Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Planets mean "We're Open for Business"

As I'm now teaching for a 10-month session at a major university of Finance and Economics in Nanchang, China (I have English writing and reading), my students are business-minded--but interested in astrology because I've introduced it to them. They seemed overwhelmed at the sight of a chart display, but I assured them that Chinese characters (over 4,000) are a lot harder to learn, especially since astrology only uses about 25 symbols, and they're not as complex.

So I thought "How would I explain the energies of the planets?" and came up with a business structure for them. (I've already done transportation, using a train ride, on this site.) So here's what I conceived: 

(1) The Sun: the president, and the name on the company building. The founder of the institution.
(2) The Moon: how the public-at-large feels about the company, and what is the goal/target of the company objective.
(3) Mercury: Public relations and all forms of information exchange, including hardware/software programs.
(4) Venus: Interior design and appearance of offices, including what form of architecture and how the entrance/lobby is planned.
(5) Mars: what form of physical activities are offered for employees. Is there a gym membership offered, or an on-site facility? Who takes care of the building itself: what kind of maintenance program for landscaping and interior clean-up?
(6) Jupiter: what long-range growth plans are in line, and what direction is the company taking to pursue these? How much and what is in line for bonuses, raises, promotions, and community donations?
(7) Saturn: Internal security. Who and what kind of privacy of the facility is offered, and how is it kept up? What about record-keeping/accounting?
(8) Uranus: creative development. How is research and development of new innovative ideas brought forward, and do employees have a say in this? (I'm thinking of 3M and the man who invented Post-It notes. It was his own idea.)
9) Neptune: Vacation time. What kind of package is offered for those who need to get away for a while, and is there some place on-site where employees can have a private quiet moment? Is there some form of yoga or meditation time built into the workday to enhance productivity?
10) Pluto: Recycling and trash removal. Who does the dirty work, and how "green" is the company?

Special options for the 4 major asteroids, Chiron, and the Nodes:
(1) Ceres: what programs are there for stay-at-home workers with children or day-care options?
(2) Juno: what benefits are there for spouses or partners?
(3) Vesta: does the company have a dedicated community program for charitable contributions?
(4) Pallas Athena: what community programs are endorsed or promoted by the company for those who are in need of social support/advocacy?
(5) Chiron: what mental-physical health benefits are part of the company program for employees?
(6) North-South Nodes: is this a new start-up company idea, or does it have a past history?

Thursday, March 26, 2015

The Lunar Return and month-to-month Activity cycles of the Moon



The lunar return is one method of tuning in oneself to the trends of psychological astrology as well as "what's up for me?"  Similar in nature to the solar return but in a 27.5 day phase, the lunar return offers us the chance to see what the month(s) ahead will bring, each with a new "social/public/business scene" from the Moon's energies.  And since the Moon is part of our subconscious nature, it represents what we have asked to learn and have drawn to ourselves in the process.  What better way to see "What have I asked to experience next?" in the month(s) ahead? 

I use lunar returns to keep aware of timing phases that are manageable in small scale: "What's going on with me for next/this month?" The other planets can also be identified within a lunar return; they may have a cooperative or limited flow of energy with the Moon, depending on placements for the specified time.  

The lunar return is yet ANOTHER reason that I encourage you to follow the potential flows of Life Activity during the course of a year. Note: "lunar types" (4th house Moon or Asc. or Cancer Asc or 4th house stellium) should ESPECIALLY follow the lunar returns throughout the year!

Friday, February 27, 2015

Gene Roddenberry meets a Vulcan (revisited): farewell, Leonard Nimoy (1931-2015)

Astrology breaks ground in the study of the psyche by taking us figuratively beyond where no man has gone before, to add as an introduction with tongue-in-cheek.  It’s also due in part to the advances in technology (i.e., movies and television) that this is possible for us to see the role of “life beyond Earth” through the eyes of astrological analyses and chart interpretation. 

The modern era came during the mid-'60s when astrology was championed during the rise of television and movies starting with Gene Roddenberry’s gift of Star Trek.  At last:  humans and other beings living together and working too.  Mr. Spock, as portrayed by the calm aloofness of Leonard Nimoy’s Vulcan-human first officer, really opened so many people to honor their natural awareness of astrological identifications within the framework of one single character.  Not only was he cool because he knew nerve pinches that disarmed and disabled potential enemies, he possessed a mind that was lightning fast and always with the most effective answer.  He appealed to something special:  the need to be of and in service to a higher authority in command as well as a singular focus on the most direct way to gauge the odds for success or failure—and why.  I believe that we will indeed see and identify a trans-Mercurian planet close to the sun which will be named for the Roman god of the forge and Spock’s paternal home planet.  

