Overview for January 2008 - Moderation Leads to Enlightenment

There is a lot of cosmic reshuffling going on at the moment and the biggest of those shuffles is planetary heavyweight Pluto moving from Sagittarius to Capricorn. Pluto may be a regarded as a dwarf in size but he packs a powerful punch in astrological terms, and wherever he goes transformations are sure to follow. The last 12 years have seen Pluto turning his transformative power to Sagittarius and all that this sign represents: religion, travel, international relations and foreign connections in the main. It is this planetary combination that probably played its part in the manifestation of 9/11 and the subsequent war on terror.

Pluto Brings Darkness To Light

Pluto has a tendency to confront us with our own shadow and that isn’t always pleasant. We often prefer to point the finger of blame at others; always the darkness is out there, not in us. And so, the British and American people have found themselves at the mercy of a small but powerful (Pluto) group pf people with opposing religious views and values who have allowed their anger to manifest in a most destructive fashion. Perhaps the mighty West needs to release its powerful hold on the weaker countries, to reduce its influence and allow wealth and power to be more evenly disrupted. And if there is anyone out there who still holds a virtuous view of politicians they may be in for a rude awakening as Capricorn governs politics and Pluto’s next move is to reveal the corruption that is at the heart of our political structures.

In fact, all longstanding powerful or financial based organisations can expect to be tested by Pluto’s penetrating presence over the next few years. This would include the Police, big business, the banks, the stock market, the housing market, multinational corporations, the Inland Revenue and any industry that abuses its power. Any organisation that reflects the ‘old school’ way of thinking, such as mainstream science with its outdated theory of evolution, right wing political parties, royalty and the old testament bible bashing religions may find themselves floundering unless they can adopt a more modern, open minded approach.

Capricorn Brings Big Changes

Capricorn governs the economy, institutional wealth and money gained from property and business and so any country or organisation that conducts its business unfairly, that exploits others, or that uses too much of the earth’s resources can expect a thorough and painful examination by Pluto. Those companies and countries that fail may well face economic problems whilst those who conduct their business fairly and openly will flourish. Jupiter is also journeying through Capricorn, so for a while at least all may look rosy and this should be a good year for anyone seeking to expand or set up in business (bearing in mind the above points of course) In the long term though, expect to see many changes to the way we conduct our business, financial and political affairs. As always with Pluto, some of the lessons may be hard, but we will emerge the other side stronger and wiser for his honesty.

So January kicks off with a Capricorn theme, which should be good for the Mountain Goats who get to experience the once in a 12 year arrival of Jupiter, and the once in a 248 year cycle of Pluto, which signifies a highly potent and powerfully transformative year for the Capricorns. In fact, many of them won’t recognize their lives at the end of the year, such will be the changes that they undergo. For the rest of us, the Pluto and Jupiter transit through Capricorn will urge us to make big changes to a particular area of life (see your monthly forecasts for more detail)

The new moon appears on the 8th also in Capricorn which is great for focussing your intent onto a particular goal. This is followed by a cluster of planets in Aquarius, with a Mercury-Neptune conjunction inparticular showing us that the way to deal with any uncertainty or confusion this month is to access our intuition and trust our psychic/spiritual impulses. This combination is wonderful for psychics, channelers, mediums, writers, poets, artists, musicians and anyone who wants to tap into the creative cosmic juice that constantly flows around us. Dive into these rich spiritual waters and you will be rewarded with a priceless knowing, a link to Divine helpers or access to the wisdom, insights and messages of your subconscious and superconscious minds. Rely not on what passes for fact, science, logic or reason, for these may lead you down a blind alley, or at best a cold, uninspiring set of events. For those who are extra sensitive to the unseen realms, this could be a week when your powers become much clearer.

Also around this time we have a potent alignment with sensual Venus and powerful Pluto opposing feisty Mars. Beware of power struggles, romantic dramas, jealousy, anger and over the top excess and indulgence. This is a seductive combination of planets but the presence of Mars and the about turn of Mercury rather suggest there could be a price to pay for impulsive actions that aren’t for the highest good of all concerned. The message here is try to be moderate and don’t jump in where Angels fear to tread. And if you’re not sure whether the Angels would fear to tread your path, use the divine communications system of the Neptune-Mercury conjunction and ask!

The month ends with the grand finale of Pluto’s arrival into Capricorn, signalling big shifts for all of us and bringing the opportunity to leave behind our old ways and the archaic limited ways of thinking and acting, towards a new world order, where equal wealth distribution, fair trade, greater respect for the planet and a more enlightened way of conducting our economic, business and political affairs, becomes not just desirable, but a necessity.

Weekly Forecasts

Aries

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Aries. ‘They always say that time changes things, but actually you have to change them yourself.’ Hopefully, this quote by Andy Warhol should inspire you to get things moving because this should certainly be a year in which the world is your oyster. With Jupiter at the top of your chart throughout 2008, success in your endeavours is virtually guaranteed. This bodes particularly well for your professional aims and ambitions, so there could be big progress and new opportunities with career and business matters. Jupiter will also help you to progress in a general sense too, so that you feel like your life is really moving forward. You may decide to venture out in a new direction and explore uncharted territory. In short, this is the time to consider what you want from your life and know that the planets are going to be highly supportive in helping you bring your ambitions to fruition. Don’t be downhearted though if this week doesn’t seem to reflect these promises, for you may be under a little stress during the first few days of the year. With your ruler Mars in tense opposition to Jupiter and Pluto you might feel thwarted in some way, but angry outbursts won’t do you any favours. Try and work with the frustration in a constructive manner and use your tremendous energy and determination to bring about changes in a positive way. Avoid getting involved in power struggles and seek a mature sensible way of dealing with any conflict.

