Services I provide

I interpret charts. I am not a "reader," but rather, I incorporate psychological factors and human behaviors--and timing--into my work. I consider using Intuitive skills along with my Analytical abilities. It's using both sides of my brain simultaneously: the symbols become an "alphabet" of language of challenges and opportunities. YOU decide accordingly, how they will result in actions you take or reject. Remember though: do nothing, get nothing. That's part of the Game of Life. Make a difference.

I also do phone work, but I also add in text by email to explain more completely. One hour+ anything beyond; (I can talk quite a bit): $80. 

Natal birth chart analysis (including Child*Star) or relationship compatibility: $25. (I also will include Magi astrology work if it warrants emphasis, especially in relationships. Chiron sends regards. So does the Titanic.)

Transits (on a yearly basis): $30. I also include progressions.

Solar Return: $25. (You know: your yearly birthday gift from the Universe. All those opportunities & Lessons that await. Cool!)

Just link into the PayPal option, or you can Venmo or Zelle me at mitchLOP8@yahoo.com

PS: Yes, I HAVE taught HR personnel (and medical professionals) how to use astrology in business. I have my site links laid out to follow in particular; you also get my book on PDF> $55. Just that simple, and there's an ending test I'll provide. If I can write it, then I know it's easy to understand. (Saturn Scorpio 3rd house.)

Child*Star reports for parents--and grandparents

 

Mother's Day is coming up--AND Father's Day in June--and it takes a mother to make a man a father too. But what does this mean for parents to have the gift of a child? A child can't say to his or her parents, "This is who I am. This is what I need to express and develop in my character." 

It takes a Child*Star report to know the messages that need to be understood. It can give years of guidance that no pediatrician, grandparent, or even Mom or Dad can be without: astrological and psychological guidance.

Child*Star reports were developed by a Montessori teacher with 25 years experience--I've spoken with her about this material too--and years of raising her own children. Make a difference in a child's life and development--and your own as a parent and adult. Available for $25 via email.

 

Magi astrology Cinderella/Prince Charming Romance Timing for Soul Mate connections

(Note: the role of Cinderella 

is being played by Scarlett Johansson.)

“Dear Astrological Consultant, when will I find the man (or woman) of my dreams**?”**(Note: yes, men do have 'romantic times' too; the author Robert Louis Stevenson met his wife, who was 10 years senior, during such an event--and he wrote some great love letters to her. And there certainly are 'romantic' signs for men with Venus in their chart.)

The Magi system comes from the Shaolin monks (yes, the ones who developed kung fu as a martial arts discipline); it's based ONLY on aspects between key planets and the timing/transit activations. If you consider that horary astrology ("Where are my missing keys" or "Should I buy or sell stocks now?") is on a similar method. Are key players engaged or not either in harmony or challenge?

The comet Chiron is the planet of Cinderellas.  Like any other planet, Chiron is constantly moving as it orbits the Sun. As Chiron moves in the sky, whenever it makes a special harmonious energy to your Venus, Jupiter, or Neptune, you are at the peak of your Romance Cycle. The same is true when the position of Venus, Jupiter, or Neptune in the sky makes a harmonious energy flow to your Chiron. It is at these times that you are in your Cinderella Time and you are most attractive, most charming, and most fascinating. (A Pluto Magi time would likely bring someone who has a great $$ opportunity.)

During your Cinderella Time, people forgive you for everything. They overlook your faults and you are at the peak of your popularity. It is during your Cinderella Time that you are as irresistible as you can possibly be. You can almost walk on air. 

   ***This is when you have the greatest chance of meeting your Prince Charming (or your princess), fall in love together, and marry him (or her). But as you must have guessed, your Cinderella Gateway is open only for a few times in your life and only briefly each time. Don't miss it. It is crucial that you take advantage of it whenever it occurs in your own life.

Now: does EVERY timing mean a happy encounter? No. Keep in mind that free will is a guiding rule in all human interactions and decisions; anyone can talk him/herself into validating the wrong person's presence despite obvious warnings and refusals to accept "He/she's NOT right for me." But you MAY find yourself meeting a Significant Soul Mate who is there for a major lesson, or even to fulfill some form of obligation. The results are both yours and theirs.

Uranus the Liberator Frees Your Life for the Unexpected!

She said, "Mitch! My life is turning upside down!! What's going on--and while you're at it, why is it so crazy and hard to handle?"

Answer: 

Uranus by transit in the 1st house of Personality.  Like so: "Uranus is the Social Rebel (for example, think "The Grateful Dead band's" energy) which says "I Break the Rules of Society BECAUSE Society needs a wake-up call." Uranus, and its sponsoring sign of Aquarius, really allows us to overthrow and overcome blockage, both personal and socially, on an individual and global scale. 