Interestingly enough, astrology has spoken about Vulcan for some time, going back to the late 1800s.  Isabel Hickey also mentioned it in her book Astrology: A Cosmic Science, but it's my view that Roddenberry took the identity of an Advanced Virgo ascendant and made it into the logical, analytical image of the pointed-ear alien—a “Vulcan-Virgo” or "2V."  The qualities are obvious (or "logical"):  an over-fascination with accuracy and fact, and a detached insistence on maintaining a poker face because emotions show a lack of control—and reason. In an evolved storyline that may have been unintentional, the “next generation” series brought Mr. Data as an android with the same rigid structure of facts-as-law.
  
What is interesting here is that both men in their roles clearly represent the mental acuity and skillful cause-and-response capacities of a very adept Mercurian.  The Vulcan-Virgo is also very proud of the capacity to perform a role as a waking data base (hence Data’s name).  “Human Library” is a term I assign both personally and astrologically to the 2V.  (This does not necessarily have any impact on rulership by Mercury; that’s another topic.)

 This is of personal interest to me as well:  at my first-ever astrological reading by my future teacher, I was told that I was a 2V with the chart indicating a Virgo ascendant—and it’s been a family joke that I have pointed ears.  

(This was pushed to the test when I stretched a 1-hour astrological consultation meeting into eight hours, and then departed with two textbooks to study after being told a flat “no”—by a Scorpio!--to my insistence that I borrow them.)

(c) MDLOP8 2010

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Psychological Astrology in the 21st Century


(From the back cover):
The 21st Century is the Time 
for Psychology and Astrology

The doors astrology can open are based in a psychological frame:  that we possess a natural system of looking within and seeing ourselves in an organized structure of behaviors, responses, growth, and sequential outcomes.

We have available a 12-way mirror of the soul with multiple levels of potential views and choices to make to take us further on the pathway that we call Life.  We can become the artist who creates the living painting of our decisions and their results.  These are ideas to help the working, thinking, considerate practical healer of body, mind, and soul, whether or not the person is a professional physician, holistic healer, or just someone interested in understanding the vast range of experiences that come with a lifetime (especially those who are blessed as parents). 
It is also the 21st century. The collective awareness of our global brethren and the huge array of networking that the Internet has ignited is one way that we can integrate psychology with astrology because it is an internationally recognized concept in psychological fields. The response since the 1950s and the definitive statistical research by the Gauquelins from Switzerland is that astrology has a proven and significantly accurate rate of clarity in identifying psychological potential behaviors and actions.

Astrology is also being applied in the work field; it is a human resources tool. It’s just not openly admitted! It offers a direct no-nonsense approach to defining the parameters of behavior, and has little tolerance for the human trait of denial. It does not need a one-on-one encounter either; astrological analyses can be done without a direct meeting.

Key points are clearly visible, among them, work habits, ability to handle authority figures, day-to-day schedules, motivation, fears and avoidance/acceptance of responsibility, routines, entrepreneurship, and management potential.

$11.00 PDF download via mitchLOP8@yahoo.com

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Psychological astrology and psychiatry unite



Astrology and psychology--and psychiatry*--are bonded together from the centuries of observing human behavior, whether or not it has been clinical or otherwise.  

I believe the 21st century will see the inception of astrological principles in the field of counseling support.  However, I foresee this more in the light of supportive counseling rather than "there is something wrong with you."

Astrology can strengthen and encourage; it can provide guidance and uplifting goals; it can give structure and motivation.

The "scientific community" still needs to be convinced. Dr. Mitchell Gibson is here to present his perspective for anyone in the following fields:

M.S.W.
Ph.D.
CDAC
Ed.D.
M.A.T.
Psy.D.
M.D.

