MARCH 2021 GLOBAL ASTROLOGICAL OVERVIEW

 

 Well, Mercury is now direct, so there will be less uncertainty in the air about direction of travel for us all. Mercury, still in Aquarius till the 15^th, alongside Jupiter and Saturn in that sign, illuminates the fact that rationality, and innovative, progressive science looks like it really is winning. New breakthroughs in knowledge about Covid will continue to assist greatly in progress.

 Jupiter is trining Boris Johnson’s Mercury in the first half of this month, suggesting then that he really is trying to put wisdom before popularity, but from the 15th, this may get sacrificed somewhat on the altar of impulsive, over optimism and a bowing to pressure from other, more libertarian influences in his party. Reality checks will then loom large as a result. Mars also moves into Boris’s own home Sun sign of Gemini on the 5^th and that will also spur him on with competitive if misguided confidence.

 Mars in Gemini has a strong reputation for producing much talk of ambitious plans, but with little detail and indeed with little resulting action.

 Notably around the 24^th when Mercury, then in Pisces (heart) squares up to Mars in Gemini (mind), there will be a real risk of a clash of ideological values, resulting in impulsive, illogical actions and controversial decisions which brings confusion and anger. This can be an international manifestation. It will very much create challenge then for Boris in particular, as both planets will challenge his natal Pluto at that time.

 Trump has Saturn opposing his natal Pluto in the second half of the month (every 30 years), which will be a significant challenge to his desire for secrecy and a severe limitation on his power to protect that which he wants to keep private.

 Jo Biden, also has strong Mars transits this month, suggesting challenges from others that will test his mettle and block some paths, but not without an intelligent fight back from him. His assertive, more aggressive, Scorpionic mood will emerge.

 We will also see this month the bigger picture development of many futuristic ideas about progress re economic restructuring, in view of the fallout from Covid (not over yet) and new commitments to fighting climate issues, as a new enlightened intelligence comes together with a sense of increased urgency and cooperation. The floodgates of progressive science (Aquarius) for the greater good, will begin to merge with a new financial opportunism, as it will dawn on many entrepreneurs that prosperity lies in change and innovation, for the greater health of our earth. The old industrialisation model is becoming history… indiscriminate protectionism of the old is now totally outworn, as a new paradigm is born, and that futuristic bandwagon will now be increasingly recognised as the way to go, if we are all to survive. Pluto (power) entering Aquarius in late 2024, (scientific/technological future) will rubber stamp that, but not without some dangers of abuse of those realms.

 However, simultaneously, Uranus is an unpredictable outside the box, even maverick, influence and can be very unguessable, by definition, and his current place in Taurus (since March 2019 and until July 2025) which literally is about money /security, totally points to unpredictable and significant chaos there. The last time Uranus was in this sign was 1934-1942, characterised by the great economic depression and during much of the 2^nd world war, which alone speaks volumes.

 The economic model we have had for decades, will become, over the next few years, very unstable and totally challenging to the old status quo. There will be very profound and unexpected financial shocks and significant losses.  Revolutionary changes will be apparent in the concept of our financial system, with additional seemingly eccentric notions, which will be hard to accommodate in the traditional model. Certainly, technology (Uranus)will play a huge part in this, again, with some more maverick, anti-establishment eccentricities (Uranus), emerging re money.  Obviously, the pandemic will be very much a huge challenge to the economic system in unpredictable ways. Money making in the markets will be at the least, significantly altered and desperate short-term gain, even if very unconventional, will become increasingly popular.

 Positively however, huge investment in advancing technology re the fight against climate change will however, become obviously more the way to go, as finally, profit and working for the good/survival of our planet become compatible and indeed financially logical and urgently essential.

 The rather chaotic unpredictability of Uranus in Taurus in terms of finances, will also be replicated in terms of upsets geophysically, as Taurus is also very linked to literally our relationship with the Earth.  There will be shocks re nature. This will manifest as extreme weather events and upheavals (already evident), as mother earth will be messaging us powerfully about what we have done to our earth’s delicate environmental balance.

The elements of Water and Earth are always totally harmonious and of course are an essential combination in nature, for growth. Therefore, the technological challenge and positive innovation of Uranus (brain/future) in the Earth sign of Taurus (since March 2019) now constructively working in harmonious sextile angle, with the spiritual, instinctive human desire of Neptune (heart/soul), so strong in the Water sign of Pisces (since 2012) is a very promising, cooperative partnership.

 During this pandemic, these compatible planetary positionings have seriously made us all appreciate nature, both for its beauty and value and importantly also, its power to show us massively how much nature can push back, if we mess with it, re climate the crisis. Critically also, we must face the root causes of many mutated viruses, which are a result of human invasion of nature’s sacred spaces, that should belong to its creatures alone. These facts are now becoming more in our faces, as a total emergency.

It is also essential that the mind (air) and the heart/soul (water) need to cooperate, for the survival of us all.

We still however have this month, Saturn in Aquarius squaring up to Uranus in Taurus, not as exact as last month, but still in operation. This is all about the hugely critical clash now in our society between the desire for the freedom instinct of Uranus, and the necessity of caution, restriction and discipline of Saturn. Both planets being in fixed signs, makes the clash stubbornly uncompromising.

 The argument between the great freedom of resuming a returned “normal” economic /social activity, which of course is very important, versus ongoing significant social constraint, in order to avoid risk of another pandemic wave and therefore more serious variants emerging, is totally fierce. Life and death, no less. It is also in truth, a political ideological argument, between the important economic needs, combined with the libertarian viewpoint, versus the compliance with the need for some authoritarian control of the population, based on the pure facts of medical science.   Scientific advice certainly however needs priority now, with Saturn (the necessity principle) being in the sign of objective scientific power of Aquarius, a sign which is indeed also co ruled by Saturn.

 Our society however is fundamentally based on the major value system of economic health.

 We cannot race back to the norm; patience is still now totally essential… as Saturn now demands. Short term gain will be dangerous, setting us back pandemic wise and therefore economically again, but with Mars moving into Gemini on the 5^th, there is indeed a worry, that impulse and somewhat superficial political analysis, may win the day, not least in England.  

The full Moon falls on the 28^th at 8 degrees of Libra and the New moon falls on the 12^th at 23 degrees of Pisces.

    

FEBRUARY 2021 GLOBAL ASTROLOGICAL OVERVIEW

 

The USA is in very different and more wise hands now, despite the shadows of pre inauguration events and Trumps ongoing manoeuvres. Global cooperation is in view. We do indeed also now have amazing and  more respected and applauded science, developing at breakneck speed to get a grip on this virus and to get out the right vaccines. Wisdom re the logical way forward is acknowledged more universally, but it is not without its significant difficulties. The new variants and the logistics of vaccine rollout are a huge challenge. Saturn and Jupiter, now rarely together in Aquarius since late December (as I have previously emphasized) and for the long haul, are all flagging up the principles of Aquarian focus, i.e., the innovative scientific work, to challenge and defeat these current massive global issues and indeed climate change.  Of course, this is also the month of the Sun in Aquarius, and additionally we also have, Venus and Mercury in Aquarius too, for much of the month, so that sign is huge in influence right now. Aquarius is very much about knowledge, enlightenment and the future. 

