My Poetry of Loss and Life
I’ve been photographed many times. I’m not sure my grandmother would say the same. One of the last meaningful conversations I had with her—at 104 years old—was about how life moves through so many stages of change. I knew she was talking about technology.
There’s something profoundly painful about witnessing the decline of someone you love. We often see it coming, yet still deny it. Until the day the medics arrive.
My family gathered, through the screen of my phone.
I’m not sure why I called. I don’t usually call midday. Elise said she’d call me back. She did.
Leo waved at me as Elise swung the tablet toward him. He smiled and commented on my Christmas tree in the background.
And then there she was: attentive, but stunned. Her speech was slurred. Elise was rushing me off the phone.
“We have to go,” she said.
I lingered in my goodbye.
“See you tomorrow, Grandma,” I said, trying to sound cheerful. Then I paused. “I love you.”
Despite the slurring, she replied, “Oh, my dear, I love you more.”
That’s when the tears came. I hung up and let them fall. Tears that had waited for this moment.
No one is ever truly ready to lose what is inevitable.
What’s the big deal? She had a good life.
I know I don’t want her to suffer, but I can’t imagine a world without her.
Everyone thinks they’ll have more time.
There… could… have… been… more…time.
Now, I have the photographs when I want to remember.
Your Emotions Are Valid (Even When They’re Called 'Too Much')
I’ve noticed something many of us struggle with as we grow and evolve: adapting to how other people respond to us. Often, I hear people say, “I feel like there’s a rule book I don’t know about.” I think they say this because, even when we’re doing our best—responding in the healthiest ways we’ve learned—it can feel disheartening when we don’t get the responses we hoped for in our relationships, whether those are close or more distant.
Why does this happen? I don’t believe it’s because these individuals lack social skills. We all have social skills as long as we’re reaching out and connecting.
I’ve found that when we start working on ourselves—when we get real and honest with our own emotions—we become more capable of telling others how we feel when they’ve hurt us. But sometimes, their response doesn’t fix the situation. In fact, it might make it worse. They might deny they hurt you at all. And at that point, there’s not much you can do to change their mind unless you insist, risking more conflict. So now you’re left with the hurt—and even worse, feeling alone.
So what do you do?
It’s time to look within again. You were vulnerable and shared how you felt, but you can’t always expect the other person to understand. In most cases, your friends will. But what if they can’t see your perspective? What if a friendship ends over something that could have been resolved?
Ask yourself: Why do I need them to understand? What would that change? Would you receive forgiveness? Would it create a better image of yourself?
Then ask: What is your part in this? Can you own that piece? Can you understand that they might not know how to respond to you—or that they might feel ashamed for hurting you? Or do you see it only as them purposefully hurting you?
Take a moment to be quiet with yourself. Offer forgiveness to yourself, knowing you haven’t always done things perfectly either. Then, extend that forgiveness to the person who hurt you. How does that shift your view of them—and of yourself? Can you both be imperfect beings, doing your best? Is it alright for them to learn at a different pace? Is it okay if they don’t “get it” yet—and that it’s not your fault or responsibility?
Thank you for going there. I hope this helps, and I’d love to hear what you think.
If you’d like to add a final call to action, let me know! You might consider inviting them to share their experiences or reflections—something like:
🌿 I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment or share your own story of growth and learning below.
Your Body Follows the Moon: A Journey Through Inner Timing
Listening to Your Body: The Journey of Your Progressed Moon
We perceive countless cues through our bodies—signals that shape how we move through the world. Think about it: when you’re feeling down, on high alert, or at peace, your environment often mirrors those moods. A sunset might soothe your soul, while a crowded, noisy place can spark chaos. These responses aren’t random; they’re rooted in what your body remembers from past experiences.
In astrology, the Moon represents the part of us that seeks safety, shapes our emotional responses, and defines how we personalize our world. It filters what we see in others and forms our core sense of security. Each Moon placement in your natal chart offers clues to what you consider safe and comfortable. For instance, a Libra Moon feels at ease in harmonious spaces, free from confrontation—reflecting Libra’s value of balance and connection.
Take a moment to think about your own Moon placement and its needs. If you could talk to that part of you that longs for safety and security, what would it say? Here are some ideas:
Aries Moon: “I need purpose.”
Taurus Moon: “I need comfort.”
Gemini Moon: “I need mental stimulation.”
Cancer Moon: “I need stability.”
Leo Moon: “I need to be seen.”
Virgo Moon: “I need to be useful.”
Libra Moon: “I need harmony.”
Scorpio Moon: “I need to trust.”
Sagittarius Moon: “I need freedom to explore.”
Capricorn Moon: “I need to create order.”
Aquarius Moon: “I need community and friendly love.”
Pisces Moon: “I need to feel to know.”
Just as you evolve, so does your Moon. This is the essence of the Progressed Moon. Over roughly 28 years, it travels through all 12 zodiac signs, spending about 2 years in each. Along the way, it connects with other planets and shifts your emotional focus—reflecting how you grow and mature over time.
For example, a child born with an Aries Moon begins life assertive and independent. By the time the Progressed Moon moves to Libra (around ages 10–11), they’re learning to balance that independence with the need for harmony and connection. This shift marks a turning point—an invitation to weave in what’s been missing.
Around ages 28–30, a new cycle begins—another chapter of growth and integration. The lessons of the past 28 years get to be processed and woven into your next phase. Around age 40, these themes reappear, asking once again: “Where do I create safety and belonging in my identity?”
I’ve seen this play out in my own life. Growing up in two cultures, I felt torn by the time I was 10. My Progressed Moon in Cancer was pushing me to ask: “Where do I belong?” I didn’t know how to hold both parts of myself together yet—so I felt I had to choose. But that lesson—how to integrate and honor all of who I am—keeps evolving.
I invite you to explore this for yourself. Follow your Moon’s journey through the zodiac and notice how your emotional needs and self-concept have grown. If you’d like to explore this more deeply, I’d be happy to keep the conversation going. Happy healing.
Planetary Triggers for Healing: When the Sky Pushes You to Seek Support
Why is it I get phone calls for prospective clients seeking therapy at certain times of the year and not others? At first, I thought it was because people felt better in the summer, so I assumed (and prepared for) a calmer summer. Nope, that was only true for 2 years then summers after that were busier than winters. So, that theory was out.
