Horoscope for the Year of 2006

Thank you for taking the time to read this stellar review for 2006. I hope that the insights in the following Horoscope entries will prove useful and inspiring.

            This introduction offers an overview of themes, from the various lenses of Astrology, for 2006. You can choose to scroll down and directly read the entry for your sign. I have clarified elsewhere on my site that there are 3 Zodiac Signs that you can read in particular for a more richly layered interpretation. For more information about this, please refer to Subscribe on the top menu bar. This Tip of the Year is several pages long and you may wish to return to it when you have more time or occasionally to remind yourself of the summary of the underlying themes of the year from this perspective. I also encourage you to consider looking back to 2005 by way of the Yearly Horoscope. The Tip of the Year tells an interesting story, especially since it was written weeks before the Tsunami on Boxing Day 2004, the same day the Lunar Node Axis changed signs - from Taurus/Scorpio to Aries Libra! This way you get a past, present, future perspective on both 2006 and upon your self. The Yearly Horoscope provides a focus from a much wider lens than usual. My intention with this overview is to cross reference a variety of systems with just a few of the more current and obvious perspectives they each offer.

            2006 is on its way! Before I outline a more detailed list of planetary activity in 2006 along with brief glimpses of this time from the perspective of Chinese and of Mayan Astrology as expressed through the Dreamspell calendar, I wish to begin with a numerological overview of this time. We live in very exciting yet critical times and I think that this background will bring much added perspective to this update. 2006, when added, = 8. The year of Initiation or 7 gives way to the Year of Strength = 8! These first years of the New Millennium are hallmarks. The fact that we are in Third Millennium recorded as 2000…2006…all the way to 2999 is a reminder that the number 2 is with us for the next thousand years. The 1 of 1000 – 1999 certainly lived up to the pioneering, drive, ambition, leadership and focus of the numerological vibration of 1. No wonder it was such an accelerated, aggressive, brilliant and yet violent period in human history. Now the feminine 2 vibration of relationship, cooperation, balance, harmony and service is here to counter the pointed nature of 1. Sky scrapers, for example, a common modern expression, illustrate the dominating presence of the number 1, which they effectively resemble.  The greatest development and contribution of the 1 period was science and technology. So, how now will we create the world with 2? That is certainly partially up to us. Nature will, of course, have her way with us, as is her will and her way; choice and free-will must contend with the realities of nature – inner and outer. That is why we must learn to cooperate and not combat. This is the core challenge of this New Millennium, to stimulate a greater understanding of our essential oneness as a species and as a race. Fortunately, this form of understanding is the distinguishing characteristic of number 2.

            Interestingly, oneness expresses itself as two, as in all dualities. Reality really does come down to one, split into two, operating as a fundamental binary code in nature. Yin and Yang, Female and Male, Black and White, Inner and Outer and so on are expressions of this binary code. The word Universe is a reference to the oneness of nature which, paradoxically, manifests as duality or two. This further implies that we are not simply “in” the universe; we are an expression or an extension of it. This is a basic premise of holistic thinking and of Astrology and related subjects like Numerology – itself a code for cosmic, causal mind - the realm of archetypes.

            Re-awakening to the paradoxical reality that unity expresses itself as duality, or 2 out of the blind drive of 1 is the basic challenge of humanity at this time. More basically, if we are to survive our technological era at all we are going to have to learn to cooperate and get along more than ever before. This implies a significant shift in perception and consciousness. This shift is now underway and is what some refer to as the “Quickening”. With the conscious awareness that we are one with and an expression of the universe, how could we ever win by fighting it or one another and why would we want to? This cooperative type of reasoning is that of the 2. Whereas the 1 is more abrasive and narrow 2 is embracing and open. The vibration of 2 is lunar-feminine while 1 is solar-male. The 1 is a veritable arrow or missile slicing through to its target, driving to its destination. The 2 is like a bid with wings and is about seeing the bigger picture over the long term. 2 is the awakening from the compulsive nature of 1 to recognize others – as an extension of oneself and that empathy, cooperation and sincere negotiation is necessary for survival let alone co-creating a beautiful life and world. We are rapidly and necessarily awakening from an atomistic, part to wholes, world-view – the culmination of 1, which began especially with the onset of the scientific revolution, to a holistic, whole to parts-world view or paradigm. Thus, holistic or wholes to parts is the nature and destiny of 2.  1 is mind, reason, invention and technology, 2 is intuition, feeling, relationship and communication.

            The core challenge of this New Millennium, then, is to stimulate a greater understanding of our essential oneness as a species and as a race. This will come quickly now that science has come to scientifically realize what the spiritual teachings of old have always known, that the universe even with all its galaxies is one great being. The “Holistic” breakthroughs of science mark the beginning of the re-merging marriage of science and religion, the child of which is ‘magic’. The magic children will, like people, take on a wide variety of expressions from the most material to the very spiritual. This will certainly be expressed in all aspects of life, but perhaps especially and most obviously via transportation and communication technology, where-in inter-planetary and perhaps even inter-galactic space travel may occur.  If we get as far as inter-dimensional travel, then we will have truly tapped our potential for spiritual magic. The greatest danger is the materialistic philosophy and attitudes of technology. Can we learn to cooperate as one race in deep inter-related harmony, honoring various differences of expression without annihilating ourselves is some extreme war? We do have the means to terminate all life on our planet and we all live with the awareness that this very thing could occur at any moment. Again, that is the most significant concern of the balance of power in the world today and there remain many struggles of every kind. Clearly, we have work to do! Our survival depends upon it. While advancing even more with technology is certain, it is now time to learn to live and move away from competition and survival to cooperation and living. As long as there is poverty and hunger, countered by fear-based greed and ambition, a war will be raging somewhere. Division will beget more division. Since any war could spread like a cancerous virus, we can no longer afford to wage them. That is why it is so important o awaken to and shift our consciousness from the competitive nature of 1 to the cooperative nature of 2. Balance is the timeless process and goal of life and the word implies 2.

