Waves of emotion continue to break upon the shores of daily life, so
don’t be surprised if you find yourself experiencing strong, maybe even
disproportionate or inappropriate, reactions to certain situations. We
are in the immediate wake of the July 21 Solar Eclipse, which means
unconscious concerns are continuing to overshadow conscious ones, and
regular routines continue to be disrupted by interference and
interruptions. High anxiety is likely for some of us, as previously
reliable circumstances turn uncertain. Others may be caught in the
undertow of helplessness, swept away by an inexorable current of change
that is impervious to resistance. And still more, maybe even most of us
are likely to simply feel overwhelmed by the ongoing dissolution of the
status quo. While emotional bodies, yours and others, personal and
collective will try to make sense of what unfolds, it won’t be easy
finding discernable patterns, which makes it all the more important to
remember that sometimes life doesn’t make sense and that’s the point.
So rather than force your way through your feelings, take the time to
experience your reactions and then allow that process to facilitate
greater awareness.
Other than the complexity of the Solar Eclipse, the week is
deceptively simple. No blatantly pernicious influences color the days
and nights. That being said, we are at the tail end of a Venus/Saturn
square. This is a short-lived interaction that’s been operating since
July 17 and stays operative until July 26. Venus symbolizes love,
Saturn represents inhibition, and their combined influence tends to
signal a hard-heartedness that shows itself through a critical attitude
that can never be satisfied with what is. Try not to be too harsh with
yourself or others. Remember, Earth is not the planet of perfection. We
are also at the beginning of a Sun/Mars sextile, a positive combination
that fosters physical vitality.
But the reason the week is “deceptively” simple is that we are still
in an eclipse season; There is another Lunar Eclipse on August 5. As we
move toward this next Lunar Eclipse, we also move into a Mars/Saturn
square, a fractious interaction that begins August 1 and continues
until August 21. Mars represents the Warrior, Saturn represents
limitation, and squares signify irritation that tends to manifest as
abrasive interactions. All of which translates into Saturn’s
determination to restrain that Martian need to take a stand. Of course,
Mars is sure to resist Saturn and that resistance could manifest as
violence, individual and collective. Expect you, those you love, and
those you don’t even know to be hotter under the collar than usual.
Also anticipate self-interest to insinuate itself into all sorts of
situations. The positive application of Mars/Saturn contacts is the
ability to work hard, with deep concentration, toward specific
goals.
As the week unfolds, the key to conscious living is keeping life
simple. And while this is easier said than done, it is not impossible,
and it will be well worth the effort.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon sign, read that,
too.
ARIES Strong words may feel good in the heat of the moment,
but that doesn’t mean that the momentary satisfaction will be worth the
consequences. Keep a cool head, and you’ll keep an even keel.
TAURUS Honor the need to replenish your reserves by taking as
much quiet time at home as possible. I’m not suggesting you shut out
the world, but I am advising you to respect yourself by taking care of
yourself.
GEMINI Not taking a stand would be like trying to keep your
eyes open when you sneeze. So rather than resist the impulse to take a
strong position and hold it, give into that inclination by preparing a
well thought out argument.
CANCER While it might not be wise to blurt out every opinion,
holding will only engender a tape loop of all the things you wished you
had said. Let moderation guide you and you’ll find a solution.
LEO The only solution is to be authentic — all you, all
the time. And if that level of intensity is a problem for others,
understand their dilemma, but do not compromise who you are.
VIRGO The challenge is patience, in all situations, but
particularly in professional interactions with colleagues, associates,
or clients. While it will be challenging to stay calm, you will be
rewarded for your efforts.
LIBRA Avoiding difficult interactions with significant others
may not be possible, but that doesn’t mean you have to engage in
negativity. Stay as neutral as possible and you’ll negotiate with
skill.
SCORPIO Channeling your intensity into work-related projects
will yield better results than just about any other activity. Stay
focused on achieving your goals, and you’ll be pleased with the
results.
SAGITTARIUS It will take a fair degree of discipline to
sidestep negative interactions with partners, personal or professional,
especially when it comes to money. The best you can do is show up, be
honest, and expect the best outcome.
CAPRICORN All work and no play sounds like a recipe for
disaster, but not for you. You thrive on difficult tasks that require
focus and concentration. So roll up your sleeves and enjoy
yourself.
AQUARIUS An abundance of creative energy could spark a
conflict with significant others who would prefer that you focus your
attention on their needs rather than your own. I can’t tell you what to
do, but when the muse calls, I listen.
PISCES Expect a strong desire to hunker down at home, maybe
even under the covers, and rest. Resisting this urge will take more
energy than you have. So give yourself complete permission to reboot.