What was it then?
I mistook timing as a break down of seasons or months of the year, but it is much more than that. Timing is broken down into astrological alignments, called transits. Transits are a way to describe the movement of the sky. Think of your birth chart as a cosmic snapshot of where the planets were when you were born; a kind of soul blueprint.
But the planets don’t stop moving after your birth.
Let’s look at a few transits that trigger people to seek out therapy.
1. Saturn Transits (aka the current Saturn that moves in the sky, making contact with your natal Saturn)
The themes are related to reality checks, such as being prepared for the next phase or task in life, and tackling “imposter syndrome”. “Am I really ready?” is the question at hand. This cycle moves in a 7 year pattern. Every 7 years there is a movement of Saturn to your natal Saturn, and this can be challenging to navigate. This can come up as a personal block to overcome, a relationship that needs to be restructured, or a maturity lesson. And this is just Saturn. There are more planets.
2. Pluto Transits
The themes here are deep transformation, shadow work, and psychological excavation. You can feel like the deep energy in this life phase, is asking you to transform or adapt to something life-changing, and it is not necessarily an event; it can be something happening within yourself. It is possible to recognize you are evolving and the environment around you needs to evolve with your new beliefs, experiences, and ideas. Caveat: you will not look the same after this transit! Just remember: breakdowns lead to breakthroughs, and you will need the support of friends, chosen family, a pet, and a therapist to help you through it.
3. Chiron Transits
The themes embodied here feel like a wound coming up from the past, which needs to be healed from its emotional pain in order to move forward within yourself and in your relationships. You might find yourself saying “I never knew this really bothered me”; or “I thought I had processed this in therapy years ago!'“ It can often look like a part of yourself that is nagging you to change. You may need to cry more because this part feels more vulnerable and exposed, and crying is a good release. The wounded part wants to heal, but may not feel safe to do so. Initiating therapy is a great way for overcoming these challenges.
4. Progressed Moon Changes (shifting into a house and sign)
The themes here are emotional identity shifts, and inner cycles of growth. For more about this process, see my blog post titled “Listening to Your Body: The Journey of Your Progressed Moon”.
This change occurs every 2 years. How you can use the Progressed Moon sign shift when it has a house change: your emotional perspective shifts, and your internal world needs change. It’s like you enter into a new environment, and need to adapt to it.
How you can use the Progressed New Moon when it has a sign change: this often looks like a fresh start following an emotional breakdown. You might be thinking this sounds like Pluto and Chrion themes, and you are right. The difference between those experiences and the Moon is that the Moon wants you to develop differently. What does that mean? We know that the way we have been doing it does not work anymore, and we need to figure out a new way. We know that doing it alone, only brings more grief because we know we are embarking on uncharted waters. Engaging in therapy, which represents a light beacon for us, can help with this process of navigation.
5. Eclipses (especially touching personal planets or angles)
Eclipses are charged with change energy, and our human nature is a bit adverse to change, because our nervous systems have been working hard to guard us from adapting too much. Eclipses bring on sudden insights and life pivots. If you believe in a benevolent universe, then you will feel more confident that you are being guided by a force bigger than yourself to where you need to be. Eclipses open the door for therapy by revealing what’s no longer sustainable
6. Neptune Transits (especially Neptune Square Sun, Moon, or Mercury)
The themes here are feeling of confusion, dissolving ego structures, and spiritual awakening. There is a sense of humility that comes with this energy, so don’t be afraid of it. Humility just means that you are entrusted with much responsibility and you are being challenged to rethink how you use that power. This is especially true if you are in a position where you affect people. Neptune to your Sun or Saturn can bring bouts of depression. However, if you can work against it the depressive cycle, knowing it is temporary, and not something within you or that you did anything wrong, off sets the depressed mood and brings back hope, which defeats depression best. People can come to therapy feeling “lost,” dissociated, or seeking a deeper meaning, and that brings endless opportunities for growth.
7. Nodal Returns & Reversals (specifically for ages 18.5, 37, 55)
It is easy to feel off balance here, and some people are not affected by it. It feels like a need for course correction. These often mark “I need to get back on my path” moments. Clients may feel stuck, off-purpose, or unsure what they want. That is when therapy becomes a compass to find your true north.
In short, your birth chart is like the seed of a tree, holding your unique potential.
Transits are like the seasons; they don’t change what kind of tree you are, but they affect when you grow, shed, bloom, or go inward.
Journal prompts and somatic practices
Journal Prompts for when you are feeling challenged to get serious about a responsibility.
Where in my life am I being called to take responsibility?
What do I feel tired of carrying alone?
Where do I need to set a boundary—even with myself?
Somatic Practice:
✨ Grounded Chair Pose or Mountain Pose – Breathe into your feet. Visualize roots anchoring you in stability as you feel the weight of your body supported by the Earth. Say: “I am capable. I am grounded in truth.”
Journal Prompts for when you are going through a personal transformation.
What am I afraid to feel, name, or lose?
What is being stripped away so something truer can emerge?
What power have I been giving away?
Somatic Practice:
✨ Shake it Out – Stand up and shake your limbs wildly for 1–2 minutes. Let suppressed emotions rise and release through movement. End in stillness with a hand on your heart.
Journal Prompts for overcoming old wounds.
What hurts now that has hurt before?
If this pain had a message, what would it be?
Who would I be if this wound no longer defined me?
Somatic Practice:
✨ Self-Holding or Inner Child Hug – Wrap your arms around yourself. Close your eyes and whisper something kind to the part of you that is hurting.
Journal Prompts for when you are shifting into a new or a more specific purpose.
What emotional season am I in? (beginning, deepening, releasing, preparing?)
What does my heart need more of now?
What rhythms or rituals are calling me?
Somatic Practice:
✨ Lunar Resting Pose – Child’s Pose or Legs-Up-the-Wall. Focus on exhale. Inhale: “I receive.” Exhale: “I soften.”
Journal Prompts for when you are connecting more spiritually.
What truth has come to light recently, even if I didn’t want to see it?
What am I being invited to release—urgently?