            Now it is 2006 which equals 8. This Growth Year Number takes its place within the context of the New Millennium or, the 2 vibration/theme. The 8 that is 2006 is a culmination year. 8 is the harvest, yet it also suggests efforts, toil, tests. 8 is the number of character strength. In the Tarot, the 8 Major Arcana is called Strength and is largely about the natural evolutionary process and requirement to conquer lower drives, to tame the beast, which are the body and its personality expression. Not that these are bad, just that they are over emphasized. Our personality is instinctively wired to help us survive, yet of itself, is a false or temporary construct of the eternal soul. Unfortunately, lower minded thinking reasons division and justifies survival tactics and action. Unfortunately, marketing preys on the appetites of our lower nature and this is perhaps the most challenging place where the energies of 2 must prevail. The expression of number 2 is that much more genuinely concerned with true service and is more process than outcome oriented. This is where the art of life can flourish and bottom line thinking loses its reason. Reason without intuition implies shallow, divisive, robotic reasoning and this has become a norm. This is basically why there is so much suffering and injustice in the world when we have all the technology we need to create a much better situation for all people. So, the 8 year is about awakening to our higher nature and making efforts to rise above and beyond rationalized instinctive behavior to conscious, intuitive cultivations. Number 8 is symbolic of the administrator, governor and master; number 8 is about power. An expression of 8 is like the peak point of a wave before it curls and crashes. Flowers in full bloom, a ripe harvest, the Full Moon, all are expressions of 8. Reflect for a moment and think about it. We are in a New Millennium and this is the first 8 or culmination year of it. How do you think it will turn out? Given our track record to date, the years since 1999 which gave way to 2000 have been very turbulent. Hopefully, it will be the higher consciousness that breaks through. While the positive expression of 8 is discrimination, sound judgment, wisdom, accomplishment, abundance, prosperity and success, the negative expression of 8 is abuse of power, control, over ambition, callousness, materialism and domineering attitudes.

            In the Chinese system of Astrology, the Year coming on January 29, 2006 is the Year of the Fire Dog! This element expression of the Dog suggests assertive, lively action – both are very likely. More will be said about the Fire Dog Year in the February Monthly edition of the Horoscope on this site. The Fire dog is very charming and attractive. However, his bite is as hard as his bark is loud! Like a fire, much could be swept away in a blaze and fury. Fortunately, the Dog represents loyalty. However, allegiances and loyalties vary. This year will prove to be a time of very important decisions and choices. It may even come to each nation and person to choose whether they choose light and unity/cooperation, or dark division and competition. Creation is accelerating and there is not as much time to procrastinate with such decisions. People will naturally, reactively and responsively form new and perhaps closer alliances than previously. Yet, where loyalties clash there stands to be swift divisions and endings. Change is the law and offering our loyalty and allegiance to the positive flow of change will prove important is 2006. Incidentally, the Chinese people as a whole are said to be ruled by the Dog….

            In the Mayan Dreamspell Calendar, the last year of a 13 year cycle ends on July 25, 2006.  So, we are currently in the Year of the Yellow Cosmic Seed, otherwise know is 13 Kan. It is quite wonderful to see how well this correlates with the activities of Pluto. (More on this later.) The poem from the Dreamspell Calendar for this reads:

“I endure in order to target.

Transcending awareness,

I seal the output of timelessness

With the cosmic tone of presence,

I am guided by the power of elegance.”

            Interestingly, this suggests a basic theme of raising lower drives, sexual in particular, to higher expressions of   relating such as art or oratory or performance of any kind. It also implies sublimating or re-directing these energies for more constructive or altruistic use. This also correlates with the challenges of number 8. Orientations towards higher principles verses lower appetites sums it up. The word “cosmic” draws attention to the fact that Pluto will align with the Galactic Center this year starting in February.  For those in tune, this could prove to be a very expressive year during which their works culminate, expand and rise to a whole new level. The number 13, does bring a cosmic influence from the standpoint of Mayan Astrology, however, its energetic expression is like that of a flower gone to seed – still beautiful and certainly very valuable in terms of the many, many flowers those seeds can spawn, yet no longer radiant full and splendid like it was at full bloom. The 8 of Western Numerology, does however imply the full bloom. So, it will be interesting to watch for how the two might blend.

      So then, July 26, 2006 begins a new 13 year cycle with the Red Magnetic Moon or 1 Muluc. The poem for this reads as follows:

“I unify in order to purify, attracting flow. I seal the process of universal water with the magnetic tone of purpose. I am guided by my own power doubled.”

            1 Muluc is about purification and when we combine that with the vibration of 8, we begin to see a pattern calling for an evaluation of priorities, decision, focus, resolve and discipline. While these are admittedly some of the basic themes of life, the suggestion here is that these processes will be extra important. Muluc can bring a lot of weighted emotions. Deepened sensitivities are the high side of Muluc. Emotional depression, inertia and over sensitivity are the down side. The 1 tone has a very assertive vibration and the purification process could come on quite forcefully. 1 is like lava spewing forth from the mantle. 1 is spontaneous and very attractive and will get everyone’s attention.