Uranus is a liberator--it wants us to break free from limitation--the "anti-Saturn" influence. Its purpose is evolution, experimentation, and growth. Although Uranus can sometimes live in reaction mode, it motivates us to think and act outside of the box. In fact, Uranus in its purest form is intuition itself. By house, the position of Uranus shows where individuals look to stir things up, put a new spin on situations, and go against established thought or order. 

Uranus doesn't act like other planetary energies: it has no respect or use for regulations, structures, routines. In your 1st house of Personality and Appearance, you can expect that people "see" you differently, even if not on the surface--but they can sense it. It will also impact on extension the other side of your chart: the 7th house of Relationships and Partnerships. Uranus in the 1st alters the way an individual projects personal energies onto others. You are likely to seek, nay demand, freedom in the way you present yourself to the world. Dressing simply but quirky, you will have no problems in asserting yourself. 

You are not shy in letting everyone know where you stand on issues. In fact you take pride in presenting your unique perspective. "I am a simple soul with few wants and needs," is what you tell yourself. All you can feel is an altruistic desire to change the world! Friends and relatives probably find you a trifle erratic. They know you to be good-hearted and genuine about your feelings. Your passions rise fast and you lose interest at the same rate. 

Why is this happening? It's likely about Personal Change within that indicates you are being prepared for a shift in lifestyle for reasons that are not only about you, but your place in the larger whole of society. In short, you're experiencing what I call "being a Cosmic Tuning Fork." Welcome to MY life! 

(My middle brother's birthday party: he has Uranus on the Ascendant in Leo. Guess who had to wear his custom-design outfit? You bet! His older brother! Someone just asked me if I lost a paintball fight in Haight-Ashbury, San Francisco. Yep. Feels that way.)

Meeting the aspects as Conditions of Reaction to Human Responses: The Sun/Moon

Some musings/observations/perspectives, if you will allow me, on the exchange of energies between two planets. As I've mentioned throughout this site, I've taken a holistic and psychological approach to my studies, chart analyses, and educational overview that (1) the planets are Indicators of Human Responses, and that (2) the aspects chosen by an astrological consultant or student-in-training-learning are Indicators of Reaction to those Responses. To this end, rather than analyze each planet in aspect, I'm staying with the Sun and its partnerships with the others. 

To that end, I'm doing a breakdown of MY thoughts regarding the aspects of a conjunction, sextile, square, trine, inconjunct/quincunx, and opposition. I use these as primaries; I could also involve the declinations, as I do use them. However, for this response/post, I'm sticking with the Ptolemaic group of six. For the sake of declination analyses, I would say the parallel/contraparallel are in the fashion of the conjunction. 

I want to emphasize that these are MY thoughts and overviews, provided again for educational and consultational purposes. As anyone who has studied the art and psychological ramifications of astrology can and should (in my view) say, it's a never-ending skill of combing layers of Intuition, methodology, and Wisdom. I'm doing the  Sun as a separate endeavor to allow for my own writing to flow and also to accommodate any learners/readers.

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In a Sun-Moon conjunction, also known as the New Moon, I would say there are several possibilities. For one, this is a potential indicator that the parents were in alignment with each other in starting a family: the Sun as the father-figure and the Moon as the mother-figure. There's also a likelihood of similarities in comfortable role models as male and female. In general, I would suggest here that the individual's Self-Identity is in harmony/union with his/her emotional needs and also in response to social contacts that involve subconscious responses. 

One special consideration: depending on whether or not the Sun or Moon are in the same polarity (male-female by signage), one may expect an individual to be more "solar" and outgoing or more "lunar" and internally responsive. If they are in different signage, depending on the outcome, the individual may be more inclined to the dominant outcome, such as a Sun in Aquarius and a Cancer-Crab Moon. (In this case, the Sun is in detriment and not fully expressed, while the Moon rules Cancer, and to my overview, dominating the psyche.) 

In a sextile pattern, I'd say the individual feels comfortable with both parents, and also with Self-Identity awareness and emotional needs being met. In a square pattern, there's an internal conflict: both challenging the Self-Identity and Emotional-Subconscious needs. Again, this may be a reflection on the relationship of the parents with each other and on how the individual/child was raised.

In a similar way, the Sun-Moon square is a potential indicator that the parents were at odds in some form or display in their relationship with each other at the time of birth--and most likely, during the formative months prior to birth. In my view, the psyche is well aware of this interaction. But even though there may be behavioral clashes that both or one parent may have presented, this still continues over after birth has occurred, and the individual may unknowingly try to find ways of appeasing one or both parents. This may carry over to formative or adult relationships. But in my view, even though the square is an indicator of potential frustration, it may give the individual great insight and encouragement to develop cooperative social skills and behaviors to overcome subconscious responses that are not fulfilling to the Self-identity or emotional needs. It's more than likely that counseling in some form for the adult individual with a Sun-Moon square will be both helpful and provide a resolution to psychological challenges. I'd also say there's a potential here for various levels of conditions on the spectrum which also include autism, or at least, difficulty in being comfortable with social interactions. Neuro-divergency is the key here: there are both strengths and challenges as potentials. It's one of the reasons I coined the term "Fluid Learning" to describe both myself and others as individuals who are comfortable in expression of both left-and-right brain hemispheres.