Where do I feel the pull of a new path?
Somatic Practice:
✨ Write & Burn – Write down what you’re releasing. Safely burn or bury it. Let it go symbolically, as eclipse energy often requires a fast cut.
Journal Prompts for when you feel lost.
What direction feels more true now than before?
What parts of me want to evolve, even if others don’t understand?
What would happen if I truly trusted the path I’m on?
Somatic Practice:
✨ Walking Meditation – Walk slowly, one step at a time, repeating: “I trust each step.” Let your body feel the truth that your path unfolds in motion, not perfection.
Making the Stars Make Sense: Real-Life Uses for Astrology
The Thought and Theory
“Thank you, no one has ever said that to me before… I thought it had always been my fault, “ she said, after we finished using the astrological chart to make sense of the difficult transition in her life. She smiled past the tears welling up in her eyes.
My theory was confirmed in that moment. My running theory, and other psychologists will say this as well, is that: in order to heal we need a less shameful, and a more uplifting way to view our lives and ourselves living out that life. How often do I hear my highly esteemed, super talented clients say horrible things about themselves? Research shows that putting ourselves down, does not allow us to integrate our whole selves. When we do not integrate all the parts of ourselves, we miss out on growth opportunities and learning opportunities which lead to confidence and joy.
Why is integrating our whole self so important?
Let’s start answering this with an example, which actually applies to many people, whom I have seen in my practice, but we will call him James. James went through life doing what he thought was best for him while pleasing others the best he could and living up to his values. However, he never wanted to face a part of himself he found shameful. This part held stories of abuse and failures. He continued through life ignoring them. One day, an event happened. It could have been any event: his girlfriend breaks up with him, he fails out of a class, does not get his dream job, gets a DUI… and suddenly, that shameful part of himself, which he had hid away all these years comes out to say, “See? You did this to yourself. You can’t do it. Remember about the past abuse or failures? Remember where you fell short? Well, this happened to you because of that. You are a failure.” How would James feel at this point? Just as anyone would: discouraged, beat down, depressed. He may even begin to believe, as many have before him, that it’s not worth trying anymore, he does not have what it takes. The scary part is that a deep part within him, believes he cannot do anything worthy in this life, so he wastes it. This is an extreme example, but if you are understanding the connection here, you can see a person who is deeply troubled all because of something that did not need to define him, but he chose to allow it to. Now, he is someone who has many parts of Self that are not integrated. They do not understand each other, they do not see each other, and even worse, they are hardly expressed. Now, we can begin to see how Astrology can help.
Astrology In Your Life
This is the most exciting part of the work. This is when we look at James’ astrological chart and make meaning of his life. We get to know what makes him tick by looking at how the whole chart works together. He could be a Libra Sun, who is trying to keep the balance in his life while having a Capricorn Moon, who needs to feel safe by achieving. If he loses the girl or the job, the Libra part responds with “wait a minute, my value of relationships is shifting and changing, this is a huge loss”; while the Capricorn part is working hard to get to the next milestone, because that is how he creates security within himself. Now, both are shattered and he has choices: 1. to not do anything and spend a lifetime of feeling stuck. 2. to tap into his strengths, look at his chart to see when the energy will shift, and see the challenge as a life lesson. This ability to learn and to change is necessary for us to evolve.
Astrology Makes You Unique
The good news is that your chart will show you how unique you are, where you shine, as well as the areas that are challenging. These areas are challenging not because you have a personality deficit, but because you were meant to be a more evolved person by the end of your life, and suffering is not optional. It all depends on the choices you make available to you, which help you flourish. And this comes from YOU, and all the things that make up who you are! There is only one you, and no one can imitate it or copy it. You will leave your mark in the world no matter what, and will you be active and present about it or passive? I want you to know you are unique, you are on a creative journey, and I want you to be connected to the value of your life journey through the cycles of Astrology. My hope is by sharing insights on how to read the cycles of the universe, you can be more confident and aligned with yourself.
How Jupiter in Cancer Will Affect You in 2025 (House-by-House Themes)
Jupiter has been in the sign of information overload, divergent thoughts, skilled editing, constant learning, and social interactions for the past year. Now, this planet of spiritual growth, social justice, fun, and expansion is going into Cancer on June 10th. What will this mean for you? Cancer is a fertile, water sign, ruled by the Moon, and Jupiter loves it there, because it is like a small bird coming out of the nest to stretch out his wings. Cancer is all about nurturing the relationships you have, particularly with the mother.
That reminds me of one of my favorite artists, Taylor Swift, who has been named as “mother” by her fans due to singing about what her fans are feeling. They identify strongly with her, and guess what natal signature she has in her horoscope? That’s right, Jupiter in Cancer! Taking just this part of her chart into consideration, we learn that this hard-working feminist can also speak from the heart of her experiences. In one interview, she stated that every time a boyfriend broke up with her, they would plead with her to not write a song about them. “Of course, I always did”, she said with a secret grin. Cancer’s shadow side can be a little revengeful, as we know about our sweet Taylor. She even wrote an album based on revenge, but she called it “Reputation”.
So, how can we read this Jupiter in Cancer energy? Well, simply put, it can bring on the process of coming into your own, standing out from others as an individual, speaking from the authenticity of your experiences, and fighting to succeed in any area that has been lacking just to show those whom did not believe you could- for the sake of your reputation. Anything you want to start, do it. Anything you are still thinking about and not sure about will be challenged by Jupiter’s wise words: “are you going to live in this stagnant state forever?”; and wherever your Sun is in relationship to all of this, will determine if you are up for the task. If you know your rising sign/ ascendant (the sign that was rising on the horizon when you were born), I have outlined a horoscope-like guideline for this energy, to be read as inspiration for your healing and growth. (Bonus: you can also use this for your Sun sign if you don’t know your rising). Happy healing!
Aries: Jupiter is going through your 4th house of ancestral history and land. It is time to ask what role your family has played in your life, at this point, and how you want to continue to be in connection with them. Maybe they live far or close, but even those considerations are a beginning into this next year of Jupiter asking you to rest in family and what they have taught you and helped you be who you are today. Let go of resentments towards the past if you have them. If you need help with this, I am here.
