Astrological Weather for January 2010

January’s (and perhaps the entire year’s) energetic weather is dominated by planetary events occurring over three days.  On January 13, Saturn turns retrograde at 4° Libra, followed by a New Moon solar eclipse on January 15 at 25° Capricorn.  Fortunately, Venus conjuncts the eclipse point providing some comfort for those of us who are uncomfortable with hard edges. Then several hours after the eclipse, Mercury stations direct at 5° Capricorn.

Saturn rules all the planets in Capricorn and is exalted in Libra (see November 2009 – The Astrological Weather for more on this) so clearly, he’s the guy in charge these days. He’s the adult with a capital “A” — a combination of the Cosmic Architect, Auditor, Cop, Organizer, Disciplinarian, Timekeeper, and Parent.  Saturn is what makes us work for our rewards and then bestows them upon us when the time (in the karmic sense) is right. When we are in harmony with Saturn, work and success are synonymous.

The New Moon Eclipse signifies a time of new beginnings (see ECLIPSE MANIA! SOLAR ECLIPSE at 29 Cancer).  So wherever you have Capricorn in your horoscope is the arena where you will start a new cycle of incredibly hard work to manifest something,  where responsibility is the name of the game, and you will struggle to fulfill your commitments.  And if you have no goals, you will wake up to the fact that building something can be satisfying, even if it’s a little castle in the air and it takes a long time.

Which it will.  Whatever you start now will take time and effort to accomplish.  That is the nature of Saturn. Since the eclipse is happening at the time of its retrograde station, this function is moving away from externals.  You might think it’s not worth it, but you will find yourself doing it anyway and actually experiencing fulfillment there.  It is actually an act of faith that there is a future.

Shirking your responsibilities and/or acting childishly will not get you anywhere.  Mercury’s direct station will help you get moving again, but that slogging-through-the-mud feeling might be something you have to accept for the time being.

As mentioned above, Venus conjuncts the eclipse point which can provide some sweetness when we feel that all work and no play is making us dull.  If you’re stressed, counteract the tough, cold reality of Saturn with some Venusian comforts – get a massage, inpsire yourself with beautiful art, go to a concert, or splurge on a nice dinner with some friends.

Particularly affecting all the cardinal signs born 12 -19 of April, July, October, or January and those of us with planets in the last 7 degrees of Aries, Cancer, Libra or Capricorn.  All of  us are affected to varying degrees. Look at your sun sign and ascendant if you know it.

Aries – You’re the only one that can get serious about your career, your partner, notwithstanding. If not now, when? Taurus – What’s it all about? Do some traveling either literally or in your armchair and get a bigger perspective. Or if you’ve always wanted to get that Masters degree, what’s stopping you? Gemini – It’s about the cosmic glue. Whether it’s sex, drugs, or the proverbial rock and roll, what is it that bonds you with others? And perhaps more important, how can you experience more of it? Cancer – As difficult as others can be, it’s becoming clear to you that you can’t do it alone. You need that irritation that allows an oyster to create a pearl. Others provide a mirror as well as that special ingredient that makes alchemy happen; Leo – Keep a good mental attitude while continuing to roll that rock up the hill at work. Neglecting your health is not an option; Virgo – Your children need to know that you’re the one who’s the parent. And if you have a screenplay or (something else) gathering dust in the closet, pull it out and get to work; Libra – Literally or figuratively, it’s time to build a new home.  Because it’s all about your family and your base of operation; Scorpio – Your siblings, relatives, neighbors and cousins need to hear from you.  In fact, everyone needs to hear from you these days.  Write, speak, broadcast.  It’s all about communication; Sagittarius – Take a cold, hard look at your bank account. Learn about money by making more of it and spending it on things you value while saving some for a rainy day; Capricorn – You are not the Biggest Loser, but you can be the Biggest Winner if you keep up your discipline. This is the time of your life. Don’t sleep through it; Aquarius –Spend time by yourself for a change without the company of your computer or television. Meditate and contemplate your divine place in this amazing world; Pisces –Take care of your friendships first. You achieve more fulfillment by making a firmer commitment to your dreams and goals by connecting with others around a common purpose.