January 7-14

A new moon on the 8th at the top of your chart spells a new direction; or at least, the opportunity for you to move in a new direction. This new moon could bring an opportunity into your life or it could inspire you to want to make positive changes to live your life in a different way. It bodes extremely well for your professional endeavours so if you wish for a new beginning, a change or progress with your career or ambitions, now is the time to take a big step forward. This would be a most suitable point at which to look at the direction your life is heading in and to change course if necessary. Perhaps it’s time to drop one or two of your burdens; indeed anything which is holding you back should be reconsidered with a view to releasing it if at all possible. This is one time in your life when you want to be as free as you can be so that you can fly to new heights.

January 15-22

Make the most of a strong social theme in your chart at present by getting out and about and enjoying time spent with friends and acquaintances. This is a week when you can get more done by combining forces with other likeminded people and this is especially true if you have a hope or a wish to make your community a better place, or if you desire to help humanity or society. Don’t underestimate your power to bring change and move mountains. The full moon on the 22nd may also bring realisations about where you want to be going and sets your attention firmly on the future. Since the full moon falls in your zone of creativity, children, love affairs and following your heart, these could also be relevant themes. Perhaps there will need to be a balancing act between your desire to help others and your need to be true to yourself. But events this week should help you to see that you can be compassionate and giving whilst still making time for yourself.

January 23-31

As Pluto moves to join Jupiter and Venus at the top of your chart, the time has come to show the world what you’re capable of, so this signals the beginning of a big transformation for you. No more hiding your light under a bushel. No more putting off what you know you can do or what you secretly would love to do. The unbelievably powerful combination of Jupiter and Pluto shows that 2008 will be a year in which you realise you’ve only been demonstrating a fraction of your potential. The world is calling you to bigger and better things, to show that you can be a successful powerful individual who can make a difference to the lives of others. So the question this week is: what is it that you need to be doing? What is calling to your heart? In what way could you take on a bigger or more responsible role? How can you expand upon the success that you already have in your life? Jupiter and Pluto suggest that there are no limits to how much you can achieve now. All you have to do is make sure that your ego is kept in check by remembering that we are here to serve others.

Taurus

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Taurus. ‘Life is either a wonderful adventure or nothing.’ So said Helen Keller and this is a philosophy which should have much relevance for you in 2008. This is a year which will see you treading uncharted territory, having entirely new experiences and learning a lot. You will grow and change as a result of the events that 2008 has in store, and for the most part it should feel exciting and possibly liberating too. Many Taureans struggle with change preferring instead the familiar which grants feelings of security and stability, but really, you need to make a big effort to push out of your comfort zone this year, because if you do you’ll be rewarded in ways you can’t yet imagine. So as the year kicks off, keep your options open and your heart primed for new surprises.

January 7-14

The only thing that we can be certain of in life is that it is uncertain. No matter how in control we think we are, events can come along to show us that we’re not. This week as a new moon falls in your zone of adventure and expansion, be prepared to cast away your safety net. Dispense with your anchor and plunge into the ocean without your armbands. With Uranus also squaring Venus it is a double certainty that life this week may present you with a surprise. Be open to it, accept the ebb and flow of life and recognise that you are moving into a new phase of your life. If it feels good, celebrate, if it feels uncertain and scary, trust that the ocean of life will carry you safely to where you need to go.

January 15-22

The focus this week is on your future, your career and your home life. The full moon on the 22nd may bring to a head any situation that needs clarity or resolution. One example of how this energy could work itself out would be the need for a better work-life balance. Are your energies too focussed in one area and not enough in the other? Certainly the planets seem to be drawing your attention to matters outside of the home and there may be many demands on your time right now, but the full moon calls your attention to your own four walls whilst the Pluto-Venus conjunction speaks of a psychological or emotional rebirth. Prepare to let go of your old ways. Release the past. There is a new chapter of your life about to begin and it should be a chapter that brings much growth, adventure and happiness. So don’t cling on to anything which could get in the way of your new beginnings.

January 23-31

When our minds are closed we automatically turn away from new experiences. When our minds our open however, we become receptive to whatever wants to make its way into our world. No prizes for guessing which is the most growth inducing and fulfilling. Jupiter, Pluto and Venus are now all gathered together in your zone of adventure and higher perception. They will over time, urge you to search for the bigger picture, whether that’s your own personal quest for meaning, or to expand your view of what’s possible. It all begins this week but will develop over the course of the year, and then continue into the next few years. So this week the best thing you can do is be open and receptive to whatever is happening in your life and to welcome any changes and to actively seek the path which promises new horizons. Sticking with the familiar, the tried and tested will go against the planetary energies and may in the long run cause problems. Embracing the new however will pay dividends, not least because it will reveal to you facets of yourself that you never knew existed.

Gemini

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Gemini. ‘Victory always starts in the head. It’s a state of mind.’ This quote by Douchan Gerst reflects the mindset that you need to adopt in 2008. So whatever you wish to accomplish you must first be able to see yourself achieving it. The year gets off to an introspective start with the focus on your personal life. Many Geminis have been working hard at turning their professional life around to make it more satisfying; the theme of finding work that you love has been strong along with questions over relationships. And whilst these two areas of life are still pertinent Saturn and Jupiter are calling your attention to what really matters, and to determine what your soul longs for. This will be a transformative year when you learn a lot about yourself but the important thing to remember is that there is no rush. Take your time and allow things to gestate. Anything worthwhile takes time to develop and at the beginning of 2008 your task is to go within and ask the question, ‘what do I really want?’

