Introduction to Mundane Astrology And Now for the Moon in Pisces Show

Dear Friend and Reader:

These are exciting times if you're into mundane astrology: the astrology of worldly events. You're familiar with this modality — it's most of what I write in Planet Waves. It's great fun because it does not involve much speculation. Rather, you watch the astrology and the world become holograms of one another. It's almost photography, or maybe a sketch artist drawing a scene.

Last week, we saw a methodical presentation of the case against Pres. Trump, for abusing his power as president and obstructing Congress. We learned about procedures followed during several prior impeachments, and the scenario was placed into documentable context.

	Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer in the 1944 movie 'Gaslight', which gave its name to the practice of gaslighting. This is when someone deceives another person into thinking they're going insane, for the purpose of controlling them.

We learned about the hollowing out of protocol and disrespect for the most basic constitutional structure of American government. As far as I am concerned, the prosecution's case checks out. It was factually accurate, relevant, and well-argued. I did not detect any stretching of the truth or rhetorical bluster. Were I in the position to make the presentation, that's how I would have done it.

As all of this happened, the Moon was transiting through Capricorn — the scene of transiting Pluto in Capricorn as well as the natal U.S. Pluto (and thus the Pluto return); the recent Saturn-Pluto conjunction; a recent solar eclipse in Capricorn; and many other factors that on the most basic level (and an expert level) describe the situation beautifully. The Moon was pointing to all of it, as it happened.

The astrology was foundational: it matched what we witnessed.

Lunar New Year, Aquarius Style

Friday was the Aquarius New Moon (kicking off Saturday's lunar New Year throughout many Asian countries). We get a little break from the action, and behind the scenes, leaders of both sides are caucusing.

Much of the world celebrated the lunar New Year, a significantly more important holiday in Asia than New Year's Eve in the West, which is just a big party. Nobody in the States flies to visit their family just for New Year.

(That said, the celebrations have been somewhat dampened this time around by the appearance of the new coronavirus. As of this writing, not much is known for certain about the urgency or the rate of spreading. The BBC reports around 2,000 confirmed cases, most within China, with 56 dead.)

We have begun the year of the Rat, element metal. The last one of these was 1960, the year John F. Kennedy was elected.

Metal Rat is good luck in the style of success coming from preparation, planning and careful execution of your ideas. This is the power of personal industry, not something that works on a whim or a lark.

Here is the Wikipedia version of the 'metal' attribute, which passes the basic sniff test: "In Chinese Taoist thought, Metal attributes are considered to be firmness, rigidity, persistence, strength, and determination. The metal person is controlling, ambitious, forceful, and set in their ways as metal is very strong. They are self-reliant and prefer to handle their problems alone."

By the way, this "steely" quality is reminiscent of Saturn conjunct Pluto, and Saturn-Pluto aspects in general.

Moon Conjunct Nessus, the Third Centaur

Back to our mundane astrology class.

When the Senate trial resumes Monday at 10 am in Washington, DC, the Moon will be in Pisces, applying to Nessus, the third-discovered centaur (after Chiron and Pholus). Notably, this is the first planet officially named at the suggestion of astrologers.

	Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer in 'Gaslight' (1944).

Nessus is something of a bad boy. It is associated with abuse patterns, sexually transmitted infections, revenge scenarios, taking advantage of others, and scenarios of "one thing leads to another."

One of the questions of Nessus is, "What was the consent status of the sexual encounter? Was it taken, was it given, or was it sold for a fee?"

It was Melanie Reinhart, though, who came up with what I think of as the essence of Nessus — The Buck Stops Here. (This is a reference to poker; whoever gets the buckhorn deals the cards. So where the buck stops, we must "deal.")

Given the situation, though, we might phrase this as a question: how do we deal? How do they deal? The defense now has the buck.

The defense has nothing else. No facts are in dispute. Everybody knows what everybody knew and what they said. The only question is, was the action right or wrong? Was it taken, was it given, or was it sold for a fee?

There is an unusual pattern developing in the background [also described in the new Planet Waves TV].

Moon, Venus, Mars, Neptune Pattern

Now for the fun part. For weeks, a pattern has been developing in the mutable signs. The backbone is Mars in Sagittarius square Neptune in Pisces. Viable mundane associations with this pattern come back to honesty and self-destructive choices. I'm curious to hear from anyone who has this aspect in your chart — Mars square Neptune in any sign.

