By Alexandra Karacostas

You may not have seen, but we recently experienced two eclipses—one of the sun and one of the moon. A solar eclipse took place on February 6 and a lunar eclipse on February 20. There is something extra special about eclipses. They are illuminators. They also trigger events. It will be interesting to see what shakes out in the coming months!

With solar and lunar eclipses, the earth, sun, and moon are all lined up, obscuring each other in turns. A solar eclipse is when the moon comes between the earth and the sun. A lunar eclipse is when the earth comes between the sun and the moon. Eclipses usually come in pairs, averaging about two occurrences a year. But there have been as many as five in a year, as in 1935. Vibrationally, this is an auspicious alignment. It eases the direct channeling of energies from and through our two most significant celestial neighbors. While solar eclipses point to new beginnings, lunar eclipses are about endings.

Concluding a period of fiery idealism and arrogance, we now seem to be starting a period of forward movement founded on practical realism. The solar eclipse on February 6 took place in the sign of Aquarius, a future-oriented sign. Further, this new moon was closely aligned with Neptune, Chiron, and Mercury, whose energies nurture the imagination, healing, and communication. Where a solar eclipse falls in our horoscope shows us where and how we can apply conscious attitudes and awareness in our lives.

The lunar eclipse on February 20 brought with it Saturn’s influence, reflecting our emotional limitations and our need for mutual cooperation. This eclipse occurred in the sign of Virgo. Virgo is about service and how we digest life, among other things. In this case, our challenge is to wed emotional sensitivity to our responsibilities in order to fulfill our obligations.

A full moon always brings a sense of closure to projects we’ve been working on in the recent past. It also reflects where these influences play out unconsciously in our daily lives. If we have a personal planet within a few degrees of an eclipse, it is likely that its effect will last as long as six months. The energy in that area of our lives is more concentrated, charged.

In addition to the eclipses, let us address the spring equinox on March 20. The spring equinox is defined as when the sun enters the sign of Aries, the first sign of the zodiac, each year. This year’s equinox is especially significant as Pluto and Mars are in the signs of Capricorn and Cancer, respectively, signs opposing each other in the heavens. Remember, Pluto and Mars are warriors. In opposition, they are now battling it out for power and control. In this case, Mars is the great patriot, defending the home(land) and demanding security, even down to home mortgages. Pluto is interested in recasting world order to better serve the many, ruthlessly, or not.

Also, during this equinox, the sun, Pluto, and Mars are all in found “cardinal” signs. Cardinal signs are action oriented. This spring promises dynamic action and movement toward resolution of current issues. However, let’s not confuse action with immediate results. This is the beginning of a long-term process!

In conclusion, spring should bring a potent mix of celestial influences, kicking off a long period of major transformation to our world. There are opportunities to make a better world, starting with each of us. However, the stakes are high. The path, indeed, is narrow. Slow and sure is the way to proceed, using sensible values, reflected in what we’re willing to do without.

In this issue we’ll pay extra attention to the two signs Pisces (February 19-March 20) and Aries (March 20-April 18). For all, we’ll keep in mind the spring equinox mix and the two eclipses.

Aries—Happy Birthday, Aries! An exciting journey awaits you as you embark on a quest for your true personal power. Not to be confused with a power trip, this is about becoming empowered! Those of you born around the spring equinox can expect profound changes in your life as you reclaim a forgotten piece of yourself. This is an excellent time to reflect on what keeps you from realizing your dreams and hopes. Partner yourself with friends and associates who share your dreams. Help each other move forward without indulging in risky fantasies. Invest time in making your house a home.

Taurus—What seeds do you want to sow in your professional landscape? Take an inventory of all your assets. Then begin taking appropriate steps toward reaching your present goals. Community involvement provides you a constructive outlet in April. You have much good energy to contribute!

Gemini—This is a time when close relationships shed light on the difference between what you believe you deserve in love and what it is you continue to experience. Now can be a turning point where you redirect compassion and generosity within. Invest in yourself. You are worth it!

Cancer—Insights into your innermost longings, and what keeps you from attaining them, become clearer. You have every reason to feel encouraged and supported by the universe. Trust your inner voice and act with confidence. You already have everything you need!

Leo—The “give and take” often reflects the health of our relationships. Make sure that you are not throwing your pearls to swine, or even worse, enabling bad behavior. Draw healthy boundaries. An outdoor adventure can restore your balance and nourish your spirit.

Virgo—It truly is in the details, Virgo. Pay attention to your daily routine and make adjustments where needed. Any nagging physical concerns you have may require emotional and spiritual work. Heal yourself and others though love and kindness. This is the magic that is yours to share.

Libra—Dare to do what you have only imagined. The confidence you feel today is an accurate reflection of who it is you really are. Your current projects are not only creative and lovely but useful. Your eye for design serves you well in all areas of life. Don’t underestimate your potential!

Scorpio—Your “home,” where it is you dwell within and without, is a focal point during this period. Work to move forward even though you may not know the outcome. Cultivate trust. Keep your mind and body strong and clear. You need to be present to accept the gift of serenity.

Sagittarius—Your immediate environment can teach you a lot about the workings of your mind. What you see may not always be what you get. Communicate clearly and honestly even at the expense of sounding silly. Learn to trust silence. Use your imagination. Don’t allow it to use you!

Capricorn—Check priorities and spending practices. You have places to go, people to see, but perhaps not enough money to spend. Examine your values and make sure they are in line with your chosen path. Don’t get distracted by the glitter and gold that lie beyond your reach. Seek true value.

Aquarius—Increased personal awareness invites you to realign yourself to your sense of purpose here and now. Nurture your spirit and create space for your own truth! Your job picks up speed and gains momentum. Make sure you maintain a sensible pace. Allow your feelings to guide you.

Pisces—Happy Birthday, Pisces! Who ever said swimming in two opposite directions is a bad thing? On the contrary, it provides opportunities for unimaginable and colorful adventures, not to mention chaos and confusion. The time has come to recognize, appreciate, and apply your unique gifts, talents, and abilities. What you feared about yourself is true and wonderful! There is immense liberation in being discovered. Take refuge in your connection to life and the universe. Practice meditation, use relaxation techniques, and free yourself of the burden of who you think you are. You alone are you!

Dear Reader, your questions and comments are welcome. Also, I am available for consultations in person or by phone. I look forward to hearing from you! You can reach me at 530-520-9992, email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or visit www.WisdomAstrology.com.

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