Taurus: Jupiter is going through your 3rd house of siblings and neighbors. It is time to ask what role your siblings and neighbors have played in your life, and how you want to continue to nurture these relationships. Maybe you they are close or you are distant, Jupiter is letting you to know you can do better in this area. Let go of self-limiting thoughts about the potential of these critical relationships can be, if you have them.
Gemini: Jupiter is going through your 2nd house of money and resources. It is time to ask what role your money has played in your life, and how you want to continue to use this resource. Maybe you have had an easy or hard time with your resources and how you use them, but Jupiter is asking you to expand in this area. Let go of self-limiting beliefs about money, if you have them.
Cancer: Jupiter is going through your 1st house of Self! This season celebrates YOU! It is time to ask how far you have come and where you want to be. This can be accomplishments, but not necessarily. It can also look like who you want to become. Jupiter is asking you to find a healthier way to live, and to take care of your mental health. Let go of misconceptions of therapy if you have them.
Leo: Jupiter is going through your 12th house of soul searching and putting yourself out there. They may seem like different themes, but it is time to ask what your relationship with spirituality is, at this point in your life, and how you want to continue on this path of spirituality. Maybe you have a solid foundation or you are just discovering it, but Jupiter is asking you to join forces with others, who are like-minded in this area. Let go of misconceptions about shady spiritual leaders, if you have them.
Virgo: Jupiter is going through your 11th house of community and long-lasting friendships. It is time to ask what role your friendships have had in your life, at this point, and how you want to continue in the community you are a part of, or if there is a way to be more socially pro-active. Jupiter is asking you to be involved in social issues to improve the quality of life for everyone. Let go of any conflict in your groups, if any.
Libra: Jupiter is going through your 10th house of persona and career. It is time to ask what role your vocation and reputation have had, at this point in your life, and how you want to be seen going forward in this endeavor. Jupiter is asking you to nurture the business relationships in your life and to thank those mentors who have helped you get to where you are now. Let go of any distractions in your goals, if any.
Scorpio: Jupiter is going through your 9th house of travels and philosophy. It is time to ask what role the major life lessons have taught you, at this point in your life, and how you want to continue learning and connecting with a benevolent universe. Jupiter is asking you to be share your knowledge with the disadvantaged. Let go of any misunderstandings, if any.
Sagittarius: Jupiter is going through your 8th house of debts and insecurities. It is time to ask what insecurities you have, and how you want to heal them. Jupiter is asking you to be involved in what matters to you. Anything that helps you keep going is worth considering. Let go of any insecurities in general, if any.
Capricorn: Jupiter is going through your 7th house of relationships and business partnerships. It is time to ask what positive influence your partner(s) have had on you, and how you want to thank them. Jupiter is asking you to be present in your relationship. Let go of any past hurts, if any.
Aquarius: Jupiter is going through your 6th house of health and routine. It is time to ask what role your routine has played in your life, and how you want to continue to live, and participate in it. Maybe you like your routine because it leads to a healthy you, or it needs improvement. Jupiter is asking you to find a healthier way to live, and to take care of your mental health. Let go of misconceptions of therapy if you have them.
Pisces: Jupiter is going through your 5th house of children and fun. It is time to ask what role your children have played in your life, and how you want to continue to be in connection with them (especially if they are adults or if you are busy parent). Maybe they live far or close, but this next year Jupiter is asking you to have fun, and to be a kid again. Let go of resentments towards lost opportunities if you have them.
Ways to Elevate Your Standards, aka, Manifest
Elevating Your Standards: A Love Letter to Your Future Self 🌙✨
There comes a moment when you realize: I can’t keep living like this.
Not because you’re broken.
But because your soul is asking for more.
More alignment. More truth. More peace.
This is what it means to elevate your standards.
Raising your standards isn’t about being cold or rigid—it’s about recognizing what you’re worth and choosing to live in a way that honors that. Below are some ways I’ve redefined what I’m available for—and how you can too.
🌿 1. Upgrade Your Self-Talk
Your inner voice sets the tone for your life. Begin by speaking to yourself like someone you deeply love. Ditch the criticism, the comparison, the "shoulds." Replace them with words that empower and ground you.
Say this out loud: I deserve to speak to myself with kindness and clarity. Then give yourself a fun phrase for the day, like, “As a soul being, I am participating with the universe to manifest destiny”.
✨ 2. Decide What You’re No Longer Tolerating
Make an honest list: What patterns, people, or energy are draining you? When you are drained, you can no longer think clearly about the best course of action because, frankly, you don’t have the energy for it. This isn’t about shame—it’s about sovereignty. Maybe you’re done overexplaining. Or people-pleasing. Or settling for “meh” when you crave magic.
🌙 3. Stop Over-Explaining Your Choices
You don’t need a dissertation to back up your boundaries, but maybe you need a friend to review it with you so can learn to feel confident in the decisions you have made. You don’t need to soften your truth to make others comfortable. Trust that your inner knowing is valid—and that those meant for you will understand without convincing.
🛋️ 4. Align Your Environment with Your Growth
Our spaces reflect our standards. Elevating your surroundings—whether that’s your desk, your home, or your calendar—signals to your nervous system that you're safe, supported, and deserving of beauty. Set up your environment for YOUR success.
Even small shifts create big waves.
🧭 5. Say No to Create Room for the Real Yes
Every time you say “no” to something that’s out of alignment, you’re saying “yes” to your future. That version of you who is calm, clear, and fulfilled? She or he only arrives when there’s space for her or him to land. Remember, don’t accept things you would not want to accept just because you can. There is no scarcity here, only abundance.
🌌 6. Treat Your Energy Like Sacred Currency
Your time and attention are precious. Protect them fiercely. Pour them into people and projects that nourish you. Choose where you give your magic—intentionally.
🔮 7. Ask: What Would My Elevated Self Do?
The version of you who’s already living the life you crave—how would she show up today? What would they say no to? What would they celebrate? When you start living from that energy now, the gap between where you are and where you're going disappears.
♈ 8. Use Astrology to Reclaim Your Power
Astrology reflects who you truly are. Your Venus shows what you value. Saturn shows where you’re being invited to mature. The Moon shows how to care for your inner world. Let your chart be a mirror of your wholeness, not your limitations.