The air signs i.e., Aquarius, Libra and Gemini, are about the power of the mind and rationality.

Apart from this hopeful Jupiter and Saturn’s relatively new positioning, either causing or correlating (who knows?) with the shift in focus of values and direction of our planet’s goals, it is also very important however to note that this month, Mercury, although currently in Aquarius, is also stressfully retrograde, i.e., moving backwards (from 30^th January) and stays in that retrograde mode till the 22^nd of February.

This Mercury mood brings hiccups and lack of clarity, confusion, frustration and often delays, (related to Aquarian issues) and it is however, also a time to step back, because of problems faced, and rethink, re-evaluate, and learn from these issues.  Aviation/science /technology /vaccines/medical science and what indeed is wise and good for the future of humanity/the planet, are an unprecedented challenge, not least the hiccups of the Covid crisis. This is severely underlined and tested by retrograde Mercury.  Already we are seeing confusing, uncertain information re the vaccines, the timing of doses and its efficacy and potential blocks to supply chains. Experts, not to mention politicians, are learning as they go along. We are even having shaming squabbles related to vaccine nationalism.  Travel too is always limited, blocked or unpredictable, when Mercury is retrograde. Uncertainty and confused messages generally are all around us. All, so typical of this planetary influence.

This retrograde Mercury also proves frustrating for many of us individually on a personal life level in terms of delays, blocks and paralysis, as well as having a global effect.

 However, after the 21^st, when Mercury resumes forward motion, many of the difficulties, confusions and delays will start to be alleviated and more clarity, and hopefully progress re the Covid battle will emerge.

 This Jupiter and Saturn combining in Aquarius is totally about working with the new, the innovative, the science and the outside the box, big picture future. However, although Jupiter represents positivity, insight and progress re the qualities of whatever sign he is in, he can also create too much optimism re success and progress, as indeed Boris Johnson has demonstrated, all too often. Overoptimism can indeed be lethal.

 At least with pessimism, you can only be pleasantly surprised.

 Realism is what is needed, that is the task of Saturn (karmic schoolteacher) and by contrast to Jupiter, he is simply showing us that no road forward, regardless of how worthwhile and laudable the effort, is ever without its potholes and bumps. Saturn always brings reality checks, truths, delays, blocks and challenges… and a need for great patience   This is all in the name of learning and humility, ultimately in order to achieve deferred gratification. If the road is truly worthy and pursued with wisdom, hard work, determination, then the efforts will eventually, significantly pay off and for the long term …and currently related especially to issues characterised by Aquarian energy.  All that matters is the integrity of the motive.

Saturn often also reminds us that what we want and what we need, are often two different things. Combined with retrograde Mercury right now, till the 21^st we will all need to be very patient and tolerant.

When Saturn dipped his toe into Aquarius temporarily from late March to mid-June last year, he gave us a taste, re necessary limits to aviation, and this has returned profoundly, right now, as he commits to that sign for several years.  Air travel, which is ruled by Uranus, the ruler of Aquarius, is an important focus now in terms of blocks, (especially with the additional current Mercury retrograde.).  Flight is something we have taken for granted, as globalisation has become the norm, but Saturn is now having to intervene painfully in that industry, on the altar of fighting the virus.

When this pandemic crisis is seriously reduced in its severity, there will be, over the coming few years, because of the Aquarian focus, a great drive to make necessary, but challenging changes to the nature of flight, not only because of its potential as a virus spreader, but also re the nature of its fuelling, in order to help combat climate issues.

 Aquarius is also very much about independence, nonconformity and freedom of thought and action, but with Saturn (limitations) in that sign now, the passionate libertarians are not at all happy about the stringent virus induced measures that are being imposed on our freedoms. They are challenging the logically prescribed, collective obedience asked of us all to obey, even though the measures are in the name of all our physical safety and survival.

 Jupiter is running ahead of Saturn in Aquarius, by about 6 degrees.  The ongoing alternation, therefore, between Jupiter and Saturn influence, i.e., optimism initially, versus later resulting harsher reality checks, strongly continues as a theme this month.  

 Saturn (the brakes/discipline/responsibility and duty) however, is always stronger than Jupiter (freedom) in its effects.  Without Saturn we would have anarchy.

 Global problems must be dealt with by a global consensus and equality. Aquarian energy certainly points to that, and an acknowledgement now that no one is protected, till everyone is protected. That means global mass vaccination, in order to achieve maximum herd immunity. It is about cooperation, not competition.

Uranus (disruption, change) continuing in Taurus (value system, money safety, reliability and groundedness) since March 2019 and till the end of April 2026… has seriously threatened our sense of security and assumed norms around employment, the economy, planet earth and indeed social norms in general … and literally has manages to ground aviation (Uranus).

 The fallout for mental health, during this pandemic, is undoubted, for us all, both adults and children. The negative side of the current Neptune in Pisces position, till April 2025, not only is about invisible spread of the virus and indeed powerfully about the spread of conspiracy theories/fake news, but also the invisible spread of increased mental sensitivity and fragility. The positive side, of this every 165-year planetary position, is its underlining of our compassion and appreciation of the good and the pure in humanity, and not least realising the value, beauty and fragility of the natural world, and our urgent need to respect and protect it and its creatures, if our planet is indeed to stay beautiful, habitable and indeed more virus free.

Trumps current chart transits are creating a situation that is still hugely difficult (probably impossible) for him to accept. All month he still has Pluto opposing his Venus (ever 248 years). This will continue to hugely frustrate and undermine him. His allies will not be so loyal and his relationships both personal and with those in power, will be very diminished.  In the very early days of the month before his impeachment trial, he has Jupiter opposing his Pluto. He will then be looking for revenge and be leaning heavily on powerful individuals, in order to try to advantage himself.

 Late month, when Mars conjuncts his Midheaven and squares its own place, he is very angry, and will be still hugely pushing for power.

Biden is in generally positive mode chart wise, but in the second half of the month he may find international relations and economic issues very limiting, when Saturn opposes his Pluto (every 30 years.)  His challenges are significant then, but do not underestimate his wise, positive power and determination, that his natal chart shows.

 Johnson’s chart continues with Neptune squaring his Mercury by transit, indicating ongoing lack of clarity, false statements, disinformation, general confusion and fogginess, no detail or indeed often much logic. This happens approximately every 84 years and he has had it on and off since March 2020 and it fades from March this year.

 From the 15^th-24^th of this month when globally, Saturn squares up to Uranus as a current transit, that will be a powerful period of slow down, limitation and more blocks to freedom in many ways for all. Reality checks are also strong.  The 25th and 26th are more positive dates and progress can be seen.

 The New Moon falls on the 11^th at 23 degrees of Aquarius and the full Moon falls on the 27^th at 8 degrees of Virgo.   The new Moon correlates with hopeful new beginnings, and the full Moon with potential eruptions and closures of chapters.

