By Dorene A. Carrel
February’s planetary activity is more peaceful, providing us with a break from the intensity of the previous months. As Mars aligns with both lunations, we will still have plenty of momentum for new beginnings. Other highlights include Chiron entering Pisces and Jupiter in Aries aspecting Pluto in Capricorn later in the month.
On February 2 the New Moon occurs at 14 Aquarius. It is aligned with both Mars and the dwarf planet Ceres, which is named for the Roman goddess of grain. Aquarius has a dual nature, being both independent and community-minded. As an air sign, its interests include communication, networking, grassroots endeavors and sustainability. This lunation period favors taking constructive action (Mars), especially with projects involving food, nature and nurturing or care taking (Ceres). Other themes include being inventive, unique and futuristic. The Sabian symbol for this degree is a train entering a tunnel, indicating that we have “the ability to short-cut the process of natural evolution by the exercise of will, mental skill and physical self-discipline.”
Also on February 2, Venus and Mercury align with Uranus, while Jupiter squares the nodes. We may experience a freedom/closeness dilemma in relationships now as a desire to be more independent suddenly emerges. Or we may simply gain a more detached perspective on significant issues. With the Jupiter/node aspect, we can strive for more meaning and growth in our present relationships, while eliminating unhealthy relationship patterns.
From February 4-6, the Sun and Mars will align in Aquarius and both will favorably trine Saturn in Libra. This combination favors a teamwork approach and is a good time to take constructive action on creative ideas for the future. Any actions taken now will more likely be stable and enduring. Chiron enters Pisces on February 8 for the final time, remaining in that sign for the next several years. This “wounded healer” is more at home in this healing water sign, allowing for more empathy, compassion and a less judgmental approach.
From February 8-12, Venus, Sun and Mars will align with Pluto. This combination adds depth and intensity to relationships, although issues of power and control may emerge. This is followed by a series of Mercury alignments with the outer planets from February 12-16 that can foster more communication and understanding. The Sun/Neptune alignment on February 17 brings more sensitivity and favors introspection and spiritual attunement.
On February 18 the Full Moon occurs at 29 Leo. This is the fifth and final new moon occurring at 29 degrees of a sign. This again signifies a time of completion and transition for an area of life experience. In Leo, this area could involve children, creative expression, speculation, recreation, sports and romantic relationships. This lunation is aligned with Neptune, Chiron, Mercury and Mars, bringing forth new inspiration, healing, ideas and activity. This can be a time of personal achievement (Leo) and also receiving support from like-minded others (Aquarius) to make any necessary transitions. The Sabian symbol degrees emphasize the idea of sharing on all levels, as well as “the ability for the person with an open mind and a deep feeling for self-transcendence to come in contact with higher forms of existence.”
Also on February 18, Venus in Capricorn squares Saturn in Libra and the Sun enters Pisces. Since Venus and Saturn are in mutual reception (each other’s sign), this period can be used to resolve difficult relationship issues or patterns. On February 20 Mercury and Mars align with Neptune in Aquarius, which could bring some confusion or deception. By February 22, Mercury and Mars will join the Sun and Chiron in Pisces to bring more healing awareness and desire for unity, peace and harmony.
On February 25, Jupiter in Aries forms a challenging square to Pluto in Capricorn. This aspect was in effect last summer as part of the Cardinal Climax pattern and this is the third and final square. This period can be used to uncover entrenched inner patterns or outer obstacles that may be blocking our success. It is a favorable time to release beliefs or attitudes keeping us from moving towards our greater goals. It will be helpful to stay focused on desired outcomes.
In March, Uranus enters Aries and Mercury goes retrograde later in the month. Blessings for a wonderful and prosperous month!
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Dorene Carrel is a professional astrologer with over thirty years of experience, offering birth chart, transits/progressions and relocation astrology readings. She is certified in Astrocartography. For more information, contact Dorene at dorenea5@yahoo.com Paypal accepted.
Check out my new astrology blog at www.astroconnections.blogspot.com for ongoing astrological observations on current events, people, trends, etc. I intend to write more entries soon!
Background and previous columns can be found at www.alcseattle.com. Donations also gratefully accepted. Send to P.O. Box 432, Seahurst, WA 98062
All references to Sabian symbols are from An Astrological Mandala: The Cycle of Transformations and Its 360 Symbolic Phases, by Dane Rudhyar.
Website: www.alcseattle.com