💫 9. Curate Your Circle
Spend time with people who light you up, not dim your brilliance. Choose connection over comparison. Support over competition. Your standards will rise naturally when you’re surrounded by those walking the same path of self-respect and soul growth.
🔥 10. Make Respect a Ritual
Elevated standards can look like dressing with intention. Lighting a candle before journaling. Saying a mantra before hard conversations. When you make self-respect sacred, it becomes second nature.
Raising your standards is not rejection—it’s realignment.
It’s not punishment—it’s protection.
It’s not about perfection—it’s about choosing your future self, over and over again.
If you’re ready to grow, I’m right here with you. 🌙
And if you want to use astrology as your guide, you know where to find me.
Note: Created with my assistant, ChatGPT
Astrology as a Resource for Self-Worth, Boundaries, and Better Decisions
Astrology can be helpful in many ways, and if you are unfamiliar with some of the ways, then my hope that this blog post will help you begin to implement this rich resource into your life!
What originally drew me to Astrology, the study of celestial bodies and their impact on our lives on Earth, was how its symbolic language can come to life.
Once I could understand the cycles, and how it connected to the events in my life, my personality, my preferences, my choices, etc; it all made sense and the journey of life no longer felt “random”. Alternatively, I saw life as guided by a benevolent universe, who is actively engaging with me. Let me explain more.
First, Astrology helps make meaning of time. As I mentioned above, Astrology is the mastery of cycles as we look at the sky. The first cycle I became in tune with, and I recommend for you if you are new to Astrology, is the Moon cycle. It is easy to track and such a natural cycle, which tunes into the rhythm of our everyday lives. Such as when the Moon is in Virgo, you will feel a push to do more cleaning out and organizing.
Second, Astrology helps you to have more compassion on yourself. For a long time, I thought my hip fracture at 28 was a harsh lesson from God. In fact, in the church I grew up in, it was normal to think that when something that you did not like was happening to you, it was a sign that you were actually not living aligned to God and his ways. This mentality created a sense of trying to maintain perfection, which was futile. We know well that as humans, perfection is embraced, but is not certain. Once I learned that my hip fracture had more to do with a difficult Sun-Saturn aspect in my natal chart, I realized the importance of taking care of my bones. If I had known about Astrology before then, I would have taken better care of my bones as I am more susceptible. I no longer felt it was my fault and there was something I could actually do to empower my choices of taking care of myself! What a more freeing outlook than the one I had about myself.
Third, Astrology helps you accept others more benevolently. In my experience, the main issue with relationships is how one perceives the other. For example, a friend of mine hardly returns my phone calls. I can view her absent-minded action as rude and dismissive, and I may decide to resent her for it. However, a more practical approach would be if I understood she is a Gemini, which is defined by the element of air, and she can have the tendency to get lost in her thoughts, so I can approach it with more patience because I know she is not blowing me off, she simply functions in a different way than I do. Now, I have changed my perception and I do not take things personally and the friendship continues in its natural way of accepting one another.
Finally, Astrology can help you keep a positive mind set and reduce your triggers. I notice when I hit a wall, I can either stay in a negative, unhelpful mindset or I can feed myself good things in order to bounce back. I also noticed over the years that I feel especially drained and triggered to think about my losses when the Moon is transiting my natal South Node, and when the transiting Moon is opposite my Chiron. Now that I know this, I can track those cycles and what days they will land, and make sure I am well-rested, telling myself uplifting comments, listening to upbeat music. etc to overcome those difficult feelings, which always pass- until next month, where I prepare again and learn more.
I hope this have helped you understand the benefits of beginning to look at the cycles in your own life. Happy growing!
Moon Jupiter Conjunction Through the Houses
Time to take out your astrological natal charts to look at where the lovely energy of the Moon- Jupiter conjunction from this week lands. I will be looking at what themes you might expect to illuminate, depending on which house it falls in your chart. This will happen every month (caveat: the house may change, so keep this as a reference), so let’s make this a practice of noticing and taking it in. Let’s dive in!
Moon and Jupiter represent business endeavors, kindness, generosity, popularity, and material advantages, to name a few. So look out for this as it is flavored by the houses in your chart.
First house: These benevolent planets in the house where things begin, and the focus is you and what you are doing to be the best person you can be. Some reflection points: what have you been learning? What are the beliefs you have about yourself? Who has helped you on your journey? You will not allow yourself to get distracted, however, if distraction comes easily then people will be around to help you. You may have to ask, which may be the challenge for first house placements. Of course, this all depends on the rest of your chart and your already lived life experiences.
Second house: The house of money and material foci, so the representations of the Moon’s security and Jupiter’s expansive qualities make this a great opportunity to expand your resources. Reflection points: what is your belief about money and wealth? What has helped you get to where you are? Don’t be discouraged by roadblocks, they are part of the process.
Third house: In the midst and in the flurry of information and communication, you have the capacity to capture that now. Sharing it with others can really uplift your spirits more than theirs, as you share in the generous heart that Moon- Jupiter is all about. Reflection points: what have you learned that you can share with others? What has been invaluable to you that brings you joy to share? We learn more when we give away what we think we know.
Fourth house: The security, which you have created for yourself, has paid off. You are seeing the results under this influence and you fill yourself with gratitude. Reflection points: what are you thankful for? Who are the people in your upbringing that brought you hope when you could not see the light at the end? Remember, when let go of what is familiar and lean into what is scary, you are filled with a courage you never knew you had.
Fifth house: You remind me of fifth avenue: you have it all: you are enticing, inviting, magnanimous. You are allowed to celebrate, savor the moment of enjoyment. Reflection points: how can you stay grounded and humble while you receive all the accolades? Is there someone here being forgotten, whom you can lift up? Maybe you have not arrived, but you figured out the formula.
Sixth house: The service you have put into this area of your life (we likely need to have a conversation for the deets) is being highlighted by the kindness of the Moon-Jupiter energy. You are used to being there for others, now be there for you (Moon). Reflection points: what do you love that you have put off lately? Who is sucking all the energy from you and you need space from? If we are not okay with ourselves, we are useless to others.
