Posts Tagged Pluto

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – this Summer’s T-square

Jul 3

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 381 Comments

Anonymous Flammarion woodcut (1888). (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Hello, everyone.

Several astronomical events influence our astrological world this week, and the planet Uranus assumes retrograde motion on Saturday. The Moon is waxing all week, which makes this a week for setting new plans in motion. Venus and Mercury are also active, but the biggest aspect of the week is an angle of opportunity between Jupiter and Pluto.

Some background

This summer, the outer planets Saturn, Uranus, and Pluto form a configuration called a T-square in the heavens. Saturn in Libra opposes Uranus in Aries, and Pluto forms a 90-degree angle to both. This aspect has been in place since last summer, and the Uranus/Pluto aspect will continue until next summer. This summer the aspects come within a couple of degrees of exact, close enough to feel, but not close enough to come to a head and force a confrontation. This spells tension without the opportunity to actually address and relieve it.

When a major configuration involves outer planets, we generally experience the aspect in our peripheral vision. We hear about the struggles happening in distant lands, or we know that major institutions are being shaken to their knees. It affects us, but not in our personal or business lives. This week features a few transits that bring these global issues into our local spheres.

Jupiter/Pluto

Jupiter, the planet of opportunity and expansion, forms an excellent aspect with Pluto in Capricorn this week. If you’ve been struggling with transitions or if the breakdowns in the economy have been shaking the structure of your business, this week can secure your foundations again. There is potential for practical solutions this week, which you can invite through earnest effort and a bit of trust. Change has come; this week you’ll recognize the benefits of that change and start looking forward to the future again. This is important, so keep your eyes open.

Since the aspect between Jupiter and Pluto is in earth signs, we’re not looking for something subtle. Concrete manifestation is more likely but sometimes this aspect feels so good we miss the fact that some action is required. An opportunity that comes your way this week can carry you far into the future, so grab it when it comes.

Venus and the T-square

Venus, the planet of material rewards and interrelationships, meets up with the Saturn/Uranus/Pluto T-square, as well as Jupiter and Neptune this week. Having just entered the sign of Cancer, she’s spending the week negotiating peace treaties among all the players. If we can just treat each other like family, she says, then we can all reach prosperity together.

Venus is no lightweight. We tend to personalize her because she represents a part of ourselves that is easy to feel and operates in our day-to-day lives. But as one of the emissaries of the Sun, she acts as an agent of our essential purpose in life through forming relationships with others. No matter what may be happening in the wider world, this week Venus bridges opposing parties and reminds us that collaboration beats competition every time. For us this means staying alert, seizing the moment, and choosing to nurture and protect everyone within our sphere, from employees to competitors to our human family as a whole.

Mercury and the T-square

Mercury, the planet of reason and intellect, is also in the mix this week. Another agent of our conscious will, Mercury translates our intention into communications and problem-solving. The new, the technological, the innovative will flow into our thoughts this week; keep yourself open to radical viewpoints and inventive solutions to technical difficulties. Mercury is with both Uranus and Jupiter this week, which can lead to exciting breakthroughs. Later in the week, a supportive Mercury/Saturn aspect brings the discipline and perseverance to settle the buzz of the week into a practical implementation plan.

Uranus Retrograde

Happy July 4th!

Uranus represents originality and unconventionality, either the brilliant genius or the willful rebel without a cause. Each year Uranus spends five months in retrograde motion. Retrograde motion is a visual event rather than an astronomical one. From our vantage point on earth, it looks like the planet begins to move backward against the backdrop of the constellations.

When Uranus entered the sign of Aries a few months ago, we were probably flooded with new ideas for our businesses, innovations we couldn’t wait to try, a restructuring whose time had finally come. We may have been “on fire” with potential and possibility.

Especially with unpredictable Uranus in impulsive, risk-loving Aries, the innovations we’ve been so fired up about could probably use a second look. This is the gift of retrograde motion – it gives us a chance to retrace our steps, to check initial results against expectations, and to correct decisions before they can do real damage.

When a planet moves into retrograde motion, we can experience reversals and disruptions for a week on either side. The tricky part about an outer planet like Uranus is that the reversals could well seem to be coming from forces outside yourself: that new project doesn’t get approved after all, that funding doesn’t come through as scheduled. If this is your experience, take a step back. Uranus can act suddenly and swiftly but after a couple of weeks, as we adjust to the retrograde energy, we’ll discover the purpose for the setback. And then we’ll be thanking our lucky stars!

Have a wonderful week! Happy Independence Day to everyone in the U.S.
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For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – July 2011

For an overview of the year, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Tags: astrology, business, Jupiter, Mercury, Pluto, Saturn, Uranus, Venus

Astro4Business Month Ahead – July 2011

Jul 2

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Month Ahead | 81 Comments

Hello, everyone.

Welcome to the Astro4Business Monthly Forecast for July, 2011. What are the planetary influences this month and how can we work with them?

We’ll start with the most long-range and overarching influences, the planets Pluto, Neptune, and Uranus, which you will notice do not travel far from month to month but stay in the same sector of the sky for many years. These form the backdrop to our personal lives, affecting matters on a global stage.
Then we will look at the mid-range influences, Jupiter and Saturn, which stay in the same sign for 1 – 2.5 years. These planets represent our interactions with our societal environment, its rules, regulations, belief systems, and benefits.
We’ll look at the personal planets, Mars, Venus, Mercury, and the Sun which stay in their respective signs for much shorter periods and primarily influence our day-to-day lives.
And last we’ll look at the sign and dates for the New and Full Moon, as these mark the waxing and waning cycles in our daily activities.

Pluto in Capricorn

We’ve spoken at length about Pluto in Capricorn, where it will remain until 2024. In a nutshell, this long transit will bring upheaval and transformation to the structures of our world: government, organized religion, the economy, industry, and the military, to name a few. This transit carries the energy of revolution and evolution and can be dramatic and at times overwhelming. Pluto exposes what is hidden, leaving no stone unturned.

Pluto hastens and intensifies the processes of endings and new beginnings, and while Pluto is in Capricorn we will systematically bring about the end of business pursuits that are no longer suited to our growth and personal evolution. Whatever has been slowly leaking vitality will depart, including old business models, practices, and products.