 

 

JANUARY AND 2021 GLOBAL ASTROLOGICAL OVIEW

 

We have all learned at least one thing in 2020 and ongoing; and that is that we should not take life and our perceived normality, for granted.

Periodically we must remember how much we just assume continuity and that things stay the same, but in truth, there are only two certainties in life, and one of them is change.

 This is indeed a game changer. The world has now necessarily woken up to; and been reminded of the power of what nature can do to us… especially when we mess with it.

We now are entering a period of significant change, obviously and astrologically, totally catalyzed by this pandemic and its power. We need to really understand why this has happened. We cannot just “get back to normal”. We also need a retrospective, essential scrutiny of our lives, our civilization and to develop a big picture awareness of what we can do to try to redress balance and understand the dynamics and consequences of our actions on our planet and therefore on ourselves.

 This Covid period has brought out the most selfless, and indeed sometimes the most selfish behaviour in humanity. Each one of us, I am sure, has done a lot of personal reflection on our lives during this time.  It really is true that every crisis is an opportunity.

 The concept of ruthless, eternal, global economic growth at all costs, has been slowly growing over the last century, emphasised by the negative side of Pluto (power) in Capricorn (economic drive) since 2008.  The fallout is hitting us hard.

The realisations implicit, have been very much indicated by the dawning new emphasis on the power of the air sign of Aquarius, tasted in late March till July, when Saturn then temporarily dipped his toe into that sign. This Aquarian energy however has just again been truly, powerfully activated, when in the second half of December 2020, Jupiter and Saturn, virtually hand in hand, committed to a move together from Capricorn and into Aquarius.  A very rare event.

 As an energy, it is reminiscent of the old late 60’s hippy dream/song of “The Dawning of the Age of Aquarius.”  

 Basically, the message is that the power of the carelessness, ignorance, ego, greed and often the heartlessness of mankind, must be superseded by wisdom, a more existential big picture awareness and a far humbler reverence for our planet. This is achieved by using our brains (Aquarius), as well as our hearts (Pisces), for the greater good of humanity, the environment, and therefore for all our physical, spiritual and mental health.

The power of Neptune in its own home water sign of Pisces still, since 2012 till April 2025, has been struggling to awaken our senses and hearts to the value of nature and its delicate, complex balance.

 We need to remember that we need nature, nature does not need us.

There have now been many manifest warnings re climate change. This has now become very visible to many… even the deniers are becoming quieter.  However, with Pluto (power) in Capricorn (economic system) till 2025, the struggle of the transition in our value system will be not an easy one for many of those in power, for whom the old competitive and ruthless economic system is the only perceived and understood way and so is hung onto.

Come the end of 2024, Pluto also will concede the power of necessary change of emphasis, as he will then also move into Aquarius., where he will stay till 2044.

We have had in 2020, and now continuing powerfully, the crucial interaction of scientists with governments, in trying to beat the pandemic, and that has involved humility needed by people in power. This is a very difficult task for many of them if it involves a downgrading of their own power/ego to achieve other goals. Global cooperation, as opposed to competition and nationalism are the only way forward to beat the massive global problems we have and that is what the emphasis on Aquarius now (and Neptune in Pisces) demands. England is a Capricorn country, and the old colonial, sovereign empire mentality is still clung on to by many and will not serve us well in massively changing times.

The power of Jupiter (positivity and optimism) and Saturn (discipline, hard work and necessity) entering the big picture, awareness, rational, and alternative thinking sign of Aquarius has indeed brought, along with the vaccine roll out, a boost to the prospect of a successful combining of rays of hope in many ways. Jupiter in Aquarius has started an increased sense of global environmental collaboration and progress, wisdom, innovation, necessary and amazing scientific advancement to help us through this immediate health crisis, internationalism and a feeling of optimism and protection.  Saturn in Aquarius has also started to demand the challenging need for discipline, necessity, hard work, sense of responsibility, humility and organisation, and importantly patience, and even privation in the name of impersonal, universal progress, based on logic, and a necessary vision for the future. The combining of these energies is powerful. Saturn is the benevolent despot and karmic schoolteacher. We need his focus, discipline and humility now.

 It is interesting how much we realise we do not really need during these times, and indeed we are realising that sometimes less is more, in terms of consumption i.e., what is essential versus what is not. A very Saturnian lesson.  A change of priorities is essential.  The future will be different and needs to be.

The symbolic figure of Aquarius is talked about as “the water bearer” and people often think it is therefore a water sign because of that, but in fact that seeming water she pours from her urn, is symbolic of the flow of knowledge and wisdom

However, we need to be also aware that Saturn can bring blocks, delays and logistical complications and a huge need for patience, such as on the roll out the safest, most effective vaccines, on a desired time scale in the correct way. It is hugely important with Saturn in operation, for all to not put speed, the ticking of boxes and the ego fulfilment of politicians, ahead of scientific certainty and caution.

Jupiter, at the very end of December, overtook Saturn in the combining of the two planets and so started to lead Saturn in the journey through Aquarius.  

This Jupiter leadership has and will create a stronger push for speed, an impatience and a tendency to be overly optimistic, (Jupiter trait) not least by our leaders, about the progress of our path out of the pandemic. There is a possible potential carelessness and underestimation of the necessary caution re the organisation of our management of the challenges. Jupiter power, because of anticipation of an imminent vaccine, has encouraged an overoptimistic relaxation in public compliance re the general health/ social rules, still needed and demanded by Saturn. With the new  Covid variant (s) we need to be reminded by Saturn that indeed patience is the priority needed, in terms of the time taken for any necessary tweaking of vaccines over the months to come. It would, in truth, be better for Saturn to precede Jupiter on this journey… but that is not possible as Jupiter moves much more quickly than Saturn, as indeed he often does in human nature.

 Jupiter and Saturn both journey together through Aquarius till the very end of December 2021, but Jupiter will dip her toe in to Pisces temporarily, from the 13^th May till the 28th July this year. Importantly though, she recommits to Aquarius from late July to the end of December, to complete her Aquarian tasks. While temporarily in Pisces however, Jupiter will give hint at the flavour of what will be underlined from late December 2021, when Jupiter commits to Pisces, till May 10^th, 2022.  The positive side of Jupiter in Pisces, being the power of the heart, the arts and likely increased compassion, idealism and sensitivity, especially to nature.

Saturn meanwhile is now only committed to travelling through Aquarius, continuously till March 7^th, 2023, doing the necessary karmic work in that sign. When he enters Pisces in March 2023, that will be a whole different story.

Clearly, Trump’s power passing to Biden, is very much in keeping with the shift of values underlined now, and the fact that Brexit has been “settled”, I suspect in panic, are indicative of a no choice change of emphasis for Boris.

