THE MARS RETURN

The Mars return to its original placement in the natal chart by sign and degree takes place approximately every two years.  Mars in many cases is considered malefic in its expression and often denotes aggressive action and conflicts which on some level require strength and determination. 

Before we go into the return and its implications and consequences, we have to look atMars’ placement within the natal chart.  Is it well aspected especially by trine or sextile with the Sun, Venus or Jupiter?  Is it poorly aspected especially by square or opposition and in some cases conjunct with Saturn, Uranus or Pluto?  This will help define what we are working with when determining the influence related to Mars in this return cycle.

In many cases the time within a few days of the direct return, this period will often be accompanied by an initiation of activities, and a formulation of plans for advancement are often quite common.  It has been noted that activities which require strength and stamina are generally highlighted at this time.  Mars is connected to physical strength and the ability to rise above intrusion, but this can also deal with activities that are challenging in the mental arena as well. 

Because of Mars’ reputation of being a malefic energy, some Astrologers link its place in the natal chart as an area of conflict, but the resolution often can be obtained by facing things head on and believing that inner strength is part of our personal abilities.  Mars is certainly in need of steadiness and control as well as direction and has been linked with accidents and struggle often requiring instruction. 

Many believe that Mars and its energies are something we need to worry about, but once again, we will need to look at the natal chart placement as well as other transiting and progressed factors present at that particular time to have a clear understanding of the energies at hand.

Mars is also a timing tool and can be used when analysing as something might occur and along with the Sun, Uranus and the progressed Moon, we will find that Mars can be quite accurate in determining when the energies are about to be released.

Those that are in sync with Mars (Aries rising or Sun in Aries or a strong Mars placement) will find that the energies are more comfortable and easier to work with than for those that are not fortunate enough to have this present in their natal charts.  However, it is always wise to set plans before jumping into action as this is when accidents take place or activities turn out less favourable than what we might have wished for. 

As with all return cycles it is a time for new beginning, setting new goals and plans of action.  Mars’ return can help with defining when it is best to move ahead or stay put in our plan of action.  In a masculine’s chart, it speaks of male energies and the aggressive instinct depending on what sign and house Mars is found. 

In a more feminine chart, it often speaks of the masculine spouse or someone who could be considered enthusiastic or aggressive or a prominent masculine figure. 

In both gender charts, it can speak of a young masculine individual; as with Venus, in both charts often speaks of a young feminine individual.  In both charts, Mars speaks of the sexual drive and ambitious, enterprising efforts made by individuals.

When we are going to experience the Mars return be prepared for action.  Sometimes we will need to anticipate activity, and other times, life just pushes us in a direction that often requires action, drive and a personal initiative. 

Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer.

Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings

Are you interested in learning Astrology.  Holm Astrology is taking registrations for our Beginners and Level III courses.  The course commence the week of March 23, 2020.  Visit www.holmastrology.com/astrology-classes for course details.

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THE VENUS RETURN

As with any return, the Venus return is calculated to the exact day it reaches into natal positioning by sign and degree.  A chart is then drawn up to define the energies associated with the planet Venus.  A Venus return chart that closely matches the natal chart by sign and degree signifies an important year. 

Venus’s cycle is approximately one year, a little over or under by roughly one month depending on the year.  The house position and aspects and especially contacts with the angles define what type of return can be anticipated.

When deciphering a Venus return remember to take into consideration that this is a chart which has to do with Venetian matters.  These matters will have an influence on love and affection and often speaks of a love interest.  Sometimes it speaks of the daughter or a young important female and in some cases on a wider scale is representative of women in general. 

Venus also has to do with social activities such as marriage and social events such as parties and engagements of importance.  Venus also has to do with popularity and material objects such as gifts and acquisitions often referred to as elegant or pleasing to the eye. 

The house Venus is located in within the Venus return will be an area of interest and much can be said with regards to what this period will be about by its house position.  The Ascendant and the placement of its ruler also help uncover the potential that lies within this Venus return chart.

The aspects which Venus receives from other planets in this chart define how positive or challenging this period might be.  However, it should be noted that Venus in many cases helps to alleviate some conditions especially when linked favourably to the Sun, Jupiter and the Ascendant.  Challenging aspects to Venus in the return can affect love connections and also finances but favourable aspects will also affect these areas in a complimentary and positive manner. 

Remember all challenges found in any chart are put in place to be resolved and they are the ones that hold the greatest lessons which propel us forward in life. 

All returns are indicative of the beginning of a new cycle and are defined by what the return planet is about so return charts can be prepared for any given planet. 

Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer.

Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings

Are you interested in learning Astrology.  Holm Astrology is now accepting registrations for our Beginners and Level II astrology courses which will commence the week of March 23, 20202.  Visit www.holmastrology.com/astrology-classes for course details.