Pluto has been in retrograde motion since April. If you’ve been working with an old problem you thought you had resolved, excavate any lingering issues and put them finally to rest.

To read more about Pluto in Capricorn and its impact on your chart this year, see Pluto’s Journey through 2011.

Neptune in Pisces

Neptune begins and ends the month at home in Pisces. Neptune in Pisces begins a shift from the intellectual associations and words-based networking that were common for the last thirteen years when Neptune was in Aquarius, to connections based on feelings and shared beliefs.

Neptune turned retrograde on June 3, it annual retreat back through the heavens until next November. When the distant planet Neptune turns retrograde, we are likely to see its effects in society. Retrograde motion is a time of revisiting what has happened in the past, this time back to February 2011. Look for reversals or reexaminations of decisions regarding health care, oil drilling (Neptune rules oil and liquids of all kinds), the creative arts, drugs legislation, and shipping, to name a few areas. If your business is involved in any of these industries, be prepared for lack of clarity until November.

To read more about Neptune in Pisces and its impact on your chart this year, see Neptune Swimming through 2011.

Uranus in Aries

Uranus left the sign Pisces and entered Aries in March beginning a new 84-year cycle of scientific and political innovation. Uranus embodies the principle of change, especially the kind of transitions that occur because of sudden breakthroughs and technological inventions. Society is constantly moving forward and when the time comes when the traditional is just too safe and stale, the energy of Uranus bursts through the barriers and ushers in the new.

What does this mean for us in business? We will probably feel compelled to take risks we would not even have considered in the past. We may feel confined by the people around us or the structures we’ve implemented. We may seek opportunities to bring scientific or technical discoveries into our products and services. We may approach everyday challenges as battles to be fought and won. We want out of our shell, even if we created it.

On July 9, Uranus enters its annual period of retrograde motion, which will last until December. With Uranus retrograde, there could be a disruption of the innovative energy of the last few months. You may begin to feel ambivalent or dissatisfied with your new ideas and initiatives.

This feeling of dissatisfaction is common in the first few weeks of a retrograde cycle. This is not to say that you should abandon your new projects. The retrograde part of the cycle is the perfect time to develop and test ideas and reevaluate your tactics and approach. Use this time to discern which of your ideas have lasting value and which have limited potential. Ideally, you will see yourself as an explorer in unknown territory, as Erin Sullivan says in her excellent book, Retrograde Planets. This is the time to test your new strategy before you invest too heavily.

To read more about Uranus in Aries and its impact on your chart this year, see Uranus Flashes through 2011.

Saturn in Libra

Saturn in Libra is the antithesis of Uranus in Aries. It counsels patience, persistence, responsibility, and humility in relationships, which leads to cooperation and mutual support. This planet of structure and discipline provides much-needed grounding and circumspection to hot and erratic Uranus in Aries.

You may feel torn between the tried and true (Saturn) and the desire for breakthrough (Uranus). Strive for balance, bringing the best of the old along with you into new territory.

Saturn resumed direct motion on June 12. Don’t be surprised if you have the sense you’re repeating the past in your business or career; until the end of September, Saturn will be covering the same degrees for the third time. Remember, the third time’s the charm!

Jupiter in Taurus

On June 4, Jupiter entered the earthy sign Taurus. Jupiter, the planet of expansion, in Taurus, the sign of physical, tangible objects, spells material abundance. Sounds good, doesn’t it? Taurus represents the natural fecundity of the earth: trees beginning to fruit, cows full with milk, greening pastures. In nature, Taurus is the time when the initial spark of spring settles into solid growth.

With Jupiter in Taurus, it’s time for us to turn our attention to practical matters. We can codify our expansion plans and build systems that will insure lasting success. It’s a time for slow, steady growth and long-term investment. Think, “Built to Last.”

Mars in Gemini

When Mars moved into Gemini on June 20, we may have started spinning our wheels. Perhaps we have too many projects vying for our attention, or too many interests pulling us in different directions. The best use of this energy? Learning and teaching, intellectual exploring, gathering new information, and training. This energy is also excellent for creating new distribution channels for goods and services, both transportation-based and the virtual kind.

Venus in Gemini/Cancer/Leo

We start the month with Venus in Gemini, but on the 3^rd she transitions into Cancer. When Venus is in Gemini, we are extroverted, chatty, and love nothing more than to sprinkle our attention across many projects and many people. With Venus in Cancer we relate more empathically, expressing more nurturing and understanding. Relationships with customers, partners, and employees may feel more maternal than professional yet fortune lies in our ability to treat people like our own family at this time. This is a great time for company barbeques and celebrations.

On June 28, Venus moves into Leo. This begins a few weeks of fun. Venus indicates what makes people happy, creative, and productive and Leo loves showmanship, competition, games, and sports. To build camaraderie, try a company softball game or online video tournament. Company culture is a key component of success. Venus in Leo is a great time to build a collaborative culture through fun and games, showcasing individual talent.

Mercury in Cancer/Leo/Virgo

Mercury begins the month in Cancer but moves into Leo on the 2^nd. When Mercury enters Leo, conversations and communications become showy and dramatic. Sales presentations should include a bit of flash and a bit of fun. Just warn your sales team not to come off as cocky or overconfident, which is sure to turn people off. Make sure your customer remains the center of attention at this time.

Mercury in Virgo at the end of the month is great for writing, documentation, and detailed project plans. Also great for getting that bookkeeping caught up!

Sun in Cancer/Leo

While the Sun is in Cancer until the 22^nd, make extra time for your employees and customers. Make sure you understand what they need and nurture these relationships sensitively.

When the Sun moves into Leo, step into the limelight. As the leader of your team, this is the time of year par excellence to set direction and reinforce your authority. You may become hypersensitive to issues of loyalty, recognizing who is really on your team, and who is just passing through. Of course, loyalty is a two way street, usually only given when it is received in kind.

