This article, while containing information that may be useful for everyone, is written specifically for those who have Pluto positioned between 25 and 27 degrees of Leo in their birth charts. This includes those born between Sept. 1954 and Feb. 1955, between July and Sept. 1955, and...

When Uranus transits itself, we are dealing with life cycles that occur in everyone's chart at relatively the same chronological ages. These can be periods when we receive wake-up calls telling us to follow our path of freedom. During any one of these cycles, our true self wants to break out in some fashion and make its individuality known.

The procedure of slowing, stationing and retrogression is often noted by events or inner mood shifts. Although rarely on the station-day itself, but frequently within a week on either side of it, there is a marked shift in energy patterns, both psychologically and physically.

The first part of the retrograde process is where one learns to adapt to new rhythms, and explores different ways of learning. During the entire retrograde period, a different point of view and a new comprehension proceeds to unfold.

It is during uncertain times that people are compelled to experience their interior world and heed their inner voice. They recognize a Grand Plan, a higher intelligence, search within themselves for meaning and begin to look for 'signs' on the horizon that might indicate in which direction to turn.

Correct use of the Mars principle can make for courage and endurance. Courage does not necessarily, of course, mean aggression or fighting. Courage means facing those things we are frightened of. For some it might be brave not to fight but instead to admit that one is vulnerable and frightened. We need Mars to cope with pressure and to avoid buckling under the stresses and strains of everyday living.

A look at transits, retrogrades, and other aspects that affect our lives. When Mercury moves away from Earth in its orbit around the Sun, it is said to be moving in direct motion. When Mercury approaches earth, it appears to move backwards...

by Salvatore

Though this article was written in 1995 a lot of the information can be applied to current transits and planetary shifts.

Fear, control and denial. Authority. Discipline. Time. Learning things the hard way. Responsibilities. Duties. Beyond all else perhaps, Saturn represents fear, and many of the problems and difficulties surrounding this planet can be traced to this single root principle.

Approximately every seven years, Saturn makes a stressful aspect to the natal placement -- either a square or opposition. Looking back to when you were approximately seven years old and remembering the lessons, fears, and traumas of that time, you can find deep and old patterns still operating in adult life.

In terms of complete Saturn cycles, you have three to work with at the most. The challenges presented by Saturn have at their core the demand that we become who we are, and who we can be, as fully as possible, by separating from that which we are not and could never be.

As we advance in our studies of astrology, we become centered and prepared to meet whatever comes. Astrology teaches us to awaken through every experience, meeting each moment with courage...

Whatever challenges Saturn brings are tailor-made to help us fulfill our highest potential. Saturn's not against us, it's for us! If we're willing to work with our Saturn, it ultimately reveals some of our greatest strengths and gifts as well as the skills necessary to satisfy our highest destinies.

Aspects form a vital component of the interpretation of the natal chart. It does, however, happen that one or more planets do not receive or make any major aspects. They have no direct influence on other planets (or psychic dynamics), and are themselves also not influenced, so they can exhibit extremes in their effects.