This is from Amazon.com's synopsis.  The book is available at Barnes & Noble as well as Llewellyn Publications.
"Designed for psychologists, psychiatrists, astrologers, and lay people alike, Signs of Mental Illness by Dr. Mitchell E. Gibson, M.D., is a breakthrough in the sciences of psychiatry and astrology that will help people with their mental health for this new millennium.
"The author is one of the most well known and highly respected medical doctors in the state of Arizona, where he maintains a successful private practice in psychiatry. Dr. Gibson is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology, the American Board of Forensic Medicine, and the American College of Forensic Examiners. Formerly, he was chief of staff at East Valley Camelback Hospital, as well as chief resident in psychiatry at the Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia."
With such an illustrious career, why has he written a book that uses astrology, a science that some people severely question? Because it can help people—and because it's the truth.
Numerous cases of famous people are highlighted in this book. All of the patients were diagnosed according to the DSM-IV, the gold standard of psychiatric diagnostic criteria. The diagnostic groups represented include major depression, anxiety, addictive disorder, schizophrenia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
More credentials: the following roster of mental health practitioners, physicians, and clinical counselors, and their respective schools:
Michael Mclay, M.A. (University of Iowa)
Bradley Kochunas, Ph.D., Ohio Department of Mental Health
Donna Cunningham, M.S.W., Columbia University
Maritha Pottenger, M.A., California School of Professional Psychology (Clinical)
Stephen Arroyo, M.A., California State University
Zipporah Dobyns, Ph.D., University of Chicago (Clinical)
Bernard Rosenblum, M.D. (Psychiatry), New York City
Gisele Terry, M.A., (Clinical), New York City/Los Angeles
Laurie A. Baum, M.S.W., C.S.W, Yeshiva University
Glenn Perry, Ph.D., Saybrook Institute (Clinical) and his accredited masters degree course:
https://aaperry.com

*(Carl Jung, father of modern psychiatry)

Psychological astrology is both holistic and clinical:  within it can be found opportunities for identifying needs by traditional schools:  Erickson, Piaget, Jung, and Maslow, by using intuition and gut feelings & analysis, and inter/intrapersonal skills & counseling as the foundation.

(c) MDLOP8 2010

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

The Astrological Arsonist: Setting Fire to their lifestyle for Excitement & Control--or incapability to manage


Meet the astrological Arsonist. They seem to self-destruct and ask for help on a continuous basis by which they use, either openly or through means, passive-resistance refusal, child-like behavior, manipulation, or pure willfulness. An Arsonist is a master of creating Controlled Chaos, and most likely a psychopath. This is the first of three articles that I am postulating on this subject.
   An Arsonist in my astrological-psychological view is someone who deliberately creates circumstances or behaviors where someone must come and figuratively and emotionally put out a fire: an event or condition that has dead-end results and misjudged expectations without consideration. The Arsonist enjoys the thrill of power-control: he/she has reinforcement of ego and importance as a new obstacle-hurdle has been put in the way of a daily routine, a long-term plan, or just spontaneous action. I would imagine those of us who are now experiencing the role of caregiver for friends and elderly parents are noticing this identity. Also, consider the Arsonist in relationship patterns: a continued sense of "My life is not exciting enough--I must do something to see others jump at my command!" A romantic involvement is often a playground for an Arsonist.
      Arsonists are often bored--they seek excitement and adventure. I would therefore categorize the Fire signs (Aries/Leo/Sagittarius) as the primary candidates, but that is too obvious. Instead, consider that the other 11 signs also have tendencies, each with its own quality.
     For example, it's obvious that an Aries would easily trigger patterns of disruption for sheer initiation and "something new," but Taurus can delay, refuse, resist, and be unwilling to yield to even the most reasonable offer or request. The delaying tactic is one that creates a whirlpool of potential resolution. Gemini, in a search for endless information, may surely continue to be involved in so many commercially-driven promotions and solicitations from media sources who are sales-driven and based on self-promotion and exploitation of the consumer. Financial management problems would likely follow: "I can't get enough ideas!" Crabs surely know how to make the best of worries and fears, especially over personal safety or that of family members, in order to maintain and keep close ties. Fear and smothering demands for love and nurturance to/from others can be like quicksand to those involved. Leo, again as Fire, can be bombastic and pompous to the point of distress: "How dare you defy me?" is a phrase I heard from my own mother, who had a Leo ascendant. The sense of royal obligation by underlings is not only expected, but held as a sense of status and entitlement.
     Virgos can micro-manage even themselves into a state of Obsessive-Compulsive disorder, let alone unhinge the person who has to manage or care for someone with organization-is-life needs. Libra can be caught in the net of Co-Dependency so tightly that they can not bear to be alone for 24 hours, and may use social media formats and electronics as a tool of continuous contact. Scorpio surely knows how to be in control: paranoia and suspicion of ANYTHING or ANYONE who dares threaten must be kept at arm's length and under careful observation.
    Sagittarius can potentially be an Arsonist in both speech and action. Words can cause huge battles, especially with family members, colleagues, and social outlets of beliefs and values. Also, don't put it past an Archer to be a hoarder: "more is better." Try and manage a house where "don't throw that out!" is a mandate, and Time is left sitting in cabinets and closets, later to be discarded when it should have been avoided in the first place.
      Capricorns don't usually find a spot as an Arsonist, but there are surely those who take advantage of others for personal advantage--and usually financial gain. Aquarius in search of Freedom can be an Arsonist in style: "I'll follow my own path and disregard any action or result that doesn't give it my way." Anyone in partnership with this type knows this likely means associating with a lack of constraints on social structures: living from day-to-day in group units (shelters, collective gatherings). Pisces offers a never-ending potential of Arsonist qualities, but it's emotional-sensitive in nature and not aggressive-dynamic. A Pisces soul caught in an Arsonist pattern can be caught in a maelstrom of confusion followed up with sensitively good intentions and terrible judgment.
     What to do about the Arsonist in your life? It's clearly a matter of Power & Control--and personal boundaries. The Arsonist has no qualms about encroachment on other peoples' lives--this is a very self-centered character flaw, and may likely be hiding a Narcissistic Personality. The key factor to remember is simple: "No." An Arsonist will rise into whatever level of insistence their sign carries with a likely demonstration of unhealthy tendencies, but it is essential for anyone involved in a relationship or caregiver role to recognize the need to put out the Arsonist's ability to ignite intention and spark an inappropriate or unwise response. 
(C) MDLOP8 2014    