The trine can be both an obvious and subtle outcome, as I see it: both cooperation and a possible indulgence to excess within the psyche regarding "I am Who I Am" from the Sun and "This is What I Need from the World" via the Moon. One parent may have been more active regarding the expression, if other indications are shown, for this as an indulgence, or even an addictive response if the individual shows possibilities. As much as a trine is a favorable aspect, it can also indicate laziness on the part of the individual to act on his/her behavior and responses to decision-making. In any case, we could expect by elemental nature that a fire trine Sun-Moon would be more enthusiastic and possibly volatile; an earth trine would be more grounded and resolute in practical matters; an air trine would be more accommodating in mental activity or social exchanges of ideas; and a water trine would offer greater intuitive sensitivities. Again, I would note that even though I think a trine will work harmoniously, if the Sun-Moon are in different elements, I would be aware there may be an undertone of tension in resolution of this outcome.

The quincunx/inconjunct, as I understand it, is more about tension without a clear successful resolution. In regards to the Sun-Moon in aspect, I would think it is more of a personal and social frustration that "I can't comfortably be Myself no matter how I try." Sometimes, this is possibly not as much an internal challenge as it is an expression that society-at-large has not yet caught up to patterns that reflect ongoing changes in behaviors that may be decades ahead. Issues may be possible with gender roles or choices as well as relationship needs. I do not want to categorize the LGBTQ as such because in my view, there are no specific signages or aspects that indicate these choices as fulfilling outcomes. Again, as a parental indicator, this may be an indication that one or both parents were at subtle odds with each other but unable to comfortably fulfill their respective roles as each saw fit for the needs of the individual as a child.

As I understand, the opposition is an external challenge, and for sure, the possibility that one or both parents were at odds with some outside force, possibly economic or social in nature. For the individual, there may be clashes between "I am Fiercely Defending my Identity" and honoring one's emotional needs. This may be overtly obvious with a Sun-Moon which are beyond elemental qualities and contradict each other: for example, a Fire sign sun and a Water Moon. Even an Air Sun and Earth Moon could find challenges in trying to fulfill mental and social images and being practical and stabilizing.

How to interpret a chart; the processes of delinations

 

"How do you interpret a chart?"

I don't know there's a definitive answer. Everyone has his/her own style. Some say to look at the ascendant first and planets nearby/conjunct; others say to look at houses (depending on what system/style is used); then there are those who look at other patterns: amounts of elements, rulerships, hemispheres, and signages with planetary match-ups.

I do all of that. At once. I can't say my way is better, but it's how my mind works. Sometimes the planets in signs appear to me like a chessboard configuration--and then they (the planets) figuratively rise up as though they're in 3D and not a flat 2D image. And they start to yell at me: "HEY! Look HERE! LOOK at my placement! Look whom I'm in aspect with and how it's making me react!" I also look at declinations (which is ALSO mentioned on this web page). And I consider the aspects, elements, and the houses--several times over. 

(I DO see patterns, and I mentally connect with the symbolism of the glyphs. You do the same thing with the letters of the alphabet. Letters in language (or symbols) are the same to me as glyphs. I mentally connect with the mythic-psychological-archetypical representations of the glyphs. Why? I'm ADD with a learning disorder, but I'm also a Fluid Learner. You'll have to look that up on my education web site here.)

And so much of this happens in a rush of information. Remember, I'm a Virgo ASC--and Mercury in Aries. I think at two levels: either nanosecond speed or delayed comprehension. High-functioning Virgo; Vulcan Rising. (You can look that up on this site as well. Just scroll down to 'V' and you'll see it alphabetized.)

I let the chart talk to me; I use my Intuition as well as my Cognition. 

So I would say to anyone: find your own method. Nurture it. Let it work within you. Let it work externally; learn how to share what you see and what you feel. And express what you know and then learn more.

And have fun. And apply it with care, wisdom, and sincerity. Help others, and in turn, help yourself learn about who and why they are and the same for yourself.

Welcome to Psychological Astrology with me

 Welcome to Psychological Astrology (PA) Concepts 

with Mitchell D. Lopate

I’m an “astrologist,” as some people prefer to say: someone who actively studies and participates in the study of the dynamics of astrology. I have a B.A. in psychology from Rutgers University, and a masters in education from a private university—but I’m passionate about PA and how it works in our lives. I’ve studied it since 1976, and I’ve written a book about it as well as the blog itself.