Phases of the Moon

There was a New Moon/Partial Solar Eclipse in Cancer on July 1(MDT), waxing to Full in Capricorn on July 15. There is another New Moon on July 30 in Leo. Look for a new start early in the month in whichever house in your chart contains 9 degrees Cancer, then again at the end of the month in whichever house contains 7 degrees Leo. (If you need a copy of your chart, see the box in the sidebar to request one free.)

Monthly Recap

There is some tension building in the skies this month, as Uranus in Aries comes within two degrees of a square to Pluto in Capricorn. Jupiter arbitrates the dispute until the 19^th, linking Uranus and Pluto together with wise counsel and benevolence. But after the 19^th, all the gloves are off and we may sidle up to a conflict between big systems and the desire for independence. I say “sidle up” because this aspect does not become exact until next summer when we can expect a real revolution. This summer we’ll feel the stirrings of future change.

Here’s a treat:

Are you in astrological overwhelm? Check out this link on my other blog for 5 simple ways to get your feet wet in astrology without drowning. Astrology is so Vast; Where Do I Start?

Have a great month and let me know how it all plays out!

Key Dates for the Month

July 1 New Moon; Partial Solar Eclipse

July 2 Mercury enters Leo

July 3 Venus enters Cancer

July 9 Uranus assumes retrograde motion

July 15 Full Moon in Capricorn

July 22 Sun enters Leo

July 28 Mercury enters Virgo; Venus enters Leo

July 30 New Moon in Leo

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For an overview of the year, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

Tags: astrology, business, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Moon, Neptune, Pluto, Saturn, Sun, Uranus, Venus

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Intensity!

Jun 26

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 105 Comments

Anonymous Flammarion woodcut (1888). (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Hello everyone.

As I am writing this, I just heard James Taylor sing, “The secret of life is enjoying the passage of time.” Great line for writing an astrological article, don’t you think?

This is a week to recognize a turning point, a change in direction, but, interestingly, not a week to take action on our realizations. With the Moon waning all week until the New Moon Eclipse on Friday, it is a time to imbibe and hold.

The action begins on Monday and follows us throughout the week. On Monday, there is an aspect of conflict between the Sun and Pluto. Each year the Sun reaches the point in the zodiac where it is exactly opposite Pluto, and for as long as Pluto is in Capricorn, the next fifteen years or so, this opposition will happen when the Sun is in Cancer. Let’s unpack this a little.

Pluto in Capricorn heralds a long period of upheaval and transformation in structures, hierarchies, and systems. It does this by exposing the underbelly, bringing hidden facets to the surface, and expunging whatever is decayed, rotten, spoiling, or just plain has outlived its purpose. The Sun in Cancer is about nurturing growth and bonding with others. It is also the turning point of the year: end of 2^nd quarter, it is time to examine what is working and what is not. This is the perfect energy to make whatever adjustments are necessary to your business operations to insure that when the year ends, you’ll have met your goals.

I wouldn’t be surprised if in the past week or in this week coming you experience a fairly dramatic situation that exposes a system or structure that is failing. This opposition between the Sun and Pluto is somewhat like a Full Moon; let’s call it Full Pluto. The Sun shining fully on Pluto brings matters to light, and with Pluto, what it brings to light could be pretty nasty.

The Sun represents the leader, the owner, the team captain. If you’re the leader, you may feel exposed and responsible, and to some extent you are. Nevertheless, this transit can put you back on the right road. Fortunately, on the same day as the Sun/Pluto aspect there is a supportive aspect between Mars in Gemini and Uranus in Aries. This is a perfect aspect for imagining solutions. With Mars in Gemini, it may take many different small moves rather than one overhauling initiative. However, there is incredible support for technical creativity and problem solving.

The creativity of Monday could turn into frustration on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday for two reasons. First, Mars continues the Sun/Pluto conflict with a difficult aspect to Pluto. This is the kind of energy where you can’t make any headway no matter what you try. The “powers that be” feel just indomitable. Second, the waning Moon has lost so much energy that it will be hard just to muster the enthusiasm to keep tackling the problems.

Then Friday is a New Moon Eclipse, and this is a big one. It features not only the eclipse, but a challenging aspect between the Sun and Saturn which will flavor the next few days. This aspect is also about systems and controls. You may even reach an ultimatum: either you bring yourself into alignment with existent structures or you decide to part ways. This is tough, but with the Sun and Venus in Cancer, the choice will be clear. You will favor whatever is most protective to others, most nurturing to your employees, most supportive to your customers. And that will be the right thing to do.

Remember that any New Moon, and especially an Eclipse, is a time of withdrawal and rest. Try to find time to be alone and turn toward inner sources of inspiration as much as you can this week.

Let me know how it all turns out!

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For an overview of the year, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – June 2011

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Tags: astrology, business, Eclipse, New Moon, Pluto, Saturn, Sun

Astro4Business Month Ahead – June 2011

May 31

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Month Ahead | 50 Comments

Hello, everyone.

Welcome to the Astro4Business Monthly Forecast for June, 2011. What are the planetary influences this month and how can we work with them?

We’ll start with the most long-range and overarching influences, the planets Pluto, Neptune, and Uranus, which you will notice do not travel far from month to month but stay in the same sector of the sky for many years. These form the backdrop to our personal lives, affecting matters on a global stage.
Then we will look at the mid-range influences, Jupiter and Saturn, which stay in the same sign for 1 – 2.5 years. These planets represent our interactions with our societal environment, its rules, regulations, belief systems, and benefits.
We’ll look at the personal planets, Mars, Venus, Mercury, and the Sun which stay in their respective signs for much shorter periods and primarily influence our day-to-day lives.
And last we’ll look at the sign and dates for the New and Full Moon, as these mark the waxing and waning cycles in our daily activities.

Pluto in Capricorn

Pluto hastens and intensifies the processes of endings and new beginnings, and in Capricorn will bring about the ending of our business pursuits that are no longer suited to our growth and personal evolution. Whatever has been slowly leaking vitality will depart, including old business models, practices, and products.

Pluto is still in retrograde motion. If you’ve been working with an old problem you thought you had resolved, excavate any lingering issues and put them finally to rest.

To read more about Pluto in Capricorn and its impact on your chart this year, see Pluto’s Journey through 2011.