Seventh house: You are learning to trust others. The question is, are they as passionate about that “it” as you are? The specific people in your life are here to bring you balance in the midst of that passion you are feeling! My advice: feel it. Reflection points: can you express more passion in what you have worked do hard for? Make sure your breaks are not too long that they delay your progress.
Eighth house: The resources you have gathered with others makes you slightly indebted to them. Send them a thank you and do something that supports their cause in return. Who has a passion project you can get behind? What can you learn about someone else’s ideas? What have you suppressed that now you can entertain, even if it just to yourself? Any hidden drives will come to surface and others help us contain that.
Ninth house: The beliefs you hold are what you truly feel inside. You can choose the course in life that leads you there. What has been the theme of your journey thus far? What people, cultures and places have taught you something important? You understand that the journey has its ups and downs, which provides meaning.
Tenth house: The mark you make in the world has impacted you as well. The need to challenge yourself, to seek out the next big goal, to be focused on success, has made you realize it comes easily for you, and you need to keep working at it. When do you rest? When is it okay to keep connection with those people you care about? You are generous with your time when it comes to productivity, but it needs a lot of stamina to sustain.
Eleventh house: The ideas you have developed over time are creating more trust in yourself. You realize you do have the answers to the questions you have searched over and over in your mind. What do you need to do to bring in the ideas into your life? Action may be hard, so create smaller steps so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
Twelfth house: The dreams you have been having are like downloads to your big break. Spirit guides and spirituality may be a good resource for you as you go into a new phase. You may not know it is a new phase yet, but you may sense it. What changes are you hoping to bring in and manifest? Yes, these can surface while you sleep, so keep a notepad nearby.
A Lesson in Your Rising Sign
I will never forget the day I had an epiphany about my ascendent (rising sign)! Maybe you have heard about this aspect of astrology, especially at a party. People with some basic knowledge of astrology will say “Do you know your big three?” That means, your Sun, Moon, and… rising!
What does that mean? It is the sign that was rising at the time of your birth. This is really cool, because if we look at it on a map, we can see that in a particular place on the map, for example, Colorado, that the zodiacal signs are rising every 2 hours (roughly) on the horizon! So, that is why the place and time of your birth is so important. We can glean so much more information about what makes you unique, because not one chart is the same, even for twins (you can ask me about that another time and we can chat).
I am a Taurus rising. If I think about some of the qualities of Taurus, such as: wants to be rooted, own land, is sensual, and connected to plants and nature. How this has played out in my life is thinking about how much I loved the outdoors as a kid. However, I never lived in a single place for more than a year, once I moved out of the house. This has to do with aspects in my chart, so there is more than the rising. However, it got me thinking: I can connect to the love of land, but did not want to work it myself. This is the key point of the rising sign: it is rising within you (as Gemini Brett would say). Basically, I take that to mean that you are learning how to be your rising sign. Other aspects of your chart come more easily, such as where the Sun is in your chart. I had to learn how to take care of my land, how to stabilize, how to save money, how to produce my own resources. Those are the lessons of Taurus, and you have Taurus somewhere in your chart.
So let’s chat about your big three. I think you will find it enlightening!
Happy Equinox!
There is so much going on right now in the sky that translates to symbolic and concrete events. Take eclipses, for example. The ancients saw eclipses as a time of distinctive beginnings and endings. The lunar eclipse happened on March 14, and you probably felt a shift. How that shift plays out in your life, is very unique to you, based on your past experiences, your power to choose, and your astrological chart, aka, the snapshot of the sky when you were born. The solar eclipse shows up on the stage of the sky on March 29, and what you do with those shifts can either help or hinder your process. The beautiful thing is you can go out and witness what is going on in the sky to feel a tangible connection. Plus, observing nature helps us to ground and to calm our nervous systems.
What shifts to expect: we will likely feel like it is time to apply our skills towards the greater good. We might feel more comfortable with being seen, using our strength and willpower to make conscious changes within ourselves and our environments. The sense that we do not have enough or all of the information we need, will likely be short- lived. Our nervous systems might feel more vigilant, but we will find ways to transmute that nervous energy if we choose to be conscious. Our projects might feel slow to start; or people around us, whom we want to change, will not do so to our liking. It is because we need to be the change and to hold the power and the responsibility to transform. A caterpillar crawls around, not knowing it will soon take flight, and he has no idea how tough that process will be yet- but he is somehow part of the universe’s miracle to be better than he was.
A Wonderful Astrological Talk
Happy Solstice, where the Northern Hemisphere gets to enjoy 😉 and experience longer nights and shorter days. Since I have family in Argentina, I could easily be in the Southern Hemisphere of shorter nights, and longer days…my absolute favorite!!! 😍
However, I decided to choose to experience the shorter days with the frigid air (and I fit some skiing in too, don’t worry); because I realized the need to experience the worst (at least for me) in order to enjoy the best There is something very refreshing about that. It helps me accept difficult cirucumstances, somehow. More than that, it helps me to take in the moment. This is especially possible when you have the mind of resilience. What is resilience, you ask?
I have been reading a wonderful book (please invest in it, it is totally worth it!) called Resilience by Linda Graham, MFT, there are many practical exercises in the book (great for an earth/air sign driven person) to try out. The author describes resilience as “a person who is flexible, who is not wedded to one coping method, who uses different strategies depending on the situation at hand, accepting what they cannot change, learning from failure, using difficult emotions to fuel compassion and courage, and the strength of internal and external resources “. Therefore, being flexible and adaptable to change is crucial to your survival. I will be guiding you this year on change, as we will have a lot of it occurring with many cycles ending and beginning; many ingresses of planets into new signs…but we will get to that!
So what does this Capricorn Ingress (which in Uranian astrology is the chart of the next year) have in store for us? It has a Scorpio rising, with the ruler, Mars, at the top of the chart. It is a busy, yet productive year. The themes Saturn started 2 years ago, will be wrapping up for you this year. With Taurus on the DC, our relationships (Venus) will be of a certain, Aquarian flare, with the help of Jupiter, who is also getting help from Mercury, and he needs it, since they are both in the sign that they do not do their best in, so depending on what aspects Mercury and Jupiter make to each other this year, really matters. I will be tracking this as the year goes on!