What is PA? In western world terms, it’s a language of human actions and choices that can be discerned with the symbols that represent those actions and choices. It’s a blend of the myths from Greece and Rome that describe the stories of humans and their views of the gods and goddesses—the alleged beings of powerful energies of nature. Those gods and goddesses mirrored the choices and decisions of humans that are so vital to our awareness of life: love, war, intellect, enjoyment, surprise, emotions, self-identity, spirituality, discipline in building character, and ultimately, how we face death—and rebirth.

The participants in PA are like actors and actresses who partake of their roles in those choices and decisions. They take on nine (9) major themes (the major planets), with secondary back-ups, and present themselves with twelve (12) styles of appearances (the signs). Each actor/actress, in their exchange “on stage in life,” either cooperates or challenges each other, or several others, according to the life lessons to be achieved or mastered (the aspects). Or not—there are no guarantees!

Within those roles and challenges-cooperation, there may be one or more key areas of 12 Life Experiences—or “stages”—to facilitate this. Each “stage” (or ‘house’) has its own setting. A "stage" (house) may or may not feature any primary focus of action to be learned or resolved. (It depends on your life choices that were made before you were born. Yes, astrology does consider reincarnation as a key component of your soul's growth opportunities.)

The diagram of the birth chart (or current event chart, or even relationship-compatibility chart, if desired), shows who is in which role, how they are “costumed” for it, and in which areas of Life Experience they are “on stage” for the challenges or cooperation dynamics. There are also factors for passive or aggressive responses and “acting out in character,” and introversion/extroversion options. The results are ultimately up to each individual to learn through the “script(s)” that have been crafted for each actor/actress in the Life Performance. There are surely failures and also achievements, which all are up to the person who knows their Life Blueprint by way of PA.

As a hint: yes, the symbols are easy to learn in astrology. If you know your alphabet in any language, it’s just like that. Each symbol has its own ‘sound’ or role of action or energy to deliver. If you know your language by symbols (e.g., Hebrew, Sanskrit, Arabic), you know this already. If you know your language by complex symbols (Chinese or Japanese), you know it already.

There can be a lifetime of study within PA because psychology is the study of human behavior and the decisions that impact those behaviors. You may also learn how to identify which Life Lessons are appearing in your current life cycles or age. These are options that I can also teach—but I emphasize that it is much easier and rewarding to know the basics. To know yourself is to know your strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities. It may also reward you to know these qualities within those who are your key associates, family, and social network. Again, welcome!!

(Note: we won't use Pallas, Juno, Vesta, Ceres in this initial level because they are advanced material for later: the Feminine Asteroids and the 21st Century)

The Nine Intelligences with astrological Sun/Moon/Mercury natal placement options

                                   

 So how do these relate to Sun (I Am Who I Am) /Moon (I Am What I feel emotionally) /Mercury (I Am how I Learn and Think)? 

I’d try it this way—and yes, there are options. So in this regard, I would see possibilities IN GENERAL TERMS in the chart with those three natal planetary placements.

Naturalist – Taurus, Cancer, Sagittarius (All three especially in animal husbandry or veterinarian work)

Musical – Taurus (singing), Gemini (multi-instrumental), Cancer, Leo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Pisces (Yes, I could see Aquarius in some form of  rebellious/alternative formats)

Logical-mathematical – Virgo (of course!), Taurus, Gemini, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn

Existential (life-smart) – Libra, Scorpio (although suspicious by way of safety needs), Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius

Interpersonal – Gemini (GIVE me conversation!), Leo, Libra (the best at emotional intelligence), Aquarius (but more for socializing). Note: the LEAST-conscious emotional intelligent sign in Moon placement: Aries. WAY too possible to be self-centered.

Bodily-kinesthetic –Aries (competitive sports), Taurus, Gemini (arm-hand movements), Libra, Pisces (especially in dance)

Linguistic – Gemini, Sagittarius, Aquarius

Intrapersonal – Cancer, Libra, Scorpio (but they won’t say everything they know), Aquarius 

Spatial – Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Libra, Sagittarius, Capricorn

(Thanks to Richard Gallahad for the idea!)

 

 

 

Astrological principles, purpose, and potential

A few words about astrological principles and their purpose and potential from C.A., an associate in the field of counseling.

The birth chart, the natal chart is the blueprint of the agreement that the soul makes for its purpose of incarnation. Thus, when one understands astrology, one always has at their fingertips the means by which to understand the purpose and reason of one's character and one's being, as to why one may react and act in certain ways, why one may feel that certain events and circumstances are preordained. It is not that astrology is an ironclad contract, it is more simply a flexible blueprint that can help to understand oneself as they journey through life. The contract that is made in spirit is indeed a flexible contract, and spirit never holds that one must fulfill that which was contracted, and it is for this reason that free will applies.

One can go against what may have been part of the contract. One can for example decide not to go to an event one felt one should go to. By not going they might not meet an individual who was meant to play a prominent role in their life. If this individual was truly meant to play a significant role, they may meet up again later, or they may not. All of these events are due to the free will of the individual and their choices. If one has a blueprint and one is able to overview the blueprint to understand the energies that are available due to the various alignments of the stars, and of the energies available, one has a more enlightened way of living one's life. Again, one cannot say that their astrological chart will force them to act a certain way, for there is always the free will, but one always has the blueprint to consult. It is in this way that the astrological information that is captured at the moment of birth can prove to be of great significance during the individual's lifetime.