Neptune in Pisces

Neptune comes to a virtual standstill on June 3 and begins apparent retrograde motion, commencing its annual retreat back through the heavens until next November. When the distant planet Neptune turns retrograde we are likely to see its effects in society. Retrograde motion is a time of revisiting what has happened in the past, this time back to February 2011. Look for reversals or reexaminations of decisions regarding health care, oil drilling (Neptune rules oil and liquids of all kinds), the creative arts, drugs legislation, and shipping, to name a few areas. If your business is involved in any of these industries, be prepared for some lack of clarity until November.

To read more about Neptune in Pisces and its impact on your chart this year, see Neptune Swimming through 2011.

Uranus in Aries

Uranus left the sign Pisces and entered Aries in March beginning a brand new 84-year cycle of scientific and political innovation. Uranus embodies the principle of change, especially the kind of transitions that occur because of sudden breakthroughs and technological inventions. Society is constantly moving forward and when the time comes when the traditional is just too safe and stale, the energy of Uranus bursts through the barriers and ushers in the new.

To read more about Uranus in Aries and its impact on your chart this year, see Uranus Flashes through 2011.

Saturn in Libra

Saturn in Libra is the antithesis of Uranus in Aries. It counsels patience, persistence, responsibility, and humility in relationships, leading to cooperation and mutual support. This planet of structure and discipline provides some much-needed grounding and circumspection to hot and erratic Uranus in Aries.

You may feel torn between the tried and true (Saturn) and the desire for breakthrough (Uranus). Strive for balance bringing the best of the old along with you into new territory.

Saturn concludes its annual period of retrograde motion on June 12. You may find yourself restarting a partnership or work alliance you thought you left behind last October. If so, you’ll have a lot more information now to make solid progress this time. Don’t be surprised if you have the sense you’re repeating the past; until the end of September Saturn will be covering the same degrees for the third time now. Remember, the third time’s the charm!

Jupiter in Aries/Taurus

For much of the last year, Jupiter has been in Aries. Aries is a fundamentally aggressive mind-set, whether in the form of the lone-wolf entrepreneur or the established global company. It brings a desire to take on the competition, expand into new territory, and develop new markets.

On June 4, Jupiter enters the sign Taurus. Jupiter, the planet of expansion, in Taurus, the sign of physical, tangible objects, spells material abundance. Sounds good, doesn’t it? Taurus represents the natural abundance of the earth, trees beginning to fruit, cows full with milk, greening pastures. In nature, this is the time when the initial spark of spring settles into solid growth. It’s also time for us to settle down.

Many people are burned-out from Jupiter’s sojourn through Aries. Risk-taking and expansion have been the keywords of the time. Now is the time to codify those good ideas and to build systems that will insure lasting success. It’s a time for slow, steady growth and long-term investment. Think, “Built to Last.”

Mars in Taurus/Gemini

Mars is in Taurus until June 20. This is the time for patient and persistent work. Mars in Taurus is a builder, piece by piece, nail by nail, bringing vision into concrete form.

When Mars moves into Gemini, we can lose focus. Our interests may become scattered and we may find ourselves spinning our wheels for a while. The best use of this energy? Learning and teaching, handing on to others what you know, mentoring, studying, and training. It’s also excellent for building distribution channels for goods and services, both transportation based and virtual.

Venus in Taurus/Gemini

Venus is in her home sign of Taurus until June 9. Venus in Taurus turns our attention toward security, the real-world kind, the kind with dollar signs. We want to invest in bricks and mortar and build relationships which will stand over time.

Venus in Gemini is very different. When Venus is in Gemini, we are extroverted, chatty, and love nothing more than to sprinkle our attention across many projects and many people. We are happiest when we’re out and about, furthering our network and negotiating.

Mercury in Taurus/Gemini/Cancer

Mercury in Taurus brings a stabilizing influence to your mind and careful, productive communications. But on June 2, Mercury enters its home sign Gemini. When Mercury moves into Gemini, conversation and networking become the order of the day. Immerse yourself in knowledge and data, and the more sources the better: books, magazines, news, email, social media, and face-to-face all yield important clues about where your business is heading and the steps to take to get there.

After less than two weeks in its favorite sign, Mercury moves on into Cancer on June 16. When Mercury travels through Cancer, your employees may prefer a one-on-one conversation rather than the most brilliant presentation. And your customers want to feel you listen to them rather than be dazzled by cleverness. Meet with everyone who needs your attention. This is a good time to spell out your vision and gain people’s loyalty.

Sun in Gemini/Cancer

The Sun in Gemini is the perfect time for sales and communication, press releases, and for disseminating your company news as widely as possible. It may be time to add to your sales force or start a company blog to broadcast your product as widely as possible. Communicate, communicate, communicate. Just be sure you only promise what you can deliver.

When the Sun moves into Cancer and through the Solstice on June 21, it brings a time of adjustment, correction, or fine-tuning. Take all of the feedback you gained when the Sun was in Gemini and use the action-oriented Solstice energy to respond to the needs of your customers. Make whatever changes will add value to your business.

Phases of the Moon

The New Moon is in Gemini on June 1 (MDT), waxing to Full in Sagittarius on June 15. The Gemini New Moon is also a Partial Solar Eclipse and the Full Moon is a Total Lunar Eclipse. Look for a new start on the New Moon in whichever house in your chart contains 11 degrees Gemini. For me, that’s the 12^th house, spirituality and service. (If you need a copy of your chart, see the box in the sidebar to request one free.)

Monthly Recap

This is a month of change, with most of the planets either changing sign or direction. Add to that two eclipses and this becomes a power month, one that ends in a very different place than it began. But there are no major difficult aspects to the outer planets this month, so it should be a month of progress. If you keep it loose, it may even be fun!

Are you in astrological overwhelm? Check out this link on my other blog for 5 simple ways to get your feet wet in astrology without drowning. Astrology is so Vast; Where Do I Start?

Have a great month and let me know how it all plays out!