The date of Jo Biden’s inauguration on January 20th (when fittingly the Sun is also exactly entering Aquarius) sees Saturn trine his ascendant (every 15 years) and Jupiter oppose his Pluto (every 12 years) and Mars conjunct his Part of Fortune (every 2 years) which is a rare combining. These show a sense of responsibility and recognition of duty and economic challenge, all taken on very seriously, alongside a strong determination to make powerful, if ambitious advantageous changes, especially in international relations. Also, there is a strong sense of his will and ambition being combined on that day, with fate and positive success.  Challenges do await him in the second half of February though.

Do not underestimate Biden’s strong will. He is a powerful Scorpio, with Mars square Pluto. Motive is everything with Scorpio, but with Sagittarius rising, and his ruling planet Jupiter, so well and intelligently aspected, it is certainly not ego centred. The US chart (Independence Day 1776.) has Pluto opposing its Mercury now... which indicates radical challenge and change economically, and Biden has been blocked from moving the country forward, by Trump’s lack of cooperation in the transition period. This is indeed a crisis period for the USA, but it is now in wise hands.

 Trump continues to be haunted by a very difficult Pluto transit. Pluto has been opposing his Saturn since January 2020, (which is seriously undermining for anyone and only happens every 248 years) and from January 25^th Pluto moves to oppose his Venus (also only every 248 years) which specifically rules his public status (Midheaven) which then will be totally broken down, as will his domestic situation. This influence lasts on and off for 1 year. At the least it is a totally new chapter.

Boris Johnson, last month seriously undermined public confidence in himself by his actions and changes of advice re Xmas social rules and he has alienated many in his far-right supporters re his last-minute heroic, as he saw it, compromise over Brexit, the details of which are still very foggy. He now has Neptune square his Mercury exactly (every 84 years and has been so affecting him, on and off all 2020). It is strong from the 23^rd till late February. His health can be affected then, but more likely, it totally underlines his ability to be at the least, very economical with the truth, to make promises that cannot be delivered and to show a lack of any sort of clarity or detail in his plans and pronouncements. This will make the logistics of Brexit very confusing and chaotic for many. Positively he has now ensured an ongoing connection with the EU … but which has rather defeated the objectives of the ERG (extreme Brexiteers).

As always, he wants to keep everyone happy, but as a result, often keeps no one happy (the worst of his Libra rising).

This month, dates to be aware of are when the Sun conjuncts Pluto on the 14th and on  the 19th-22nd ,when Mars conjuncts Uranus . Powerful eruptive forces are at work then geophysically and potentially socio-politically, in terms of unexpected power shifts. The 26^th looks shaky, the planet is in grumbling mood again when the Sun squares Uranus, and with Uranus now long term in Taurus, the very physical infrastructure of our planet is more unpredictable and volatile currently anyway.

Mars moves out of his own, fiery and impulsive sign of Aries, where he has been since July 1st, and into the more practical, plodding, patient energy of Taurus on the 6^th of January, but Taurus is connected to mother earth/nature, so she will be showing her feelings from then.

The full Moon is on the 28^th at 9 degrees of Leo, and Venus conjuncts Pluto on the same day. Eruptions are in the air the too then, especially in the behaviour of politicians and leaders, as closings of chapters hit home, and since it falls on Trump’s natal Pluto, that may well be a rather intense day for him.

 Be assured, a new, more enlightened consciousness is coming (rather late in the day) but now it is urgent, of total necessity and not always comfortable. It will also take more time than is ideal and much patience will be needed by leaders and the populace, for the growing new consciousness to be translated into action and results.

 All best for 2021

 

 

 

DECEMBER 2020 GLOBAL ASTROLOGICAL OVERVIEW

 

There is already a sense of the prospect of change and of light at the end of a tunnel. Indeed, this month, a major shift of Saturn and Jupiter into Aquarius flags up a positive game changer for planet earth and indeed they make a rare conjunction in that sign. Saturn moves into that sign on the 17^th followed by Jupiter on the 19th. They then remain in exact conjunction till the 26^th but stay close from then for most of January and into February. Saturn will remain in Aquarius till March 2023 and Jupiter remains there essentially till the end of December 2021, (but he temporarily dips his toe into Pisces between May 2021 and late July 2021) then returns to Aquarius to complete his work there.

 The last time Saturn and Jupiter were exactly conjunct in Aquarius was January 1405, (the period that started to see the demise of the Mongolian empire, if that is of interest.).

 This combining of these two planets in Aquarius is not only rare but can be a very opportunistic period for mankind.

 Aquarius is an air sign, which is all about the power of the mind; and is about vision for the future, innovation, advancing science, technological breakthroughs, humanitarian concerns, wisdom, equality, insight, and big picture, alternative thinking. This will not only include initially the rolling out of effective vaccines but will shift focus from the parochialism of nationalism to more global inclusivity. The science re all urgent issues, such as climate change/environmental health, will be furthered, supported and implemented. The power of money, conservatism, establishment, tradition, as is signified by Capricorn, which is an earth sign, will then  be balanced against new futures, new values and changes in more existential matters (Aquarius).

 Jupiter is expansion, wisdom, confidence, enjoyment, luck, growth, internationalism and positive events, and at the least provides protection, but that planet can also, more negatively, indicate excess, indulgence , over confidence and the power of the ego.

 Saturn, positively, rules serious application, detail, patience, hard work, practicality, discipline, caution, humility, karmic obligation and self-control. He can also uncomfortably bring blocks and delays, limitations and some serious and difficult, but necessary reality checks and important lessons imposed upon us, if we lose caution/reality. Hence, when Saturn combines with Jupiter, there is at work a real combining of many of these principles, both positive and negative and the wise balance of these two planets against each other is essential, in order to maximise progress.

Therefore, self-evidently this conjunction can be a huge and seriously progressive time, if all the positive qualities are emphasised. However, when the conjunction is exact, as it is over the Christmas  period  and if the then understandable Jupiter desire for freedom, socialisation/togetherness  is over indulged,  negating the essential limitations, discipline and boundaries that Saturn often demands, then we will  later likely experience a hard follow up lesson about pushing our luck, i.e. a resulting significant rebound of Corona virus.

Saturn has the job of karmic schoolteacher.

Clearly Trump lost the election as was indicated astrologically , and he has probably realised by now that his challenges to the result are pretty empty , but that does not mean that he will not want to leave his mark, and to create problems for Biden , before he has to make way for him. Since November 20th, Pluto’s current position, has been exactly opposing Trump’s natal Saturn (every 248 years), remaining there till December 27th. That period is a very powerful, rare astrological influence for anyone and can equate, so often, to having to realise that the rug is indeed totally pulled from beneath one’s feet, and one has to adjust to a totally changed circumstance. Old assumptions about security are stripped away.

The transition from Trump to Biden is symbolically totally reflected in the rare, synchronised transition of Saturn and Jupiter, from Capricorn to Aquarius. Capricorn equates politically to strong neoliberal capitalism and nationalistic values (Republicans). Aquarius equates to the values of increased social democracy and more international cooperation (Democrats). The values of  the Democrats, however can be seen by Republicans as dangerous, very left-wing socialism.

