbulent period and much of it involves our belief that “instant gratification” is the name of the game.   Our real values will become important to us during this transit, along with the need to find more useful and beneficial ways to deal with our money and be introspective about the reasons we purchase what we purchase.   For many this will be a great conflict, as we often make purchases based on a momentary need to fill a lack or a void in our lives rather than use our financial resources to build something meaningful and more aligned with our inner philosophies.

In other astrological news, this should be a great week after the havoc caused by Mercury retrograde.   Although Mercury is still in shadow and we are repairing the damage of the last several weeks, we will find that our communication will be easier and our difficulties with electronic devices will lessen.   The astrological aspects for the week are all amazingly positive as the Sun trines Pluto, Venus trines Jupiter, and the Sun trines Jupiter at the end of the week.  This is really a great week for achievements, financial improvement, as well as deeper understanding of what we truly want and desire.

Tarot Tune-Up:   Get out your tarot or oracle decks.  Shuffle your cards.   Ask the following question, “What can I do to improve my relationship with money?”   Draw three cards from the deck.  Let me know what you pulled!

The Secret Spirituality of the Movie 'Clueless'

I believe that we can find the spiritual in everything if we are willing to look closely.   Often, it is hiding in the most unlikely places.   We can find it in the most evolved and esoteric or veiled in the mundane, the hilarious, and even the absurd.  However, like the mysteries contained within the High Priestess card of the mystical tarot, it is up to us to have the courage to seek out the spiritual nuggets presented to us.

Believe it or not a movie that has an overflowing basket of spiritual nuggets is the 1995 comedy, Clueless.  I am sure your kneejerk reaction to this revelation is “as if!” But seriously, there is much insight that can be gleaned from this movie.  The adventures of Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone) and her group of Beverly Hills friends as they journey through the angst of young adulthood is something we all experience on one level or another.   Although our problems in adulthood can be more complex and sophisticated, they truly are not all that different.  We all go through love problems, the need to be accepted, the need to feel secure, and the need to find ourselves in a world that can seem overwhelming.   We all make mistakes, and we all learn from them.  However, when we look back at our past problems and difficulties, we often realize how clueless we were.

So, what does Cher Horowitz have to do with the energy of the week?  Everything!  But first the astrology…

Astrological Energy of the Week:

After several weeks of rather intense astrological energies we finally get a break.   Get out those margaritas, fun in the sun toys, and if you live in the southern hemisphere some hot apple cider with cinnamon while snuggling in front of the fire will do the trick.   Enjoy this break while it lasts because Mercury will go retrograde on August 2^nd.

There are two sign changes this week.   First, Venus will move out of emotional Cancer and into fiery Leo.  Leo is all about glamour and pampering ourselves.   Go out and get your hair done, buy yourself a new outfit, or simply bling up your outfits with a little glitz and frost.   Venus is in her joy when she is in Leo, and it is a great time for us to explore possible new romantic relationships or spice up our current ones; however you need to try to remain grounded.   Often Venus in Leo can get so caught up in the romantic drama that the reality of relationship and structure becomes more than she can handle.  Secondly, Mercury moves out of dramatic Leo and into meticulous Virgo (the sign it will retrograde in).   In Virgo, Mercury understands life by creating structured order in what can feel chaotic and unorganized.  It is a great time for you to do research, take on mental projects, and be very clear about what you want out of life.  If you are finishing up a writing or research project this will be an incredible week for you.  However, keep in mind that Mercury will turn retrograde so this window of opportunity will quickly close.

In addition to the two sign changes, there are two planetary aspects this week as well.   On Wednesday, the Sun in Leo will trine Uranus in Aries.   This aspect is a powerful juggernaut, and being in fire signs will give you an enormous creative urge over the next week.   New ideas will come to you rather spontaneously and you will feel highly stimulated.   Often, the intensity of this aspect will make you feel high strung, alert, and restless, so try to contain yourself and be as grounded as you can be throughout the week.   Further, this aspect directs you to focus on technical gadgets, so make sure you back up your computer before the retrograde hits!   On Thursday, Mercury will oppose Neptune.  Normally, this is a rather confusing aspect that can make you feel out of sorts (and for airy people it still may), yet your advantage is that Mercury is in its own sign of Virgo.  If you begin to feel confused or need to make order out of chaos (see above), Mercury will provide you with the ability to sort things out and make sense of it all.  All Mercury - Neptune aspects are a great time to do creative or artistic work, or connect to your inner spirit.    