Key Dates for the Month

June 1 New Moon; Partial Solar Eclipse

June 2 Mercury enters Gemini

June 3 Neptune assumes retrograde motion

June 4 Jupiter enters Taurus

June 9 Venus enters Gemini

June 12 Saturn assumes direct motion

June 15 Full Moon; Total Lunar Eclipse

June 16 Mercury enters Cancer

June 20 Mars enters Gemini

June 21 Sun enters Cancer; Solstice

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Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

Tags: astrology, business, Eclipse, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Moon, Neptune, Pluto, Saturn, Sun, Uranus, Venus

The Summer Ahead: Action!

May 23

Posted by Ellen Longo in Current Events, Uranus/Pluto Square | 8 Comments

Hello everyone.

The following is an excerpt from a Straight to the Point Response I prepared for a client last week. As I spoke about the general influences coming up this summer, I realized that the advice is applicable to all of us so I thought I’d share it on this blog. It addresses the Uranus/Pluto square in place over the next two years and how we might experience this aspect in our businesses. The client is beginning a new community service this summer but my remarks apply to any new project you may be starting. I’ve taken out all of the personal references stemming from the individual situation to maintain the client’s anonymity. This is a transcript of an audio recording, pretty much word for word, so you may want to read it as if listening to a talk rather than reading a document. Use this next link to learn about modern Business Finance.

Phoenix depicted in the book of mythological creatures by F.J. Bertuch (1747-1822). (Source:Wikipedia)

I wanted to talk about the coming summer in general and how your project fits in with what the whole world is going through this summer. I’m sure you’re aware of the major aspect in the sky right now, which is Uranus newly in Aries squaring Pluto in Capricorn. This is an influence that permeates the whole world and we can certainly see it in some of the political situations that are happening right now. I wanted to talk about it because if we were to make a chart of the endeavor you’re starting, it would have this major Uranus/Pluto aspect in the natal chart of its birth. Anything that is birthed now will have this aspect. It’s the undergirding of what we’re all doing in our day to day lives right now and anything that is born now will reflect the energy of this major square. The aspect is not exact until next summer but it gets very, very close to exact; it’s certainly close enough to be a major factor influencing whatever is born at this time.

It’s a great time for building something that serves the community; Uranus is a force concerned with bringing community together. Uranus rules community and groups of all kinds. But this summer Uranus is in conflict with Pluto. Pluto is the planet of breaking things down and transforming things, of releasing the energy that is trapped in things. I think your endeavor can do this also, but not without stresses and tension in trying to accomplish what you’re hoping to accomplish regarding the community. You can see this Uranus/Pluto square now in many places around the world. Pluto in Capricorn is a very solid, almost stuck energy and it’s very stable. This is not to say it’s stable in establishing what is good or righteous and Uranus is trying to break through or break down or free things that have gotten very stuck. Pluto’s a pretty powerful planet but so is Uranus. It’s like two titans in the sky, both in an intractable frame of mind.

But the square is in cardinal signs, Aries and Capricorn, and how we are meant to respond to this kind of impasse is to take action. This is not the time to be passive or to feel that the powers that be are more powerful than we are. Especially with Uranus in Aries we’re all meant to take action and to believe that we can have an impact. As challenging and intractable as this impasse is, we can actually make a difference using these same energies, which will affect our lives, the lives of our communities, and the life of the world. You can see this same energy fomenting the revolutions in the Mideast because people are feeling that as individuals we have power to make a difference and that what we do individually actually has an impact on the world around us.

Intractable Square (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

With a square the energy is so powerful and hard to deal with that sometimes we project one part or the other. But the point is that both the Pluto and Uranus archetypes are in play, in each of us and throughout our world. Sometimes it becomes so difficult to reconcile two energies when they are in a challenging angle to each other that we project one side or the other, or if there are two of us involved in a project, one person may play one role and the other may play another role. The person playing Uranus in Aries might be seen as the innovator, the risk-taker, the one who wants to break free of the past, to begin something new, something creative and inventive. Another party, either your community in general or one of the two of you, might play the person more in the power seat, more connected to the structures already in place or more content with what has been traditionally acceptable in the past. For example, your project could be an upstart and there is another established group you may be in conflict with. Or you guys may be part of the established structure that honors the traditions of your community and someone else may be coming in and trying to foment a revolution, be the upstart, the new kid on the block.

Both of these energies are in play and both are part of your endeavor. So if you run into one of the two corners of this energy, either the upstart innovator or the tradition-bound system, just remember that both of these are part of the birth of your endeavor. They will both stamp your endeavor, and they both have a lot to give your endeavor because there is a great deal of energy generated as we try to manage this conflict throughout the world and in our lives.

Capricorn Glyph (Source:Wikipedia)

One of the symbolic representations of Pluto is the phoenix, the mythical bird that immolates itself and then rises from the ashes of its former self. This energy is very much in our environment these days also. As I thought about this for your project, I wanted to say that this symbol is one you should take advantage of now. Just like the phoenix is resurrected from the ashes of its former self, our role right now is to dig in the ashes of our former selves, the ashes of the past, and recognize those things that were valid; talents you developed, strengths you cultivated, and innovations you made can be carried into this new endeavor. You shouldn’t assume that everything from the past should be scrapped. There are good solid innovations from the past that can be brought into the present. There are valuable resources in what you are bringing to this new project. Even if the past is no more, there are still valid ideas and valid creative expressions that can be brought into the current endeavor.

That’s not to say that you shouldn’t let things go; you should. That’s what Pluto in Capricorn is all about, systems and structures that have been in place for a long time that have become tradition-bound and need to fall, to topple and to be reborn. But look for the baby to keep, so to speak, as you empty the bathwater.

Uranus in Aries begins a new 84-year cycle. There’s a lot of energy right now for new beginnings. It actually harmonizes in a way with Pluto in Capricorn because Pluto in Capricorn is about breaking down old structures, any that have become dead, decayed, and in need of rebirth. And then Uranus in Aries comes along and says, this is the way I’m going to do it: revolution, power to the people, power to the community, something new, something that we haven’t tried before. These two together spell a time of change and the establishment of new unique ideas. It’s a great time to think in completely unique and creative ways, to try things you’ve never tried before, or have never been attempted by anyone before. It’s a time to really let your creative imagination be free, and not just because we’re each individually channeling this energy of revolution and change. But our customers, the people who partake of our creative endeavors and products, will also be ready for something different, something unique, something new – we’re all ready to let the past be the past and to step into a new paradigm.