The Evolution of the Nature of the Stars - The new energies entering the planet will affect the signs, the portent of the stars and the planets that astrology is based on. But at the same time it is seen as an evolutionary type process. The Chaldeans many eons ago who developed what is now modern astrology would not be seen to be entirely relevant now, because the nature of the stars and the properties assigned to the stars and the planets were much different in those times. Yet astrology has been a constant factor since these earliest of times and it has always evolved and taken on relevancy for the times it is used and in the times it is found.

Thus, astrology in the 1930s was of a nature of a planet set to engage in international world conflict. Much of the energy of those times that was seen in the astrological information obtained from the stars and the planets that was available would be interpreted in the consciousness of the masses of that time, and would influence those astrologers and how they would see things. Later there was a shift in the '60s and '70s; there were those who saw the signs in terms of love. Linda Goodman was one who brought a different influence into the energies of astrology at that time. Again, this was part of the evolutionary adaptive program of astrology to the mass consciousness, and how many could tie it in so more could understand. With the new energies it is seen that there will be a radical leap forward as astrology again evolves to suit the needs, and those who have awareness will be able to bring astrology to a new level, higher than ever before, and those who have raised their consciousness will receive much more benefit from the new ways of interpreting the signs and the stars.

Alice O. Howell discusses psychological astrology and Jung

Chart Interpretation choices & Options

The art of chart interpretation is one that offers a range of opportunities. In itself, I've found it to be filled with choices--and there is ALWAYS "another idea" that someone uses, knows in expertise, or waits to be fulfilled by the astrological consultant or individual. Here, I'll outline and describe three of what I would describe as the most well-known variations. As a reference, they all have a special purpose and place--but it's up to you in deciding which is appropriate and in which circumstance you'd choose each one. 

First, the most familiar one that many people favor: aspects. I've mentioned them in other posts, but to be general here, aspects to me refer to the dynamics of cooperation or resistance between planets that represent actions, behaviors, choices, or responses in the psyche. Some planets (as representatives of human responses) work well with each other and some do not. There are grids that can be produced by certain chart forms which show these energies. Other people prefer to keep a mental scorecard of who's willing to be a team member or not. Aspects can be major or minor--and some people use both. Aspects also use a range of connection-contact with each other: "orbs," which vary depending on the aspect name and dynamic.

On a separate note, I've also mentioned in other posts that certain societies of astrological study prefer to use aspects under their own range of orbs. The Magi Society is one of those with whom I have found accuracy; however, it can be very complex and requires an in-depth understanding of their methods and software. They adhere to the concept that the use of house systems (the means of establishing the boundary markers for signs on the wheel/format for a chart) is not relevant because the exact time of birth is often not known in accurate measurement. (I understand this and have said, "What IS the exact time? When the first breath is taken at birth? When the umbilical cord is cut?")

To this end-and-means, the Magi Society says that aspects are the key to understanding and interpreting human behavior and dynamics because they can be consistently and accurately measured by use of an ephemeris or chart. I agree with this also because I find the ephemeris to be a valuable tool which is reliable and resourceful WHEN A CHART IS NOT AVAILABLE; for example, if a computer software package is not on hand. (I worry about the demands and availability of electricity: what would we do if there was no power for our electronics? Therefore, an ephemeris is a must-have resource for anyone regardless of experience or level of knowledge.)

Second: there are counselors, consultants, and other advisors who also consider that linking dynamics between planets in elements are significant: that connections of aspects can be interpreted by unions (conjunctions, trines) or resistance (squares, oppositions) according to match-ups of fire, earth, air, or water elemental patterns. An example: Venus in Scorpio and Saturn in Pisces, both in water element, for an individual who will find that longevity and patience will bring potential fulfillment in social relationships and love. Or in synastry: Venus in Scorpio squaring a partner's Pluto in Leo would indicate possibilities for challenges of power that would normally NOT be harmonious, but in this case, because of the special energies of a square creating a means for "resolution in the bedroom" that are satisfying to both parties.

The third means of interpretation is one that I often use or hear referred to as a "sunrise chart." This is the solar chart--when no accurate time of birth is known. It is commonly done with 6:00 a.m. as the time of birth, and all signs on house cusps reflect the according degree of the Sun sign. As such, the Sun would go in the 1st house of Self-Appearance, Personality, and Early Childhood environment, and all other planets would follow by degree in their sign and respective house cusp alignment.

I have thought about this in my use of chart software, and I want to extend it further. I normally favor the 6:00 a.m. time frame, but I now consider that there could be potential for me to use the other times that counselors, fellow astrological consultants, and others use: noon (12:00 p.m.), sunset (6:00 p.m.), and midnight (12:00 a.m.). 

