Balance, harmony, relief, liberation, freedom, joy are not a one size fits all commodity. Each sign, by polarity, element, modality and orientation, has much to say about authentic ‘feel goods’ and the quickest way to relief. Here are some key points to consider:

1) Feeling good isn’t absence of stress; it’s balance, mind-body-spirit.
2) Whatever has kinked our vibe has activated our fight or flight response
3) We each have unique ways to release tension, stress and tolerations
4) Our quickest way to relief may not be what we first think!

The fight or flight response deserves its own post but for now know that when confronted with a stressful situation, the body responds in a primitive way. It floods us with adrenaline so we can better attack the threat or run like hell. Period.  As a modern day human, we are taught to ‘deal with it’ but adrenaline doesn’t prep us for this, not even close.

The number one step to stress relief is to physically burn off the adrenaline. It doesn’t matter if its through kick boxing, yoga, laps, table tennis or dog walks. Just move the body. Once the adrenaline levels are down, you can approach the ‘perceived threat’ in a more evolved way. Skipping this step is not an option, once the adrenals kick in. The body cops it and the body has to get rid of it physically through exercise.

The Signs and Stress

Each sign sees things in an entirely different way…because each perceives the world in a different way. -Richard Idemon 1985

Note: Signs are divided by polarity or yin/yang.  They also have a modality or form of motion called cardinal, fixed and mutable. It’s how roll. And, each sign represents an element corresponding to nature, fire, earth, air and water. It’s the elements I want to look at today. Consider their different approach to stress.

Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) thrives on excitement, risk and danger. They don’t often mind being kept on the edge. This element has a high tolerance for stress and thrive under loads that would cripple others. An accent on fire signs in the natal chart makes challenge and conflict a welcome stimulation. What can stress them is lack of drama and excitement. THAT can feel like a trap.

Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) abhor the stress of change and loss of control, especially when sudden and unexpected. There is a desire to experience life through the senses, meeting events in steady, predictable and enduring ways. An emphasis of earth in the natal chart makes project planning, productivity and tangible results a must.

Air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) tend to handle moderate levels of stress and the pressure of deadlines. The more there is to do, the more they get done. An accent on air in the natal chart may welcome high-tension, social environments that require quick and varied intellectual responses.

Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) take on the nuance and character of their environment, having semi-permeable boundaries. Their personal stress levels can reflect the energy of those around them. An emphasis of water in the natal chart often indicates someone who can cope with emotional turbulence when it means they can help and support others.

Note: I’m on talkshoe radio tomorrow for anyone wanting to hear more about stress relief and the zodiac. Call is Feb 22, 2012 and starts at 5 pm eastern (9am SYD time on the 23rd of Feb) Phone Number: (724) 444-7444 Call ID: 55514# (use 1# if prompted for pin) Or stream and chat at: http://www.talkshoe.com/tc/55514

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The new moon in Pisces creates a lovely alignment with the traditional ruler Jupiter and the modern ruler, Neptune. Pisces is also the sign of the Moon’s esoteric exaltation, the place where  lunar qualities can express most freely and creatively. There is sensitivity in the air, love and compassion. Open your heart to this high vibe. Connect. Commune. Complete.

What a perfect day to start meditation. (Join me if you like)

What’s happening for you on this new moon? Comments always welcome.

NEW MOON IN PISCES Feb 21
L.A. – Tuesday – 14:35
NEW YORK – Tuesday – 17:35
LONDON – Tuesday – 22:35
SYDNEY – Wednesday – 09:35

ARIES: The focus for Rams this month is on the inner world of dreams. Initiate projects that hold true value to you, not just opportunities for commerce or survival. Your ruler is still Rx so wait until your thoughts drop the chaotic energy. Instead of building a big fire and standing back, build a small fire and step up.

TAURUS: Whatever you’ve been brewing in the realm of groups and new associations, move forward now with gentle confidence. You’re friends are poised to support and nurture you from all sides! If it’s authentic, it will sing. If you need extra funds or ideas, there is a particular other who’s hanging out to be asked.

GEMINI: What is it with you and your career? It’s set to expand in ways you hadn’t dreamed possible. This is your chance to be seen in the public eye for the creative genius you are. If trepidation comes up,ie any feelings of unworthiness at the 11th hour, relax. Deep breaths. Above all else, don’t be afraid to bloom.

CANCER: Whatever long distance trip, arrangement or relationship you have going in your life, set clear and precise intentions for the best results. The theme of the month is expansion and new horizons. This can be literal or metaphorical. The important thing to note is that your world is about to get bigger! Growth!

LEO: This is a time to keep a secret and contain a project all while meeting someone eye to eye. A desire is going to go big very soon and right now you need to incubate like a smart mother hen. All this in the midst of  intimacy and the need to connect with a deep and penetrating truth. Changes will have lasting effects!

