Patricia Godden BSc PhD dip WESA FAPAI is a scientist-turned-astrologer. Integrating spirituality and the material world has been a key part of Patricia’s life. This is incorporated into her astrology practice, talks and courses on astrology. Find out more at www.patriciagodden.com
Over the last few weeks, there has been an emphasis on feelings, the emotions and sensitivity. There may also have been awareness of the intuition. This has been due to five of the ten planets being in the water element. It has highlighted the soul lesson shared by the water signs: peace. This energy continues until 11th December.
Two of the five planets in water signs, Saturn and Neptune, are coming to the end of their passage through Pisces. The next couple of months is an opportunity to let go of any restrictions that are no longer serving humanity. This may allow a more compassionate or spiritual approach to life to emerge, one that considers the welfare of people as well as other life forms.
From 11th December, the emphasis is on love, aspirations, enthusiasm and encouragement. This relates to four planets: the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars, being in Sagittarius. For the next three or four days, there could be a more upbeat feel to life, one of hope and joyful anticipation. A harmonious link with retrograde Chiron in Aries suggests that these qualities might be used to encourage other people.
For much of the time covered by this update, there is a tense interaction between the planets in Sagittarius and the Saturn-Neptune conjunction in Pisces. There may be doubt about the value of being upbeat, hopeful and positive. However, the energy of this tension could be channelled into finding creative ways to bring loving kindness into daily life.
With the south node of the Moon in Virgo, humanity has past experiences involving service, precision and the ability to differentiate between what is right and what needs improving. With the north node in Pisces people are striving to bring these experiences into awareness of the oneness of life. Both nodes interact with the Sun and Venus until 13th December suggesting that light is being shone on integrating these qualities and the wisdom that may emerge by doing so.
During the second week in December, Mercury interacts harmoniously with Saturn, Neptune and Pluto. This suggests that welfare within society may be discussed earnestly and with feeling. The possibility of an unusual slant to these discussions is linked with the opposition from retrograde Uranus in Taurus to Mercury. Sometimes unorthodox ideas or ways of thinking can lead to novel, workable solutions.
This interaction can also be used to look further afield, beyond the limitations of routine. By opening the mind to concepts not normally considered and a willingness to explore new ideas, the creative power of the imagination might be used in artistic pursuits or inner development through contemplation or meditation.
This might be an opportunity to grow beyond fear of the unknown in order to embrace the excitement of finding out more about life. Putting effort into exploring whatever appears to be beyond the horizon might open up new avenues of interest. This might be through travel or further study of some form.
The new Moon in Sagittarius is in the early hours of 20th December. This can indicate a new beginning in integrating love and wisdom. Wisdom can be expanded through exploration and adventure, either physical or metaphysical, and this can lead to a greater love for the many wonders of life. There is wonder in the clarity of a cool, crisp winter’s day just as there is in pondering on the meaning of life and all it entails.
The winter solstice, the day when the North Pole is tilted furthest from the Sun, is on 21st December. At a physical level it is the shortest day in the northern hemisphere. Astrologically, it is the day when the Sun enters Capricorn. It is often celebrated as being the day when the light begins to return. It is worth remembering that light is always present, both in the solar system and deep within each one of us.
From 16th – 23rd December, the Sun, initially in Sagittarius and then in Capricorn, interacts with retrograde Uranus in Taurus. At one level, there might be an urge to express individuality or look at use of the Earth’s resources. At a deeper level, the drive to find universal truths could lead to finding out more about how to manifest the perfection spirit while in a physical body.
This is a time when it is possible to bring the wisdom learned over the past months into practical service in everyday life.
Keep well, stay happy.
Patricia Godden