January 7-14

In what way are you clinging to the past? If there’s something you’re holding onto which is no longer serving your growth, now is the time to let it go as the new moon on the 8th speaks of transformation and rebirth. A butterfly can’t emerge from the chrysalis unless it’s willing to lose its old form. It is time for you to move on. Change is beckoning and a new chapter of life waits but you must release your fears, baggage, insecurities and doubts. March with faith and confidence towards the direction which is calling you and you’ll soon be wondering what took you so long.

January 15-22

With Mars back in your sign you may be blessed with greater levels of energy and motivation but if you take on too much you’ll soon become exhausted. Try and pace yourself and do that which you feel is necessary – the rest can wait. You may also need your energy for emotional and personal matters; the Venus-Pluto conjunction in your relationship zone will either be passionately exciting or dramatically wearing. Either way, this combination of planets could suggest a turning point, so if you’ve experienced relationship ups and downs in the last few years, this could be the final piece of the puzzle enabling you to look forward to a smoother, less eventful period in your life, at least as far as your romantic life is concerned. With the Sun and Mercury in your fellow air sign of Aquarius, this is the time to lighten up, seek fresh new experiences and push beyond your comfort zone. Basically, it's time to broaden your horizons and seek to make every encounter and event a learning experience.

January 23-31

They say that curiosity killed the cat, but this is one time when you can dispense with such a warning and open yourself to as many new experiences and possibilities as you can. The universe will protect you in your endeavours to reach out beyond the safe and the known. Perhaps a more fitting phrase for you would be ‘Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.’ (Andre Gide)

So be prepared to move away from your own personal shore and trust your intuition as you set sail towards uncharted territory. This is one time when your 6th sense will triumph over facts and logic. Have faith in a higher power and you will be guided to where you need to be.

Cancer

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Cancer. Brian Tracy once said, ‘Successful people are always looking for opportunities to help others. Unsuccessful people are always asking, “what’s in it for me?”’ This quote could probably provide you with some clues as to where your happiness can be found this year. But perhaps all you really want to know is whether this year will be an improvement on the last. Well, actually, yes it should be. Especially if you are prepared to take the bull by the horns and make some positive changes, but even more likely if you make those positive changes with others. Your relationships are the main focal point this year, which means that any troubles with health and/or work are at an end. How the planetary changes impact on your personal life though depends greatly on your present state of affairs. If things are going well, you can expect this year to build on that, and there could be engagements, marriages, renewals in commitments and a general deepening of your bond. You may meet someone who becomes a helpful and benevolent presence and you could transform through a relationship, whether it’s business or personal. It would be a perfect time to engage in therapy or to work with someone who can help you. If however there is a relationship which is struggling, it may be that the planetary movements help to bring things to a head so that you can either improve matters or bring them to a close. Either way, your personal life is set to become a lot more honest, and ultimately much more fulfilling.

January 7-14

The new moon on the 8th is an opportune moment to give some thought to your partnerships and make the intention to improve your happiness rating in this area. From something as simple as recognizing your need to spend more quality time with your partner, to meeting a new love, this is the moment to put your wishes out there into the universe. If you need guidance, ask for it. Your intuition is strong now, but Mars in your spiritual zone also shows that you have an army of helpers just waiting to be asked. Call on your guides if you need assistance – that’s what they’re there for. Then once you’ve handed over your concerns, you can get on with your life and wait for the answers to come.

January 15-22

It is true that a change is as good as a rest, and if you’re feeling tired or run down, taking time out to play could actually recharge your batteries faster than resting. With a heavy preponderance of planets in your introspective zones, it could be easy to take things too seriously. A more playful light-hearted approach will work wonders. You may feel compelled to burrow about for secret facts, and indeed, if you feel that someone isn’t being entirely honest with you, or if you feel something is a bit off, then use your intuition to alert you to possible problems. But don’t lock yourself into a prison of despair when a simple change of attitude will help you to see your opportunities instead of your challenges. Avoid hasty assumptions and preconceived notions and instead seek to change the way you see things. Saturn in your mental zone is alerting you to where you think in negative or limited ways and suggests that you instead adopt a policy of anything is possible and every cloud has a silver lining. Look for the positive and you will surely find it.

January 23-31

As Pluto finally says goodbye to Sagittarius and moves into Capricorn – your opposite sign – it may suddenly become apparent that your personal life is in need of attention; either that or things will be happening to draw your attention to it. Relationships are where it’s at now and with a Pluto-Jupiter-Venus conjunction things could be positively steamy. Watch out for dramatic episodes, power struggles, jealousies and suspicion. Seek instead growth tolerance, understanding and commitment. Open yourself up fully to another and strive to break down any barriers to intimacy. At the same time, use your sixth sense to determine whether someone’s being entirely straight with you, as there could be reason to believe otherwise. Try and see beyond the illusion and get to the core of the matter. When you’ve done this, you will be in a much stronger position and more able to call the shots. If you see the best of the current planetary alignments, you can look forward to being carried away on the dizzy heights of passion, romance and intoxicating love.

