Your Monthly Guide to the Astrological Weather for March 2014…

SOLI-LUNAR PHASES

Over the course of a year, the solstices and equinoxes of the Sun mark out the changing seasons, which affect not only the beginning of different natural cycles, but our moods and choice of activities; whilst on a smaller scale, the Moon’s phases make up the time-span of a month. In fact, the etymology of the word month, comes from the Indo-European word, ‘me(n)ses’, meaning “moon.” ¹

During this period, the Moon also moves through the zodiac, with every progressive full or new moon cycle occurring in the sign more or less following that of the previous month.

Lunar Phases

NEW MOON IN PISCES – 1 March 2014

During March, time and lunar cycles converge as the New Moon and new month converge on the same day – the 1^st of March. This month is quite interesting because on March 30, we will experience a second new moon, this time in Aries – not quite a blue moon as this term is reserved for two FULL moons in one month, but nonetheless, this should contribute to the fresh, spring-like energy in the air as we head towards the Spring Equinox. To add to the air of optimism and new possibilities, there will be a Jupiter trine, which takes places around the time of the Sun-Moon conjunction in the early hours of Saturday morning. For details about this, see the Key Aspects section lower down.

FULL MOON IN VIRGO – 16 March 2014

Anything related to writing, editing, diet, health and wellbeing is likely to be a source of emotional preoccupation around March 16 when the Full Moon in Virgo brings a month-long cycle to its natural climax. If you’re a critic or commentator, then it’s possible that a certain topic on which you have developed a level of expertise or on which you have strong opinions will fall under the spotlight. Expect either praise or scrutiny, depending on how well-founded your opinions or assertions have been in fact. If you’ve been considering a change in diet or visiting a health practitioner such as a herbalist, then this is a good time to take action or schedule an appointment.

Solar Phases

SUN INTO ARIES – 20 March 2014

This year, the Spring Equinox, marked by the Sun’s ingress into the first sign of the zodiac, Aries, will take place at 16h57 GMT on March the 20th, which is 11h57 EST or 18h57 SAST. Rather like the New Moon, this marks the beginning of the agricultural and astrological year, at least in the northern hemisphere, and the beginning of Spring. This is one of the reasons why the first sign of the zodiac is Aries the Ram, because this is the time when the new lambs are born. In our Western culture where the warrior or hero archetype reigns supreme, this is a fitting symbol – Aries is fearless, pioneering and bold, like its ruling planet Mars, which in Roman times, governed both war and the fertility of plants. This is therefore a good time to begin new initiatives, take bold action and venture out on your own. Self-development, self-determined action and rugged individualism are all qualities favoured under this sign, so like the hero of so many myths, why not set off on a new and exciting adventure or brand new chapter in your life?

Planetary Events & Energy Shifts throughout March 2014

Retrogrades and Stations

Mars Retrograde: 1 March – 21 May 2014

Rather ironically, considering the Spring Equinox, Mars, planet of action, physical vitality and self-motivation, changes direction at the beginning of March, thus beginning 12 or so weeks of retrograde motion in Libra – its polar opposite sign. Mars is traditionally in detriment in Libra, and is now further weakened by its retrograde status, so don’t be surprised if you become uncharacteristically indecisive or lacking in motivation or conviction during this period.

If you are having doubts about a relationship, or feel that things are a bit out of balance in terms of fairness or equality within a work partnership, then this is a good time in which to review the situation and make some changes. Legal decisions or political reforms may also need re-evaluating if impractical, biased or discriminatory. Areas most likely to undergo revisions include regulations relating to surgery or minor medical procedures involving needles such as cosmetic injections, as well as military agreements or ceasefires, discrimination or unlawful conduct by members of armed forces, and differences of opinion/policy within political parties.

Jupiter Direct: 6 March 2014

Definitely living up to the reputation of Mars, its ruling planet, March is very much a month of movement and action. As the month gets underway, several planets return to forward motion, including planet of expansion and abundance, Jupiter. Expect a sense of optimism and faith to return to family matters, as well as activities or projects involving motherhood/conception/birth, cooking/food, the home/household effects or affairs.

Consumer confidence could begin to increase now, leading to better results for the retail sector, especially in groceries and household items, and good trading for small businesses like tea or coffee shops and babywear. A bullish air could also begin to pervade our financial networks, leading to a short-term boom in house prices and record trading on the stock market. Despite the doom and gloom predictions of a 20% correction in share prices on the FTSE 100, I think that with Saturn due to retrograde on March the 2nd, it’s possible that the party could go on until mid-July – there will be little to restrain those willing to take big risks during this time.

However, those who have lived through the last phase of boom (Jupiter) and bust (Saturn) would do well to remember what happened in 2008 and practice some caution because, as I have said before, Jupiter could also be equated with levels of inflation, which if consistently high, will trigger the Bank of England to raise interest rates, which could bring things to a screeching halt. Furthermore, once Saturn stations in July, the screws will be turned on unsound practices or investments, leading to that much-discussed ‘market correction’ predicted by some city analysts.