            Now, the Horoscope for 2006 shows dramatic themes fully expressive of 8. The big news this year is the Pluto conjunction of the Galactic Center or G.C.! Simultaneously, a Grand Square in Fixed signs is already causing many people to feel the weight of life. Pluto will make its first contact with the G. C. only in February 2006, then again in December. Readers with a background and understanding of the implications of Pluto at the G. C. will appreciate the synchronicity of this with the Dreamspell’s Yellow Cosmic Seed theme. Pluto generally implies regeneration, purification and renewal. The Galactic center is between 26 and 27 degrees Sagittarius. Pluto’s most evident impact while in Sagittarius since 1995 has been upon religious institutions where stale traditions and dogma are being replaced with new and hopefully deeper appreciations of other systems and a merging. Along with philosophy and religion, Sagittarius is also about culture, foreign and international affairs and currencies, law, ethics, metaphysics, and beliefs. All of these from many countries are beginning to merge – a global village is being born.  Pluto purifies and while it aligns with the G. C., we all stand to feel the pressure of its purpose which I interpret to be the elimination process of outdated secular thinking and perhaps the next steps toward dissolving borders. The information war is bringing everyone on line with similar information, news, discoveries etcetera. No one group or nation is doing it; it is simply the human condition subject to a larger evolutionary current. Technology is contributing to creating this global village.

            Pluto is the power player for all transformational process, which implies endings and new beginnings. However, its positioning in the G. C. is likely to be just that, Galactic. Galactic Consciousness is obviously expansive. The now common fact that ours is but one of countless of other galaxies in the universe leads the humble enquirer to deep feelings of awe and reverent references to God. Galactic is not quite Cosmic Conscious, however, which implies the unification of ones conscious, subconscious and super conscious mind. Galactic in this sense has more to with significantly expanded awareness and appreciation of the fact that the whole universe is itself alive, is one great whole and that it is streaming with life of infinite and varied kinds. On a more mundane level we can at least refer to a global consciousness. However, we remain dangerously divided as nations with diverse cultural beliefs. Are we on the verge of a 1st truly global close encounter with some of our closer neighbors? The prospect is both exciting and disturbing. If you had to choose between meeting aliens and struggling to survive a clash between nations, which would you choose? The point is that if all of the people in the world were to simultaneously acknowledge an encounter with an alien race, we just might gain a fresh perspective and respect for one another. This is just yet another example of what I interpret as a galactic awakening possibility. Simply stretching our imagination to the reality of galaxies should be enough! At issue here, is the radical transformation of consciousness which is very much underway beyond the reports of the evening news. That is the nature of Pluto; it completes or terminates one thing to begin another in its place; death and rebirth, in this case, the death and rebirth of consciousness from global to galactic. Further, Galactic Consciousness includes an appreciation of the fact that the universe also has many dimensions. Closer to the turf, Pluto in Sagittarius is dissolving borders through currencies as with the European Economic Community or EEC.

            Astronomy has certainly done its part in making the galactic reality a common fact. Now, we must expand our consciousness of who we are and what life can and must be. The inter-dimensionality of the universe is one in the same with our own inter-dimensional reality as a soul with a mental, emotional, etheric and a physical body. This is where we leap from the logic base of material science to the intuitive base of spiritual science. Our relationship as a planet, even as a Solar System, to the cosmic whole is significantly small, yet unique and precious. Awakening to this holistic world view will open us to new perspectives about how to co-create our world. The hope of the Galactic Consciousness is that we awaken to our deep familial roots as a unique race of beings on a unique planet occupied by many other species of life before we use technology to destroy one another and the planet.

            We are truly undergoing some of the more severe birth pangs of a new humanity subject to a rapidly expanding consciousness and 2006 stands to be a big hitter! Within the scope of Pluto’s powerful process, Uranus and Neptune will continue to form a “Mutual Reception”. This occurs when two planets are each in the others natural sign. It is considered generally favorable yet a complex balancing act as well. Anyway, with Uranus in Pisces and Neptune in Aquarius since March 2003 and both until spring 2011, the awakening of humanity is underway. The influence of this mutual reception also has both a galactic theme, (highly respected Astrological visionary, Dane Rudhyar, refers to Pluto, Neptune and Uranus as are our galactic ambassadors) and a very human theme wherein we lose our innocence. This loss of innocence on such a wide scale will ultimately re-create humility whereupon we can re-gain our innocence in light of our awakening to galactic realizations. How long will it take and will it be true and enduring humility are the big questions. It was just a few hundred years ago when most people in the world believed the world was flat. We have come a long way and the pace is quickening yet. Uranus and Neptune are big signifiers of this process. The mutual reception of Uranus in Pisces and Neptune in Aquarius are leading the way towards the creation of new humanitarian and spiritual values which could well prove to be the seeds of our very salvation and survival from the materialistic attitudes so prevalent in the world at this time. Tune into this glorious pair and contribute to the great awakening as science and spirituality re-unite to create a brand new world!