Leo

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Leo. ‘Never hurry. Take plenty of exercise. Always be cheerful. Take all the sleep you need. You may expect to be well.’ - James Freeman Clarke

For you, 2008 will bring opportunities to improve your health, wealth and life in general. Jupiter’s entry into Capricorn is going to bring a protective benefit to your health but that doesn’t mean that you should sit back and do nothing. On the contrary, Jupiter may inspire you to begin a new health regime to focus more on diet and exercise and to get yourself in tip top form. The side effect of the biggest planet in your health zone though would be excess weight, but so long as you keep active and don’t overindulge too much you should end the year in just as good shape if not better than when you began it. Your work is also set to benefit as you’ll be seeking more ways to grow and expand within your job and so you might have some opportunities come your way for positive changes or you might just find yourself enjoying your work much more than normal. Saturn will also encourage you to face facts about your financial situation so this is not a year to spend frivolously or to be irresponsible, but planning, saving and a more responsible attitude will be rewarded. For this week though it’s enough for you to just be contemplating what you want from the year ahead and to make it your mission to give yourself 100% to whatever you’re doing. Perhaps this is the time to consider how you can be more present so that by giving each and every task your full attention, every minute of the day becomes an opportunity for awareness.

January 7-14

Are you the master of your own life? Are you in control of your destiny? If not, the new moon on the 8th will help you to get moving into a more fulfilling direction. If you’re seeking change or new beginnings in your work, then events around the 8th could be to your liking. If you wish to get yourself in shape and get super healthy, the new moon will provide the perfect incentive. This would be the perfect time to begin a new regime, to take up a form of exercise, or to go to that yoga or tai chi class that you’ve been thinking about. Maybe you could try a therapy to help with any existing condition or to prevent problems from forming. When you’ve started the ball rolling with your wellbeing, you can turn your attention towards love and partnerships as the planets are building in this area of your life too. This is an ideal time to connect with someone new, to communicate with ones you love and to immerse yourself in the world of love. And with Venus in your house of flirty fun, there has never been a better time to enjoy yourself and delight in some sensual pleasure.

January 15-22

How many of your relationships can you say are based on unconditional love? If you’re like most people, you’ll like the idea, but putting it into practise takes some doing. Adopting the Buddhist approach of cherishing others – even those who cause you pain – is a challenge to say the least. But with the idealistic loving connection of Neptune and Mercury in your relating zone, if ever there was a time when you could turn the other cheek and offer love and forgiveness to those who don’t always deserve it, then it would be now. And whilst you’re busy offering your unconditional love to others, try directing it towards yourself too, since it becomes a whole lot easier to love others when we can love ourselves. Try the affirmation ‘I love and approve of myself’ and see how it changes the way you see yourself and others.

January 23-31

Healing is your keyword this week – and we’re not just talking physical healing, although this could well be pertinent as a cluster of powerful planets gather in your health zone. But it’s also your relationships that would benefit from some gentle healing – perhaps forgiveness is what’s needed, or a healing of some old wound so that you can move on in an important union. Perhaps there’s a partnership that has been suffering from neglect in which case, giving your time and energy will soon put things right. Whatever problems you face in your one to one’s now is the time to offer your love, forgiveness and compassion so that the relationship can be magically healed. Also look at how you can give more to others, since the act of giving strengthens bonds and invites others to give to you too. So this last week of January calls on you to be as selfless, as giving and as compassionate as you possibly can be. In so doing you may well turn a corner and discover a kind of happiness that was previously lacking.

Virgo

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Virgo. ‘A man is a success if he gets up in the morning and gets to bed at night, and in between he does what he wants to do.’ Bob Dylan sums up the theme for your year ahead by urging you to follow your heart and be true to yourself. For too long now you’ve been playing up to the virtuous description of your sign – working hard, helping others, being dutiful and frequently putting yourself last. Now though all that’s set to change – well not too much since we don’t want you to be unrecognizable – but the planets are moving into positions which will make it virtually impossible for you not to consider what is important to you. And in realising what is important to you, it will become increasingly difficult to ignore the pangs of your heart. Maybe you just need more fun and less work and responsibility. If so, all that’s needed is for you to set that intention and to look for opportunities to bring more of what you enjoy into your life. But if it goes deeper than that, and you suspect that you’ve begun to live a bit of a lie, then 2008 will push you into making changes that will enable you to live more authentically. All this should be quite wonderful so there’s no need to worry. All you need to do is follow your heart and discover what it is that makes you feel glad to be alive, and then to pursue that with a passion.

January 7-14

It is time for you to blossom and flower. The new moon on the 8th urges you to let your creative juices to flow, to enjoy more of life’s gifts and pleasures and to let your hair down a bit and ease up on yourself. Perhaps it’s time to unleash your artistic potential, and if you haven’t got any, so what! Just enjoy the act of getting colour onto paper and creating a big wonderful mess! A Virgo's world is often very ordered and structured (at least mentally, if not physically) and whilst this has its positives, the downside is that you can sometimes feel too inhibited or uptight about things. If you are this type of Virgo, I would suggest getting a copy of ‘Life is short - wear your party pants’ by Loretta LaRoche. This book is great for realising that life is for living and enjoying, not planning, controlling and ordering. If you’re the sort of person who doesn’t wear their finest lingerie until a special occasion, or if you don’t use the expensive dinner set outside of Christmas or you prevent yourself from joining in because you’ll look silly, then this book is for you. This new moon is also for you since it will serve to remind you that the clock is ticking and there are probably many things that you still want to do. Now is the time to stop worrying and start living.