This departure of Jupiter and Saturn from Capricorn (economy) and their entry into Aquarius, leaves the power of Pluto then standing alone in Capricorn, remaining in that sign till 2024/2025. That is significant,  as the checks and balances, constraints and sense of responsibility of Saturn and the protection of Jupiter are gone in the purely economic area, especially for Capricorn ruled England, now Brexit is ominously looming, on top of the fallout from Covid. Crisis economically is obviously predicted and assured and will seriously be in all our faces, from late month.

 Saturn squares Boris Johnson’s Moon from the 17th-27^th (every 15 years) which suggests some anxiety and a potential uncomfortable reality check looming, re his judgement and actions.

Meanwhile, the plus side is that this month we are seeing a potentially more progressive period in terms of a coming balance of ideologies and a shift of value system.

Mars is still in his home sign of assertive Aries. “Don’t mess with me” is the manifestation.  Anger and impulsive action will still be manifesting on the world stage.  Political upheavals and rebellions are still in the air.

Around the 14^th /15^th, there are several very progressive hopeful energies at work, helpful to Biden. There is a solar eclipse also on the 14^th at 23 degrees of Sagittarius, which can indicate a sense of the bright and the new at work.

The only period, which is seriously quite uncomfortably intense this month, is around the 23^rd when Mars squares Pluto, indicating power struggles, or crises of power, and Trump’s chart is also  very activated then, when Mars squares his Saturn, creating potential for rather angry, frustrated, petulant behavior.  

However, all month we need to keep grounded re the background noise of Covid, as Neptune is strongly at work and invisible spread is therefore powerful, as is a potential still for denial.  Avian flu virus has also now erupted in bird populations in Europe. We are collectively at the mercy of nature more now than ever and we need humility to face up to and reverse our role in her demise, which is also that of our own.

The full Moon falls on the 30^th at 8 degrees of Cancer, exactly on the degree of Trump's Mercury.  Full Moons demand acknowledgment of the end of chapters, but can also be very eruptive from the depth of the psyche.

 

 

 

 

NOVEMBER 2020 GLOBAL ASTROLOGICAL OVERVIEW

 

People are holding their breath, re November 3^rd.

Naturally, everyone is asking me if the astrology shows that Trump will win the US election again.

The truth is, in theory, no, he is unlikely to win, even if a pretty close result is eventually declared, as the big picture in his chart generally now is difficult. Indeed, it has been for some months and his life is seriously changing, fundamentally for him from the 18^th November, the rug is rather pulled from under his feet and he will have to make many adjustments in life. His status quo is seriously broken down then, continuing through December. This is all because Pluto is then finally exactly opposing his Saturn (every 248 years.) My view is that the election results however will not be definitive or even accepted, till around the 14^th, when Mars finally goes direct again.  Mercury does interestingly however, move direct on the 3^rd suggesting that, at the least, there will be a sense that the waiting will be over, and the dice is finally cast.  There will however be it seems, some significant chaos generally between the 3^rd and the 14th, while results are delayed or angrily contested by the opposing party, no matter who seems to be the victor.

Indeed, Mercury opposes Saturn in the ecliptic from the 1^st to the 8^th and that ensures fear, pessimism, delays and even much misinterpretation generally.

Trump will claim victory somehow, no matter what the outcome really is, and there are likely to be troublesome eruptions as a result. The outcome will be somewhat anarchic. The electoral college system does not reflect the popular vote anyway, so distortion of the reality of the voting balance is part of the system. Added to which, accusations of meddling with the vote of course, will be much in the mix, no matter what. Also, between the 7th and the 14^th Jupiter conjuncts with Pluto on a global basis. This brings tremendous and indeed an obsessive drive by certain leaders to gain more power. But be prepared during that period, to see no stone unturned, no matter how ruthless,  in order to get the results desired or challenged , by all parties involved in any fight for supremacy, even if results are more or less fully declared.

 All that really matters is motive when Pluto is involved, in terms of  whether the outcome is for the greater good or for pure ego gratification. Unfortunately with narcissism being a common trait in so many of our leaders now , the latter is so often the main driving factor.

Trump is in many ways not really an ordinary human. He has an ability to fight even inevitabilities to the end, via complete denial of truth.

His niece, Mary Trump wrote “He’s always trying to see what he can get away with and has always got away with everything. No one holds him to account. “

He brazens things out.

This period and indeed the astrological forces at work now, should indeed be his reckoning, but because he is not (seemingly so far) subject to final culpability, or a nemesis (avoiding cosmic laws) and as he seems to have no conscience, he could seriously try to thwart the outcome . The worse scenario is that he may use a scorched earth policy i.e... if he cannot win, no one can, and he could make a drastic, dangerous move in policy decision.

 In fact he does interestingly also  have Jupiter opposing his Saturn and then opposing his Venus in the last half of the month and that can manifest in carelessness, false confidence, false claims and misjudgments about outcomes… but also an ability to feel free to leave behind the past. Also, it can indicate some emotional turmoil in personal relationships too.

 If/when he does have to accept that he is out of the White House, he will not hang around in Washington, or indeed the States. He will try to escape any inevitable repercussions. That every 248-year Pluto opposition his Saturn will tend to sweep away his infrastructure, particularly including his domestic situation (Pluto rules his roots). It is also possible that some latent physical repercussions, re his Covid experience, may well appear, as Saturn links to health in his chart.

 By contrast Jo Biden has Jupiter (his ruling planet) sextile his Mercury from the 1^st till the 8^th, being exact on the 3^rd/4^th (every 6 years) and that is indeed very promising in terms of popularity, public support and  good news and it’s a feel good factor in terms of being applauded for his message. From the 12^th till the 27^th he has Saturn sextile his Sun, and immediately after and till December 8^th, it sextiles his Venus, (both only every 15 years) all indicating the weight of public responsibility and duty on his shoulders in a constructive way.  Late November, he also has Jupiter opposition its own place (every 12 years) a celebratory energy. December generally looks a positive time for him, as between the 5^th and the 16^th, he also has Jupiter sextiling his Sun and Venus; all auguring well for him.  One could say that these positive transits may all just indicate a happy relief, from not having to take on the responsibility of such high office, but it does not look like that to me.

 Anyway, for sure we may have to be prepared to wait till at least till the 14^th for general chaos, frustration and real anger, both in the US and indeed globally, to start to subside.

I must also note, that If Trump does in fact manage, by fair means or foul, somehow to get declared the winner, I will say that he has  defied astrological energies… but then it seems currently that all the norms of our world are in trouble or challenged now. Whatever his public position is in late November and December, he has certainly then, for sure, a very chaotic time, with much break down anyway, of his very infrastructure.

The US economy looks drastically troubled in the second half of November, as Saturn then moves to conjunct the US natal Pluto. A serious fiscal reality check will be flagged up and so the then president has a huge challenge.

Meanwhile, the Covid nightmare continues and Xmas looks blighted and indeed it is not really till early January that the world can see any real light in terms of the development of a successful vaccination. Saturn and Jupiter both have joined in Aquarius by then, a sign focusing on the future and innovation.