I think the essence here is whether the power of desire is applied honestly; and whether the desire itself has moral integrity. There is a bit of "anything goes" to this aspect. It's rife with boundary questions (or issues). It is not given to honesty with itself. In other words, with this pattern present, one might say, "I want this because" when that is just a rationalization.

	Ingrid Bergman in 'Gaslight' (1944).

In Course in Miracles terms, this one characterizes the early lesson, "I am never upset for the reason I think," and its later counterpart, "I am upset because I see something that is not there."

Mars-Neptune is exact at 16+ Sagittarius/Pisces on Tuesday at 5:34 am EST.

Combined with the Moon conjunct Nessus, we are in gaslighting territory: intentional psychic and psychological torture. So this is one of the defining aspects of the defense case — and it is just perfect.

Then all the astrology goes off at once the next day: Venus is also in the picture, and exactly conjoins Neptune on Monday. This is usually an aspect of romantic ideals, rosy glasses, and visions of serenades along the water. But with Mars in the picture, it's a little more pernicious. The motive is off-color. Deception and denial work together.

Then the Pisces Moon connects with the whole pattern overnight Monday to Tuesday. The Moon is the public, which gets dragged through this emotionally toxic family drama.

I am wondering how the defense is going to keep its cool through this. I'm wondering how they are not going to reveal their contempt for existence. I'm wondering how they are going to peddle bribery, extortion and self-dealing as truth, justice and the American way. Why is Superman beating up that little kid?

Trigger Warning

For those with traumatic personal histories, this astrology could be a trigger pattern. Many are already feeling the toxic smog of their past stink up the room through the TV. Trump already reminds plenty of people of their viciously narcissistic father/ex-husband/boss.

	Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer in 'Gaslight' (1944) — this is from the final confrontation scene.

Take it easy on yourself. You are not crazy.

While I don't suggest suppressing your emotions, one technique I learned from Hakomi Therapy is to consciously linger around the edge of your feelings, and get a sense of what it's about and how it feels. You don't have to dive in, nor do you have to run away. Suppression leads to chaos. Getting swallowed leads to losing yourself in your emotions. Lashing out is pointless.

Stay at the edge (centaur territory). Now is your chance not to believe the bully claiming he is a victim. See lame excuses for what they are. Now is also your chance to say you don't approve. You don't need to rage. It's OK to be angry. Don't take it out on yourself.

And I strongly suggest you pay attention to what is happening. This is an important, extremely rare moment in social and political history, where we will get a chance to see the truth and the lies for what they are.

Note, I have written this article at SHO — scene of the infamous over-loud phone call from Gordon Sondland, American ambassador to the E.U., to the president of the United States. Zelenskyy loves you! He loves you!

No, Gordon, you're a fool, that is not love. But thanks for telling us about the call.

Your faithful correspondent in Kyiv —


Capricorn and Aquarius — Readings Like No Others

Dear People of Saturn:

This letter is for you if you have Sun, Moon or rising sign in Capricorn or Aquarius. Astrology Studio for both signs is available now, still at the pre-sale price of $44 (final price is $55).

	Photo by Nastya Zuy.

As you know, Saturn is changing signs this spring from Capricorn to Aquarius. This is the precursor to Pluto making the same move in a few years, and I think for that reason, we need to focus on this transition zone. And that is what I do.

These readings are relaxed, easy to follow and focused on guiding your personal work. It's been a challenging time the past few years for both Cap and Aquarius, and I'm doing what I can to offer ideas that ease the stress and help you get maximum benefit.

While I use the solar chart (rather than your natal), I am able to offer much of what you get from a personal consultation. This is a whole-chart reading, which considers many facets of existence. I have a gift for listening to the astrology and relating it directly to you.

I think in our times, this work is as helpful as therapy. If you are doing personal growth or spiritual work, it will only support you.

If you've already subscribed to INTELLIGENCE and RESPECT, you will find that these readings go to a new place in a new way.

These readings are affordable, and will stand up to many playings. You can download them for any device, and they are yours; they do not expire. You may share them with friends or loved ones.

Here's how to purchase Capricorn.

Here's how to purchase Aquarius. Both are instant access.

Thank you for being a Planet Waves customer, and for trusting me as your astrologer.

With love from Kyiv,


PS — You may purchase by phone, by calling (845) 481-5616. You can also check on the status of your membership.

PPS — These readings are included with the Backstage Pass. They also make excellent gifts.