January 15-22

We are often the prisoners of our own mind – the simple act of judging another closes the door and creates separation. Your challenge this week is to be open, receptive and accepting of whatever you see hear or experience. Try not to judge, criticise or condemn. Instead defer judgment knowing that we can never really know all the ins and outs of another person's situation and that we sometimes see things incorrectly. Mercury’s conjunction to Neptune says that if you can be receptive and offer compassion and non judgment you will begin to see the divine quality within everyone, and all obstacles between yourself others will magically dissolve.

January 23-31

Events this week may make you realise that things can’t really go on as they have been. Maybe it’s a simple case of needing more time for yourself if you’ve been feeling drained or exhausted with the demands on your time. Or it could have deeper implications if you’re unhappy with a current situation. Either way things are set to change because Pluto’s move into Capricorn signals the beginning of an important transformation for you. A transformation that will gradually see you begin to live more creatively and more authentically. In other words, you’ll be beginning to make choices that reflect the real you and which honour your needs. So if your work is no longer fulfilling you, Pluto will help you to manifest the courage to follow your own path. Likewise with relationships and your lifestyle in general. Saturn in your sign may be asking some awkward questions but only because this is a vitally important time for you when you need to be really honest with yourself about what is and what isn’t working in your life. And if you have the courage to make the necessary changes you will be rewarded in ways you can’t yet imagine. For now though, it is enough to be contemplating how you can live more passionately, joyously and creatively.

Libra

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Libra. “Your diamonds are not in far distant mountains or in yonder seas; they are in your own backyard, if you but dig for them.” This quote by Russell H. Conwell perfectly sums up your potential in 2008; this will be the year when you get to unearth your own personal diamond and you shouldn’t have to even venture outdoors to find it! The theme for January and the year ahead is domestic warmth, cosiness, family bliss and inner contentment. It’s the year to focus on creating simple pleasures and to develop your intuitive powers. It may even be a year when you decide to look inside yourself with a view to better understanding who you are and what you want. So a year to focus on your personal life, and your own desires needs and motivations. If you find yourself struggling or feeling down in this first week, this is only a temporary blip as Saturn squares Venus, but this could be an important reminder than your happiness comes from approving of yourself rather than looking outside for approval. So take the opportunity to get quiet and tune into your innermost needs and make the intention that 2008 will be the year when you fulfil at least one or two of your deepest but possibly forgotten or neglected desires.

January 7-14

If you are looking for change, developments or new beginnings in a domestic or family sense then the new moon on the 8th will set you on a new path. This would be a good time to make changes to your home, start afresh with a family member or usher in a new beginning on a domestic level. Anything initiated now should be favourable for you since Jupiter is on hand to ensure that all goes well. However, you do need to keep an eye on any tendency to upset apple carts or spoil the harmony that you love so much as a tense square from Uranus to Venus could have sparks flying. Instead of reacting to frustrations or responding in a provocative manner, recognise that something needs to change – perhaps you need a bit more stimulation in your world – perhaps a day out or weekend away would do the trick. If you’ve been feeling stagnant recently, then make the effort to invite some simple changes into your life. A change of scene, a new routine, a new set of challenges at work or a breath of fresh air will do wonders for your sanity and your relationships.

January 15-22

This should be a juicy week as a heady Venus-Pluto conjunction and a cluster of planets in your house of fun put the emphasis firmly on love, romance, creativity and pleasurable pursuits. There could even be a celebratory feel in the air or at the very least a desire to enjoy yourself and do more of what you love. So don’t let limiting attitudes or situations stop you from doing what you would like to do. This is a good week to get creative or artistic, indulge in a little romance, tell a lover how you really feel, perhaps write a love letter or a poem and let your romantic sensual side out to play. But the most important thing to remember this week is that life is a gift, and as such we should seek every opportunity to celebrate our existence and take pleasure in the fact that we can make our lives anything we want them to be. Seek out humour to dissolve any overly serious situations and laugh your way forward.

January 23-31

Pluto’s move into Capricorn signals the beginning of the end and a sense of completion – perhaps you can sense the imminent new beginnings? The areas of life in which these new energies are flowing are your domestic life and your inner self. Pluto and Jupiter together – currently enhanced by the presence of Venus – make this the ideal time for house hunting, redecorating or making serious improvements to your existing home. Either way, this is all about your environment and whether you’re happy living where you are. If not, big transformations will be occurring, not just now, but throughout the rest of the year. Everything that is going on around you will be a metaphor or a mirror for something that is within yourself, so don’t be too quick to dismiss or react angrily to your current circumstances. Instead, seek to learn from them and then strive to manifest the changes you desire. Your inner voice and psychic awareness is becoming increasingly strong so there is really no need to worry as you can trust your own inner knowing or request help from your guides. Also this week, you have a big grouping of planets enjoying themselves in your house of fun, but this is about trusting your feelings and acting on impulse as much as it is enjoying yourself. Following your heart and trusting that you’re doing the right thing will lead you to where you need to be. Don’t be afraid to say goodbye to an old chapter of your life, for new beginnings await.

Scorpio

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Scorpio.