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Venus in Scorpio: "I've Love You to Death or Die Trying."



Venus is in Her detriment (lacking awareness of the higher qualities of the planet's energy) in Scorpio: jealousy, intensity of ownership toward objects of affection and property, and desires for sexual fulfillment which may be violent if not agreeable to the selected "victim" of choice. (Also, think of a female praying mantis: if you know what she does to her mate, you'll get the idea.) Emotions and passions run extremely strong during this time--and revenge can be a bitter result in love-hate partnerships, especially if trust has been betrayed. In Greek mythology, Medea was outraged that Jason had cast her aside for another woman--and in her rage, she killed her own children. The old saying "Hell knows no fury like a scorned woman" is VERY true and possible during the transit of Venus in Scorpio! 


However, it's not all for worry with the goddess of Love in this sign: a dramatic personality may find new outlets for attention and display (with a touch of "come closer if you dare"), and occult studies and mysteries (such as an enjoyment of solving mysteries or an appreciation of forensic sciences) may be heightened. Just be sure you're not Dr. Frankenstein building a bride for your latest creation--he or she may be intent on love with a painfully dangerous twist!


Monday, September 29, 2014

"All in Love is Fair and Equal," says Venus in Libra


There is refinement, sharing, appreciation, union, and cooperation to bring to a loved one, family, friends, and more when Venus slips into Libra. Most of all, this is a time for identifying, validating, and pledging oneself to a committed relationship. 
   Even though Venus in Libra is traditionally about benevolence and willingness between lovers, it can be tricky too: a strong desire to please and not be challenging; to be accepting and even yielding more than ever or before; manipulation can also be a factor if it means a victory or achieved result. 
   And it's also a time to be lazy, wanting to take the easy way out or the line of least resistance. You can also be very indecisive. You may need people and find it difficult to feel comfortable in your own company.
    So what should you do? Remember that you have boundaries; you may compromise your own in a willingness of bliss, desire, or desperation. At least know that this is a time to find peace within and with each other. You may go back and fix up an old matter, or at least be more cooperative with your Significant Other. Honor that person--be aware that they are sharing their life with you--and that this is a gift. Thank your partner; spend some time showing your appreciation--and be willing to accept it from them.
   And enjoy. Venus rules Libra, so it's also about pleasure and fun with someone else.