Venus in Aquarius might bring on unconventional relationships, but also relationships that seek the endurance of Saturn. That can be tested at all times, so depending on what phase your committed relationship is in, you will be learning the lessons of that phase (feel free to reach out to me and book a session to find out more). Venus is also opposite Mars in Leo, who wants all the attention. So, back to the productivity. Mars will be checking to make sure your relationship is functioning as it should be; on all layers: from how do we enjoy sport together to how we resolve fights to how we have passionate sex. Venus is also the universal symbol of women. There may be a bit of a “battle of the sexes” this year on a wider scale. Perhaps we can see men seemingly making the decisions and women are behind the scenes affecting those decisions. It can look like a working together to resolve differences (that may never be resolved, but at least there was an effort) or oppositional views that take on a fighting energy. Knowing Leo and Aquarius: those are signs that want to work together for the better of the whole. I have faith in humanity, but good luck out there. Feel free to reach out for some ways to cope with stress, change or just to chat about your astrological chart and we can have a simple chat about it. Use code CHAT for some discounts and remember: You got this!
How to Get Over the Past
After reading the title, what did you think?
I hear this a lot from clients: “how do I get over the past?” There are many different meanings to this, and what is healing and how do we know if we are “over it”?
I would like to venture out holistically. I believe when people say “get over it”, what I think they mean is “healing from the past”, where it no longer bothers you. Where you can think back on it briefly, not cringe, and just let yourself be who you are…despite what happened.
If you are willing to experiment with what I am going to offer, then you are well on your way towards healing. I know this because I have tried it.
The first step is to notice what it is about your past that you need to “get over”, and how would that help you in the long run? For example, are you are feeling ashamed of an alcoholic past? Would it help you focus on your work or your children? Would it make you a better person?
Once you have defined that, then think about the question: what can I learn from this? Life has a lot of lessons to learn and there are planets that help us focus on these themes as they are activated in our charts. What happened is not anything to be ashamed about. It is the universe’s way of shaping our souls to be the best person we can be.
What do some of the planets teach us? The Moon gives us insight into what makes us comfortable or safe, as well as our personal preferences. A person with a Leo Moon will feel great shining and performing in front of a group, while a Capricorn Moon will want to choose specific relationships with whom to become intimate.
Mars teaches us how to fight for the underdog. but not to cut everyone out of our lives at once, while Venus learns healthy boundaries in love. Depending on where these planets are placed in your chart natally, and where they are moving in the sky at the moment, affecting your natal placements, can bring light into what you may be learning.
When we learn from the past, we can move on from it. It can no longer hold us back. That is why taking a look at your natal chart can bring concrete events you have experienced into paths of healing. Astrology offers an opportunity to make sense of what has happened, based on our tendencies, what we hope for our futures, and how to bring that about based on our personalities. It is a beautiful journey, and I hope you take it, no matter where it takes you.
Calming Your Nervous System with Each Element
Your nervous system needs a break! Did you know that prolonged periods of stress can create a break down in your body? It is important to treat ourselves well. After all, we need our bodies for everything we do in life. We also need to find peace in the best way, as much as we can. So, I came up with a nervous system method for each element that connects to a sign in the Zodiac. Most of this comes from Astrology and Polyvagal Theory, and my attempt to connect Astrology and Mental Health.
What are the elements? The four elements are: Fire, Earth, Water, Air. The Fire signs are: Aries, Leo, Saggitarius. The Earth signs in the Zodiac are: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn. The Water signs are: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces. And finally, the Air signs are: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius. Okay, let us take a closer look at the tendencies of each sign. If you know your astrological chart, then take a look at what element your Sun, Moon, and Rising signs are in (if you do not know this, please email me!) as well in which element you have more planets. You may have a combination of elements, which is great, you can have a variety of ways in which to calm your autonomic system.
Fire signs tend to take a lot of action, are busy doing things, some over work, some just have too many irons in the fire. So, what the fire sign people need to focus on when it comes to their nervous systems is to create space to feel their system without judgment. Awareness can bring a lot of healing. Once we are aware, we can interrupt cycles and patterns that no longer serve us.
Earth signs enjoy having tangible experiences and information to inform them of their reality. When your nervous system is overworked, sometimes we do not know where the dysregulation is coming from, so Earth signs feel as though they may be losing themselves or control of their environment. What is needed here is a focus on a time where you felt calm, safe and connected. Who is someone that makes you feel welcomed? How do you create a special place for yourself to feel relaxed? Think about it and notice any changes in your body.
Water signs can give into emotions at times. Or they resist anything having to do with feelings; out of self-preservation. When we have enough going on in our lives, we do not feel the need to continue to feel or deal with other people’s moods. This is normal and do honor that! Additionally, think about the state you are in, not the emotion, my dear water- sign-people. Where are you on the spectrum between completely disconnected and alarmed to connected and safe? How did you get there? When did you get there? Once again, no need to judge here, just take it in and get back to a better state than you were by reminding yourself of something you know about you, such as “I am strong”. Say that aloud.
Air signs think- A LOT! (My air-sign-people are laughing right now). Yes, go ahead and laugh, it is good for breathing and the lungs, which air signs need. However, if it is not available to you, put your thoughts aside and be present with yourself. Do not think, just take some slow, deep breaths and notice how your nervous system feels. Thoughts will come and go, your do-to list will always be there. Give yourself the gift of being only in the present because that is all the matters in this very moment.
I hope this is helpful and if you have any questions, please email me, I look forward to connecting with you and receiving any feedback.
Astrological Ritual Ideas
Hey there! I hope today is lighting up your life! I am writing this on Mars- Day (Tuesday) and I had this idea about how to organize your week so you can feel more aligned with the planets while caring for yourself! Let’s start with Tuesday.
Since Mars is the ruler of this day, we can engage in Mars-like qualities, such as yoga that focuses on a warrior flow. We can also engage in activities that include the elements of metal, fire, and severing. Maybe this is the day you take a break from someone toxic, or light a candle or work on your car. As Rachel Lang (an Astrologer) in her webinars and posts has reminded me lately: everything we do every day that takes time can be a ritual. We can honor each activity with thoughtfulness and purpose.