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said that ‘what lies before us and what lies behind us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.’ This is something you may well begin to truly understand as 2008 progresses. Jupiter in your zone of perception is going to be expanding your mind like never before enabling you to see previously hidden truths and allowing you to access more of your potential because you’ll be more tuned in to possibilities. So whether you choose to study something which will unlock the door to a more fulfilling and prosperous future or whether you choose to study the benefits of meditation the effects will be similar: your horizons will be expanding and you'll be gaining in confidence as you realise what’s out there and what’s in you. This is perfect if you have a message that you wish to disperse, and is a good omen for writers, teachers, speakers and students. So the message for this year is, discover what it is that you have to say and get out there and let it be known.

January 7-14

Money makes the world go round; at least it does when Venus is in your zone of finance and resources. This is an abundant little placement and suggests that now would be a good time to contemplate if there’s any room for improvement in this area. Perhaps all that’s needed is a change of attitude; most of us are very abundant and have more than we need but constantly comparing ourselves to others, the seductive lure of advertising and ever more material products on offer makes it easy to think that we need more. It can be empowering to keep a gratitude journal and give thanks for all the things you have, from the little or abstract things such as a compliment from an acquaintance to the big things such as a home, food and warmth. If you do this every day, you’ll soon be feeling very grateful and ever so abundant, which will funnily enough, attract even more good things to you.

January 15-22

Pluto’s heady conjunction with Venus brings the theme of money once again, but this time it should be with a sense of completion. Perhaps you are entering into a time where you feel more empowered, and certainly this duo of planets seeks to remind you that self worth is not determined by how much you have, but by how much you are. And Jupiter is on hand to remind you that there are vast reservoirs of untapped potential within you and this is the point at which you need to start excavating! A cluster of planets in your house of home and family brings your attention to matters closer to home and there may be a decision to make here. The right decision will be the one that feels right and all you need to do is listen to your intuition. A wonderful connection with Mercury and Neptune will offer you a portal into the inner realms where you just automatically know or sense what you need to do. So trust your hunches, go with your gut feelings and feel your way forward.

January 23-31

Virtually all the planets are currently gearing up to enhance that infamous Scorpio perceptive power of deduction. This would suggest that there is something that you really need to know. If so, there is very little that will escape your attention and people better think twice before trying able to pull the wool over your eyes. You are at present, sharp, astute, perceptive and extremely sensitive to atmospheres and undercurrents. You know what’s being said beneath the words and you automatically know if something’s not right. Trust your laser like perception – it won’t let you down. As Mercury slows down and changes direction, follow suit and take your time. Don’t rush any decisions and make sure you’ve got all the facts. Domestic and family situations may be problematic for a short while, but this is only because there is something that needs resolving or double checking. And this will resolve itself sooner than you think if you follow your instinct and trust your intuition.

Sagittarius

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Sagittarius. ‘The more we give of anything, the more we shall get back.’ Grace Speare offers you these pearls of wisdom, and reveals that for you, much of 2008 will be about giving and receiving. But before we move onto the themes of money, prosperity and abundance, let me first say that this should be a year in which life begins to settle down a bit, although you may still be prone to a bit of domestic instability. In the main though, the big transformations that you’ve seen in your life over the last 10 years should make way for a more stable and peaceful existence. The changes have largely been down to Pluto, ruthlessly destroying all that which was preventing you from growing and changing and since he is now about to shuffle into Capricorn you can look back to 1996 and see how much you’ve gone through since then, perhaps appreciative of the changes but glad of the forthcoming easier times. Doubtless you will have changed as a person and you have probably undergone some big shifts in your personal and domestic life too. But now, as Pluto bids you farewell you can relax a little and focus on the areas of life that are ripe for development. These would be your financial and material situation, your career and direction, and still to a certain extent, your home and family. The good news is that over the next 12 months Jupiter and Pluto will bring powerful opportunities for you to change your financial status and make some big improvements. If you’re not materially motivated, you may simply get lucky or find yourself having to worry a lot less about money. Property and material ventures are more likely to go your way, and you should find yourself in a stronger position at the end of the year than where you are now. However, a word of caution, Jupiter and Pluto are not known for their restraint, so gambling and risky speculations could wipe you clean out – so make sure you know what you’re doing if you’re thinking of taking any risks. Generally though, you can expect to see your fortunes rise this year and with Saturn at the top of your chart, your best chances of success come from the effort you put into your career or vocation. Responsibility will pay off, hard work will be rewards and promotion or opportunity is likely to come knocking at least once. And as far as this week goes, you couldn’t be more blessed as Venus dances into your sign turning your personal appeal up a few notches. Start this year as you mean to go on by being positive, joyful and sharing your wonderful gifts, talents and joie de vivre with others.

January 7-14

If your financial situation isn’t all it could be, then use the power of the new moon on the 8th to create new beginnings and to even start afresh if the situation calls for a clean slate. Perhaps it’s time to adopt a different attitude to money and abundance – if you’ve been carefree or overspending, this would be a good time to turn over a new leaf and become more responsible. If you’re simply hoping for a better situation then Jupiter’s presence virtually guarantees it. Also with Venus in your sign, you should be feeling better about yourself and more open to good things coming your way. These are favourable transits at worst, and very lucky at best, so expect good things and trust in the universes ability to provide.