Aries Glyph (Source: Wikipedia)

Uranus in Aries is very entrepreneurial and individualistic, so the innovations and changes are coming through the individual. Uranus operates through groups very well but each person in the group is going to want to express himself or herself individually. It might be more difficult than usual to have people work as an ensemble, to get everyone to sing the same note, metaphorically speaking. You may have to build this understanding into your operations because each person feels they have something to give that is unique and individual and is willing to stand alone to offer it. You’ll have to account for the lone wolf who wants their own unique voice to be heard and if you do, that wolf will join you in the pack.

And lastly I wanted to say to expect the unexpected. With Uranus in Aries we’ll all be surprised that what we think we’re doing, well, the future is anybody’s guess as to where it’s going to go. So hold to your plan loosely. I think your idea is great and the endeavor will be successful but hold it loosely so that as time unfolds it can change. I think change is going to be a big feature of the coming couple of years: change is a keyword of both Uranus and Pluto. Change will be part of any endeavor being born at this time. So hold your enterprise in a way that you can allow it to change, maybe even often and maybe dramatically.

For a specific time of unpredictability, the whole first half of the month of August is a very volatile time. There are very close aspects with Mars, Uranus, and Pluto which bring lots of energy and lots of instability. There are likely to be major decisions you need to take or challenges you need to deal with at that time and you’ll need to actively guide the ship through some rough waters. Remember to take the wheel and steer.

At this point I addressed their situation in a more personal manner, looking at their natal charts, current transiting planets affecting their charts, and suggesting some dates for incorporation. But the above is guidance for all of us to keep in mind as this time of change begins.

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For more on Uranus and Pluto during 2011, see:

Uranus Flashes through 2011

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Uranus

Pluto

Tags: astrology, business, Pluto, Uranus

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Busy!

May 15

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 206 Comments

Anonymous Flammarion woodcut (1888). (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Hello everyone.

This week is very busy, with the Full Moon early in the week and the end of the week packed with aspects between Mercury, Mars, Venus and powerhouse Pluto. Add to this next Sunday’s sparring between the Sun, newly in Gemini, and Neptune in Pisces and we’ve got a week of healthy challenges with the ability to meet them head-on.

Full Moon

We’ll ramp up to the Full Moon all day on Monday as it reaches culmination early on Tuesday (MDT). The Full Moon this month is an opposition between the Sun in Taurus and the Moon in Scorpio. Both Scorpio and Taurus are related to money. Taurus rules our own finances and Scorpio rules outside resources like lenders, investors, and insurers. This Full Moon asks you to look at the extent of your reliance on these outside resources and whether they are helping or hindering your own financial stability. What is the ratio of your debt to your assets? How is your credit rating? How much of your monthly budget is spent on interest payments? If these issues are perfectly in balance, fine. If they are weighted too strongly in one direction or the other, this Moon will bring awareness and the will to do something about it.

Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Pluto

Let me start by saying that Mercury, Venus, and Mars form an excellent aspect to Pluto this week, one which brings opportunity and an increase in our personal power and influence. Sometimes people hear Pluto will be active and they immediately think of death, destruction, and upheaval. Pluto can be these things but also healing, transformation, and rebirth. Whether the former or the latter, it all works to our advantage this week.

"All for one; one for all." By Maurice Leloir, engraved on wood by Jules Huyot. (Source:Wikipedia)

We spoke last week about Mercury and Venus traveling together in the sky and this week they catch up with Mars – like the three Musketeers, “all for one, one for all.” In last week’s post I spoke about Mercury and Venus together:

…This is like a device that works well and is beautiful to look at. Or when your best systems manager is also great with people. When your smartest analyst can create a presentation that really pops or when your marketing director never overpromises because she understands what it takes to deliver.

Add Mars in Taurus to this mix and we get all the above plus the energy to actually take action and implement. Mars is impatient with plans and concepts, and even uninterested in beauty and form. Mars wants to take the field and lead people to accomplishment. This adds a spark to this week that was missing last week, and a much better chance of actually producing something tangible.

These three are working together all week when they run into the vibe of Pluto. Pluto is a detective, an undercover sleuth and he will lend these talents to Mercury, Venus, and Mars. This makes for an excellent week to get to the bottom of something and make changes that are overdue. Are your people in the right positions? Is production on schedule? Are your major projects in alignment with your company’s goals? Does the current economic and political environment support your vision?

This whole configuration is in earth signs: it’s time to get practical in the physical world. We’re talking “atoms rather than bits” as Chris Anderson of WIRED Magazine coined the phrase. Nail by nail, this week is about dismantling something worn out and recycling the parts into something with new promise.

Sun/Neptune

We’ll be grateful for all this solid earth energy this week because with the Sun squaring Neptune next Sunday, anyone in leadership is likely to get more and more spaced out as the week unfolds. When the Sun intersects Neptune’s vibe, it’s important that we strive for clarity and not believe everything we hear. We shouldn’t even necessarily trust our own judgment!

However, if we can turn our attention away from the nuts and bolts of running our businesses, creative waves of vision and inspiration will wash over us next weekend. Try to delegate day-to-day to your best staff and let yourself become inspired by your muse.

Have a great, busy week!

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For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – May 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Tags: astrology, business, Full Moon, Mars, Mercury, Neptune, Pluto, Sun, Venus

Astro4Business Month Ahead – May 2011

Apr 30

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Month Ahead | 7 Comments

Hello, everyone.

Welcome to the Astro4Business Monthly Forecast for May, 2011. What are the planetary influences this month and how can we work with them?

We’ll start with the most long-range and overarching influences, the planets Pluto, Neptune, and Uranus, which you will notice do not travel far from month to month but stay in the same sector of the sky for many years. These form the backdrop to our personal lives, affecting matters on a global stage.
Then we will look at the mid-range influences, Jupiter and Saturn, which stay in the same sign for 1 – 2.5 years. These planets represent our interactions with our societal environment, its rules, regulations, belief systems, and benefits.
We’ll look at the personal planets, Mars, Venus, Mercury, and the Sun which stay in their respective signs for much shorter periods and primarily influence our day-to-day lives.
And last we’ll look at the sign and dates for the New and Full Moon, as these mark the waxing and waning cycles in our activities.