Planet Waves FM: A Call to Conscience

Dear Friend and Listener:

In the new Planet Waves FM, which I posted for the New Moon in Aquarius, I make a call to conscience on the presidential impeachment. In the second segment, I talk about methods for ascertaining the truth of a news-related matter, framing it as a spiritual quest of a certain kind.

Then I cover the astrology of the next few days, and finally, in Tantra Studio, I check in from a place where flirting and eye contact are welcome.

Planet Waves FM is a project of Chiron Return, and an affiliate of the Pacifica Radio Network. We are a nonprofit organization supported by your generous contributions, large and small. If you come back to me every week, please consider getting on board -- and in any event, please spread the word about what we're doing here.

Thanks for tuning in.

With love,

Daily Birthday Readings from Planet Waves

Here are the next week's Birthday Readings; if it's your birthday this week, many happy returns to you. Please note you can also read these entries as daily posts on our main website. Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020 (The Day of Striking Deeds) Prepare for some foundations you've laid in the past year to begin coming to fruition — potentially in a rather spectacular way. From time to time the barest of nudges can lead to rapid acceleration. Keeping up with the rate of change might not always be easy, though treating each new development as a fun adventure will help. Go with the flow, gather your chutzpah, and take some bold steps forward.

— By Amy Elliott Monday, Jan. 27, 2020 (The Day of Precocity) Your birthday chart describes the need to get very clear about what you genuinely value most. Do your intentions for the future reflect those priorities? Opportunities to connect with compadres who can further those ideals are available, but you must become centered within yourself to tap into them. To rise to the occasion, take time for honest soul-searching about how your self-worth ties in with tensions involving certain relationship issues. Burdensome secrets from the past are a weight you can safely release. Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2020 (The Day of Outstanding Achievements) You're gifted with an ability to dispassionately perceive the big picture, and make clear-headed, personal choices regardless of external pressure. Lean in to this innate capacity as you navigate challenges this year. Your evolutionary path involves cutting through denials, deceptions or secrets that can no longer be avoided. Honesty regarding finances, relationships, your sense of security and how you approach long-range goals is imperative. You're well-positioned to probe beneath the surface. This will help you understand what you've held inside that feeds into the confused tension you're now ready to resolve. Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2020 (The Day of the Compassionate Combatant) With acute self-awareness, you can seize opportunities available this year to heal long-standing issues related to your past and family. Your perceptions are likely to be particularly subjective, however, and influenced by old emotional imprints. That's the challenge. Give yourself plenty of time to make decisions, including those related to financial security and future plans. Allegiance to your own unique individuality, liberated from imposed judgments, is woven into your DNA. This year, that involves bridging levels of awareness: making the unconscious conscious. Tune in and listen. Thursday, Jan. 30, 2020 (The Day of Take Charge) Take advantage of openings for gut-level, emotionally meaningful communication with others this year. Likewise, if your goals include writing, get on it. Subjects that might otherwise feel too hot to handle may be successfully broached. Recognize your intense identification with your own point of view, however, and listen as much as you express. A look at desires, and what feels like a block to their fulfillment, is in order. If you've sacrificed a need for passion and joy out of some sense of duty, ask yourself why. Friday, Jan. 31, 2020 (The Day of Poetic Song) Direct your efforts over the coming year with the understanding that you're preparing the ground for some kind of rebirth. The conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in your sign next December describes a new era on the horizon. If old power structures in your life feel like impassable roadblocks, take that as a sign of emotional baggage you've yet to fully unpack. Blow off steam in an appropriate environment, and look within. Your ability to perceive your own motivations and express your feelings is strong now, and the best way to channel restless impatience. Saturday, Feb. 1, 2020 (The Day of Willfulness) Your birthday chart describes complex dynamics related to your roots, emotional history or living environment. If unexpected shakeups of some kind temporarily throw you for a loop, direct the energy generated toward moving forward on projects that support stability. Trade any tendency toward rigidity for gentle persistence and self-regard. You've reached a point in your path where a period of tactical withdrawal is appropriate. It's time to reconnect with your spirit and intuitive wisdom. A wealth of practical and inspirational input is ready to download, as soon as you plug in. Sunday, Feb. 2, 2020 (The Day of Class) Take full advantage of the numerous opportunities that come your way this year. Emotionally fulfilling relationship connections are possible, likewise creative openings that enhance financial security and self-esteem. Stimulating, constructive potential abounds in your birthday chart, but it is up to you to recognize those channels and actively engage them. Let your unique blend of rational analysis and intuitive intelligence be your guide, and intentionally follow the signs. They might not flash neon lights, but wear earth tones and feel like home.