            The current Grand Square in Fixed Signs, mentioned earlier, is another key player in the planetary line-up for this year. It is already upon us and has been for about a month. Many will have experienced this as weight, fatigue, anxiety, impatience and frustration. The stress of a new election in Canadian politics serves as example of an outer expression of this planetary configuration. With Saturn now retrograde as of late November its influence is more internalized pushing everyone to assume greater responsibility. So the Grand Square will soon shift into a T-Square aspect. This aspect is also very powerful and even more dynamic and generally implies very challenging and hard work. The T-Square is formed from an Opposition aspect, 180 degrees apart, between two planets both of which are Square or forming 90 degree aspects to a third planet. This third planet is known as the Apex Planet. In this case, the Apex planet is Neptune. By mid January the T-Square will be fully activated. Neptune at the Apex suggests deep emotional yearnings not easily gratified by mundane reality. So, many people will try and tune-in by way of drugs and alcohol. Denial of new and emerging realities may also be strong. An example of this is the popular conception of Crop Circles. These marvelous wonders defy explanation, and challenge our entire view of reality, yet many people choose to simply deny their existence and phenomenal reality. Blocking out one’s valued misconceptions is common with people; much more common than most know or would ever admit. This is partially so because we are conditioned to believe that our experience of reality is objective as opposed to subjective and we have yet to consciously acknowledge and appreciate the relativity of our perceptions - to the reality that our perception is conditioned and so distorted and this is true for basically everyone. However, once we realize that our emotions suggestive of our perceptual attachments, have given us false impressions, the intense disillusionment and subsequent pain could trigger an enduring craving to escape and/or transcend. Some might believe that science is rapidly moving toward clear proof that we, our world and the very universe are purely a material construction. Such materialistic thinking rules the marketplace and many are lulled into this delusion. Such notions foster fear and justify violence and survival of the fittest etcetera. Yet, it is just the opposite. The materialistic grip of science has made it a virtual religion rife with its own dogmas; where once a person would feel shame for a ‘un-Christian’ thought or deed, now people feel similarly about a ‘un-Scientific’ thought or action.  However, the staunch stance of science supporting a purely materialistic reality is what is going to change and the discoveries of science itself are at cause! The intellectual stage of science must yield to the intuitive if we are to advance beyond gadgetry. Space age toys and machines are impressive yet they do not answer questions about existence, consciousness, meaning, love and life. The rigid position of science has itself been necessary in our evolutionary process, like scaffolding required to build a great edifice.

            So, it is the linear track of intellectual thinking that is being transformed. The quickening is an awakening! Creation is moving faster and, according to Mayan prophesy, will accelerate until late 2011 or 2012, depending on which calendar one follows. In either case, the acceleration of creation is happening. Another perspective on this is that a great restoration is underway. The balance between intellect and intuition is being restored by a very natural process of evolution. Remember, from the 1 and the 1 or the 2, come the 10,000 things. Though this turning point will be and feel dramatic to all and scary to many, we are actually in the process of a renaissance; a rebirth, an awakening and this will foster new thoughts, perceptions, attitudes and new creations. However, awakenings and rebirth often cause pain and many will react with confusion as “reality” is no longer true. We are conditioned by our environment and our experience of reality is subjective. We do not see and experience the world as it is, we see and experience life as we are. This realization is now mainstream psychology. Yet, it is very new knowledge, even though we have somehow known about it all along. I regard these plays of the mind as plot rhythms revealing then hiding truth within the greater evolutionary need. Anyway, as we awaken to the fact that our experience of reality is not quite reality, in fact, it is but a minute reflection of it, we can feel humility, reclaim our innocence and re-awaken to our true nature.  The current Fixed-Square is the kind of pressure that will force this new way of thinking into consciousness and outer reality.

            By February and through the better part of March, this T-Square will continue as an exact Square aspect between Jupiter and Neptune. Translating ideals into actual practice is the higher expression of this square while the lower is false optimism, disillusionment and/or deceptive dealings. On other fronts, people will generally experience challenges to let go of inherited limiting beliefs and awaken to higher, more expansive realities. Jupiter turns retrograde in early March whereupon it will move towards an exact square with Saturn in June. Jupiter will be positioned at 9 Scorpio and Saturn will be at 9 Leo through to late June. This pair will meet up again in October, this time with Jupiter Direct and Saturn Retrograde, so a reverse of the first encounter in June. This back and forth movement will be heaving us all to and fro on the deck. In particular, economies will be challenged and politics and business will feel the weight of major ambition and competition. A final encounter between these two social giants will occur when Jupiter turns direct again in July and catches up with Saturn, again in a hard square aspect, in late October. So, these three hits of Jupiter in Scorpio Square Saturn in Leo will be the most enduring and challenging aspect of the Grand Square. Overall, it implies major shifts in perception about what constitutes reality and the consequent direction of our allegiances (remember the fire Dog!) and the death of old standards of perception, morality and behavior. Confusion and tension may well ensue as people are challenged to decipher whether to and/or how to move forward or to move backward again. The riots in Europe and other places in the world this past autumn and perhaps still occurring are an expression of this dramatic energy pattern. The overall focus may well prove to be social, economic and political. However, when Jupiter enters Sagittarius in late November, the focus could take a dramatic turn back to spirituality and philosophy leading us all to expand our visions more than ever. That theme will continue through 2007. That Saturn will come close to forming a harmonious and creatively inspiring trine aspect with Pluto in late November as well is a good sign that we will see a brighter light on things towards the end of the Year. The harvest of the 8 year will be nearing completion then. So, intend to do the work both inwardly and outwardly up to that time!

            The other big news is the shift of the Lunar Node Axis from Aries/Libra to Pisces/Virgo in June. Until that time, The North Node will be in the lowest degrees, of Aries which are certainly the most assertive, if not aggressive. This transit through the first Decants of Aries and Libra began in early December 2005. Mars is the ruling planet for Aries so it is the one to watch. This is especially so early on as it the trigger planet of the Fixed Grand Square. Mars finally exits Taurus after 8 months due to its retrograde cycle and enters Gemini in mid February. That should stimulate a lot more of energy and drive. However, with Mercury in Pisces and retrograde just two weeks later, maintaining a clear focus could prove quite challenging. By mid April when Mars enters Cancer the spring time momentum will take off! Home renovations and the like should be very active at that time and through to early June especially. That could prove to be a very active, yet a moody period with plenty of ups and downs as well, for many people. Mars in Leo in early June will stimulate more drama, and play and probably increased competitive orientation to help people get back down to earth. Feelings and emotions will be greatly aroused at this time and the tempo will remain moody and unpredictable. Mars enters Virgo the same day the Sun enters Leo in late July just before the Mayan New Year on July 26. This will usher in yet another wave of determination, ambition and willingness to work hard. Unfortunately, this comes right in holiday season for many. The ability to really relax will prove challenging for many people. Just as the 8 year, suggests, the overall pace will require a lot of effort and focus. Mars goes on to Libra through to late October which could stimulate debate and arguments. However, with Venus also in Libra in October and moving fast to catch up to Mars which she finally will do on October 24, just one day after Mars and both at the first degree of Scorpio!  This will stimulate a lot of heat and passion which could go either way in terms of relationships. However, it would be worth betting that a lot of pregnancies might occur while the lovers stroll through sexy, passionate Scorpio for a few weeks. Venus in Sagittarius following is possibly even more promiscuous. Mars will enter Sagittarius in early December just in time to join the ranks and beat the drums of change. Cultural, philosophical and spiritual debates that Jupiter in Sagittarius is sure to arouse will set the stage for that pow-wow time. In Sagittarius, Mars will push for new horizons or possibly stubbornly defend old faiths and beliefs. Some of this emphasis will shift away from Mars, however, by mid June and swing back to Neptune when the Lunar Node Axis shifts to Pisces/Virgo on June 22, coinciding with the Summer Solstice! (Look for more on this theme from the Monthly and Quarterly Horoscope in June and July).