January 15-22

If you can keep your focus on where you want to be going and away from pleasurable distractions and overindulgences then this week could see you experiencing success, victory and achievement. A wonderful link from Jupiter to Saturn spells good news for your material life, including your job, career and money and any endeavours that you’re seeking to undertake. Expect developments in these areas but be wary of putting something off or turning down an opportunity which could further your growth. With a powerful psychic alignment of Mercury and Neptune in your mind area, you will just know what the right path is. So trust your intuition this week in all your choices and decisions. Your 6th sense will be very strong and it will seem as though you’re naturally tuned into people so that you can see the truth regardless of what they’re saying. Just don’t let yourself by seduced by tempting offers that will take you nowhere – again, you will intuitively know which is the right and wrong way to go, so listen to your inner voice.

January 23-31

As Mercury turns retrograde you might find yourself with a decision to make. If you’re feeling confused, uncertain or ambivalent or simply have too many choices or too many balls in the air, allow yourself some quiet time to assess what’s really important to you. Focus on your priorities and choose that which feeds your sprit. One thing that we can be sure of is that your material life is changing. From altering finances, to contracts, negotiations, deals, work and property matters, much of your attention perhaps needs to be focussed on getting your life sorted. Courage, responsibility and a mature attitude are the traits that will help you on your way, whatever you decide to do.

Capricorn

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Capricorn. And what a year it should be! With Jupiter and Pluto in your sign, the world is expecting big things from you. So as the author Les Brown once said, ‘Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss you’ll land among the stars.’

This would be a year when it would be advisable to put aside any fears and doubts and make this a year to remember. So the question to ask yourself at the beginning of 2008 is what do you want from the year ahead? What needs to change? What is currently lacking from your life, and what is your private dream? If you already know the answers to some of these questions, you can get busy and start making the changes that your heart longs for. If on the other hand, you’re scratching your chin wondering what I’m talking about because your life is fine as it is, then don’t worry, the changes will make their way to you. Or should I say, opportunities will make their way to you, for it is Jupiter we’re talking about and life tends to open up and become more enjoyable whenever he’s around. So perhaps you’ll find yourself in unknown territory this year; perhaps you’ll be experiencing a big new adventure which will transform you in many ways. Maybe a person or offer will come knocking that changes your life beyond all recognition, or maybe it will be more subtle but none the less transforming. So as you greet this first week of the New Year, set your intention for a wonderful time ahead and be prepared to move well beyond your comfort zone into a world of magic, colour passion, excitement and adventure.

January 7-14

The new moon in your sign on the 8th opens a very powerful window of opportunity for you, since not only do you have this lunar event helping you to wipe the slate clean and focus on your future, but you also have the planet of opportunity by your side too, making this an auspicious time of new beginnings. Visualise your intentions around the 8th and get ready to turn an important corner in your life. Also on the 8th Mercury moves into Aquarius signalling the time to get clear about a financial situation. Put your ideas into action, communicate, clarify – and remember, if you don’t ask you don’t get.

January 15-22

It’s all very well being told that you are surrounded by possibilities and that this has the potential to be a life changing year, but if you can’t see the wood for the trees it could all seem a bit meaningless. If the trees in question are financial or material ones then the full moon on the 22nd will do a lot to bring some much needed clarity so that you can see your way through to a brighter situation. It can be challenging focussing on higher matters such as fulfilling one’s dream when you’re weighed down with life’s ordinary details, such as paying bills, looking after children or ailing parents and doing the laundry, but any feelings of frustration or boredom are signs that something needs to change. Discover what it is that you really want and then believe that you have what it takes to make this a reality.

January 23-31

This is one week when you certainly won’t do things by halves, and if anyone invites you to live life to the full, you’ll probably grasp it with both hands. A very heady and seductive Venus-Pluto-Jupiter conjunction in your own sign makes this a very powerful and potent week, especially in the areas of creativity, relationships, finances and indulgence – so beware! Moderation and self restraint in all respects could fly out of the window, and whilst it may be good for you to let your hair down and experience one or two of life’s extremes, it might be wise to think before you leap into anything you might later regret. This is a very dramatic combination of planets and if you want to keep on the right side of people or if you’d prefer not to burn a hole in your credit card, the advice would be look before you leap. Make the most of these intense planetary energies by being creative, changing your appearance, enjoying a good meal with friends or a loved one, or treating yourself or others to one or two pleasures that you can afford. But be on your guard for the fact that economically and romantically, this could be a roller coaster week!

Aquarius
January 1-6

Happy New Year, Aquarius. ‘Take a rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop.’ This quote by Ovid gives you permission in 2008 to relax and retreat a little. With a cluster of planets piling up in your secluded zone, you might just feel like battening down the hatches and letting the world get on with its business whilst you put your feet up and take a much deserved rest. And that’s fine, for a while at least. You don’t need to be in too much of a hurry to get back into things and you would benefit from some quiet recuperative time to get things sorted in your mind. This year may well have a slower pace than previous years. It might be a year in which you feel compelled to explore your inner world and perhaps develop or instigate connections to the spiritual world. So this is a time to be still, to meditate, contemplate, and connect with God, Angels, Guides and your higher self. And as you do so, much healing will take place, which will in time enable you to emerge renewed and rebirthed and ready for a whole new set of challenges. But for now, take your time and relax.

January 7-14

Mercury’s entry into your sign makes this the perfect time to act upon your ideas, speak your mind and ask for what you want. Don’t keep your thoughts and ideas to yourself – let others know what sparks of inspiration are currently motivating your mental cogs. Or let it be known if you are feeling a little uncertain. You don’t always have to have all the answers and people will respect you for showing some fragility. The new moon and Jupiter in your private zone could be making you feel a little jittery and a tad insecure. It’s okay to not know what lies ahead but discussing your fears and doubts with others may help you see things in a new way. It is time to close a door on an element of your past and to take the time to get to know yourself and your private dreams a little bit better.