The science will then flourish and there will be a shift of priorities away from just the pure economic disaster (inevitable) that Covid will manifest. Also, any change needed in our whole value system that this virus has illuminated, will start to reveal itself more clearly, not least environmentally. Jupiter and Saturn’s move into Aquarius points in 2021 to a more environmentally aware and a more revolutionary style of thinking and that would also indicate that our elected leaders, will be, and indeed should and have to be, more focused on that priority.

 So long as Neptune is in Pisces 2012-2026 (invisible spread and elusive energies, among other things) the world will need to realise and be humbled as to the power of nature. We need to honour it, as it will continue to have the last word until we do.  Vaccinations and treatment can certainly bring solutions for the results of these powers at work but addressing the fundamental causes of unnatural manifestations of viruses and indeed of the general destruction of our ecosystems, species and our climate, are a must. The power of Saturn and Jupiter both being in Aquarius together for a year (rare) and Saturn staying there till March 2023, points to hope in that direction from a scientific viewpoint.  Neptune in Pisces also will continue to make the preciousness and beauty of nature and its total importance, when totally respected, to our planet’s health, crystal clear to those with clear eyes and hearts.

 Uranus (shock, unpredictability/change) now in Taurus (March 2019 -May 2026) is inevitably a challenge to monetary issues and to our value system (Taurus) and indeed related to the literal earth beneath our feet (Taurus). It now speaks clearly about the unpredictability of mother earth, in terms of eruptions and its delicate balance and its ability to create uncomfortable occurrences… This combined with Neptune in Pisces, is a major focus on the power of nature and our values systems’ interaction with it.

This month does have some positive pointers generally, but do not hold your breath, in terms of calm, easy resolutions, in terms of power contests.

The New moon falls on the 15^th at 23 degrees of Scorpio falling between Jo Biden’s Mercury and Sun. New moons are new starts/new chapters. There is however a Lunar eclipse this month on the 30^th at 8 degrees of Gemini which falls on Biden’s Saturn. This is quite difficult and suggests then some serious challenges in his life and status… maybe the reality check of a hugely challenging responsibility.

 

  

   

OCTOBER 2020 GLOBAL ASTROLOGICAL OVERVIEW

 

 The incredibly rare planetary dramas continue this month, in fact even more powerfully, as retrograde Mars is now moving more dangerously in his power.

 Mars is still retrograde till November 14^th (since September 9^th) in his own home sign of Aries and continues to flag up a truly angry, very frustrated and seething energy, in a rather dangerous way. Patience is not its finest quality to put it mildly.

Mars, having manifested its frustrating square to Saturn late September, is now challenging Pluto by square from the 7^th-12th and therefore will be more ruthless and indeed almost primaeval in its expression of pent up anger and creates a great desire in people to gain control and destroy,  in any way , what is seen as a threat to their freedom or power . A kneejerk survival mode is in the air. The downside of Pluto is abuse of power, and this tendency will be rampant both politically globally; and indeed, simmering also potentially on a personal level for many. The microcosm will reflect the macrocosm. Ego will dominate over rationality or fairness. Boundaries will be ignored, and breath-taking defiance will manifest, as will radical libertarianism, not least in relation to the Covid virus and its seeming lack of controllability. Between the 14^th and 19th (when the Sun also joins in to oppose Mars and then squares up to Pluto and then Saturn) obvious abuse of power is flagged up.  Additionally, around the 17^th- 21^st when Mars also squares Jupiter, there will be much arrogance and overselling of self on the political stage and narcissism (growing as a global quality) increasingly dominates. The used car salesman syndrome will be at its most ruthless.

To add to the delay, block and frustrated anger of Mars in retrograde motion, Mercury also moves retrograde on the 14^th and stays in that mode till November 3^rd. A testing month indeed.  Under “normal” circumstances, Mercury retrograde just indicates confusions, delays, hiccups and blocks in communications, agreements and contracts. It can also point to breakdowns in technology and potential travel disruption. It also is a time when a reconsideration of plans and action is necessary. Patience is demanded. It is a bit like writers’ block.  However, under current circumstances and combined with Mars retrograde, it is all that, magnified, and combined with anger and ruthless frustrations too.

Instead of a pause and a much needed complete rethink of the  values and infrastructure of our planet (which many who are not in power are doing)  and which retrograde planets are actually there to flag up the need for , there will be a huge push by the big movers and shakers in power to blindly move forward on a drastic and ruthless ego driven trajectory to  attempt to achieve results that will be at the least totally unwise, often illegal and certainly immoral and probably impossible.… with a potentially disastrous fallout. If it was not so dangerous, it may almost be comical to observe.

 The feeling of potential anarchy / civil war is in the ether, as has been noted by many commentators, and the planets positions now certainly point in that direction.

Jupiter in Capricorn is now moving to conjunct Pluto (and will do so exactly in the very significant second week of November, re the fallout from the final results of the US elections on the 3rd.)  Power drive under this influence is enormous, with passionate ideology and strong desires. all that matters is motive, i.e. for the greater good, or pure personal gain. It can go either way.

 Astrologers recognise this whole period as a game changer, as is obvious also to many, just self-evidently. However  several significant leaders on our planet  have little or no regard for the big  planetary picture and nature’s messaging,  hence it is hard to be cheerful, except to say that we often  have to go through the dark to get to the light . The phoenix can rise from the ashes if we recognise the need for a phoenix.

It has been said about the powers of Pluto’s influence… “Pluto throws open the gates of Hades to the unwilling victim at their own unconscious request “. It seems planet earth is currently putting us through this  taste of a Hades period, in order to wake us up to what we need to change fundamentally, in terms of planetary health, wisdom and indeed our species survival… or we risk so much worse in the future.

The upcoming U.S election is of course all caught up in all the above predominant energies. The vicious claims and counterclaims and ruthless desperation of Trump to keep power, for many personal ego reasons will dominate , and there is anxiety by many about his potential to gain power again, by possible fraudulent activity, or to lose, but then call it voting fraud. Either way, this will create mayhem …. a major crisis.

 October will be an ugly month globally; but you do not need an astrological analysis to see that.  Saturn remains opposing Trump’s Venus, as it did all September (every 30 years). Venus rules his public standing/status, so that will be sorely challenged, and Pluto continues to oppose his Saturn (every 248 years) which will culminate to be exact from the 19^th November for a month. This is a powerful force that can indeed sweep away/or at the very least, hugely challenge the status quo of his current life. This influence on him will be over by January 2021.

Jo Biden is still struggling with Saturn opposing his Jupiter in October (every 12 years), which downgrades confidence and underlines blocks to is progress, but this lifts in late October and certainly lifts more in November.

 Boris Johnson is still, throughout October, having his Mercury squared by Neptune, (every 84 years and it was very strong in September). This creates vulnerability to mistakes, his own and others, mental and physical tiredness, confusion, and “mis- speaking”.  It also indicates much game playing with facts, especially in international dealings, deceptions, dishonesty, and many smoke and mirror pronouncements. It can also indicate behind scenes secretive planning. He can be manipulated, or a manipulator of others, with this energy.