Pluto in Capricorn

Pluto turned retrograde on April 9. You may have noticed a reversal which will lead you back to a problem you thought you had resolved. If so, you’re not quite finished with it yet. Excavate any lingering issues and put them finally to rest.

To read more about Pluto in Capricorn and its impact on your chart this year, see Pluto’s Journey through 2011.

Neptune in Pisces

Neptune begins the month at home in Pisces. Neptune in Pisces begins a shift from the intellectual associations and words-based networking which were common for the last thirteen years when Neptune was in Aquarius, to connections based on feelings and shared beliefs. New groups will form around a unified vision for the future. Borders will shift as disparate groups come together and merge into one larger whole while other sectors dissolve. New tools and technology will pervade our business processes based on changing media which will allow for more spontaneous creativity. We will incorporate the senses more and more into products and services. Look for breakthroughs in medical fields including alternative medicine and mental and emotional health.

To read more about Neptune in Pisces and its impact on your chart this year, see Neptune Swimming through 2011.

Uranus in Aries

To read more about Uranus in Aries and its impact on your chart this year, see Uranus Flashes through 2011.

Saturn in Libra

You may feel torn between the tried and true (Saturn) and the desire for breakthrough (Uranus). Strive for balance bringing the best of the old along with you into new territory.

Saturn is still in its annual period of retrograde motion. Moving retrograde for 4 ½ months each year, this phase provides the opportunity to examine whether our standard modes of operation truly spring from our own values, or have been imposed upon us by authority figures or societal norms. It’s a time when our regular structures of support and stability may be withdrawn and we have to rely upon our own creativity and self-discipline to achieve our goals.

Jupiter in Aries

In January Jupiter entered Aries, where it will be until June 4. Aries is a fundamentally aggressive mind-set, whether in the form of the lone-wolf entrepreneur or the established global company. It brings a desire to take on the competition, expand into new territory, and develop new markets.

Jupiter in Aries begins a new twelve-year Jupiter cycle. This is an excellent time to begin a whole new endeavor. Aries is the first sign of the zodiac. Can you think about the next twelve years and being “first” in some aspect of your industry? Jupiter likes to think big! It’s time to take a new plunge: big plans, big risks. This is a time of expansion, new projects, and bold moves.

Mars in Aries/Taurus

Mars is in Aries until May 11. Use these first days of May to initiate new ideas and fresh projects while the Aries energy fuels us with vitality. Your staff will enjoy a challenge, contest, or competition.

When Mars moves into Taurus on the 11^th you’ll notice a definite shift in energy. This is the time to take the best of the ideas generated while Mars was in Aries and begin the patient and persistent work it will take to bring them to fruition. Mars in Taurus is a builder, piece by piece, nail by nail, bringing your vision into concrete form.

Venus in Aries/Taurus

Venus is in Aries until May 15 when she too transitions into Taurus. Venus in Aries is the time to initiate new relationships and present bold propositions: the flashier, the better.

Venus is Taurus is a very different energy. Venus in Taurus is less heady and more sensual. This is a great time to woo new customers and colleagues by exhibiting your emphasis on excellent value and long-lasting relationships. Spend that marketing expense account and if you don’t have one, eke out some money from somewhere to take your best prospect to a fine restaurant. Appeal to the senses while Venus is in Taurus.

Mercury in Aries/Taurus

Mercury also moves into Taurus on May 15. While Mercury is still in Aries, keep talking, envisioning, inventing, and persuading.

When Mercury moves into Taurus you’ll notice a stabilizing influence return to your mind and your communications will be much more careful and productive. Remember to have patience with yourself and others if you lose that spark you had when Mercury was in Aries. What you gain is the ability to actually plan and implement those great ideas, albeit at a slower pace.

Sun in Taurus/Gemini

The Sun is in Taurus until May 21 and then moves into chatty, intellectual Gemini. The Sun in Taurus brings form and functionality to your business. The Sun in Gemini brings the energy of exchange and interchange. Get out from behind your desk and meet and greet people. This is a time of sharing your thoughts and gathering ideas from others.

Phases of the Moon

The New Moon is in Taurus on May 3 (MDT), waxing to Full in Scorpio on May 17. Look for a new start on the New Moon in whichever house in your chart contains 12 degrees Taurus. For me, that’s the 11^th house, community and group endeavors. (If you need a copy of your chart, see the box in the sidebar to request one free.)

Monthly Recap

After a few months of high energy, high impact Aries energy, our activities will settle down this month with Mars, Venus, and Mercury moving into Taurus. There are no changes in any of the outer planets either, in terms of sign or retrograde motion. Add to this that there are no truly difficult aspects between any planets this month so we’ll have time to take a breather, enjoy the spring or autumn, and conserve our energy for the future. Steady and sure-footed are the keywords this month.

Are you in astrological overwhelm? Check out this link on my other blog for 5 simple ways to get your feet wet in astrology without drowning. Astrology is so Vast; Where Do I Start?

Have a great month and let me know how it all plays out!

Key Dates for the Month

May 3 New Moon in Taurus

May 11 Mars enters Taurus

May 15 Mercury enters Taurus; Venus enters Taurus

May 17 Full Moon in Scorpio

May 21 Sun enters Gemini

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Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

Tags: astrology, business, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Neptune, New Moon, Pluto, Saturn, Sun, Taurus, Uranus, Venus

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Don’t Rain on My Parade

Apr 24

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 49 Comments

Anonymous Flammarion woodcut (1888). (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Hello everyone.

Can it be the end of April already? Sure enough we’re in the final week and also the final week of the Moon, winding down and cleaning up in preparation for the next cycle. Venus takes on Pluto and Saturn this week; she’s ready for a fight and I hope she can hold her own. Venus in Aries is a warrior, but Pluto and Saturn are no lightweights themselves. At the end of the week there is a rocket-launching Mars/Jupiter conjunction. Only two days are highlighted this week but these energies are so powerful the whole week will be affected. Let’s look at these two days a little further.