VIRGO: Pisces new moon is in your relationship sector give you a guardian angel when it comes to business or romantic commitments. There is a magical feeling in the air and you can use this rosy glow to tell a new story when it comes to your love life. Suddenly you are seeing others in their true, spiritual light.

LIBRA: The new moon in your house of health is perfect for setting intentions about the strength of the body, your power to express your will and the ways and means you accomplish what you want in life – from working for a living to deliberate creation. Feel the  energy around you. Tun in and wield your magic!

SCORPIO: Creativity, romance and wide-eyed enthusiasm well up from your heart making this a moon to remember. Put your attention on what makes your feel special, artistic, open and sharing. Identify the ingredient that it takes to ‘make’ your day. There is more where than came from. You just have to realize it.

SAGITTARIUS: Attention on your home, family and domestic affairs makes this new moon perfect for starting any repair or maintenance projects, but more than that, it’s a time to notice where you are expanding on an inner level. There is travel a foot. Doors open when you say ‘yes’ BEFORE the question is asked.

CAPRICORN: What is it you want to teach, learn, study or research? Something powerful is stirring along with the opportunity to get involved. It’s not only about reaching for personal goals. It’s about connecting to deeper spiritual links as well. Identify the direction you want to go and settle for nothing less.

AQUARIUS: It’s not always easy to change horses in the middle of the stream but if there is a sudden desire for a course correction, do not hesitate. This new moon boosts your ability to sense true values and change up where need be. The true secret to a happy life is living authentically. Check in, listen and know.

PISCES: The new moon in Pisces is a special time of year where you can feel more connected, more tapped in. From there you have the ability to add meaning to your life. There might be a bit of a dreamy quality to how you see yourself and choices seem to be more glamorous than practical. Let your heart be the guide. Set intentions for the upcoming year! Happy Birthday!

Have a wonderful New MOON Everyone!

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This longing is often fulfilled through creative inspiration, service, and self-healing that leads to the healing and teaching of others. Think mystical healer,  inspired artist, saver of the planet.  As a mutable water sign, energy is drawn from the surroundings, conducting and defusing quickly, and sometimes unpredictably.

In Gaelean astrology (see Quantum E books 1-6) Pisces is called the Fishes and links to reverence of all forms of life, the intuition and imagination. Magic. There is a duel rulership: Jupiter which gives expansiveness and dignity and Neptune which lends psychic sensitivity and compassion. The natural seat of Pisces/Fishes is the 12th house, the domain of the unconscious and service to those without a voice.

Where we find Pisces in the chart is where the mystical, poetic and compassionate side of the soul awakens.  Here we can connect in ways that make life more beautiful, reverent and magical.  Whether the gift is used or not can have a strong bearing on our peace of mind.

To welcome the Pisces vibe, engage in activities described by the house this sign falls in. Celebrate all the good things going on there! If you aren’t sure where this is happening in your personal astrology, follow the tutorial. Still not sure? Post a link to your chart in the comments. I or one of our astro-savvy subscribers will help!

Here are key words for the houses so you can get an idea of what’s the buzz and where to put your focus!

1st house – Appearance, personality traits, outlook on life
2nd house – $$$, resources, talents, peace of mind
3rd house – Teaching, learning, writing, talking, connecting
4th house – Home, family, ancestors, emotional ground
5th house – Creative expression, books, kids, art, romance
6th house – Health, pets, daily routine, magic
7th house – Socially significant relationships, contracts
8th house – sex, death, taxes, shared resources, trust
9th house – New horizons, travel, beliefs, WWW
10th house – Career, mission, profession, public relations
11th house – Friends, goals for the future, groups, collective
12th house – unconscious, dreams, giving and receiving, meditation

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It can live out on a personal level, like the right job, career, relationship, home, artistry, or it can be more transpersonal, caring for animals, the environment, creating clean water and good food for all.It can also be both.

The Draconic zodiac resonates with a deeper level of soul, a deeper level of the collective. You can take this will to action and make strides in your personal life, and you can also give something back to the community, environment, Mother Earth. Mars Rx in this position asks us to consider our actions and reactions. Get beneath the surface to your core values. What intentions are you setting today? What is it you would like to see accomplished?

If you don’t have a favourite organization for your save the planet fund, join me with ISF

Details: Mars is currently at 19 Virgo in the Tropical Zodiac and 8 Capricorn in the Draconic Zodiac. If you’ve got questions about reading the Draconic chart, let me know. I’ll incorporate into a series of posts on the subject.

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Who knows which tarot deck this 3 of Swords is from?

