astral meanders 15-21 feb 2012

In general: On the 19th the Sun conjuncts Neptune, eliciting a dreamy atmosphere that can make focus difficult, so put any serious issues off until next week if you can. On the other hand, the territory of our imagination opens up. The end of the week sees this distracted energy building with the New Moon of the 22nd in Pisces. The cogent urgency right now is to take our attention away from the minutiae and look at the bigger picture, to vision big dreams and not be too in touch with the reality of the now, to be distracted from the moment by all the little ideas running through our minds. For those with birthdays this week the year ahead will be a creative one, but staying motivated can be a problem. On the world scene we can expect some confusion around the big issues and some mistakes with details. Disparities will be revealed more readily. Odd weather conditions still prevail courtesy of Neptune.

Thought for the week: A man sooner or later discovers that he is the master-gardener of his soul, the director of his life. James Allen

Aries
All things new and different interest you this we and your energy knows no bounds where these are concerned! You may be feeling a bit rebellious and restless as well and will want to do things your own way. The best thing you can do now is anything different from what you usually do! Have an adventure.

Taurus
You gather your strength this week and feel able to take on the world. You will also want to gather your friends and loved ones about you, but try not to dictate the terms. You cannot hide behind your safe excuses and places or usual routines now, you are being challenged to get out there and be noticed!

Gemini
It’s a great time to attend to loose ends and unfinished projects in your life. It’s also a good time to review things in general and see where changes need to be made. Others may let you know where long held grievances lie, it’s a strong Gemini who can take the critique and move forward with timely grace.

Cancer
It’s amazing how strong your desires and dreams seem now! You are being asked to trust and allow these dreams to grow. Good things are brewing and the new moon on the 22nd will be the culmination of this energy. Use this week to be clear about what you genuinely desire, want and need.

Leo
The 16th has some fractured energy about so keep a low profile on this day. Apart from this this is an optimistic time for Leo full of social engagements, adventures and new opportunities. You are laying some necessary groundwork for an exciting future. Go to it with trust and gusto and all will be undeniably well.

Virgo
Time to guard against misunderstandings and, miscommunication again! Turn inward and move with slow deliberation. Double check yourself! See this as a chance to be properly prepared for your exciting future to come and enjoy the organisational energy of this week. Get things in good order now.
Libra

Its time to stop over analysing and being so critical of yourself Libra! The 14th is a life altering day for you guys in the nicest way and should offer you a new positive path upon which to tread. Be a big kid again and start to enjoy life more! Being flexible is also a good idea now as many opportunities will come suddenly.

Scorpio
Retrograde mars can make life more complex and confuse all manner of appointments and social obligations now. The 15-19th however will provide you with something to smile about so it’s not all too difficult! Keeping an open mind and determining to be flexible will save the day!

Sagittarius
This week is all about getting down to the practical details of life and getting things done! Others will be impressed by your keen focus. On a more personal level this is also a good time to consider your future career options and plan important moves or changes for later in the year.

Capricorn
Your sense of personal power is being challenged at the moment and you can experience moments of intense vulnerability. Others are not as supportive as you may need or want either. It is a test of personal strength and you are up to it, you just need to believe in yourself! Finances should improve this week!

Aquarius
It’s time to put some practical leg work in to whatever your dreams and plans are for the rest of 2012. Building strong connections, getting down to the details of things and recognising how you really feel about people and events will occupy your time. Travel and foreign contacts are also a theme.

Pisces
Old issues regarding relationships can return for your review now. It’s time to take responsibility for yourself and drop your line of defence! It’s good to allow your vulnerable self out at this time as others would prefer that to any gung- ho attitude. You are heading into a strong and progressive time so trust it!

Astral Peeks: something worth having….

2012 Thomas Zimmer Astrological Calendar and Moon Planting Guide is out now and is an invaluable guide for the year ahead. I never fail to have one of these in my home!
Thomas Zimmer has created an exceptional poster style calendar especially for use in the Southern Hemisphere. Every year he generates a new and inspirational calendar design full of astrological information such as moon phase, equinox, solstice and eclipse dates and times, including annual planting by the moon guides as well as an astrological commentary on the year to come. Thomas Zimmer's 2012 Astrological & Moon Planting Guide Calendar is a colour wall poster 74cm x 59cm with times shown in AUSTRALIAN e.s.t. You can get more information at the following site: http://www.theneworacle.com.au/index.php?page=shop.product_details&category_id=39&flypage=shop.flypage&product_id=587&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=26

Meditation Moments: Is there a right way??

Don't let the thought of meditating the "right" way augment your stress. You can make meditation as formal or informal as you like, whatever suits your lifestyle and circumstances. For example, they may start and end each day with an hour of meditation. But all you really need is a few minutes of quality time built into your routine. For example you can meditate on cleansing the inner you as you take your morning shower, or sweeping away your troubles as you sweep or vacuum the floor. . Here are some ways you can practice meditation, whenever and wherever you choose:
Breathe deeply. Take a few minutes to focus your attention on your breathing. Concentrate on feeling and listening as you inhale and exhale through your nostrils. Breathe deeply and slowly. Drop your shoulders and put your tongue on the roof of your mouth to release your jaw. You can do this before you hop out of bed, as you sit down to eat, while you wait for the bus…
Scan your body. Become aware of your body's various sensations, whether that's pain, tension, warmth or relaxation. Combine body scanning with breathing exercises and imagine breathing heat or relaxation into and out of different parts of your body. Do this as watch TV or listen music, as you wait in a traffic jam…
Repeat a mantra. You can create your own mantra, whether it's religious or secular. You can make an affirmation for yourself to repeat. Perhaps as you’re driving the car, waiting for a lift or sitting in a waiting room.
Walk and meditate. Combining a walk with meditation is an effective and healthy way to relax. You can use this technique anywhere you're walking — in a tranquil forest, on a city sidewalk. When you use this method, slow down the pace of walking so that you can focus on each movement of your legs or feet.