Finally, on Saturday we will have a New Moon at 8 degrees of Leo.  At its core, the sign of Leo is about individuality.   This is a great time for you to do intention work that focuses on your individual talents and gifts.  Also, if you are interested in attracting love to you, this is a great time to do it.  If you have any planets around 8 degrees of a sign, this New Moon could be a channel for new beginnings and new opportunities heading your way.

Your Cosmic Weather Forecast:

Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone) is the heroine of the movie Clueless.   She is not the normal image of a heroic figure that fights dragons, engages in warfare, and topples kingdoms, yet she is a heroine nonetheless.  Unlike other heroic female figures, such as Wonder Woman or Xena, Cher is a heroine of the heart.  Her battles are in the name of love, and rather than using swords and power she uses the depth of her feelings and emotions.

Through most of the movie, Cher spends her time being a matchmaker for other people, yet her own desire to be in love is denied.   The one instance she attempts to connect with another classmate, she shockingly finds out that he is gay!  However, severe crisis (which occurs with all heroic figures) strikes when she fails her driver’s exam, which gives Cher insight into her own personality, and she begins to reflect.  This process of reflection allows Cher to realize what she wants in her own life and the depth of her own emotional feelings – however awkward those may be.  Once she takes the steps to honor herself, she finally falls in love. 

This week the kabbalistic portion is called Massei.  It is a story that retells the places that the Israelites stop on their journey from Egypt to Israel.  To be honest, it is one of the most boring portions of the Torah, and it drones on and on about each place the Israelites set up camp.   I truly have to force myself to stay awake when reading this portion.  Further, there is no Zohar assigned to this portion, so the meaning is hidden and obscured.  However, this portion has one of the most powerful messages of the entire Torah.

According to the Kabbalistic sages, the portion of Massei is all about our spiritual journey.   It includes the things we learn, the things we get wrong, the places that we are reactive, our moments of joy and happiness, and those periods of our life that we are in pain.  It is through our spiritual journey and process that we learn what we want to achieve, and we decide what our priorities are.   In essence, the trip from Egypt to Israel describes different spiritual lessons (and those teenage years are part of them) we learn to complete our correction. 

Many new students of kabbalah become overwhelmed by correction.   They believe (and trust me I have been there) that you need to fix everything as quickly as possible and then you will achieve some form of spiritual ascension.  However, the Kabbalists state that in order for us to achieve our correction we must take action.   What kind of action?   It is rather simple – the actions we must take to perform our correction are bound up in living our lives.   It is our journey, our path, the way we experience it, and the choices that we make along the way. 

True spiritual change does not happen overnight.  It is a series of trial and error.  We learn by our perceived failures and triumphs, and we adjust and modify our lives based on those experiences.  Sometimes we hit a crisis (like Cher does), and we begin to realize what it is in life that we truly want.  We feel clueless, but through our confusion we achieve our next step on the journey.  We learn that it is the process that is our spiritual ascension, not the destination.

Tarot Tune-Up: 

Get out your favorite Tarot or Oracle Deck.  Shuffle the cards thoroughly.   Ask yourself the following question, “What do I need to know about my current process within my journey?”  Draw three cards.  Let me know which ones you picked!

Spiritual Warfare and How to Survive It

I had to laugh this week when one of my Facebook friends asked me whether or not there “was a positive week in my world.”  It made me really sit back and reflect on how much challenging energy we have had this year.   Ironically, the astrology for 2011 is much more intense than the astrology for 2012 – despite what people predict about the Mayan calendar.  Batten down the hatches and put on your seat belts, the next several weeks are going to be very intense with the kabbalistic Negative Three weeks and Mercury Retrograde in the very near future.   Sigh!  

I think the most important question for us to ponder is what can we learn from these intensive energies?  According to Kabbalah, the planetary activities are messages from the Light, and provide us with information on how to navigate our lives through “intensive periods”.   Let’s face it with global warming, political gridlock, people forgetting about human dignity, and numerous wars that include the loss of human life, we begin to understand why the energies are so intense?   Are we really learning the lesson or are we simply missing the point?   We tend to see the problems of the world as ‘out there’ and anesthetize ourselves against any personal contribution or responsibility.  

On Monday evening, the ‘Negative Three Weeks’ begin.  Why are these three weeks negative? Kabbalistically, we are taught that during the last part of the sign of Cancer, and the beginning of the sign of Leo that the energies are no longer diluted (The Sun and Moon rulers of Cancer and Leo rule no other signs, so their energies are not distributed between two sources; whereas all the other planets rule two signs) and we get a straight shot of light without a filter from the universe.   Kabbalists believe that during this period the spiritual ozone layer is removed, and as a result we are exposed to excessive amounts of Light that we spiritually cannot handle.  