My advice then: Use the return to abundance thinking and optimism to inject more joy and meaning into family relationships and pursuits, never forget what is really important (not money!) and remain true to your beliefs and morals. If you do so, then you’re unlikely to go wrong, especially now that Jupiter has returned to forward motion.

Saturn Retrograde: 2 March – 21 July 2014

Saturn, considered to be the great stabiliser and regulator of the skies is once again due for its annual retrograde spell. During this period, it is likely that the brakes may come off the financial system, which along with Jupiter’s return to direct motion, could lead to inflated prices, increased consumer spending and less interest in regulations or laws that curb or limit power and behaviour, especially in the energy sector.

On a personal level, you may feel less inhibited or shy than usual, instead seeking out situations that allow you to express yourself more openly or have a little more fun than usual. This is especially true if you have a prominent Saturn in your natal chart, such as Capricorn rising or Saturn in the first house.

You may care less about conforming to social rules of behaviour, or of bowing to the wishes of parents, bosses or mentors, especially if you feel they have been overly strict or are abusing their position.

Don’t be surprised if there are calls for a review of the energy sector, or of power structures within well-established organisations or hierarchies, such as the English aristocracy, where you still have to be male to inherit family wealth or property, as well as the House of Lords, which many liberal politicians object to, since the appointment of peers can be for life and does not involve elections of any kind.

Career mobility is another possible issue that may come up between now and May 2014. Unlike America, where success is supposed to depend on merit, rather than your social connections, status or background, little has changed in the UK when it comes to who is able to get ahead in the world. According to several commentators, “Britain is a deeply unfair meritocracy” in which those who went to expensive private schools still dominate the top careers and elite positions in British society.

Although generally frowned upon by many liberal societies, being well-educated remains the single best way to move up in the world here in the UK. The Conservative Party, led by Eton-schooled David Cameron, is often accused of being elitist and out of touch with the concerns of ordinary working and middle class men and women. It remains to be seen whether this will become a major criticism/drawback for the UK electorate in the lead-up to the next general elections. Between now and mid-May, don’t be surprised if this becomes the topic of many a headline or news story. Elitism, corruption and nepotism are all issues that could rear their ugly heads over the next few weeks.

Planetary Ingresses

Mercury back into Pisces: 17 March 2014

Now that Mercury has ended its retrograde period, it will begin to retrace its steps through Aquarius, re-entering Pisces mid-month, which should give you a chance to rectify all those mistakes and hiccups caused by cloudy thinking, poor planning and loose lips. The next few weeks should also be a very creative and spiritually uplifting time when intuition and inspiration are strong. So banish your fears, stop scolding yourself for not being able to think logically and concentrate on opening yourself up to the wisdom and beauty that is all around you. If you’re a sensitive individual emotionally, or are particularly prone to allergies, then you may want to take extra precautions when out and about to avoid being caught short or overwhelmed by aggravating individuals or foods/allergens. You may also want to schedule in regular rest periods or spa visits to allow you to regain your energy levels or else you could become a little drained by the 7th of April when Mercury again changes signs.

Venus into Aquarius: 05 March 2014

After spending over four months in Capricorn, Venus finally ingresses into progressive and unconventional Aquarius. This is likely to mean a resurgence in androgynous fashion styles, unusual accessories or grooming products and an interest in unconventional romances, whether this unlikely couples or gay/transsexual/bi-sexual issues. Don’t be surprised if you suddenly find yourself feeling a bit cooler and more detached about relationships or want to spend more time by yourself – this is the independent side of Aquarius talking, encouraging you not to lose your individuality. You may also fall for the most inappropriate people romantically. If you consider this a phase and don’t get too hung-up about it, then you’re less likely to get stressed out and wonder if your parents/family will disown you. Enjoy exploring alternative cultures or art forms that do now. Marrying technology and art or matchmaking is another fruitful area to explore if you are looking or novel ways to make money or express yourself creatively. </span.

Key Aspects

Sun & Sun trine Jupiter: 01 March 2014

Since the buoyancy of the Jupiter-Saturn trine of December 13 2013, some of us have been through the mill a bit in the last two months. What with all the dark clouds cast by the negative Jupiter aspects that took place in January (Jupiter-Pluto opposition Jan 31st) and February (Jupiter-Uranus square 26 Feb), you’d be forgiven for thinking that a silver lining was never going to materialise.

Now, however, the good vibes return! As March gets underway, the Sun, symbol of self-expression and identity, combines with the benevolent and expansive rays of Jupiter, to provide an air of confidence and hope that things CAN turn out well in the end, despite all the recent up’s and down’s.

This is an excellent time to promote yourself or your abilities, make an effort to restore good relations with family members and make in-roads into improving or extending your home, especially your kitchen. Allowing the private areas of your life to really reflect who you are is what this aspect is all about. If you’d like to set up your own cookery school or family-run business, now is also a good time to approach backers and local authorities to get their blessing for your plans.

Local events and activities should also go extremely well now, especially if they have charitable aims. Remember that the Sun is still in caring and compassionate Pisces, so this is not the time to be selfish or self-serving. Win-win situations and contributing to the greater good is what this aspect is truly about, so leave your ego at home for now. It’ll be a most meaningful and rewarding time if you do.

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