            The entry of the Lunar North Node into Pisces is strong indication of spiritual awakening, yet it will also put many even more to sleep, at first…. The vibrations of the Neptune ruled North Node will remain quite subtle at initially, yet will become much more evident in 2007. This is the precise switch that will turn people away from excessive linear, rational, materialistic thinking and stimulate more spontaneous awareness that intuition brings. Neptune is intuitive imagination in its higher reach. Pisces is the sign of the subconscious, the astral world, dreams, inspiration, intuition, imagination, empathy, compassion, selfless service all forms of psychic ability and mysticism. Pisces is also disintegration, delusion, illusions, fantasy, denial, oblivion, escapism, confusion. Those who are more tuned-in and clear will receive the vibrations quickly and will begin to spontaneously awaken to subtle realms and dimensions of reality. Psychic abilities will rise and people will begin to feel much closer to one another. On the other hand, many people will remain oblivious to it all and not notice much except perhaps more confusion, fatigue, depression and escapist tendencies and probably more glamour to keep focus on some lights. However, by the end of the year and into 2007 more and more people will begin to tune-in and awaken to the magic qualities of the consciousness rising of the Quickening. Mercury in Pisces from February 8 through to April 16 will add to the already dreamy, imaginative and hopefully meditative states that are characteristic of the sign of the Fishes and their planetary ruler Neptune. When Mercury is retrograde in Pisces from March 2nd to 25th this will deepen the compress of this already potent Pisces magic. This will also probably add to a general malaise people will feel, especially through to April. Fortunately, the presence of some of the Asteroids in Capricorn early in the year will keep people grounded. (Read more on this below) Rather than seek to escape or slip into depression, intend to be quieter and more silent during that time –March - as much as you can. Avoid substance abuse and remain as clear as you can with walks and plenty of pure water. For best results, meditate regularly, and enjoy deep silence.

            Chiron in Aquarius as of early December 2005 - 2011 indicates a healing of humanity. That there is a great need is clear, how this will occur implies a holistic approach as this is the way of Chiron. Holistic implies tending to our health from all levels of our being on not just the physical. With Uranus in Pisces, the healing will occur on subconscious levels. At best, humanity will awaken more fully to the realities, complexities and power of the subconscious. It will become common knowledge. We are not there yet but that awareness is spreading quickly. This understanding alone is breaking down old beliefs and myths and people are more and more aware of the programming susceptibility of the subconscious, for example. This is perhaps the single greatest contribution of psychology to date.

            Chiron in Aquarius corresponds with issues of being ungrounded. Its expression is electrical or highly charged energy – some would say it is Kundalini energy also known as serpent fire. Chiron is very idealistic in this sign and the possibilities are very good of experiencing deep healings in consciousness, otherwise awakenings, bringing light and awareness where there was darkness and ignorance. Ways to stay grounded include walking, yoga, sports, and massage, touching, breathing more consciously and sending it down to you feet works very well and simply intending to stay grounded will help. There are many techniques, so enquire with yoga teachers, massage therapists, books, and the internet. Chiron in Aquarius will show us all where our humanitarianism is in need of adjustment and healing. The last time Chiron was in Aquarius was the mid 1950’s through to 1960.  Many will agree that that time period was indicative of this wound as the then growing ‘Cold War’ suggests. Chiron is not exactly a planet by the way, true to its Maverick style and reputation; it is considered a comet by some, a planetoid by others and an asteroid by yet others. Astrologers recognize the power of Chiron however, as it is very measurable in people character through an interpretation of the birth chart. For this reason I included it in the interpretation along with the 4 Asteroid Goddesses.

            The Asteroid Goddesses are 4 female members of the Zodiac pantheon. They are considered to be of a lower octave than Venus and the Moon – the two prominent females in traditional Western Astrology – Yet, they each do have a very recognizable and distinct quality that can be recognized through a Birth Chart reading. The following is a brief review of their themes and impacts over the next 12 months:

            Ceres whose main theme is about genuine nurturing is in early Capricorn in January 2006 and will make it to Pisces over the course of the year. While in the sign of the goat, Ceres influences us to nurture a greater sense of achievement. Doing this from a genuine passion for what you are achieving and how, comes from accepting your duties responsibly. Nurturing a wholesome discipline and respect for one’s work is the key. This way, duty becomes sacred. As the mothering principle moves to Aquarius honoring our unique individuality and that of others will play an important role in our attitudes. This begins in late February and continues for the rest of the year. Rebellious attitudes are probable where freedom of expression is denied. Rebellious reaction will flare most strongly in the summer months.