— By Victoria Emory Monthly Horoscopes and Publishing Schedule Notes

Your extended monthly horoscope for January was published on Friday, Dec. 27. We published your extended monthly horoscope for December on Wednesday, Nov. 27. Please note: we normally publish the extended monthly horoscope after the Sun has entered a new sign. Due to Eric's travels in Ukraine, we will publish your February monthly horoscope on Thursday, Jan. 30. Aries (March 20-April 19) — You may have a high-minded concept of relationships — an idealistic view of what you would have in a perfect world. However, you must be certain that partners and loved ones share a similar concept or vision. The easiest way to find out is to ask, and that will lead to a conversation, and the conversation will lead to everyone sorting out their feelings, which is exactly what is needed. That said, you can also impose your fantasies on other people and they will probably go along with them for a while. Then the discussion will happen a little later, in a different style, and the result may not be as pleasing to everyone. The challenge this week is emotional honesty. This includes communicating about matters relating to sexual desire, commitment, and determining the most appropriate form of conduct for the situation you are in. This will take some time to ascertain; there is no rush. Get your full Aries reading by Eric here.

Taurus (April 19-May 20) — Interesting questions may arise this week related to what is public and what is private. The distinction is seemingly blurred in our era, between what we say voluntarily online and then what is done with that information behind our backs. However, apart from the digital realm, there is the truly personal one, where matters of what you reveal and don't reveal directly to others come into question. There exist appropriate people with whom you may discuss certain problems or challenging feelings you may be experiencing. And there are those who are less appropriate. I would suggest, for your purposes now, that challenging personal material not be a topic of conversation for those who have a strong sexual attraction to you. A measure of impartiality, if not objectivity, is important right now. It would be wise to reveal your situation to those who can give you that. Get your full Taurus reading by Eric here.