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If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us

THE MERCURY RETURN

Mercury is the planet of the mind and deals primarily with communication, the thought process and decision making.  It is tied to such things as writing, public speaking, teaching, short trips, transportation such as vehicles and all things related to interaction with others.

For all returns, a chart must be prepared for the exact day that the planet in question (Mercury in this case) returns to its original place by sign and degree that is was at the time of birth right to the minute.  Some sites will do this calculation for you or you can buy programmes that do this work.  The Mercury return usually follows closely to the solar return and occurs once a year.

The rising sign is very important and will help define how life unfolds over the year in Mercury related ways.  If Mercury is conjunct an angle or several planets, it often suggests an eventful year.  Quite often a surge of energy related primarily to Mercury is experienced on the day it returns to its natal position.  We would have to check which house Mercury is found in and although it returns to its original position by sign and degree the timing will be different from our birth time so the ascendant and houses will be different from their position in the natal chart.

If, for example, the rising sign is Aries, this will be a year of personal activities that can be used to propel us forward in life.  Aries always wants to push ahead and strive for personal growth.  This could be the year for activities related to signing of agreements, buying an automobile, starting a book or releasing a book, beginning teaching or moving into a programme that will help you achieve what you are trying to accomplish.

If we have Cancer on the ascendant, this could be a year that agreements or disagreements occur within the family or within the home environment.  This could be a year when nurturing a family member or in contrast a year when we are in need of nurturing.  Sensitivity is an important factor at this time and often intuitive experiences are enhanced.  Of course things run deeper at this time as emotions are a big part of the process.  Don’t forget as with any chart all the defining characteristics have to be taken into consideration.  A challenged ascendant or difficult Mercury would suggest a year of some difficulty and decision making may not be easy, but in many ways the mind can still figure out the best route to take.

The house and sign positon of Mercury will define the area of life involved for the return year and will also define the energies associated with the sign.  Don’t forget to also look at the ruling planet of the ascendant as it will give us further information.  For example with Sagittarius on the ascendant, we will need to look at where Jupiter is in the return. 

The placement by house of Mercury (Angular, Succedent, and Cadent) along with the general meaning behind what these placements suggest will also be important.  Angular and Succedent as well as Cadent energies are all quite different from one another.  If for example using only as a timing device, if Mercury occurs in a cadent house most of the energy will take place in the first 4 months of the year.  If Succedent then most of the activity will take place in the middle of the year and if in Cadent things take hold in the last four months of the year.

Remember Mercury returns are highlighting Mercurial connections and will only last for one year.  Also regardless of how challenging the chart appears, we can always find ways to work with the energy and learn from our experiences.

Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer.

Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings

Are you interested in learning Astrology.  Holm Astrology offers Astrology courses.  Register now for our Beginners or Level III classes commencing the week of March 23, 2020.  Visit www.holmastrology.com/astrology-classes for course details.

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If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us

DO NOT LOSE YOUR PERSPECTIVE

Do not allow yourself to lose focus of your own personal ideologies. 

It is important not only during good times but particularly during challenging lessons to continue to share, love and be compassionate.  We must always be the mirror image of what we want to see in our world around us.

It is said that we are currently in a transitional stage.  As with all transitional periods, the experience can be turbulent.  Be compassionate and share love with your fellow brothers and sisters.  Stay focused on the positive.  It is plentiful, if we care to pay attention. 

We may be in a state of flux but it is important to stay focused on our true journey, which is based on love.  We can rise above any global event.  When we focus on the blessings which are too numerous to list in a day, we keep our energy levels high above the levels that perpetuate fear and hatred.

Live each day in a manner that serves you best.  Do not allow the actions of others to intrude into your loving world.  If we live in fear and hatred, we do not recognize the love that is present.  Peace, contentment, joy.....these cannot be obtained through violence, discontentment or hatred. 

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stated this clearly:

“The ultimate weakness of violence is that it is a descending spiral,

begetting the very thing it seeks to destroy.

Instead of diminishing evil, it multiplies it.

Through violence you may murder the liar,

but you cannot murder the lie, nor establish the truth.

Through violence you may murder the hater,

but you do not murder hate.

In fact, violence merely increases hate.

So it goes.

Returning violence for violence multiplies violence,

adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars.

Darkness cannot drive out darkness:

only light can do that.

Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.”

We are one.  Your beliefs in life are not worth having if they do not stand up during times of trial.  Let the light of source continue to be your guide and stay true to your own personal journey.

Nothing can bend the strong arm of compassion and together as a force we can help channel hate in the opposite direction.  Hate is the absence of love.  If you fill hate with love, it can no longer exist.  All actions create waves of energy.  These waves are continual and once they have returned, you will reap the harvest of what you have sown.  Life looks after life and what we set in motion today will have ramifications in our world at future dates.