In essence, we have to create our own “ozone” layer, which I will reveal after the astrology…

The Astrology:

This week we have very little astrological activity.   There are no major planetary aspects, and the only sign change is the Sun moving out of Cancer and into Leo.   For those of you who have read my Cosmic Weather Forecast in the past, you know I am very suspicious about weeks that have no aspects.  Why?  The energy seems to enter into a stagnation period.   This amplifies the last aspect which seems to take hold and linger without a shift of energy for a long period of time.  

The last significant astrology aspect (minus the Full Moon) was Venus in Cancer square Saturn in Libra.  I stated the following about Venus square Saturn last week:

“In my experience as an astrologer this is one of the most difficult aspects – especially for those that are more emotionally sensitive to the outer world.  Venus is our ability to relate and enjoy our connections with others.  When Venus becomes afflicted by Saturn, Saturn exposes Venus’ emotional vulnerability and we often close down emotionally.   In many cases, we begin to isolate and disengage from our social circles.   It is necessary when Venus is square Saturn for us to develop self-confidence and a feeling of personal self-worth. “

This remains true for the upcoming week as well.  

On Saturday, the Sun will move out of watery and emotional Cancer and into its own sign of Leo.   Whenever the Sun is in Leo, we need to find an area of our life where we can shine.   This could be in career, relationships, or outside activities, yet there is a need for us to discover creative outlets where we can truly express ourselves and our uniqueness.   Leo is a dynamic sign that reveals our own personal power.  We can use this energy to find our own sense of personal destiny, which will help relieve the energy of the ongoing Venus – Saturn square.

Your Cosmic Weather Forecast:

This week the kabbalistic portion is called Matot (Tribes).  This is a rather peculiar portion because it ALWAYS appears during the Negative Three Weeks.  In Kabbalah, nothing happens by accident so there is a reason why this portion occurs during this time period.  Why?  Matot can give us needed information on how to create our own “spiritual ozone” layer to shield us from the intense energies of this period.

In this portion, there is a story where God instructs Moses to avenge the Israelites (code for those that believe in mind over matter) of the Midianites.   God does not instruct Moses to send the best warriors, yet the most spiritually elevated members of the tribe.   Why?   This particular war against the Midianites was not a physical war, yet a spiritual one.   The sages teach us that the Midianites never stopped provoking and instigating the Israelites.  In fact, the Midianites went to other nations and stirred them up to attack the Israelites as well. 

So, who are the Midianites?     According to the Zohar, the Midianites are a code for “awakened negativity inside and outside of us”.   They are the self-defeating behaviors (and we all have them) that continuously appear in our lives over and over.  The Midianites are the parts of ourselves that we have problems letting go of despite the amount of chaos they create.   They are a tricky lot!  They will appear inside of you, but they also appear as people around us that ‘awaken’ our particular self-defeating behaviors as well.  Further, the Midianites are prone to using black magic.  In Kabbalah, black magic is different than what black magic is considered in the pagan tradition.   Black magic is used to confuse us so we are not able to see the truth, and to distort circumstances so they appear in fragmented forms and guises. 

This week (and the two weeks after), we begin a process of needing to keep our spiritual guard up.   We need to be very aware of the energies (and the people) around us, and try not to fall into our own self-defeating behaviors.    It will not be easy – as spiritual warfare is not easy.   We may feel reactive, depressed, dramatic, angry, bitter, and attacked; however it is necessary for us to realize that it is an illusion.   An attempt to throw us off our guard!

The portion Matot is about vulnerability, and the energies that arise when we do feel vulnerable.  We can choose either to combat these energies, or we can choose to give in to them.   According to the Kabbalistic sages, the most efficient way of battling this energy is for us to mourn how our self-defeating behaviors have limited our relationships, personal and spiritual growth.   We need to be aware of how our self-defeating behaviors have brought circumstances into our lives that have caused pain and suffering – not only for ourselves, but for others.  When we get to the point that we can truly mourn and release tears over our actions are we able to conquer our behaviors.

Tarot Tune-Up: 

Get out your tarot or oracle decks.  Ask the cards, “What can I do to let go of my self-defeating behaviors and remove chaos from my life?”   Draw one card from the deck.  Let me know what you pulled!