Saturday, September 6, 2014

Venus in Virgo: "There is a Time and Place for Love--and it's Qualified by Specifics"


     "She/he loves me, she/he loves me not--because of the following reasons," says Venus in Virgo, and you're either on the receiving end or handing down the hard facts. This is the Goddess of Pleasure & Enjoyment in a cool, distant state of affection, with emphasis on personal boundaries and conditions: "What do you mean when {you} say 'I love you, baby'. Be more specific!"
     Venus in Virgo says, "I'll believe it when you show me--and actions speak louder than words" will make or break your romantic mood. Doubt, discernment, critiquing and second-guessing: these are some of Virgo's traits, and Venus would rather say "No thanks" rather than have to tell you that you're not meeting Her standards as a partner. Venus in Virgo will love sincerely and with earnestness, but you've got to pass a lengthy interview of qualifications. And no: sweet talk and charm doesn't make it work: there's a mental notebook of "must-have" conditions.
     On a positive note, Venus in Virgo is quite willing to do something for a social project that serves the community: helping decorate or improve a food kitchen that feeds those in need, or making sure the area of work is spotless, organized, and kept functional. A fun date for a Venus in Virgo would be at the gym--but don't expect to share the shower unless your nails are trimmed and you've brought your own soap.

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Elements as the spice(s) of Life Expression

If the elements (motivational factors of signs) were seasonings, then they would be the spices of Life that variety is said to bring.  They are emotional and sensory keys of behavior and needs that indicate the “temperament” of an individual:  how he/she “tastes” their world-at-large.  In that manner, using spices and the sensory quality of taste will work here:

 
Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)
are “spicy”: “hot” people who are spontaneous, energetic, motivated, aggressive, dramatic, overpowering, royal-in-bearing, or impulsive. Need energy, enthusiasm, motivation, A.C.T.I.O.N. or just putting it into a higher gear? FIRE it up! 

 
Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) 
are “salty”: “Salt of the Earth” hard workers, fixed in principles and unwilling to yield until moved, grounding, sensuous and touchy-feely, persistent, determined, and willing to bear a burden to get the job done. Put some EFFORT into it--some real HANDS-ON and see it finished!

 
Air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)
are “sweet”: “Lighter-than-air” intelligent souls who communicate, question, query, disseminate, and disperse ideas and information; arbitrators and negotiators, graceful presenters of social tact and presentation, social gatherers and coordinators of humanitarian projects and programs. Oh, you make my head spin with your words! 

Like pickles and relish, Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)
are “sour”: “bitter-at-times” but with a purpose: an awareness of pain, sensitivity, and distress in another person’s psyche.  Outbursts of emotions, playing on vulnerabilities and compassion in others, manipulation of affection by acts of display, and mood swings are found here. I'm CRYING buckets of tears because I feel so much!!

(c) MDLOP8 2010

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Relationship Techniques: Closeness or Distance? Personal, Social, or Global?

In synastry, I consider the energies of the signs as Indicators of Attraction: either it's a matched force or not. And if so, how does the sign and its qualities of Closeness or Distance (C&D) correspond with the partner? If you're matched with a "like-minded" polarity for C&D, then you should have a much better chance at a relationship. If not...prepare for struggle or rejection.

I've seen this referred to as Personal, Social, and Interpersonal as well. Again, in my synastry work, I go with a blend of this along with the planets and signs. But--I let the Magnetic Attractive Force be part of my answer. Are the two parties involved matched regarding their Levels of C&D? How are they suited as Personal, Social, or Interpersonal (Global)? (I credit this to either Stephen Arroyo or the late Richard Idemon,if my memory is correct.)


Let's try it with an astrological review of Sun and Moon energies:


Aries - Personal for sure. "It's All about Me Being Important and #1!" Closeness, but beware the need for "a new conquest!" in some Aries. It's all about being involved with someone, but it could also be someone different on an ever-rotating basis depending on availability.


Taurus - Personal. "You're Mine!" Can be overly possessive of belongings and loved ones. Closeness for sensuality. Taurus holds on tight, so if you're personal-space claustrophobic, stay away. Taurus regards partners as property, so your personal value and income count too.


Gemini - Personal. "I love a good conversation!" Enjoys closeness to share ideas; more mental than physical, please. Gemini grooves on someone to talk with/to, and the intellectual stimulation leads to emotional satisfaction (especially with a Gemini Moon too).


Cancer - Personal--big time. The Apron Strings/Smothering or Deep Attachments. Closeness is a must--and family counts too. Moonchildren love the physical touch; it's all about feeling and holding someone--and if you were small enough, you'd be cradled in the Crab's embrace.


Leo - Social. "You noticed me, of course!" Leo prefers Closeness, but it's also because they need to bask in the attention they get from being loved and sharing it too. Of COURSE Leo needs someone who says "You look great! I love you!" If it's one person or an adoring crowd, it's all glow and go with Leo.