As such, these are the reasons I now consider to be useful and appropriate for means of interpreting the psyche as displayed in the chart outlay: for sunrise, in dealing with the signs known for being "personal and self-focused": Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo. On the flip side of the chart, the "sunset option" puts the Sun at 6:00 p.m. in the 7th house. This could be especially resourceful for Libra, especially, and its orientation to the Significant Other and relationships, and also for a Scorpio's sense of dealing with intimacy, privacy, and shared values. At the same time, this could work just as well for the other 10 signs, but especially so for validating potentials in those specified dynamics of the psyche.

I would see the 12:00 noon option being especially useful in determining potentials for career patterns or expressions of choice for establishing one's sense of status, and the Sun would be in the 10th house of Capricorn's domain, and again, all other planets would be placed accordingly to the house cusp degree of the Sun. I am sure all signs would favor this, but especially for Aries, Gemini,  Leo, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Aquarius. I would also see 12:00 midnight being used especially so for Cancer-Crab souls who want to see or know how they work in the safety and establishment of a home domain and within patterns of family establishment and security. This could also work well for Taurus's sense of home acquisition and style, as well as Leo, Virgo (and their ability to keep order and "a place for everything" in their residence), but also for Libra, Scorpio ("Can I share my home with someone and in what way?"), and Pisces, in determining what kind of home near a body of water would be appropriate. 

In conclusion: I repeat that the art of chart interpretation is a multi-faceted skill that is never totally resolved or completed in the legacy and effort of anyone who enjoys studying and learning astrological techniques. I offer these ideas above as a means to consider: if it works and makes your skill set more open and beneficial, I have given this product for your benefit and opportunity.

Astrological Predicting and Human Free Will/Choices

For reference and with good reason from a premier counselor in our time. Some people I've met have been too insistent on not taking their own free will and decision-making choices into account. Steven Forrest explains why that's not a healthy matter for them nor the advising astrological counselor: 

https://www.forrestastrology.com/blogs/astrology/the-perils-of-astrological-prediction

Why Doesn't Astrology affect everyone the same?

I like the way he presents these ideas--and I hope you will too!

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.

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 

Transits & Progressions: Your Life's Personal Life Experience/Growth Visitors

Guess Who’s Come for a Visit?

Why, it's the Transits & Progressions!!

This refers to the counter-clockwise movement of the planets under current cycles against the natural background of your chart. Let’s think of it as your personal "Cosmic Bed & Breakfast" with a pattern of new guests who show you what you're meant to learn and why it matters.

In personal terms, think of as many as 16* visitors (*with the asteroids, Chiron, and Lilith) “visiting” your home (Life) and the respective houses (wedges) in your chart, depending on the sign on the cusp (sort of a doorman, eh?). Each “guest” receives a different "room" to stay in for their time of residence, depending on their schedule—and each house/wedge is a realm of activity that is activated or emphasized. Preparations need to be made for each “visitor,” in that you either gain “rent-income” for their visit (a positive opportunity phase) or a lesson to be learned and mastered (a frustrating or stressful time—or ultimately a growth process)--in how you choose to handle it).

Each planet-guest receives a measure of comfort—or discomfort—depending on any previous occupants by design from the birth chart. In other words, when a transiting planet “arrives” at a wedge on your chart, it stays for its respective term—like being on a vacation. However, it might be asked to ‘share’ accommodations with any planets that naturally reside there by natural residence on your chart.

So now you’ve got a ‘visitor’ to a particular area of life experience—and depending on how they generate energy, your ‘guest’ may be comfortable—or irritable. Either way, there are lessons to be experienced and learned; “activated” is another term. The “guest” planet(s) will also interact with the natural outlay of planets from the birth chart—so your “guests” may or may not be pleased at the circumstances—hence, the “learning” process in how we choose to adapt and make them “at home.”

The *planets in their transits repeat themselves in timely cycles: Mars moves around the chart every two years; Saturn takes @ 2.5 years; Jupiter visits in a 12-year phase; Uranus has a 7-year cycle; Neptune works its illusions and dissolving trends for @13 years; Pluto may vary between 12-31 years, depending on its unusual orbit. The Sun, although it is the center of our solar system, is also considered to “move” in the chart, as does the Moon. The Sun will naturally follow the 12-month zodiac, and the Moon will change every 2.5+/- days.

I don’t usually emphasize Venus or Mercury because they are more ‘social’ in nature, rather than having long-term significance or emphasis. (They're easier to accommodate.) Nothing like Pluto staying for years at a time--and there's always some sort of unplanned renovation going on when it visits!...and just about everyone is glad to see Saturn leave too because there's SO much work that has to be done while it stays! The door is always open for Jupiter because it usually brings fortune and opportunity. Mars...tends to be a bit upsetting: anything from literally burning down the house to knocking down the walls to build that new exercise room. Uranus...well, you never can tell what will happen--but prepare for the unexpected. And Neptune...never sure if Neptune is EVER going to make an appearance!)