 Around the 31^st is a significantly powerful date too this month, as the Moon will be full at 8 degrees of Taurus and is also therefore simultaneously conjunct Uranus; and the Sun therefore, by definition, is opposition to Uranus.  This is hence quite an exceptionally challenging day, full of unexpected, significant surprise eruptions in any socio-political context, but also, not least, potentially in a geophysical manifestation.

 Next month will be interesting …

 

SEPTEMBER 2020 GLOBAL ASTROLOGICAL OVERVIEW

 Mars, so powerfully extra strong now in its home sign of Aries, since the beginning of August, is certainly and loudly, creating turmoil and anger on the world stage. This rare long placement, lasting till January 6^th is bringing out rather primeval impulse and rage.

 Saturn and Pluto are still closely conjunct in their oh so rare configuration in Capricorn which equals restriction(Saturn) on power(Pluto) and on economies and because Mars (drive, ambition assertion) as last month, is still squaring this conjunction, this is creating a serious ongoing tension and notable frustration. A conflict is continually growing between a resumption of the economy, versus a need for serious caution re public health, of course.

 It is fair to say generally, that currently, and indeed from the beginning of this year, everyone who has a birthdays around 13th to 19^th of January, July, October or April (which equates approximately 22 degrees to 27 degrees of these signs) are currently being personally very impacted by this powerful and rare combination of planets, that existentially has been and is still so significant now on our entire globe. Indeed, also many who have their Ascendant or Mid heaven, or other important natal planets in any of these degrees of these signs, will also feel the power and the challenge personally in their lives and within themselves,

But very importantly, from the 9^th of this month, Mars moves retrograde and stays in that mode till November 14^th. The addition of a retrograde motion of Mars, will serve to significantly complicate issues.

 This retrograde movement of Mars happens on average every 2 years for approximately just over 2 months and often shows itself as bottled up simmering anger, because of restrictions and blocks to action and power, personally and globally… and when in Aries , this is underlined to the nth degree. In fact, this retrograde planetary positioning demands a huge need for patience and a need to re plan and reconsider future action and to recognize that things/progress need to be more fundamentally reconfigured out of wise necessity.

Things will take longer than would be liked, especially in relation to the mastering of the Covid pandemic. However, because Mars is in assertive “go for it” Aries and is also potently squaring up to Pluto and Saturn, this cautious stance and the need for patience and re-evaluation will be resisted and defied. Wisdom is likely to be ignored on the altar of the powerful force of frustrated anger and the great desire for a return to “normality” and for power and control, despite any blocks. Impotence however will be felt in the face of failed or foolish plans and will likely create bitter frustration among leaders and the populace.

Behind the scenes, purely ego driven manoeuvres will also be powerful now among the powers that be, and secrecy of tactics will be the order of the day.

This is a dangerous, reckless and foolhardy time. An almost civil war mood will be brewing.

The most powerful configuration is from September 20th and operative till the very beginning of October when a tricky T square is created between Mercury opposing Mars which in turn are squaring Saturn and nudging Pluto by square too. Dangerously angry days will be flagged up then, when an obsessive desire to take quite ruthless control by leaders within their own country are highlighted, or an international challenge, resulting from displaced anger can manifest. Diplomacy will be trounced by anger. The fall out in the 1st half of October will be significant .

This tense mood can be palpable also between ordinary citizens, and within families as well as in an international political context.

The environmental mood will not be kind either and this will be reflected in the weather and in manifestations of the fallout of nature’s reactions to our environmental meddling.   Low yield crops, not least.

 Days of potential deception, fake news, fantasy, smoke and mirror happenings, unrealistic ambitions, and falsifying accounts of situations are between the 11^th and 13^th when the Sun opposes Neptune.  Although this period, can work well for the power of music, film and the arts.

Trump, all month, has Saturn opposition Venus (every 30 years), which equates to harsh reality checks re his public standing in the polls (Venus rules his natal Midheaven, which is all about career /status). It will also unavoidably flag up areas of his responsibilities which he has failed to address, or he will find himself blocked from doing what he wants to do. The economy too will be a real challenge. He also simultaneously has Jupiter square Natal Jupiter all month (every 6 years) and this will mean he will compensate for these frustrations, by over doing, over promising and potentially reckless overreaching and daring in certain other actions and policy decisions. Late month, he will also have Mars squaring his Venus, and sextiling his Mars which will make him desirous of power over others in a rather primitive and potentially bullying way, especially when dealing with politicians of the opposite sex. Also, a ruthlessness over finances, both his own and the economy, are flagged up then. However, he will also simultaneously have renewed confidence and determination to do as he wishes, which may bring him significant support and admiration from his followers.

Jo Biden who has his natal Sun, Mercury , Venus and Mars in  Scorpio ( positions never to be underestimated) with Sagittarius rising, has Saturn opposition his natal Jupiter (his ruling planet) all month, which does not augur well for his confidence or sense of progress to be honest, but realism will dominate. By contrast Kamala Harris, his Democratic running mate, has Jupiter trine her natal Venus all month , which will enhance her popularity , which she will need, as also Mars is squaring her Moon, all month , suggesting that she will be very frustrated in her dealings with men in a political context and she will be challenged significantly… but she is a fighter.  She is a Libra, with Gemini rising, and Moon in Aries, opposition her Sun (full Moon birth). Mercury, her ruler, is in forensic Scorpio.

 Boris Johnson's chart is looking unscathed by the current intensity, probably because he is not calling the shots and is being rather elusive.  He has again the exact recurrence of Neptune squaring his Mercury all month, as he had exactly when he came down with Covid. My guess is that he is backing off major leadership activity, because of some possible ongoing physical impairment and/or, because he is keen to avoid making decisions and reaping any resulting flack. This once in a lifetime (every 82 years) planetary combination can not only affect the health, but also creates much avoiding of the truth and a tearing up of the rules of accountability and also underlines a habit of making empty, fanciful statements and promises. Much secrecy of true intent is surrounding his position now.  Plenty of delegation is also the order of the day in his chart. Power without responsibility. This current year long intermittent combining of Neptune/Mercury energy has been haunting him since April this year, strong again this month, and continues its influence till March 2021.

Positive days this month generally are the 2^nd/3^rd when the Sun trines Uranus, which is good for scientific breakthroughs and positive, possibly surprise change; and the 9/10^th when the Sun trines Jupiter, auguring well for optimism, progress, confidence and international cooperation. But do not underestimate the effect of retrograde Mars in Aries from the 9th!

The Moon is full on the 2^nd at 10 degrees of Pisces and new Moon is on the 17^th at 25 degrees of Virgo…

You reap consequences of actions on the full Moon and sow new seeds for the future on the new Moon.

 

 

 

 

AUGUST 2020 GLOBAL ASTROLOGICAL OVERVIEW

As last February and March, Saturn  (brakes/reality checks and karmic school teacher) is now seriously once again speaking truth to Pluto (power). Both planets are once more close in the critical and powerful last 10 degrees of Capricorn (established economic system). Saturn is basically now putting a huge block on the idea of simply “getting back to normal”, especially re the economy, as is/was the hope.