            Pallas Athene in mid Sagittarius is moving swiftly now and will enter Capricorn by February 10. While in the Archer she champions the cause of expanded vision. She celebrates metaphysics, philosophy and religion. White Magicians, Wizards and Shamans of all kinds are her counsel. She strides forth to ensure truth and justice for all. When in Capricorn, Pallas slows down and brings greater structure and form to her visions. She designs, sculpts, builds and organizes with everything in order and in its proper place. Pallas is about broad-minded and wise action; Capricorn is about discipline and duty.

            Juno, the wife of Zeus, divine consort and spouse, begins 2006 in mid Gemini and will remain there until the end of March, but she will be moving very quickly later this year. She will move through Cancer, Leo, Virgo and most of Libra by the end of the year. That’s a little more than 2 months for each sign which is fast for Juno. While in Gemini, Juno inclines toward the importance of clear communications. She may enjoy poetry and prose, but she will grow impatient with word play that distorts factual thinking. In Cancer, she enjoys the comforts of home and garden and wants to feel nurtured, if she is not she will withdraw, possible into depression. In Leo by early June, an ideal time for love, play and romance, Juno can be in her glory. If these are not readily available, she may do anything to gain attention. Enjoy this romantic time as you can while it lasts! In Virgo by mid August, attention turns to more practical considerations. Refinement and organization become more of a priority. When in Libra in late October, Juno will turn her attention more fully to cooperative attitudes. With her own homework done and house clean, she will want to create beauty with the one(s) she loves and will want to ride into the New Year with grace and style.

            Vesta is about independence and keeping the sacred alive in our lives. She moves from mid Cancer to early Scorpio this year so she, like Juno, is moving pretty fast. In Cancer, she stimulates the feeling function, she needs to be needed. In Leo until very late May, there is added commitment to creative pursuits even at the risk of alienating others. Get into your own projects everyone! In Virgo puts even more emphasis on work. Fortunately, Vesta will be in Leo until mid August and moves into earthy Virgo just as Juno enters earthy Capricorn. The diligent will get their fun in earlier in the summer and tail it off with an ambitious head start into autumn.

            So, a major theme in 2006 surrounds consciousness itself and the realities that our conscious perceptions are prone to distortions. No person or nation is exempt. This means that 2006 will be about awakening to new perceptions. The Uranus/Neptune Mutual Reception comes back into focus with the shift of signs for the Nodal Axis. The basic inference is that the old order is rapidly dissolving and we are and will be challenged to adapt to the changing realities. While this is always the case, the pace will quicken noticeably in this regard in 2006. This is where the themes of 8 and harvest and toil and testing come back to mind.  Since the turn of the New Millennium we have experienced a subtle yet definite shift in consciousness surrounding the number 2. That more women are gaining greater power and authority is a good example. We are only 6 years into the millennium, yet this could be where our relationship to it deepens. This is a crucial time. The point is to get used to the change of consciousness that we are awakening to on a global level. The status quo has been shifting beneath the surface and now those shifts will become much more evident. Competition for guiding the perceptions of the masses will be the biggest underlying theme. This will move beyond current fronts and take on a whole new and more obvious focus of attention. While the implications are wide, touching on galactic and cosmic, the reality on the streets stands to be much harsher, politically and economically. As the materialistic values and behavior patterns of the recent past encounter one of their greatest weaknesses, the grossly unequal distribution of wealth, the quiet revolution will get louder. Consequently, international trade and commerce will take on a whole new importance as will new economic and political realities in general. The borders are steadily dissolving!

            This is a final reminder of the importance of simply being more conscious of the fact that we are in a New Millennium, strongly influenced by the vibrations and themes of number 2.  Awakening comes from focus and activation of intuition, feeling and higher imagination to counterbalance the reason, rational and logic of the intellect. The former is feminine while the latter is male and their nature is to unite, bond and bring about new offspring. This is the nature of One expressed as the 1 and the 1, the Yin and the Yang which are also seen as the 2 and from which emerge the 3, the Trinity and otherwise symbolic of the 10,000 things of Chinese lore!  So the 2 vibration is very fruitful and nurturing and those are the kind of themes and actions we need more of, in order to activate more fully to break through our collective lower consciousness which continues to express so much fear. The 7 Chakras positions the fourth Chakra in the middle, otherwise known as the Heart Chakra. Meditation and concentration on the Heart Chakra traditionally remains the path to awakening to Cosmic Consciousness. Now, a heightened awareness and consciousness is being thrust upon us and in order to survive the light blast of this awakening and shift of consciousness, as it moves from its left brain tilt back to center, it stands to reason that we need to focus more intently upon our Heart Chakra’s. Not surprisingly, the Heart Chakra is both the seat of intuition and of the soul. Intuition implies deep feeling beyond logic. Keep it simple, drop your mind into your heart and breathe into it as though you wish it to expand. Make this a regular practice and focus your activated Heart Chakra at others, any person you choose, and watch what happens. Remember to return to this place often until you learn to live from your heart center. May we together reap a rich harvest of new awareness that ushers in more conscious attitudes and actions!

Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Awakening to deeper realities about your self and life in general will be a major theme for your in 2006. An assertive push for more independence could bring returns by June or July – be careful what you ask for! In any case, in June you will begin a deeper yet subtle soul searching period that will help you to learn more about the realities as well as the illusions concerning some of your dreams and ideals. You may also question the deeper importance of friendship and even forgo romance for it. Joining new organizations and groups or teams is also very likely by the second half of the year. Your interest and understanding of psychology, your own and that of humans in general will also continue to grow. A willingness to discard old limiting beliefs about yourself and life could come very easily and quickly. However, you are advised not to draw premature conclusions. Just make way for new and better beliefs to move in especially towards the end of the year and into 2007. Watch as your imagination runs wild in mid February and through March. Renovate at home in April. June will be a big month but you should be in good form for it. Overall, create a new sense of your own authority by consciously yielding to inner authority.