Progressions:

Whereas transits are the current Life Activity events, progressions are more about the Soul's Evolutionary Progress as experienced by the advancement of the planets through the signs over a lifetime. I call progressions "The Butterfly Emerging from the Cocoon" phases of Life.

The primary points & planets that I recommend are the Sun, Moon, and Ascendant. They each change signs over specific periods of time, especially the Sun (1 degree per year from the starting degree marker of birth; 30 degrees total) and the Moon (1 degree per month). For example, I was born 24 degrees Aries; at 6 years old, I "evolved" into Taurus. My birth Sun remains the same; I then experienced 30 years of a two-way lesson of Soul Identity as an Aries-Taurus. At age 36, I became a Gemini, and will continue until age 66, when I become a Cancer-Crab.

The Moon also advances in this way each month at one degree, and is very useful to examine trends in social activity, encounters with the public-at-large, and relationship patterns. The other planets also move, especially the inner ones, but I do not use them as frequently unless they reach critical degree points.

Here's another way of viewing it:

· When the Progressed Sun Changes Sign: Depending on how long a person lives, the progressed Sun changes sign perhaps 3 times in the entire life span. The period when the progressed Sun is very late in a sign and is about to change to a new sign (this occurs for about a year) is often a rather critical year in which many changes occur. When the progressed Sun changes signs, there is usually a very clear change in a person's general orientation and responses to his or her environment. Plenty of real-life events are possible (such as relocation, a new job in a new field, etc.), but the common theme is starting fresh—"out with the old and in with the new"—and a marked change in the outlook and attitudes of an individual. Before the progressed Sun changes signs, there can be some fear and dread—even a feeling that things are being "taken" from us. Hasty and poor decisions and a sense of urgency can be characteristic of this period.

· The Progressed Moon — Cycle of Maturity: The progressed Moon moves through the houses of our natal chart, coming full circle in about 27-28 years. The house it is moving through represents areas of our life that come into focus. We recognize our needs in these areas more intensely, although not necessarily clearly. For example, the progressed Moon moving through the 4th house often brings with it a strong need and search for "roots" and basic life definition. Even though our natal Moon sign "reigns" over our emotional needs in a general sense, our focus shifts as the progressed Moon passes through our houses.

In fact, our emotional needs seem to change or shift as the house position changes. The sign of your Progressed Moon indicates the prevailing emotional attitude of that period of time. Also note that if you look into your past and determine when the progressed Moon passed over any one of the four angles in your chart (that is, the Ascendant, Midheaven, Descendant, and IC) you will see that these progressions/passages often mark rather significant times in your life. Also significant is the progression of the Moon to critical degrees, as well as Progressed Moon in aspect to natal planets and points.

· The Progressed Lunation Cycle: This is the cycle from one progressed New Moon to the next (every 27-28 years). Look to the phase of the progressed Sun and progressed Moon. During the progressed New Moon phase, individuals instinctively start a new phase or chapter in their lives. The Crescent phase brings about new challenges and opportunities, as well as adjustments, that don't always feel pleasant, to the new cycle as a purpose is not entirely clear at this point in the cycle.

The First Quarter phase represents a particularly active, building stage, while the Gibbous stage presents a time of refining and fine-tuning. This makes way for the Full Moon phase, which is a time of fruition and accomplishment. This marks the beginning of the progressed waning moon phase, when some things dissolve and one begins to recognize the need to let go. 

The Disseminating phase is a time of sharing and literally "disseminating" that which has been learned in the waxing phase of the moon. The next phase, the Third Quarter Moon phase, marks a time of one's life when there lies some discontent and dissatisfaction with the way one has been approaching life. This can be a somewhat confusing time, as one instinctively prepares for the final stage of the waning Moon: the Balsamic phase. During this phase, old systems begin to phase out, and there may be a desire for withdrawal and reflection.

· Progressed Planets Conjuncting an Angle of the Natal Chart or Progressed Angles Conjuncting a Natal Planet or Point. These activations involving natal and progressed angles (the Ascendant and Midheaven) generally point to significant personal changes in the native's life.

Mercury Retrograde: Lost Information & time for personal reflection

About four times a year, a 4-6 week occurrence happens in when Mercury goes retrograde: all types of communication go 'unsteady.' It is often observed that papers are misplaced, documents and important transactions are not processed as planned, people often complain that they can't focus or think clearly, appointments are canceled or postponed, hiring decisions are delayed, or other matters of sharing information are cast adrift until that point when Mercury once again regains its position as leader and overtakes the Earth in its orbit. Travel plans go astray more so during a Mercury retro because Mercury rules short trips. 

