astral meanders 11-17th may 2011

In General: Mars is in Taurus this week, a nice change from the intensity of Aries!! With Mars here, individuals feel more single-minded, wilful, and determined. Unlike the impulsive Mars in Aries phase, individuals will now pursue goals with a dogged patience. Mars also sextiles Neptune on the 11th. This sextile promotes harmony and general good will; it initiates our creativity and encourages the imagination. Mercury and Venus then enter Taurus and sextile Neptune May 15-16. With these three planets shifting from Aries to Taurus within a few days of each other, individuals should be able to feel the energy change from fast, impractical, spontaneous Aries, to slow, systematic, realistic, Taurus. May 17th sees a Scorpio Full Moon wielding its emotional intensity about and threatening all this balanced practicality with a bit of over the top fervour. If you have a birthday this week then the general pace of the year ahead will be ordered and methodical. Achievement is very possible under this influence. On the world scene it is time for a little reasonable reflection and of course addressing those impulsive actions of the past few weeks. Leaders will be more aware of the repercussions of their actions. Locally be wary of letting the full moon’s volatile power upset the more peace loving energy of this time.

Quote of the week: Consider the postage stamp: its usefulness consists in the ability to stick to one thing till it gets there. ~Josh BillingsAries

March 21- April 20
Life is stabilising somewhat and the focus is now on personal security and good foundations. You are also feeling less inclined to take risks and very much want to stay close to the home base. Romance is also stabilising and will be very rewarding this week and for the rest of the month as well.

Taurus
April 21-May 21
You have been avoiding some decisions this year, but this week sees the start of a more decisive phase for you, where you can and will make those long term plans! You are more than usually able to believe in your own abilities and to put this belief into some useful projects for the future. It’s very good to start new things now.

Gemini
May 22-June 21
You may still be finding it hard to meet deadlines, dear Gemini! Life is so busy and chaotic for you at the moment! Do remember that your energy levels are not high right now and pace yourself accordingly! Activity around the work arena is definitely speeding up just now and it can be hard to get the rest you need.

Cancer
June 22- July 23
Relationships with superiors, co-workers and the public in general are the focus of this week. Trying to please everyone all the time will definitely not work so get your priorities clear! Being a good team player is the best advice for now. The energy towards the end of the week is more innovative and exciting.

Leo
July 24- August 23
This week you might find yourself spending more energy than usual on family matters. Your charisma and likeability is high now and others will reward you and want to be with you more than usual. Career and business are important after the 15th and you might want to strike out with assertion.

Virgo
August 24- September 23
You are feeling more sociable and finally coming out of that self imposed shell this week. It’s an excellent time for learning new things and starting new projects. After the 14th the energy is heightened in the relationship arena and this is where you might want to place your focus. A good week.

Libra
September 24- October 23
Some help or support may come your way this week and in general life should get a whole lot easier and more productive. Towards the week’s end there could even be a little financial boost of one sort or another. You are more sensitive than usual and this is a two edged sword! Try to take things more lightheartedly!

Scorpio
October 24-November 22
The full Moon provides you with a personal revelation that can change the way you do things! There is much to be learnt via relationships now and any issues will mirror something about yourself that you need to address. It’s also a good time to pay some attention to your general health and well being.

Sagittarius
November 23- December 21
Work matters are becoming more of a priority this week. You should also consider spending a little time on your health and getting some more rest. You are inclined to want to do things in partnerships and relationships are top of your list now. Creative activities flourish too and can be very rewarding.

Capricorn
December 22- January20
This begins quite a creative cycle for Capricorn and any work that involves art in some way will definitely thrive. This is a much easier and expressive time than you have had for a while and should suit you nicely. Your personal char levels are on the increase too and will peak at the full Moon!

Aquarius
January 21- February 19
Home and family are the focus for this week. Nurturing yourself is also important now. Making your living environment a more pleasant and encouraging place to inhabit will be on your mind. Working in and around the home will be rewarding and from the 14th you will feel your focus becoming stronger and more defined.

Pisces
February 20 March 20
The pace of life may a little much for you at this time and could be contributing to your personal tensions and nervousness. Increased contact with relations and friends can give you an overwhelmed feeling. You will feel a little more cheerful and buoyant after the 15th when Venus brings added peace.

Astral Peeks: The Stereoscope of Brian May
Brian May, former lead guitarist of British rock band Queen, who also has a doctorate degree in Astrophysics, is trying to revive the stereoscope, a device that allows a viewer to look at three dimensional like images. He has just produced a set of astronomy themed cards for use in stereoscopes. Developed in the mid-19th century, stereoscopic cards present two offset images separately to the left and right eyes, creating the illusion of depth for the viewer. Such is May’s commitment to the antiquated process that in 2008, he and business partner Elena Vidal resurrected the London Stereoscopic Company to reacquaint the public with “the magic of stereoscopy.” You can find out more about these fascinating items on http://www.londonstereo.com/