Virgo - Social. "I hope you understand how difficult it is for me to let you see my faults if we live together--and by the way, I'll do the same to you too." One of the signs which indicates a life apart from others, partially because of the stress involved in maintaining Personal Boundaries & Private Space (and everything and everyone in neat little organized structures).


Libra - Social. The Quintessential Soul Mate-Match who rightfully needs a complimentary Partner. This is the Completion Factor at its highest level, and Closeness is an absolute cornerstone. Downfalls are co-dependency and fears of being alone.


Scorpio - Social. "It takes two people to make a baby, and society is built on births." Scorpio needs the physical release of sex and the emotional intensities too. This is more Distance than Closeness because the Scorpion wants privacy and security, and a partner could compromise it. For this reason, I think Scorpios are the best-suited-for-each-other match of the same signs. The closeness that Scorpio does desire is more for physical-sexual bonding to create deep emotional release.


Sagittarius - Interpersonal/Global. "There's so many Opportunities, including other people, so why limit myself?" Sagittarius does like commitment, but they like the Distance between themselves and partners more often. Sagittarius can find people from other cultures to be better matches.


Capricorn - Interpersonal/Global. "You're part of the Big Plan, and that includes our relationship." Money and love bring Distance or Closeness--if it's sensible, profitable, and keeps the Plan in action, then it's better. Trophy-hunters are found here, and their objects of desire too, and Sugar Daddies and Vamps.

Aquarius - Interpersonal/Global. "We're all One Big Family." Aquarius has a natural awareness of All Man & Woman Brothers and Sisters. Distance is never an issue when they're with someone who is a friend in a close-enough way that doesn't get serious. That goes for bonding and commitment choices too--just expect the aloofness and need for being with groups.


Pisces - Interpersonal/Global. "I'm Joined in Partnership with the Universe." Kind of hard for the Fish to let go; they're so tuned in on Higher Wavelengths of Love. Pisces can be extremely loyal and Close (especially if Venus in Pisces is indicated); they can also be out to sea and deep in the depths of detachment. Remember: 2 fish, going in opposite directions.


Monday, June 23, 2014

Love goes Flutterby in Social Circles with Venus in Gemini

With Venus in Gemini, intellectual and social endeavors and pursuits are more favorable—including “second-guessing” a relationship and clarifying intentions from you or a partner. Therefore, it’s a good time to socialize and work on communications skills with loved ones (and those whom you wish to pursue)—with new technologies that encourage reading and writing, expressing and directing curiosity through short-term endeavors and trips, and even classroom experiences.

However—DO expect that “two-for-one” deals are possible now in romance: Venus in Gemini brings out “duality” in others, so that “I have an alternative in case this doesn’t work out” love affairs and relationships are possible.
And a musical reminder from Gustav Holst about Gemini qualities, courtesy of Mercury.

Friday, June 20, 2014

Psychological Astrology and holistic healing practices



Psychological astrology (and astrology in general) has excellent opportunities for the community of holistic and natural healers.  By using astrological knowledge as an additional tool in one's respective practice with clients and patients, the potentials are diversified and expansive. 

This also extends financial options and advantages:  astrology's "right to the heart of the issue" is far better for  the healing or counseling session and making it affordable for both the practitioner and the client.  There is no need to prolong or delay valuable time:  the effective use of knowledge and energy by both parties is realized much sooner and with better results. (And this also means more income for the practitioner along with more available personal or professional time.)

Here are some enterprises where astrological knowledge can enhance and support the healing and psychological arts.  Remember: there are therapists and healers who are incorporating astrological techniques in these fields:

Massage therapy
Body movement therapies
Reiki
Social work cases
Psychological counseling
Family counseling
Parenting classes
Life crisis management
Vocational guidance
Academic guidance
Animal husbandry
Gardening for healing 

Sunday, June 8, 2014

Love, Money, Power, or Fear: Personal Motivators of signs

 This should give a great deal of insight not only for the signs, but for how we relate to others, to our own Needs (our Moon), our Self-identity (Sun), and also our Fears and Worries (Saturn). 

Ever figure what motivates people?  It's easy--and it works with everyone you know (including loved ones):
Love, Money, Power, or Fear.  

Two of them are constants in our life (Primary), and two are not important (Secondary). The trick is to know which two are yours, and see how you  match each other (in relationships), or just being aware of your personal "hot  buttons."