Taurus (Apr 21 – May 20)

Your soul search will continue through much of 2006 yet you stand a great chance of hitting land. This will come as powerful relationships. Ultimately, the relationship is with one’s self yet is complimented by others like lovers or business partners. At the deeper end, you will seek counsel, guidance and instruction from a variety of sources. Taking time early in the year to go within by way of meditation, or artistic expression or skiing etcetera offers opportunities to seed your dream visions securely. Material ambitions are giving way to Spiritual this year and maintaining this balance of focus is ideal. Whatever has happened in the past, be aware of letting the past and their hosts of fears haunt you. Practice the Power of Now! Ask for assistance and let spirit, your higher self guide. Foreign travel is likely as is the meeting of strangers and soul mates! Commit to the process of graceful change. Acknowledge the inevitable and begin to cultivate your core by strengthening it intentionally. Conscious breath, body-centered activity and presence of mind will keep you balanced. Stay grateful and in tactile touch with your body and your environment through your heart chakra. This way, the Eros activation will not leak sexual energy which can be used to build inner strength.

Gemini (May 21 – Jun 20)

Shifting your focus of attention to appreciate spiritual realities remains a strong theme for you this year. The term, ‘holistic health’ is a broader definition for your focus. This implies, body, mind and soul. Alignment of these three is the basic formula for true health. However, too many people only focus on the physical or the psychological. The spiritual focus simply begins by becoming more aware of your soul, your higher and true self. This is a wholes-to-parts approach. In any case, intend to illuminate your mind with new information, especially regarding you health and that of your overall lifestyle. Build bridges between your spectrums of interests to integrate your life in new ways. A positive mind and attitude is virtually the best medicine of all, and worry is poison. Gain inspiration for a vision and make some clear intentions. Travel looks likely especially in autumn. Visualize a healthier image to take along with you. Is it your body, attitude or feelings or all of them that needs more attention to achieve your ideal?  Weight gain is very possible throughout the year. Avoid fats and sweets, drink plenty of water, walk and/or exercise more. Where health conditions are more serious, know that you have the capacity to generate better health. Visualize often with all your senses and bring a lot of emotion and feeling into the process to show us all that you really can create whatever condition or state or whatever you need, with your dreaming mind.

Cancer (Jun 21 – Jul 21)

You are learning how to truly and simply be who you are. A capacity to express your authenticity has and continues to grow. It is likely that this is bringing you peace and perhaps success with the public. Your relationship with children, yours and those of others, will prove inspiring this year. Your artistic interests flourish. There yet remain a few obstacles to contend with regularly, especially with other personalities. Your desire to take radical measures in certain respects may be met with resistance. As long as everyone gets their needs met what does it matter how that is achieved? Be negotiable! This is where the test comes in. Are you willing and able to yield. Defensiveness on your part may reflect inherited patterns that no longer serve you. Your willingness to see yourself in a clearer light implies wise counsel and/or intimate dialogue. Flexibility of mind is your greatest, most creative tool this year. Summon the courage to clear thought cobwebs of old self concepts and change your ways of thinking about what’s possible. Investments stand to bring a big return and relationships entered upon have a special blessing. Simply like yourself and trust your feelings. See how you are based on how environments from the past conditioned you and step more fully into a more authentic expression.

Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 22)

Many awakenings continue to stir you to new realizations. As this occurs, old values and priorities are replaced with new ones. This is where the trouble can begin. Did you feel you achieved enough or as much as you could have earlier? Are you prepared to enter the deeper lair of your being? This could be where you attain new levels of mastery. Having a focus on shorter term goals will work best this year – perhaps no more than one year in length. The confidence you seek will only come from surrendering to the deeper call of your soul. It does not want to hide you away. It simply wants to be visited often. There in silence you will see, hear and feel the deep beauty that you have been seeking. This will inspire you to the great works that wait like golden seeds hidden in your heart. Planting these seeds want to occur as a process of genuine art and not merely as a commodity. Bring this intention with you into your creative lab and establish a link with your inner voice. This way, you can achieve your success, perhaps more quietly, yet more magnificently and prosperously too! Do what you do with a more playful and light hearted attitude. Express your art gratefully and with reverence for your creative spirit. 

Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 21)

Expanding and deepening your overall base of knowledge is highlighted in 2006. You are intellectually ambitious and want to refine all of your skills and perhaps even gain new ones. Your momentum will grow soon into the year and your intimates may have a hard time keeping-up. You are better off having ample space for your many studies and communications than promising closeness and feeling stress over the time factor. Your capacity to exercise strict time management could be worth a fortune and create space for leisurely fulfillments. Others may not be as ambitious as you are now so make it clear that you simply need to follow your own rhythms. Makes dates with your beloved, keep them and be on time. This will keep your romance alive and allow you all the time you need. A deep feeling of being unsettled in your overall life will continue for a couple more years so stay flexible. Allow the creative genius of others to guide and inspire new possibilities for self-expression. Do avoid taking on more than you can handle. With a really clear focus you will both manage your time and your money more successfully. Set a stable yet flexible pace in the first half of the year with sincere effort and ingenuity. Activate your personal power! 

Libra (Sep 22 – Oct 21)

Deepening your claim upon what you consider to be of most value in your life is a central theme this year. You ability to get what you want is strong. However, getting what you need and/or deserve may conflict. Your mind is and has been opening to new realities over the past several years. Your willingness to let go of control and listen and heal is the key. However, as you are a fighter beneath diplomatic relations, your challenge is to cultivate more empathy. This means deeply imagining that you are the other person to imagine how they feel. This is actually the key to your success in life. Emotion and feeling and empathy constitute great value because they allow us to see beyond the fire of our own passion.  Look behind the curtain of your rational and see the wizard working the controls. Why, because his fear has the better of him. To be or not to be…authentic in expression and honoring of the same in others, that is the answer! Cooperating, copulating, merging, yielding, negotiating, blending, inspiring, creating harmony gracefully and beautifully, these are the ways of our true nature. Since true success is measured by the quality of our relationship with self, people and life, seeing their value clearly and with full feeling is the best investment. Namaste’. (The spirit in me honors the spirit in you as an expression of the one spirit).