Acts of love and compassion raise your vibration and in so doing you raise the vibration of all that surrounds you.  Rise above the seeds of fear that have been planted.  Find that place within that resonates with love at the highest level. 

Together our energies create the whole.  There is only one life to live in the moment, one life to give in the moment.  Here, today, is our opportunity to make this world a better place for us personally, for everyone, for the whole.

Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer.

Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings

Are you interested in learning Astrology.  Holm Astrology is now accepting registration for our Beginners and Level III courses which commence on the week of March 23, 2020.  Visit www.holmastrology.com/astrology-classes for course details.

Please “Like” us on Facebook.  Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed.

If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us

SUN IN PISCES - FEBRUARY 20 2020

Due to our electronic shut down, we are a little late publishing this post.  Sorry Pisces readers.

Those with their Sun in the sign of Pisces, in many cases, are clearly defined by the traditional characteristics of Pisces, but many are also highly defined by the other placements in the natal chart as well.  As with all Sun Signs, the Sun sign is only one portion of who we are.  Although Pisces is generally considered a somewhat passive sign and these individuals are gentle personalities that are often influenced greatly by others around them, there may be other strong placements in the natal chart which can dilute the Piscean traits. 

An example might be someone with their Sun in Pisces but they have Aries rising, Mercury in Aries and the Moon in Leo.  This individual’s characteristics would be quite different from someone with the Sun in Pisces and a rising sign of Taurus, Mercury in Pisces and the Moon in Capricorn. 

Pisces in general, however, can be so soft in its expression that people only see the overflow of other more strong factors in the natal chart.  Pisces is a water sign and is mutable in modality, often making these individuals highly influenced by those around them.  They are sensitive to an extreme and can also be quite emotional.  Many Pisceans have a difficult time not showing these character traits to the outside world. 

Most Pisces are kind hearted and caring individuals often tied closely to the mystical path.  Some Astrologers believe that Pisces, being the last sign of the Zodiac, have reincarnated through each sign and carry some of each sign’s characteristics within them.  This is why many Pisces are so swept away and they want to nurture those in need.

Many Pisces individuals are musically inclined or have some form of artistic talent.  They can be quite creative although often quite subdued in their expression.  Much depends on the rising sign and other factors within the chart. 

Most Pisceans have a difficult time dealing with hard and aggressive people or situations in life.  They may choose to bury their head in the sand and try to stay clear of volatile situations.  They are far from aggressive although some recognize these internal tendencies and tend to go over the top in proving their “masculinity” or abilities to stand up in the face of adversity.

Those that have their Sun Sign in the mid degrees of Pisces have had transiting Neptune, their ruling planet, making a conjunction to their Sun for some time now.  Those with their Sun in the early 20 degree range are just beginning to feel this effect in their life now.  This may be a time of spiritual awakening if they are open to such energies and they will experience vivid dreams that can be deciphered and used to provide some assistance in this undertaking.

 Some may find that they are confused more than ever at this time, due to other influences in their chart.  Some will seek ways to change their perception, either by meditation techniques, imagination or substance abuse.  Pisces are known for substance abuse when life becomes difficult. 

Pluto and Saturn in transit are both in Capricorn and both remain there most of 2020.  Pluto stays for extended time and Saturn will move into Aquarius in December of 2020.  Those with their Sun in the mid to late degrees of Pisces will be experiencing these two planets interlinking with their Sun.  These two energies are powerful and are agents of transformation although Saturn will insist on hard work and a good foundation.  Linked to the Sun by sextile implies opportunities to move towards inner goals, outer goals and aspirations and in some cases occupational opportunities.  Much will depend on which houses are involved as these will be the areas of life involved in each Piscean chart.

In most cases, a transiting planet making a conjunction in its natural sign offers growth and opportunities to understand the energies at hand and in this case opportunities to open the door a little wider and have the ability to envision or explore their more innate personality and spiritual ties.

Happy Solar return my Piscean readers!

Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer.

Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings

Are you interested in learning Astrology?  Holm Astrology’s Beginner's and Level III spring courses begin the week of March 23.  Registrations are now open. Visit www.holmastrology.com/astrology-classes for course details.

Please “Like” us on Facebook.  Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed.

If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us

WHERE WILL LIFE LEAD ME?

Before we begin, we would like to say “hello”.  We a thrilled to be back on-line.  We are eager to get back at it, refreshed and filled with excitement.  That being said, let’s get on with our focus for today.

Have you ever pondered where you will be in your golden years? 

Will life be easy at that stage? 

Will you enjoy good health? 

Will your mind remain sharp? 

Will you continue to grow and move forward on your path?

What will be your legacy?