Mercury Hangs Out with Daddy Jupiter and Uncle Neptune

The planetary weather player for Friday is once again quick witted Mercury.  As he continues to move through the emotional waters of Cancer he is going to trine mystical Neptune and then sextile beneficent Jupiter.  After the intensive energy of the Lunar Eclipse in Sagittarius that occurred earlier in the week, this combination of harmonious aspects is rather welcomed.

So, what is the planetary scoop?  Mercury in trine to Neptune is a great time to get in touch with our spiritual and creative sides.  You can use this energy constructively to study spiritual material, take some time out for yourself to reconnect to your soul, or just spend some time listening to music or watching a good movie.  Add to that one part of meditation and many of the problems of the world will just kind of become second nature.  It’s a great day to distress and decompress.

As we head into the evening hours, Mercury will form a pretty sextile to Jupiter.  Jupiter is the planet of expansion, so he will widen our interests and attempt to make us more social.   This is a great night to either spend romantically (especially with Neptune hanging around), or to hang out with some friends and socialize.   Communication is Mercury’s domain, so great discussions, a little wine, and maybe a slice or two of cheesecake will make for a great evening.

Friday’s Tarot Tune-Up:  Shuffle your tarot deck.  Ask the following questions:   What can I do to connect more to my inner spirit.  Pull a card.   Now shuffle the deck again.  Ask the next question: What can I let go of to change my inner spirit.   Let me know what cards you pick!

Mercury Moves Into Cancer -- Cosmic Weather for June 16

On Thursday, mercurial Mercury will move out of his own sign of Gemini and into the emotional waters of Cancer.   Whenever, Mercury is in the water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces) our ability to perceive, feel, and connect to the instinctual world is heightened.  Mercury is like a child that has to test and experiment with everything, and the watery terrain of Cancer is no exception.  While Mercury is in the sign of the crab, we will notice that our understanding of life will not be through thoughts, physical sensations, or intuitive flashes, yet our experiences will be felt and understood through the lens of human emotions.   The sign of Cancer is associated with emotional security, so Mercury being in this sign for the next 3 weeks provides us a unique opportunity to find out what nourishes us, and how to implement “spiritual” food into our diets.

Tarot Tip:  Shuffle your tarot deck and ask yourself,  “What sort of spiritual food would nourish me at this time?”   Spread out your deck and pull a card.   Let me know which one you picked!

It's Not About The Weiner

Attempting to write about the general cosmic energy of an eclipse is challenging at best, but sometimes the media works perfectly in providing material that expresses the eclipse energy in a profound and universal way.   I am sure that everyone has heard about the scandal involving U.S. Congressman Anthony Weiner (D-NY).   The report of his ‘netsexting’ infidelities have appeared in every news outlet from the New York Times to CNN to TMZ – it is virtually (no pun intended) everywhere.  Over the next few weeks many stories will be written that have the tone and feeling of the eclipse.  The focus might be on what Weiner has done with his “wiener”, and whether or not he resigns from office.  However, despite the collective coloring, the eclipse beckons us to question the larger picture, and to realize that it’s not about the “wiener” it is about us.

Lunar Eclipse:  25 Sagittarius

So, what exactly is a lunar eclipse?   In astrological terms, a lunar eclipse is an opposition between the Sun and Moon.  In this case, the Sun is in the sign of Gemini and the Moon is in the sign of Sagittarius.   Since a lunar eclipse focus is on the Moon (a solar eclipse focus is on the Sun) we will find many of the same attributes that occur during an ordinary Full Moon – just highly amplified and focused on larger groups of people.   It is common during lunar eclipses for coup d’états to break out, earthquakes and other weather phenomena to occur, riots, epidemics such as flu outbreaks (especially if Neptune or the 4^th and 6^th house are involved), or any other spontaneous eruptions from the general population.   For example, the last lunar eclipse at 29 Gemini/Sagittarius and its involvement with laws, legislation, and legal matters spawned the labor strikes in Wisconsin, and the standoff between Governor Walker and his democratic opposition.

The current lunar eclipse also occurs across the Gemini/Sagittarius axis, however this time the Sun is in Gemini and the Moon is in Sagittarius.   The Sagittarian emphasis will bring out matters concerning the Judicial branch of government (i.e.. the Wisconsin Supreme court allowing the Wisconsin union law to take effect, and the motion to vacate Prop 8 decision denied), laws, legislatures and legislative officials (i.e. Weiner), foreign relations, and religion.  In addition, Sagittarius rules higher education and matters of philosophy.