V-day in the northern hemisphere and people are thinking about love, romance and all that jazz. Not always a sweet spot for everyone. I found Jeannette Maw’s recent post on this so enlightening, I wanted to link it here. Thank you Jeannette!

When your Loved One Isn’t Lovable
by Jeannette Maw

Here in the U.S. we join many countries today in honoring Valentine’s Day-  an occasion for celebrating the love of your life with romantic gestures and gifts.

Which is sometimes a sore spot for those who aren’t currently partnered with someone to love, or for those who are in relationships but feel ignored or under appreciated by significant others.

With this current spotlight on idealized love, it can make Valentine’s Day a grin and bear it kind of holiday. Law of attraction has a solution, though . . .

Jeannette Maw is the Good Vibe Coach and founder of Good Vibe University.  Find her latest writing at Good Vibe Blog.

Cupido, Sappho, Eros, Amor
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Astro Flash

Things to do to awaken your intuition:

Listen to the body. Take time out when you feel something physical, a pain, sensation, or delight and tune in. There is a message there!

Be in nature. We are of Mother Earth and though sometimes our modern lives separate our feet from the ground, our hair from the wind, our skin from the sun and rain, we respond on an inner level to being ‘in the wilds.’ Go there.

Connect with those who have ‘no voice’. Animals, planets, rivers, oceans, storms, trees all have an inner voice if we care to listen. Expand your connection through touch, meditation and active imagination. Listen, nurture, trust.

Let me know if you have any other ideas on how to connect to your instinctual wisdom and your inner guides. Have a great day!

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Why? Because love loves. It is its nature and when you feel that love within, you see the world in a new light. You become a new light!

The madness of being in love clearly shows many characteristics of soul activity: interference with plans and projects, long periods of time spent in daydream…projection of ideal fantasies…confusion about personal goals and values, a weakening of willpower—all of these reveal an activation of the deeper strata of the soul. –Thomas Moore

How does this happen? All romance, all love, begins with Self. If that sounds narcissistic, it’s because it is. Self-love is at the core of all connection. If you have no reverence for your own life, you will not have it for anyone else. Self-love is also at the core of deliberate creation. Jeannette Maw puts it like this:

When it comes to confidence building, allowing new relationships and lifting the vibe, a lot of people don’t realize how important the Self Love factor is.  But learning to practice it is CRUCIAL to successful deliberate creation, because the Universe can only be as good to us as we are to ourselves. 

If we want to save the planet, nurture Mother Earth, connect with like-minded others, fall head-over-heels in love, we have to awaken ourselves first, just as Psyche awoke Eros!

With that in mind, here’s wishing everyone oceans of love, beginning with love of our own hearts.

Namaste!

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For those asking where JBN falls in in the series, my suggested reading order goes like this:

Enjoy! (Some nice and intense reading for moon in Scorpio!)

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Polidoro Caldara da Caravaggio

Astro-Flash: Pallas Athene with Mercury and Neptune at 0 Pisces brings ideas from the depths of the unconscious. Like Athene, who was born full grown from her father’s head, dressed in golden armor, wielding a sword and screaming a war cry, the inspiration might be shocking. Expect epiphanies with a change of attitude.

Add to her Mercury, who was not only the messenger of the gods (mind and communication) but the watcher of the crossroads. Whenever we get an idea that requires change, Mercury is at the core because no matter which way we go, it all begins with a thought.

Mix with them the ineffable qualities of Neptune in the sign of communion with all life, the sea of the unconscious and you have the ingredients for pure consciousness – which is what Deepak Chopra calls our ground state, a field of ‘infinite possibilities.’ Everything begins there, in the gap between our thoughts, in that moment before the choice where everything you can imagine is still possible!

. . . We build our future thought by thought,
For good or ill, yet know it not.
Yet, so the universe was wrought.

Thought is another name for fate;
Choose, then, thy destiny and wait,
For love brings love and hate brings hate.
—Henry Van Dyke

Simple as that.

That are your inspirations for the week? I’d love to hear them.

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Reflection

Astro-Flash: Asteroid 433 Eros goes retrograde this weekend at 12 Virgo, turning the energy of passion and creative expression inward, towards the soul. There is a feeling of reflection, an analysis of the heart. The more gentle and loving you can be (non judgmental), the more you’ll bloom. Allow!

Allowing is the key. It is the letting go of resistances that opens us to the fulness of life. Judging a thing, labeling it ‘good’ or ‘bad’ sets us up for self-recrimination. That’s definitely not the vibe we’re after.

As you reflect on your inner life, relationships and creativity, approach it as if speaking to your very best friend. Be that generous. It’s not so much a question of what you have accomplished or how long something ‘lasts’. Think instead, what a glorious journey! Have a great weekend everyone!

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