There are several aspects to consider when evaluating the energy for 2008. We'll start by explaining why we people celebrate the New
Year on different days. In the United States, as in other countries, we always celebrate New Years on January 1, using the Gregorian calendar. The Chinese celebrate the New Year on February 2 but this changes each year
according to the lunar calendar. Feng Shui also uses the Chinese solar calendar, which for 2008 begins February 4. In 2009, the date is February 3. This month's article covers 2008's moons and eclipses
according to Western astrology. Next month we'll cover the year of the earth rat (according to Chinese astrology) and water (according to Feng Shui five elements). I-Ching and flying-star analyses include a journey to
past, and predictions for 2008 so stay tuned!
Astrology and Mercury-Retrograde
During a retrograde period, perform full system back-ups and anticipate technology breakdowns. Before
the retrograde is upon you, ensure your vehicle's oil is taken care of, tires are in good working order, or take the vehicle in for a tune-up.
Go easy on yourself because breakdowns will likely
happen. Schedule half of what you normally do to allow for delays. Use any extra time to catch up but allow enough time to fix mistakes that surface so you don't have to rearrange your schedule. Utilize this time to
tweak, edit, reevaluate, rework, or repair whatever you've been procrastinating.
If you have clients or patients who cancel or reschedule, look inside (you or your process) and consider one of the following
as a lesson from this experience:
- Your schedule is too full and you need time to complete or address something.
- Someone needs your attention. Let the Universe know you have availability and the person in need will surface.
When the planet Mercury travels in retrograde motion, there is a higher probability of delays, communication problems, issues I've mentioned; and, of misinformation concerning contracts and large purchases. Mercury
represents that part of our psyche that is concerned with our mental and communicative processes. During retrograde (which happens three or four times a year) mistakes are likely. Use this time to turn your thinking
processes inward, complete unfinished business, and explore your deep personal perceptions.
The outer world (communication) can suffer during this time requiring one to pay extra attention to communicating clearly
with others. It seems true that mail moves more slowly, appointments are missed, and misunderstandings are more common. In addition to backing up your important files, upgrade virus-protection software. Regarding travel
arrangements -- validate then reconfirm.
Use the retrograde period to re-establish communication with former contacts, plan and prioritize projects, recycle, or detoxify. Avoid initiating new projects,
openings, major purchases, or contracts while Mercury is retrograde. Past acquaintances are likely to turn up at this time – so don't be surprised. Mercury-retrograde periods for 2008 are:
January 28 - February 18
May 26 - June 19
September 24 - October 15
Retrograde energy is felt a couple weeks prior to and following actual retrograde periods. Be proactive and enjoy the ride. When things return
to normal, resolve any issues and focus on moving forward.
Planetary Eclipses -- Lunar (LE) and Solar (SE)
Eclipses tend to signal significant change and new information. They can sometimes
signal a stressful time, mainly due to the shift in circumstances that may occur. Try to avoid making important decisions during an eclipse as the energy around you will tend to be unsettled and changeable.
Solar
eclipses (SE) are closely associated with new beginnings and their effects can last up to one year. Lunar eclipses (LE) are associated with completion or endings and their effects can last three to six months. We may
start to experience an eclipse up to 30 days prior to the event, and no two eclipses are alike (based on patterns, aspects, degrees, etc.). Some eclipses affect us more than others based on our birth charts. It's wise
to consult an astrologer*. It usually proves to be a good investment. It's also wise to wait at least a week for things to settle after an eclipse before making any important or final decisions. 2008 Eclipses:
February 6 = SE
February 20 = LE These two eclipses affect communication. They may drain your energy or cause difficulties.
August 1 = SE
August 16 = LE These two eclipses present
opportunities for a breakthrough. So where do you want to get unstuck?
Moon Cycles
The new moon is a positive, motivational time for initiating new beginnings and projects. The full moon is a
time for completion and endings. Consider starting projects and signing contracts between full and new moons (also ask us about good Feng Shui energy days). Avoid scheduling elective surgery during a full moon as you
will tend to bleed more. However, planting on the full moon is known to produce better crops.
2008 New Moon (NM) and Full Moon (FM) dates (Eastern time zone in U.S.):
Jan 22 (FM), Jan 7 (NM)
Mar 21 (FM), Mar 7 (NM)
Apr 20 (FM), Apr 5 (NM)
May 19 (FM), May 5 (NM)
Jun 18 (FM), Jun 3 (NM)
Jul 18 (FM), Jul 2 (NM)
Sep 15 (FM), Aug 30 (NM)
Oct 14 (FM), Sep 29 (NM)
Nov 13 (FM), Oct 28 (NM)
Dec 12 (FM), Nov 27 (NM)
Dec 27 (NM)
If your personal calendar lists first-quarter moons, note these can be challenging times. Persevere and take action. During last-quarter moons, bring tasks to a close and
reflect on lessons learned. Don't start anything during either of these periods.
In summary:
