astral Meanders July 27- August 2 2011

In General: The New Moon in Leo on the 31st is a positive time to plant seeds of intent that will help sustain the life we envisage for ourselves. With Venus, Sun and Moon all lined up together, feelings can be easily wounded now and individuals need to give and get nurturing. Mercury also opposes Neptune on the 30th suggesting a dreamy time where meditative and reflective activities are favoured. Individuals might find that issues which began in early June might reemerge now. On August 1st Venus is making a trine to Uranus. We feel the need to get up and go and make things happen, particularly where relationships are concerned. The Sun square to Jupiter on the same day makes this energy all that more intense. If you have a birthday this week then it could well be an intense and energetic day and will certainly herald a year of vigorous activity. On the world scene we are heading into some more unpredictable weather patterns and the reemergence of old newsworthy issues. Locally it’s a positive opportunity to develop that nurturing side and do something nice for ourselves and others.

Quote of the week: To accomplish great things, we must dream as well as act. Anatole France

Aries:
All that fiery energy about sees you in your element and ready to get moving!! Unfinished projects will finally get the attention they deserve! It’s a great time and you will be feeling industrious and accomplished and all that productiveness will have you patting yourself on the back for a job well done!

Taurus:
Keep a watchful; eye on your health Taurus as little issues can easily get out of hand. Old problems and patterns of behaviour can reemerge this week and need to be dealt with alacrity too or they will also become bigger than they need to be. Pace yourself and focus well on the things that really matter.

Gemini:
Venus agrees with you guys this week and provides you with a more outgoing and sociable phase again! Reconnecting with old friends can be rejuvenating and bring a much needed smile to your face again! It is not a however a good time for beginning new projects or putting plans into action.

Cancer:
There are some opportunities to enjoy life and love this week so make the most of them. The first few days of August however will be emotional ones and can feel overwhelming for no apparent reason at all. Be easy on yourself and if you can take a break from routine and get in touch with nature.

Leo:
The Leo new Moon is particularly potent for you guys and a wonderful time for putting your intentions into action and asking the universe for the things you most desire! Don’t expect a very speedy response but do expect a positive response in the end because this is very definitely your time!

Virgo:
This is a great week for time to rest and take a step back from the hussle and bustle of life. It’s not a good time for signing contracts or starting new projects as too much unpredictable and confusing energy is about. You may be missing a friend or a loved one and need time to adjust and appreciate what you do have.

Libra:
Relationships are wonderfully highlighted at last and good things are about to happen! Your goals on all levels are becoming clearer and you are becoming more certain of how to make things manifest the way you want them to in your life. Enjoy the peaceful days and give yourself the nurturing you deserve.

Scorpio:
The feeling now is one of adventure and possibility. All you have to do is grab the opportunities as they are offered to you, with both hands and make the most of all the good things on offer. New challenges are in the pipeline so enjoy this calmer week and celebrate all that life has to offer you.

Sagittarius:
The new Moon heralds an exciting new cycle for you. However you have a few pending responsibilities and chores to complete which if not attended to will only leave you feeling anxious and worried. Rest, work and play as well as some healthy exercise are all necessary in balance now.

Capricorn:
It can be hard to get others to understand you this week and indeed for most of August! You can help yourself by being patient with yourself and others and not taking misunderstandings personally. Keeping your own council is a wise move now. Be prepared to go with the flow and take things as they come.

Aquarius:
It’s time to let go of old baggage and breathe some fresh air into your life and relationships. This can be a tantalizing and exciting new phase for you where new plans begin to unfold in earnest. Others around you do keep changing their minds however so be prepared to do a little revising now and again!

Pisces:
This is not a time for splurging on any unnecessary items as there will be some unexpected costs in early August. If small problems assail you then deal with them promptly and you can avoid bigger issues arising later on. You are beginning to put your life together in a more practical way but its early days yet!

Astral peeks: Perseids and Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower

There are quantities of minor showers that combine to produce good results during the latter half of the month. The area of sky to watch is the constellations of Aquarius and Capricornu.. The major meteor shower for July, the Southern Delta Aquarids, peaks on the 28th. An hour or two before dawn typically presents the most favorable view of the Delta Aquarids. The Perseids is one of the top meteor showers to view, producing up to 60 meteors per hour at their peak. The shower's peak typically occurs on August 13 & 14, but you may be able to see some meteors any time from July 23 - August 22. The full moon will certainly be a problem this year, hiding the fainter meteors with its glare. You’ll want to watch in late July and the first week of August to have moonless skies from midnight to dawn. Find a place far from city lights and look to the northeast after midnight.

Meditation Moments: Smiling Moments…

In ancient China, the Taoists taught that a constant inner smile, a smile to oneself, insured health, happiness and longevity. Following are some smiling recommendations as suggested by Thich Nhat Hahn a wonderful Buddhist monk, teacher, author, poet and peace activist.
Hang the word "smile" on the ceiling or wall so that you see it right away when you open your eyes. This sign will serve as your reminder. Inhale and exhale three breaths gently while maintaining the half smile. Anywhere you find yourself sitting or standing, half-smile. Look at a child, a leaf, a painting on the wall, anything which is relatively still, and smile. When you realize you're irritated, half-smile at once. Inhale and exhale quietly, maintaining the half smile for three breaths.