They each have a positive and negative reinforcement as motivators in our lives, depending on which ones are Primaries. Again, the rule is that two of four are Primaries: these are the two factors which motivate and inspire each of us, and the remaining two (Secondaries) are not of consideration nor consequence when it comes to decision-making processes. Our relationships that succeed or fail, whether personal or professional, can depend heavily on how well matched we are with a Significant Other who mirrors back a similar Primary.

Love as a Positive Primary brings someone a warm feeling of appreciation for living things, human or otherwise; they are very attuned to the flow of energy that sustains all that exists.  Some of these people are healers or work with support systems that enhance or encourage people, animals, plants, or other creatures to be maintained or thrive. Love as a Positive Primary can be very spiritual; it is a natural part of this type to be affectionate and seek out others who enjoy receiving and giving this energy.

As a Negative Primary, these people can be overcome by jealousy and possessiveness. They may be envious of others who receive or give affection or displays of love. Some people who use Love as a Negative Primary force do not let other people find fulfillment in romantic situations:  a parent or partner who deliberately uses control of Love is such a person.

Money as a Positive Primary can be seen through people who are resourceful, inventive, generous, and philanthropic; they are willing to share with others who are in need. Possessions and property are not theirs exclusively; they are aware of being supportive and encouraging in motivating others to reach their goals or just keep trying and not quit. Professor Muhammad Yunus and his efforts to provide micro-loans to women who needed financial assistance to break the cycle of poverty is one example. This is more than just giving to charities too: this is realizing that Manifestation is a gift that everyone can create and use.  

Something  as simple as the "pay it forward" method of giving to someone who needs assistance and then letting them extend the same opportunity to someone else in need would be such a method. The Native American tradition of potlatch is an example: The potlatch is a festival or ceremony  practiced among Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast. At these gatherings a family or hereditary leader hosts guests in their  family's house and holds a feast for their guests. The main purpose of the potlatch is the re-distribution and reciprocity of wealth.

Different events take place during a potlatch, like either singing and dances, sometimes with masks or regalia, such as Chilkat blankets, the barter of wealth through gifts, such as dried foods, sugar, flour, or other material things, and sometimes money. For many potlatches, spiritual ceremonies take place for different occasions. This is either through material wealth such as foods and goods or non-material things such as songs and dances.
 

As a Negative Primary, Money can be a crippling need for wealth at the cost of others' lives:  slavery is one example.  Greed, miserliness, and the abuse of others at any price is another. The monetary system in general (not barter) has many examples of how financial means can become an abusive method of controlling people.

Power as a Positive Primary brings out the best in creative visualization and faith in one's values if they are used to help and assist others and life in general.  This is the realm of believing in one's goals, as well as helping others to reach theirs.  It is more than physical strength; this is spiritual strength and empowerment, and the purpose of having a dream to pursue.  Some people go into various methods of Life Coaching, including sports, in order to help others fulfill their destinies.  The late college basketball coach, John Wooden of UCLA, is a great example.  Jaime Escalante, the high school math teacher who encouraged his students to break free of the poverty mentality of their East Los Angeles upbringing and go on to college, is another.  

As a Negative Primary, Power can certainly be seen as a control factor.  The use and abuse of Love, Money, and Fear to frighten and weaken others can be seen throughout the history of Mankind through the works of literature and other means of expressing and recording the stories of people and their efforts.  Domination, tyranny, and competitiveness that overwhelms others at the price of their freedom (again, slavery and conquest being two examples) finds justification in the eyes and minds of people who believe that "Might Makes Right."

Fear as a Positive Primary is often misunderstood as a weakness, but it has a proper place.  Caution, security, and deliberate, proper planning are excellent ways of being sure and confident of one's plans or position in life.  Such people are often slow to respond, but are determined and successful.  I would place investor Warren Buffet here because of the rules he follows regarding his strategies about money:  don't lose it, and don't take unnecessary risks.

As a Negative Primary, Fear is used by people who are afraid; the word "afraid" itself often appears in their language.  They can be intimidated easily and reduced to positions of self-doubt and worry.  (Author's note: I consider such people to "drive with one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake"; they often are hesitant to take control of opportunities for themselves, and can be overwhelmed by emotional factors and insecurities.)  Death as a topic and the fear of the unknown after death is another part of a Fear-based Negative Primary; it has been used for centuries as a means of controlling people's values and resources.
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As I see it, Aries, Gemini, Leo, Scorpio, Sagittarius and Capricorn are the ones I would say have more potential for influence by Power. Certainly, Aries activates it in self and others; Gemini acquires satisfaction of information from it; Leo wants to receive it from presence of existence; Scorpio controls and contains it; Sagittarius exults in receiving and distributing it; and Capricorn wants it for consolidation and formation of an idea.