What's a retrograde? A retrograde indicates an internalization process; influences and actions that would be energized for the planet(s) that are in a retro cycle are slower to manifest:  they are more ‘inside than outside’ and take longer to complete, comprehend, or activate. As a physical happening, this is when the Earth overtakes the other planet in our respective orbits around the Sun (*the other planets also go “retro”; the only one that doesn’t is the Moon)--and it appears that the slower moving one is going 'backwards.' We have all see this while driving on the highway or in trains: the landscape (or vehicle overtaken) looks to be going in reverse.  Of course, that does not really happen, but the optical illusion is there.  Mercury is the fastest moving planet that we know of in its orbit around the Sun: it takes approximately 88 days.

In astrological terms, Mercury represents our capacity to communicate and think, thereby "ruling" (or 'sponsoring') all types of mental activities and delivery of thoughts: written and verbal, as well as contracts, signings of such, and the industries that provide these services (phones, computers, electronics). Which signs get zinged the most? Well, Gemini and Virgo, because they're ruled by Mercury. Not that they're exclusive, but they seem to feel it sooner. The same for Gemini and Virgo moon signs and ascendants.

Has this any good potential--aside from feeling that one has lost his or her mind for a temporary period of time or that it's not appropriate to sign that important paper? Yes: some people find they can actually focus more clearly on a single idea during Mercury retrograde. Some writers (myself included) and people who may be considered hyperactive or ADD may find they can actually do more work on a regimented schedule during a Mercury retrograde. I have found some of my better writing efforts have come during a time frame like this. 

Also, matters that went wrong before but have better potential now for a renewal or second chance may find results during a Mercury retrograde. Sales, "meeting someone again" for the second time to repair or join again in a reunion often works better because it's a "we've done this before" awareness that allows for the subconscious self to blend mind and emotion without trying to out-think the idea on a conscious level. 

Personal Boundaries in the Zodiac

I was recently asked about a comment I made that "Scorpios and Virgos are similar in nature." To explain further, I replied, "It's a way that Scorpios and Virgos have about obsession, actually. Virgo has it for maintaining order in their life--or someone else's--and Scorpio about letting someone else INTO their life. All about control."

The Rolling Stones had a song, “Get Off of My Cloud.” ESPECIALLY for those in intimate and professional relationships, as well as how we conduct ourselves, we are all learning about “personal space.” This is especially so for anyone with 2nd house planets, and more so for personal ones (Sun-Moon-Mercury-Venus-Mars). But this also goes for 7th and 8th house planets: and within those houses, add in Saturn for structure, Uranus for unwillingness to yield to social formalities, Neptune for lack of clarity and personal discernment, and Pluto for control and power. The 4 major asteroids can also be factors too: willingness to bend and yield to a partner (Vesta) as a personal sacrifice of Self; Juno's expectations of commitment; Pallas Athena's sense of championing the less fortunate and also stretching gender roles, and Ceres' ways of caring and extending nurturing.

How we respect and learn our self-value of “being me” and also recognizing the same for others is a significant lesson that we are learning. Each sign has its own potential realization of saying to others (and also to the Self) that “These are MY boundaries.”

So how do other signs handle personal space and respecting (or not) those of others?  Generally speaking--and this is not specifying EVERYONE in any sign:

(1) Aries will run right over someone's space. "You talking to ME?! No, I'm NOT being insensitive--you're just not motivated enough. Here, let me show you...."
(2) Taurus thinks whatever they have (or someone else has) belongs to them: "Well, I want it--therefore, I should have it."
(3) Gemini tries to slip past mental barriers with "I'm curious about something you said/think. Why, no, I'm not being nosy--I was just wondering...."
(4) Cancer tries to protect their own sensitivity because they can sense so much about other people's feelings (boundaries): "You don't care how I feel! Go ahead and hurt me--you'll be sorry for it."
(5) Leo just wants to have recognition for their own boundaries; no one else matters as much: "How DARE you defy me? Don't you know how important I am?"
(6) Virgo...well..."EVERYTHING has its proper place and space! Make sure you know where mine are and what I expect of you!"
(7) Libra wants to be sure everyone's boundaries are respected and equal: "All is Fair in Love and War. But if it keeps us from arguing...I agree."
(8) Scorpio will kill anyone who gets too close to a personal boundary: "None of your damned business! And who asked you anyway?"
(9) Sagittarius wants to expand their boundaries (and that of others): "The bigger, the better! You would gain something from me anyway."
(10) Capricorn wants to use their boundaries for gain or success at the expense of others: "I can use this to my advantage--especially if you don't know my intentions and goals."
(11) Aquarius hides within the Collective Group boundaries and avoids commitment: "If you can't see or find me, I'm not required to validate my boundaries. Besides, I might change my view of them without explaining why."
(12) Pisces just doesn't know boundaries; they're too "far out" to maintain them: "Oh, it doesn't matter anyway. This just isn't reality--so go ahead with whatever it is you want. I'll find some way of adjusting."