Gemini (May 20-June 21) — There remain certain questions of how people have gained so much power over you, and to claim it back. The short answer is thinking for yourself. The long answer involves understanding the ways that you do not, and then noticing when this is happening. There are three basic ways someone has leverage over another person. First is money; second is sex; the third is information. Therefore, to free yourself from the bonds that have held you back, you will need to address all three. Financial independence in this context means having your own bank account and covering your own expenses. Sexual independence means you have the power to say no when you know that sex is not right for you — such as when it will perpetuate a relationship you don't want. Finally, you must know yourself better than anyone. This means understanding your strengths and your weaknesses, and putting that knowledge to use. Get your full Gemini reading by Eric here.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Live your life as if you are setting an example for others, all the time. This is not easy. It requires constant self-reflection and scrutiny, and also compassion for yourself. This is a fine line to walk. You would not be choosing actions specifically to be exemplary, but rather doing what you normally do in a way you would feel confident to have others emulate. This boils down to some of the seemingly most ordinary and basic activities in life, and rises to some of the most important. One is the way you handle authority, whether your own or that of someone else. This is about Chiron in Aries, more than anything. Gradually, you become the person whose example you want to follow. However, a rare configuration this week is suggesting you observe what you believe or do not believe — that is, what you accept as true, or not true — as a crucial model for others. Put simply, keep an open mind. Get your full Cancer reading by Eric here.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23) — You may feel some powerful sexual attractions, and have the opportunity to act on them. In the current zeitgeist, people tend to jump in without thinking, or to be so cautionary they don't actually get much experience. Your passion and desire may drive you. You may have a fantastic time; you may be disappointed; you would in any event have an experience to reflect upon. I would propose you place two ideas at the center of your reality. One is that you would be having an encounter for your own sake, not as a long-term investment in a relationship. The other is that experience is a benefit and an end of its own, which leads to the ability to refine your skill at making choices. It is essential to know how to allow your curiosity to drive you. It's important that you be real with others, such as saying, "I'm here to explore. Let's play." Then it's helpful to talk about it. You'll learn a lot more. Get your full Leo reading by Eric here.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22) — For now, I recommend you set aside the notion of true love as an actual thing, and instead, observe where your ideas come from, and what seems to be motivating you. True love is often a placeholder for a wide diversity of emotional and social needs. I'm not saying that it does not happen. Rather, I am suggesting it's often a ruse that masks what you want and need on a deeper level. The concept is ingrained in most children with no alternatives discussed. How many are taught that there are many ways to love and be loved, rather than one "true" way? Instead of exploring and seeking self-understanding, most children are set on a course of expecting that happily ever after is the one and only way to relate emotionally, sexually or domestically. Yet you may be obsessed with one concept or model. You may feel it's your deepest need. That alone suggests you peel back a few layers and discover what is really going on. Get your full Virgo reading by Eric here.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23) — I propose that through this week, you keep your focus on your work and your primary mission rather than getting distracted by emotional impulses. Also, keep your mind and your eye on your money, which you would otherwise be likely to spend at a far brisker pace than you are bringing it in. You might say that putting business before pleasure will serve you well for the next seven days or so. You may think you're missing all the fun, though you're more likely to miss all the distraction. And then on the other end, what fun is yours will still be waiting for you. You will feel better and you'll be able to do your thing with a clear head, and more money in your pocket. While on that topic, cash is nice; cash flow is fantastic. Yet when you actually look back on your experiences, it's very often the ones that cost the least that gave you the most. And if you think you need something, check your drawers and closet before you buy it. Get your full Libra reading by Eric here.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22) — Pay attention to your motives this week. Only you can figure out what they are, and this may not be so easy as it seems. Your sign is one of the more complex ones, and the current astrology is arranged in many layers of feeling and emotion. You may not find out what is motivating you until after you make an important decision, so it would be best to pause, particularly around sexual choices and major purchases. There is a high probability you may decide that something you cannot reverse was not worth it. Therefore, the best thing to do is to pause. However, there is one place you can dive in, which is whatever you do for creative pleasure or experimentation. You are under daring astrology, and the place to take the risks is in the sanctity of what you express, whether musically, visually, in words or in movement. That is where you can take a chance and be entirely safe at the same time. Get your full Scorpio reading by Eric here.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22) — Mars in your sign is about to reach a square to Neptune, and to Venus. This suggests that the more you want something, the more it may frighten you. The deeper your desire, the more insecure you may feel. There are times when there's something to be said for this, when it's appropriate to go right out to the edge. I would propose that this is not one of them. You're likely to get lost in your own sauce, and caught in the vortex of your own confusion. Rather, stay at the edge of your emotions. Touch them and feel them rather than indulging in emoting. Stay out of the vortex. Take a sniff of how you feel, gently enough to be able to give it a name. This also holds true for your fears, which are most likely to manifest as self-judgmental insecurity. If this is true, what is being revealed is something that is already there, and is just being highlighted by current circumstances. This is an excellent time to learn what is going on for you. Get your full Sagittarius reading by Eric here.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20) — So, first I'm here to check in. One of the major events of your lifetime has come and gone. While there will be residual influences, and some exciting developments are coming, you have passed a certain very important threshold. And my question is, how are you doing with that? If you had to describe this moment as a "before and after" time in your life, how would you do so? Or — as is possible — this has been an unusually concentrated time, though you may not feel like there is anything special happening. As planets make their way into your neighboring sign Aquarius (particularly Saturn), the pressure will lighten up and the density will give way to a bit more clarity. Suffice it to say that you've been through something significant on a whole-life scale. The results will begin to manifest, and make themselves known, particularly through March and April. For now, look, listen, feel and sniff within. Get your full Capricorn reading by Eric here.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Your astrology looks like you've finally gotten out of the house after spending three years indoors. You may not want to venture further than the garden, though it's good to get fresh air, and to see that there is a world around you. I recommend you close your eyes and look toward the Sun, and allow its warming rays to enter through your third eye. You need light, and nature, and if possible light reflected off the water. You need to come out of the confines of your own mind, and in particular, your family and what you think of as its ideas about you. You have had a chance to assess some of your worst fears, and you now have a clue where they come from and whether they are necessary, useful or even meekly valid. The important thing is you know what they are. The more important thing is that you learn how not to have them control you. Get your full Aquarius reading by Eric here.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) — The past few years have been an unusual time for you professionally. This includes what you might think of as your public position. Though it can be difficult to actually see how you interrelate with your environment, you have made a mark, and you have opened up a place for yourself. Now, your assignment is to occupy that space in a loving way, express yourself, and develop what you have started. This will include involvement with a widening circle of people, though you're not here to cater to anyone's whims or fancies. You are here to do what you came here to do. Therefore, it will help if you set aside any notion of what others may think, and allow yourself to be internally guided by what is right and true. "Internal" also means being in ongoing contact with those who can serve as reality checks. And this is the time to live consciously and with discipline, one day at a time. When in doubt, slow down, and check in. Get your full Pisces reading by Eric here.

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