I'd say that Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Aquarius, and Pisces are more Fear-motivated. Taurus wants security of existence in tangible form; Cancer wants safety of existence; Virgo wants boundaries and structure of existence for self and others; Scorpio wants privacy and safety at any cost; Aquarius fears losing freedom of self and social encounters to outdated standards; and Pisces needs to hide from the aggression of others in a world that seems bizarre and unfriendly. 

And I'd think that Taurus, Cancer, Leo, Scorpio, and Capricorn are also Money-oriented too. Leo, Libra, and Pisces are the ones I'd say are definitely "Love"-motivated too. Yes, I do think some people who are in these Sun signs could have other types of motivation other than what I've indicated--but this is a generalization on my part to categorize them.

Aries is all about conquest: Power. Gemini wants Power of Information. Leo wants Power for Appreciation of Personality. Scorpio wants it to control and dominate; also for self-protection. Sagittarius wants it for the ability to do more. And Capricorn wants it to create a legacy.

Taurus wants security--without it, there's no safety: either Money or Fear (the lack of money). Cancer is the same way--especially for a Cancer Moon or ascendant. Virgo wants to protect personal boundaries and quirks: the fear of "not having routines." Scorpio doesn't want to lose personal privacy, so in fear of this, it lashes out fiercely at anyone or anything who would take it. Aquarius doesn't want to lose Personal Freedom of choice. And Pisces is afraid of never Going Back Home.

As noted, Taurus wants money to acquire belongings. Cancer wants it to provide for others--and to maintain security. Leos may want money to show themselves in more dramatic ways. Scorpio likes the power of money and what it can do. Capricorn knows that money makes for business deals.

Regarding Love, Leo is more likely to want everyone to love them for Being there. Libra may be Co-Dependent for Love. And Pisces feels such Universal Love for others from the Flow of Life force from the Creator.

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Lunar types and Moon Sensitivities



The late Donna Cunningham came up with a terrific idea about some people being "lunar types in a solar world."  What I understand from this:  some of us are more "moon-influenced" by the moon's placement in our chart or by sign (Moon in Cancer, for instance, or a 4th house moon). 
Dynamics:
·       1st (Personality), 4th (Home-family), 7th (Relationships-partnerships), or 10th (Career-status) house moon; option is a 4th house Sun  
·       Close ties to emotions, sensitivity, feelings
·       Unable to comfortably express themselves
·       Shy, vulnerable, prone to tears
·       More “grumpy” than most people;
·       “hard shell exterior” (and sensitive feelings that are hidden)
I should note here that a moon in the 1st, 4th, 7th, or 10th houses makes a person "lunar/loony" and more of a Cancer-Crab/Moonchild, even if they are not of that sign. This idea also comes from Donna Cunningham—that the moon in one of the Four Quadrant Markers (1st/4th, 7th, 10th) houses gives someone a “lunar” perspective of dealing with society; that is, the subject is more withdrawn to some level from society and protective of their psyche.

They are crab-like in their manner of hiding a vulnerable sensitive attitude behind a gruff exterior.  Emotionally sensitive from hard-to-express-from-within levels, the Lunar type retreats in their home or office for safety and protection from the outside world.  A 4th house placement for a woman often indicates some sort of Earth Mother role, protecting, caring for, and nurturing animals, plants, or people. 
The 1st house moon will "feel every emotion" as part of their personality; the 4th house moon will feel grounded and secure in their own home; the 7th house moon will want a partner whom they can "mother" and be nurtured by in return; and a 10th house moon will make their job (and colleagues) their 'children.' A first house Lunar type would be highly sensitive to the moon’s sign placement.  Physiologically, a 1st house moon would impact the physical body in some manner, or at least the personality in a distinct way. A first house Lunar type would be highly sensitive to the moon’s sign placement.  Physiologically, a 1st house moon would impact the physical body in some manner, or at least the personality in a distinct way. 
I should note here that a moon in the 1st, 4th, 
Moon Sensitivities:
·       Reflexive gut feeling; system of security-needs and subconscious reaction
·       “first response is self-preservation-safety” when caught unaware
·       Capacity to establish a safe zone around self and home
·       Subconscious attitude toward society; empathic sensitivity to events
·       “Emotional-mental tentacle” that touches world