 The power and extreme rarity of this ongoing combination during 2020, makes it no surprise that we are still in the grips of this virus, as it once again, in so many places, is bouncing back and this is not something our civilisation is prepared for. It was never imagined as a likely global phenomenon.

 August, astrologically, reflects the fact that it is a month of significant realisation as to the full scale of the current global crisis. A mixture of the virus, economic situation, environmental issues/climate change and the anarchic energies at work in countries, where the leaders are clearly at a loss as to how to cope with current circumstances has caused chaos. Pure ego is completely counterproductive in leadership qualities, as is becoming so obvious. Sadly ignorance and arrogance are twins, a combination, which, in some countries can also bring a gradual dissolving of once accepted moral obligations in leadership.  Only wise, inclusive, big picture egoless leadership will do now, which we are now beginning to see in some countries.

 We are desperate for “normal”, but we now have to question how our habitual normal, in terms of our global values and habits, has contributed to our current global situation on many levels. Neptune concurrently travelling through his home sign of Pisces (2012-2026, occurring only every 165 years) now is reflecting the power of a massive invisible spread of power in so many areas of life, not least social media, political interferences, climate change and now of course, a virus. Neptune in Pisces most essentially reflects the power of nature to show its power, if we in any way abuse it.

 A global world has to be prepared to bear global consequences of actions in any individual country. Our power to subdue a virus is proving a huge scientific, social and psychological challenge, not to mention politically and the impatient hunger for economic growth again is putting our efforts to quell the virus at risk. Choices made under our present system are so hard and so impossible, given that the current style of global economy equals a matter of life and death in many ways too.

 Jupiter (growth and optimism) has also been involved in this so rare conjunction in Capricorn, which has also given a hope and optimism, and in many cases an arrogance of assumption, that we can resume economic life as it was, but all too quickly and sadly, also over optimistically

 A recent comment made by journalist George Monbiot, is hugely prescient… “We are acclimatising ourselves to an existential crisis”.

 This crisis is actually a huge message to our planet that we need to have a fundamental change in what needs to be normal. We need to shift our values, expectations and rebalance our priorities in how we live our lives. Respecting our planet is a screaming necessity, as the power of nature is clearly telling us when we have abused it. Money and the unthinking pursuit of eternal economic growth, at any cost to our natural world, cannot continue to be the god of us all.  It is that very value that has created this existential crisis. The huge uncertainty around us currently causes great anxiety, but out of uncertainty, creativity is born, as are new paradigms of being.

 Uranus, which equals shock, disruption, innovation, the future and change, which is often ultimately liberating, is now in Taurus (money, value systems/ security/ and indeed the very earth itself) and has been committed to that sign since March 2019 and will stay there till the end of April 2026. This is and will continue slowly to bring a revolution in all those areas i.e. how we are forced to negotiate our needs/values in a new way. It’s a shock and game changing but necessary. That is the point of and purpose of Uranus.

 There are only two certainties in life, and one of those is change.

 Mars, remains in  his home sign of Aries  this month and  has underwhelming through this sign since early July and stays there for an unusually long period, till January 6^th. This is a powerful warlike position at worst, healthily determined and assertive at best. The recent chaotic unrest, in Hong Kong and of course in parts of the USA, which has been met by brutal governmental generated force, has reflected this powerful position. From the 13^th to the 29^th, this month, Mars aspects will likely then seriously generate more potential dangerous, forceful controlling abuses of power, which will be followed by serious frustration and resultant greater anger, (Mars squares Pluto and then squares Saturn during those dates.)

 Mars will also between the 13^th-24^th seriously challenge Trump’s Saturn and Venus, by square aspect, which will create significant challenges to him internationally and legally, and which will almost certainly result in his desperate push to regain control with desperate, impulsive anger and action.

 Trump’s chart has ongoing incredible challenges, not least Pluto opposing his Saturn (every 248 years). He has had this on and off since January and strongly since the beginning of July and most of this month and strongly again at the end of the year. This transit, when experienced, really pulls the rug from under your feet and an inevitable change in the status quo is indicated because of fated forces. It is powerful in terms of elimination of assumptions about ones position and resources. Fighting these forces successfully is only possible if you are totally on the right path and your conscience is totally clear.  In Trump’s case, it is not helpful to his mental health either (Pluto in the 12^th house in his natal chart). It can also possibly bring physical health issues to the fore, which can seriously affect one’s power to continue in one’s desired way.

 We have however to remember that Trump does not respond like most people, because he chooses not to see facts or truth, as his ego is so delicate/damaged, so the truth is just not an option. In fact, he defies many basic laws of humanity…so he is immune to the normal responses in so many ways.   He will fight in any drastic way possible to cling on to power. In late September and October he also has Saturn opposition his Venus (every 30 years), and along with Pluto’s influence, that is very stressful re work and his image in the world. It is a bit of a final straw of a reality check.  Also Uranus is squaring his Pluto now till late September, which does not auger well for stability in many ways. In fact his own party and previously close associates are likely to dessert him, or at least distance themselves significantly, in order to protect their own status.  But never underestimate Trumps popularity with core supporters. He is hypnotic to them, like a cult leader.

 Looking at Boris Johnson, he has Mars, which is currently in Aries, going through his 7th house now (he has Libra rising) continuing till late January. That will bring significant challenges from others and from the outside world. Around the 13th of this month, he has Mercury squaring both his Neptune and his Jupiter. That will be a period where his statements and the facts of a situation, may well be rather at odds. His optimistic generalisations and any carelessness then, may not do him any favours.  He also needs to be careful from August the 27^th and all through September, when Neptune once again squares his Mercury (every 84 years and it was strong when he was hospitalised with the virus), as his health will again be prone to vulnerability, or at the least, his work will feel very stressful, and again, relations with other countries are strained. Lack of clarity then will especially be his enemy. Yet again, this period also shows that his idealism and fantasies may well outweigh facts in his statements and in his projected view of things.

 However no Pluto, Uranus or Saturn challenges are in the air for Johnson currently, so he will muddle through.  

 Astrology is great at seeing how the planets are affecting the world and seeing the challenges that need addressing, but as to whether humanity is up to grasping the necessary nettle is another story … Change may well be forced upon us, such is the power of the astrological energies right now. The problem remains that it is short-term economic success that is the god of so many in power and indeed is the god of our globalised system. We may indeed be forced to remodel that god. Capitalism as it is , may well need to be recalibrated.

 The optimistic news  (yes, I can dredge some up) is that from mid/late December when Saturn and Jupiter, in their natural cycle, both move into and commit to Aquarius, (innovation /future/ technology/ big picture/wisdom) we will see not only serious indications of the coming conquest/control of Covid, but also the tentative beginnings of a very new value system starting to emerge, as many of us and indeed many of our leaders, all start, out of total necessity, to look outside our outdated and rather toxic box.