We are always on our path, even when it seems we are being led astray.  There are twists and turns in our road of life and yes, each and every one of us will be taught hard lessons.  Sometimes, if we get caught up in judgement and expectations, life will even seem unfair.  We may wonder why some individuals seem to have it so easy when we seem to have repeated strife and hardship to contend with.

Can you accept the belief that we have set the standard of our lives long before we arrived? 

I say “belief” as there is still those that do not accept this concept.  It is much easier to accept the course of this life, if we accept that we are on purpose and that we have set the plan in motion that is meant to be.  If we are responsible for the lessons at hand, we then have no choice but to take control of our lives.  We can blame no one else for its course.  Our focus has an immense impact on the quality of our lives.  If we focus on negativity, all we will see is negativity.  If we focus on positivity, our life will be positive.  Which do you prefer?

Each of life’s lessons are set in place for growth, not punishment.  Our higher self knows what we need to expand and grow. 

Many  of us ask ourselves, “Will I ever amount to anything?”  The answer is unique for each of us and WE each have our own concept of what this question means.  Remember, however, it is not important what others think of what we have accomplished in our life.  It only matters what we think!  Amounting to something can be broken down to the most important lessons in life – ability to love unconditionally and learning what compassion really is. 

Have we developed a meaningful relationship with our self? 

Let go of struggle through acceptance.  It is important to recognize our own personal abilities and put them to good use. 

Do not allow your own personal view of yourself to be tainted by what others say or think.  Ego will want to run with this information, but ego has learned nothing about true living. 

We are not that voice that says “You are no good”.  We are the one listening to that voice.  These are two different things.

Our attitude and belief structure play a significant role in how our life unfolds.  Our concentrated efforts and focus are making life what it is and that is all that really matters.  In many ways we are spectators of this life unfolding.  Destiny will have its way, even if we have a part in the overall development.  It is best to take life one day at a time.  Do not allow the imagination to run wild with what might happen.  Be content with what is unfolding right now in this moment, but yes, have goals in mind.

Life has purpose even if we do not completely or minutely understand it.  Live in the moment.  We will miss many or possibly all great moments if we are living in the past or living through anticipation for the future. 

Enjoy the present moment for that is all that life can offer us right now.  Know that we have purpose, believe in our potential and have faith that we are always on course no matter what the outcomes.

Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer.

Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings

Are you interested in learning Astrology.  Holm Astrology offers astrology courses and we are now taking registrations for our spring Beginners and Level III spring courses.  Visit www.holmastrology.com/astrology-classes for course details.

Please “Like” us on Facebook.  Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed.

If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us

TRANSITING PLUTO TRINE NATAL VENUS

This transit of Pluto to Venus can manifest in several ways.  First and usually foremost it speaks in terms of love and romance.  Second, it may speak in terms of our finances, material possessions and in some cases, artistic pursuits.

When it comes to love and romance, it often brings to the surface challenges within an existing relationship that can, under this influence, be dealt with and rectified.  It can deepen and bring more security within this relationship as long as we deal with things appropriately.  If there are problems, they usually stem from ego and power struggles.  We must recognize them as such and be able to face and deal with them.  Sometimes the relationship seems to be running along perfectly and now becomes even deeper and more satisfying.  The relationship reaches a new level of understanding and commitment under this influence.

If this period brings a new relationship into existence, this relationship can be a deep and personal one with strong sexual energies.  We just seem to know each other instinctively or the dialogue between us is very deep and personal.  The potential for change and evolution for both individuals is heightened, and this applies to a new found relationship or a long standing one.  Pluto transforms, regenerates and speaks of personal change.  Its energies can make love relationships profound and have great substance. 

In general, trines speak of easy flow and a good rapport.  This combination brings positive outcomes to life.  This aspect is the one we are always waiting for.

If this transit of Pluto to Venus brings financial conditions into focus, then it often speaks of potential increases in this area.  We may inherit money, come into money through marriage or partnership, even through business associations. 

Sometimes Venus speaks about creative potential and much recognition is possible under this aspect’s energies.  We will need to bring things to the surface and find ways to express our creativity, perhaps through shows, or through the meeting of influential people.  It is a time to push forward with our creative insights and let others see what we are capable of doing.

Our feelings are stimulated at this time, and we can make things happen.  DO NOT sit back in reflection even though Pluto will make this easy to do.  Push forward and strive to reach objectives in life, whether this is creative and/or romantic.  The energies are in a good place and we should use them to assist us in uncovering what we are in search of.

Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer.

Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings

Are you interested in learning Astrology.  Holm Astrology offers Astrology courses.  Our next courses start the week of March 23, 2020.  Visit www.holmastrology.com/astrology-classes for course details.

Please “Like” us on Facebook.  Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed.

If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us