The planets are moving from the tempestuous and impulsive heat of Aries into the grounded creativity of Taurus this week, and as they shift their emphasis from Fire to Earth, we experience the potential to settle down and settle into different daily rhythms. Just don’t expect this transition to be instantaneous. Also don’t assume that the seemingly never-ending personal and collective intensity of life is going to suddenly evaporate – no chance. It’s simply going to display itself through a different lens of behavioral patterns.
Anticipate strong emotional reactions as many of us attempt to adjust to the patterns. Transitions are seldom smooth, and this one could be more than a little bumpy. So when possible, be patient and kind with yourself and your fellow travelers. We’re all in this together, and we all have varying levels of skill when it comes to handling change.
Here’s the lineup: Venus moved into Taurus on Monday, April 15. The Sun enters Taurus on Friday, April 19, and Mars follows suit, on Saturday, April 20. Taurus represents the power and force of the physical world, whether that power is seen through the capacity of the earth to give birth to an infinite multitude of concrete, tangible life forms, or seen as the sheer strength of the physical world to endure. Ruled by Venus, Taurus is a sensual Sign that delights in the power of physical body, a power that includes the capacity to experience and often indulge in the pure pleasure of the material world. And it’s not that Taurus lacks a spiritual dimension – far from it. At its deepest, Taurus is the Sign where we experience the privilege of the physical body, as well as realize the power of spirit to animate form. This week, as the Sun and Mars join Venus, in Taurus, make it a point to appreciate the power of your body. Indulge in earthly delights, and expand your appetite for life and all its sensual pleasures.
But the astral heat of recent weeks isn’t completely extinguished and wont’ be for quite some time. A Mercury/Uranus conjunction, in Aries, continues to provide a facile mindset that tends toward innovative thinking. Mercury favors quick mental processes and when it combines with the volatility of Uranus, the keeper of invention, flashes of genius are possible. What’s more, although the Sun and Mars are in Taurus, they are traveling in tandem, and because Mars resonates with Aries’ fire, their conjunction is certain to skew the normal Taurus reticence into decisive action.
Most importantly, Uranus, in Aries, is tightening its square to Pluto, in Capricorn. This square is exact on May 20, and it is the third exact square in a series of seven occurring between June 2012 and March 2015. Frankly, I think it is impossible to predict how this next square will manifest – so much is changing, and the contrast between the shifting paradigms is so stark, that there’s just no telling what the next phase of transformation will be. But one thing is sure, as we build toward this next shift marker, many of us are likely to feel increasingly agitated and restless. Use this energy to make progress toward what you would most like to change. Start simple – start with a change of heart that includes other points of view, even if those opinions clash with your own.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that, too.
Aries March 21-April 19
Pay close attention to those flashes of brilliance. You may not be able to act on every idea, now, but that doesn’t mean you won’t eventually reap the rewards of invention.
Taurus April 20-May 20
Be ready, willing, and able to assume an authentic leadership position. This phase isn’t about false bravado; it’s about learning to stand comfortably in your power.
Gemini May 21-June 21
Your innate flexibility is your most valuable transformational tool. Use it wisely by cultivating the capacity to stand in another’s shoes and see the world through a different, often oppositional perspective.
Cancer June 22-July 22
The universal symbol for invention – the light blub – is illuminating career issues. Don’t dismiss any idea as too unconventional. Very few of your ideas may be realistic, but all you need is one that is.
Leo July 23-August 22
Stay present in your personal process, but also be willing to step into a larger arena. Simply allow your current situation to unfold and you’ll soon realize the power of its potential.
Virgo August 23-September 22
There is no simple answer to your dilemma, so rather than looking for a quick fix, take the time to contemplate all the facets. Eventually you’ll find the appropriate solution.
Libra September 23-October 22
It’s a genuine hallelujah moment, as lightning bolts of realization illuminate previously unexamined terrain, allowing you to break free from an old persistent pattern.
Scorpio October 23-November 21
The tilt continues toward relationship issues, and it doesn’t matter if you are partnered. The most important component of this next phase is examining your relationship to yourself.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21
Something or someone could get lost in translation during this transition if only because there is so much to handle. Prioritize your concerns, and stick to that list.
Capricorn December 22-January 19
As you settle into a new, but regular routine, remember to include enough time for fun. Work is important, but so are the relaxation benefits of simply having a good time.
Aquarius January 20-February 18
Honor your need for rest and relaxation, and take all the time you need to replenish your reserves. Don’t worry about what’s next – just let yourself build your strength.
Pisces February 19-March 20
Yes, there’s a lot that needs to be said, but there’s also a need to be circumspect, which is why it’s important to be discriminating about what you share.
Ralfee Finn specializes in Transformational Astrology. For readings, call 1-888-937-9264, write P.O. Box 343, New York, NY 10025, visit AquariumAge.com, or e-mail Ralfee@AquariumAge.com. Copyright © 2013 by Ralfee Finn