January 15-22

Compromise is your keyword as the full moon illuminates your zone of relating on the 22nd. Either you’re not compromising enough, or others are taking advantage and encouraging you to compromise your integrity. Decide which one is relevant for you and then aim to find a healthy balance. We should never compromise our integrity but we should also seek a win-win situation for all concerned. Mercury in your sign says that you have what you need for successful negotiations so if you ask you just might get. You will also be much more able than normal to tune into what other people need, so let your empathy and intuition guide you to make good decisions for others too. The Sun moving into your sign on the 20th is a good omen as far as your energy levels and motivation are concerned. You should be feeling more your normal self now and this would certainly be a good time to get things moving. And if you’re searching for inspiration or divine communication – the 22nd would be the perfect day to open yourself up as a channel for something extra-ordinary.

January 23-31

The more sure we are of our own rightness, the more we block ideas, inspiration and different perspectives that could help us to change. The planets are currently lining up in such a way as to encourage you to be extremely receptive to other people and their views, thoughts opinions and ideas. Don’t dismiss them without fair consideration – there might just be a little jewel of wisdom in there. Your own thoughts and views are equally valid but the more open you are to receiving input from all sources the more likely you are to have a pressing question answered. Listen to what others say to you for it could be that ideas may actually be the promptings of your guides through the mouths of others and it might be that the universe is tying to communicate something important to you right now. So be open, be trusting and open your door to the unexplainable and the mysterious.

Pisces

January 1-6

Happy New Year, Pisces. ‘Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it or work around it.’ Michael Jordan, the famous basketball player, offers this relevant advice for you in 2008. Firstly, you need to have a goal, challenge or aspiration. Then you need to ask the following questions: are you willing to leave the confines of your comfort zone? Are you ready to sail into new territory? And are you ready to make a difference to the lives of others? These are all important questions for you as we experience some big planetary shifts at the beginning of this New Year. You will be called to bigger and better things. You will be urged to follow your dream and pursue your hopes and wishes. And if these hopes, dreams and wishes will have a positive impact on the lives of others then you can be assured of generous support from the universe. But sometimes the universe also likes to test us, to make sure we are worthy and full of serious intent, and this is where you need to persevere in the face of challenge and adversity. Saturn in opposition throughout the year says that climbing to the top of your own personal mountain may not be the easiest thing you’ve ever done – it will call for courage, motivation, ingenuity and persistence. But you will at the end of it all, be handsomely rewarded. So hesitate no more, and begin to move in the direction that calls most strongly to your heart.

January 7-14

All you need to know this week as a new moon falls in your future zone is that you don’t have to try too hard. If you need to push or force it, step back and have a rethink. Conversely, that which seems to flow effortlessly is signalling to you that you’re on the right path. Trust your inner voice if you have any uncertainties as your intuition will be extra strong from the 8th. Listen to the whispers of your soul – be open to Divine communications which are all around you – and then set sail in a new direction. If you need hope, the new moon grants it. If you’re seeking light at the end of the tunnel, it’s imminent. Just trust and go with the flow and let yourself be carried to where the current seems to be taking you.

January 15-22

Your psychic power is growing stronger by the day, so trust it. In fact, instead of listening to experts in health or business matters, you might be better trusting your own intuition. Whatever you need to know this week and especially around the 22nd when the moon is full, trust that you already know the answers. A cluster of planets in your psychic zone says that you won’t find the answers outside of yourself, but you will find them through prayer, meditation, communication with your guides, higher self and helpers. Don’t dismiss any inner promptings as your gut feelings now will be telling you something for a reason. Aside from your growing intuitive faculties, this is a week when you can make much progress with others, especially in your relationships, friendships and any endeavours that have the best interests of others at heart. In fact, combining your forces with like-minded people to make a difference in some way, could be highly productive and rewarding now. So the message for this week is; trust yourself and do what you can to work with and help others.

January 23-31

It’s fine to acknowledge you can’t do it all on your own. It’s not fine though to give up. There is currently a powerful cluster of planets in your community zone, urging you to do what you can to make a difference. In fact, you can make a big difference but you might just need to enlist the support and help of others. This is also a positive omen for your social life, and you would be well advised to accept opportunities that encourage you to go out there and meet new people. So signing up for a new course, going to a group, or joining in some charitable venture could have you forging new contacts and meeting some stimulating people. You never where saying yes to life’s offers might lead you. So whether you intend to dazzle others with your personality or make new friends or join forces with those who have a common goal this is the week to reach out to others and see what power can be unleashed within a group.

Tarot Card Of The Month:

New Vision

The vibrant energy of this image perfectly expresses what it feels like to be inspired and moving towards our vision. We were each born with a vision but over time that vision can become cloudy so that we become confused and uncertain of what we’re supposed to e doing and where we’re supposed to be heading. Collectively we can see this has been going on for some time and as we head towards the dawning of the new consciousness we must have faith that this confusion will give rise to stronger identities and a much clearer sense of direction. Personally too, the energies this month offer us clarity and the ability to speak our truths and march to our own drumbeats- - proud of our individuality and respectful of the unique contribution that each human being can bring to the whole. This month have faith that humanity is heading towards a new vision of life on earth, a vision of truth, compassion, healing and enlightenment.

 

Osho Zen Tarot – published by St Martin’s Press.