Wednesday! Can you guess which planet rules this day? That is right: Mercury, the planet of thoughtfulness, memory, ideas, language, exchange of conversation, mercantile-like affairs. This a day where your yoga practice can center on your releasing your mind, especially if you think a lot and your thoughts feel overwhelming at times. Perhaps it is a good time to be in Savasana or in meditation a little longer and give your worries to the universe and a higher power.
Thursday is Jupiter’s day. I remember another Astrologer, Kelly Surtees, say it is a great day to get paid. Honor your body with some self-love. Maybe this can be your cheat day. This yoga flow can focus on the internal organs, as Jupiter rules the liver. Jupiter is there to remind you life is full and expansive and needs to be enjoyed, so go outside, snuggle with your pet; whatever creates a beautiful moment for you.
Venus rules Fridays! Ah, don’t you love the feeling that we made it to the end of the week? Love is in the air! We will likely go out with people we love, look all glammed up and post it to social media 😉 Yoga can focus on strengthening your abs and glutes to remind you to show them off in your new outfit. It is also important to honor the relationships around you. Perhaps it is a good day to call that special person, truly express how to feel about that wonderful someone in your life.
Saturday is Saturn’s day. Now, Saturn is typically associated with blockage, duty, delays, to name a few. In a more positive light it is the day you either wake up early to do CrossFit or you will sleep in. Even though Saturn is related to structures, this is a day to break them! (Or to get your taxes done ;)
Sunday. Part of the planet is the name of the day, which gives you a clue to which planet: the Sun. The Sun represents our vitality, how we show up in the world. So Sunday is all about engaging in the activities that light you up and center you.
Last, but not least, Monday. In Spanish, “Luna”, which gives you insight into the ruler of this day: the Moon, where we are more in tune with our emotions and sense of safety. In my next blog I will be sharing ways that each element can calm their nervous systems. Monday is a good day to be aware of what your nervous system is doing and how it feels. Your yoga practice can center on deep stretching found with yin, to slow yourself down.
Moon cycle reflections
There are big shifts happening right now… can you feel it? For more, read on.
This is a great time to get in tune with the lunar cycle as a way to align with what you value. Values are the vehicle which take us in the direction we want to be in our lives.
What a better way to travel than with the Moon! How can you take this cycle with you?
Start with a reflective time alone in nature to imagine how you want your life to look this year.
Once you have a good image, take in the feelings and thoughts that go along with it. Take in those emotions and take them to the top of a mountain. Take in the breeze.
Now, think of one small step you will take in order to accomplish that this month at the New Moon. Dedicate that intention to the universe and ask it to guide you. Imagine a white, pure light covering you to lead you in the wise way.
Finally, thank the Earth for all the wisdom “she” holds and how she chooses to share this wisdom with you.
As the Moon grows, and as you notice it while you are out and about during day or night, remind yourself of the purpose you have assigned for yourself.
At the Full Moon, it is time to dedicate that intention again to Mother Earth and let it go. It is still at work, but you have now allowed that breeze at the top of the mountain to carry itself to its destiny.
Enjoy the journey. ♥️
Enjoy the Moment
I recently learned about the Capricorn ingress chart, versus the Aries ingress chart. In the astrology world, the year technically starts on the first day of spring. However, in Uranian Astrology, the year starts at the Northern Hemisphere’s winter solstice.
The interesting thing about this chart, which informs us of the following three months to come, is that at the time the Sun goes into Capricorn, the Moon (Luna) goes into comfy Taurus.
Luna feels good there, and typically, we do too. Enjoy this season of all the “little” comforts of life: a roaring fire, the sun shining through the trees, a warm tea in your hands, a raindrop in slow motion or a snowflake on your eyelash. It is then that you realize this moment is real and you are truly alive; and without your life, creation would have one less witness. So, enjoy it.
Full of Hope
Fulls moons are beautiful to look at and they inspire some positive vibes. In this full moon, we had a chatty energy touch the early degrees of Gemini (where Luna is) and the Sun exactly opposite (which is what a full moon is) in Sag. Moon and Admetos gives us insight into how we are feeling about the past. The Sun and Mars are helping us to take leadership action where we need to. Meanwhile, Cupido and Apollon are reminding us that effective leadership comes with freedom, peace, balance and scholarly information. Thus, taking action on what you know is right, true, and peaceful will bring you success in this life. Perhaps get in tune with yourself and what you value so you can make those courageous acts by going out into nature and listening to what your intuition has to say? After that, apply that intuition to realistic knowledge to what you know about yourself and the world. Does it match up? What does not match up? What tweaking needs to occur so that you have a more balanced view? Take some time this week to reflect.
New Moon, New Cycle
At approximately 2:39 pm EST on November 13, 2023, was a New Moon cycle. Now, this cycle visits the human population every 28 days, but this, particular New Moon, something special happened.
The world got quiet, the wind blew over the lake and through my layers as I walked. I felt as raw as the air cutting my face. Tears welled up in my eyes, but I was not crying. My heart felt heavy, but I did not have any thoughts.
Then I heard it. Over the blaring wind, of the leaf-less trees, retrospective Jupiter was telling Venus how beautiful she is. He was happy to share in her space and indulge in warming, delicious foods, beautiful spaces, and pampering himself. “That is wonderful, Jup, but don’t overdo it,” Venus warned. Venus was focusing on balance and making sure she is organized for the upcoming holidays. She called out to Mercury: “Please talk to Jup, you can speak his language, you’re staying in his home”.
Mercury was too busy having fun and looking at places to travel, people to meet, all to strengthen his sense of purpose and love for life. Meanwhile, Sun and Moon were discussing plans for the month, and Mars kept interrupting with the “to do” list. Luna wanted to get deep about her needs and Sun wanted to shine a light on every secret. “I am feeling so vulnerable!” Said Luna.
“I am sorry, I can’t help it!” Sun responded defensively. “Look at how much fun you can have when you don’t have to worry about vulnerabilities!” He dived into the water and swam around. “Make sure you get everything done before the holidays!” Mars reminded again. “But let us also learn to have some fun and relax”, chimed in Mercury and Jupiter with smooth, gentle voices.
If you are feeling any of these archetypes, it is because the sky is reminding us of what this season is about. Rest, plan, dive, play, repeat.