It’s All About The Houses:

For our friends in the United Kingdom, this eclipse is conjoined to the Ascendant/Descendant (1^st and 7^th house) axis; this reflects a need for the UK to analyze its relationship to the outer world.  Moreover, possible problems with foreign relationships could arise.   This is a rather interesting hotspot that we should keep a very close eye on.  In the United States the eclipse lands across the 2^nd and 8^th houses.   On the surface this will highlight issues regarding finances, money, taxes, taxation, debt, credit, possible intense political battles which will result in a resolution (debt ceiling), and that little dirty word – sex!  Expect many of these issues to come to the forefront over the next several months, but pay very close attention to July 25, 2011, November 9, 2011, and December 12, 2011 as hotspot days.  Other countries that are highly sensitive to the eclipse are Afghanistan, Australia, France, and Israel.

The Deeper Meaning:

As I stated earlier, an eclipse that lands in the 2^nd house has much to do with finances, a countries worth, and what we place value upon.   One of the most common keywords for the 2^nd house is, “I have.”   We can make predictions based on these surface issues and experience a high level of accuracy, but what does this 2^nd house really mean?  At the deepest level the 2^nd house reflects our self worth and our value systems.  Howard Sasportas in his groundbreaking book, “The Twelve Houses,” has this to say about the second house.

“We base our whole existence on what we value.  When our values change, our whole life focus can alter dramatically.”

The Sagittarian lunar eclipse in the 2^nd house has to do with a value system that is often larger than life.  Sagittarius is a “my way” or the “highway” type of sign, after all its ruler is Jupiter who had a zipper problem of his own) the King of the Gods.   The religious underpinnings that exist with Sagittarius are cropping up all over the place as changes are occurring to our current establishment – and such long existing laws such as “Defense of Marriage Act,” and “Roe V Wade,” have begun to resurface.   Further, we are more focused than ever on what people are doing with their sexual organs – whether it is Arnold Schwarzenegger, John Ensign, Tiger Woods, Jesse James, or the recently exposed Anthony Weiner.   In many ways, our countries evening dinner of religious idealism has created a rather sexophobic atmosphere,   which repudiates anything beyond the missionary position unless it is happening in their bedroom.   In America, sexophobia casts a very large shadow!

The lesson(s) of this eclipse straddling the 2^nd and 8^th house axis is not really about money, sex, out-dated archaic laws,  or worn-out religious morals that are the inheritances of a time long past, yet an invitation for us to explore our values.   What do we really value?    Further, how do our values add to the larger collective?  At the end of the day, what we truly value is what we have, and in many cases the only thing we have is ourselves.   It’s time we make the most of it!

Tarot Tune-Up:

Take all the court cards out of your tarot deck and shuffle them.   Ask the Tarot Court, what do I really value?  Pull a card from the deck.  Let me know what you pulled!

Storm Cestavani --  June 15, 2011

Do You Control Your Emotions or Do Your Emotions Control You?

Did You Learn Your Saturn Retrograde Lesson?

Cosmic Weather Forecast:  June 12, 2011

The key astrological weather planet for Sunday is the planet Saturn as it changes directions in the sign of Libra.  Saturn rules structures, boundaries, limitations, and creates rules and regulations in order for us to exist in a sophisticated (the definition of sophisticated can be questioned) modern society.    Since January 26, 2011 Saturn has been in retrograde motion which has cautioned us against making sudden changes in our lives, our businesses, or relationships.   The retrograde cycle instructions us to be more reflective in order to take practical steps towards long term goals and ambitions.   However, we often tend to be very reactive during this cycle because Saturn tends to bring to the surface our fears, insecurities, and our preconceived inadequacies.  We tend to notice what is wrong with our lives, before acknowledging what is right.   

The great thing that occurs during Saturn retrograde is that Saturn provides us with the opportunity to revamp the areas of our lives that are not functioning the way we would like, and he brings forth the flaws in our current structure.  For example, if you are in a relationship that feels stymied, then Saturn retrograde will show you why you currently feel stuck and provide you with lessons that allow you to get the relationship moving again.   So, as difficult as Saturn retrograde may be, it provides us with the capability to make substantial and enduring changes that provide us with a more structured life.

Look over the period of the last six months.   What areas of your life have been difficult?   Have any situations, circumstances, or lessons been reoccurring?  If so, you are provided with a proactive opportunity to learn from these experiences and create a more sound and tangible path to follow in the future.    It gets easier from here!

In other astrological news, the Sun will conjoin with Mercury in communicative Gemini, and Venus in Gemini sextile Uranus in Aries.   It is a great day to reach out to friends, learn something new, or just simply be innovative.  It’s time to take a risk and jump out of your comfort zone and try something new.

Have a great Sunday!