Scorpio (Oct 22 – Nov 21)

Increasing your creative power is in scope this year. A passionate drive for success will become evident early on in the year. However, the more you can re-imagine and perhaps re-package what constitutes your greatest assets the better. Taking on this challenge could prove very inspiring and will guide your focus. Get assistance if necessary from a trusted friend or better yet a professional like a life coach to bring your best skills and assets into sharper focus for all to see and recognize. Build your confidence and self-image and plan to approach authority figures to re-calibrate your ability. Sometimes this requires moving on to new pastures as others often have fixed pre-conceived notions of who people are and what they are capable of expressing or achieving. The key is to convince yourself of your worth and carry that conviction with confidence. In certain respects this could prove to be a plan-and-build year for reaching greater heights next year. However, if you are really serious, focus and make the efforts you just might land the deal or promotion or new job that you desire and merit before the year is done. With the right attitude, you will be in a much more stable power position this year. Focus on at least one important decision each day to outline your highlights. Avoid getting lost re-discovering yourself and proactively re-invent yourself.

Sagittarius (Nov 21 – Dec 20)

Accessing your deep reservoir of faith is a central theme is 2006. Since this is actually the seat of your soul located in the portal of your heart, you don’t have to go very far to find it. The key is not so much to go off searching far and wide; it is to know where to look very close by. As you surrender your thoughts, opinions, imaginings, feelings, ethics and desires to the will of God, accessed through your heart and soul, you will drop your burdens, crouch low on your knees and sip the sweet water. With this nourishment you will experience peace within despite outer disruptions. What prevents surrender is pride, the mask of fear. What allows surrender is faith beyond all thoughts and notions. As you surrender to divine will your mind will be illumined by grace. Blame is the prankster to avoid. Vision that expands way beyond reason and logic to purpose and need will keep your breath deep and your laughter true. By June the spark of your spiritual awakening will burst into flame. This whole process invites the spiritual warrior in you to fight the grip of the separate selfish self which wants to control outcomes. Your task is arduous, but you have what it takes to prevail as long as you follow your heart guidance. This is a subtle but very important spiritual practice. Accept every experience as an opportunity to learn how to be of genuine, practical service so that “Thy will be done”. 

Capricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19)

How can you affect effective change? This and other such questions are central in 2006. One of the main answers is to make changes in yourself, your attitude and your approach. The more your intentions are connected to improvements that will benefit others the better. Working within to actualize without is a timeless wisdom. Expressing your power and authority more authentically may take until the summer, but you could be consciously moving in that direction right away. The perceptions of yourself and life that you hold so dear are the first thing that may need some renovation. As you awaken to the truth that together we stand and divided we fall you will activate your true authority. Justice can never prevail when greed supersedes need beyond healthy measures. Your leadership will be best expressed by your commitment to a higher purpose.  Do not concern yourself so much with personalities playing roles for good or ill. Focus on a shared vision where possibility breaks through reality. Surround yourself with others whose talents and resources can serve a greater need. Dealings purely for profit and self gain are likely to backfire largely due to the lower intent and vibrations of all those involved. Awaken to the genuine need of these changing times by envisioning how you could perhaps direct at least some of your energy to more meaningful causes. Support authentic power!

Aquarius (Jan 20- Feb 19)

As your commitments to long-term change deepen, so too will your career, social status and reputation. This includes your overall health generally and that of your emotions specifically. Emotional shifts will release blocked energy for use in your day. Becoming free of what you think you need and accessing what is really important is part of the plot. Further, thinking you are more, or less, than you actually are, is the deadwood that must go. Opportunities and challenges to really break through to the next level are probable. Making a plan is the first measure.  Demonstrating your abilities with confidence yet curbing undo pride is the balancing act that will see you through. Relationships and partnerships may be the greatest source of weight and trial and you may choose to end one or more of them as a result. However, forging important and powerful alliances is also important. Clear priorities in relationships, therefore is the key. Your values are steadily changing and you are aiming for more freedom somehow. Financial considerations are probably a prominent feature of this focus. However, even material security is not enough. On the same note, your fortunes could change quite significantly over the next several years so take the time to plan for the long term. Recognize that whatever the status quo, all things change eventually and sometimes very quickly. Consolidate your commitments, see to the effectiveness of your administration and expand your base of power.

Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Expanding your horizons and deepening your mind will both prove inspiring this year. As the roots deepen the branches will reach high and grow thicker too. Persistence and faith are required for success. There is reason to believe that these will be well within reach. However, you may need assistance initially. Accepting, even inviting help initially is ideal; yet aiming to be progressively free of it over the course of the year is a wise intention. Desires to Learn from others in any and every way are ideal early on and likely as the year progresses. Your resolve to do so and the energy required to support it will increase by mid February and continue to grow all year. Mercury retrograde around your birthday could throw you a few loops, however. With regular activation of your power potential your earning power will rise. Sometimes our power is accumulative and this stands to be one of those years. The biggest challenge will be to let go of relationships and relationship patterns that restrict you. Already, you are learning to be easier on yourself in terms of what you can and are willing to deliver. Outline your ideals and goals now and set key decisions into motion as soon as you can in the year. As you break free of expectations, let go of control and initiate exciting momentums, your inspiration will grow and even more creative self-expression will awaken.