Wednesday

Very early Wednesday morning, maybe even Tuesday evening depending on your time zone, Venus in Aries reaches a 90° angle with Pluto in Capricorn. This angle is known for tension and intractability; two parties are each sure they are exclusively in the right and are willing to go to the mats to prove it. Venus rules money and Pluto rules the economy as a whole, including banking, debt, and taxes. It may feel like others want too big a share of your pie and you’re “mad as hell and not going to take it anymore!” There’s a battle brewing this week and you may as well take a stand and try to protect your assets.

In the evening the Sun in Taurus forms a trine aspect with that same Pluto in Capricorn. This can bring a test of your own personal power and you will probably come out victorious. You may negotiate a compromise position or recognize you have allies behind the scenes who are ready to come to your aid. The day will end on a high note, but you may have fought a hard fight. Time to celebrate your success with a little food, wine, and companionship.

Saturday

On Saturday Venus in Aries opposes Saturn in Libra. We’re used to thinking of feminine Venus as a mediator and negotiator, but when she’s in Aries, she can put her dukes up with the best of them. Saturn counsels restraint and caution but Venus is ready to act.

This aspect can bring an opportunity your way but with Saturn strong in Libra you may feel too cautious or restrained to actually take it. You may feel that you can’t afford it or you don’t have the support you need to succeed and that may be true. Venus opposing Saturn can feel really frustrating as feisty Venus wants new experiences but conservative Saturn wants to continue with the tried and true. See the short video from the film Funny Girl below for a great example of Venus in Aries sloughing off her cautious Saturnian advisors, “Don’t Rain on My Parade.” This is the spirit of this aspect but don’t forget how the story ends. Take the voices of experience seriously while you can today because….

…a few hours later Mars meets Jupiter in Aries, which sparks an ignition. The Aries energy won’t be held back any longer. You’re up for a challenge as Jupiter in Aries thinks big and Mars in Aries wants to take action with passion. Growth, expansion, competition: all these catch fire with this transit. This aspect is fortunate in that Mars gives you the expertise right down on the field of action and Jupiter gives you the view from the hilltop. You can see the patterns below and instantly respond, knowing when to advance and when to retreat. This environment propels you to take the big risk, except that the New Moon is less than three days away. So make your plans now, buy your supplies, get people on board, make sure all your tools are in working order, and then launch after May 3.

Have a wonderful week and as always, let me know how it all pans out. Your comments expand our understanding of the impact of astrology on our businesses.

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For an overview of the year, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Tags: Aries, astrology, business, Jupiter, Mars, Pluto, Saturn, Venus

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – Impact

Apr 10

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 12 Comments

Anonymous Flammarion woodcut (1888). (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Hello, everyone.

This week opens with a bang on Monday and that impact is carried all the way into the week until the Full Moon next Sunday.

Monday

Monday opens with the 1^st quarter Moon which always brings a decision point. What has been in motion in the past will continue in the same direction unless you step into the driver’s seat. This point in the lunar cycle has been described as a car going around a curve: you either take the wheel and negotiate the curve or natural forces will continue their pre-ordained path and you’ll run right off the road. Usually a choice has to be made, gaining something and leaving something behind. But the key is to act with courage and with the Moon in Cancer, with the emotional support of those closest to you.

A few hours later Mars challenges Pluto. In other words, fiery aggressive energy challenges the powers that be in government, society, and the economy. You may feel ready to take on the world in order to move your business forward. Alternately, one of your staff leaders may feel you are the inflexible authority who must be challenged.

These energies need a strong hand. Truly there is the potential to break new ground and to finally overcome what has seemed so intractable. But there is nothing kind or pussy-footed about this aspect. Ray Merriman of the excellent Merriman Market Analyst warns, “[This] can be a confrontational dynamic where each side refuses to bend to the point of a functional compromise. One side will have to break, for hard aspects between Mars and Pluto almost never conclude in a win-win result.”

And then later in the day Mercury and Jupiter meet in Aries. Mercury represents the intellect and Jupiter usually represents wisdom. But with both of these planets in impulsive, idealistic Aries your intellect may be overcome with grand ideas and following on the heels of the Mars/Pluto influence above, you may become convinced that a big aggressive move is the only true solution. Whoa there, partner! Remember that when Mercury is retrograde all is not as it seems. Take that big idea and file it for the time being. It will gain a lot more traction if you wait a couple of weeks before you put it in motion. Over-confidence, idealistic conviction, and impatience will signal an idea whose time has not come.

And the rest of the week

The rest of the week carries Monday’s themes forward with the growing energy between the Sun and Moon, culminating in the Full Moon on Sunday. There’s dramatic flair midweek and an emphasis on creativity. Some of your staff will be on mental holiday with Mercury retrograde so you’ll have to take the lead. Provide yourself with artistic outlets and move through the week with a sense of wonder and play. This will bring everything to completion right on time.

Have a great week and please share in the comments how you experienced these energies. I’m really interested in how that Mars/Pluto square impacted your business life this week.

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For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – April 2011

To see an overview of the year, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for me? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – April 2011

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

Tags: astrology, business, Full Moon, Jupiter, Mars, Mercury Retrograde, Pluto

Astro4Business Weekly Highlights – A New Start

Apr 3

Posted by Ellen Longo in Astro4Business Week | 2 Comments

Anonymous Flammarion woodcut (1888). (Source:Wikimedia Commons)

Hello, everyone.

There’s a lot going on this week, some of it fairly dramatic and some of it quite subtle. Neptune dips its toes into its home base, Pisces; the Sun and Jupiter meet in the skies; Pluto assumes retrograde motion; and the Sun and Mercury form their mid-retrograde conjunction. In this week just after the New Moon we can catch glimmers of our next project and how to set it in motion.

Neptune enters Pisces

On Monday Neptune enters the sign Pisces, a sign so attuned to the energy of Neptune that we could say we’ll experience Neptune to the second or third degree. At the beginning of this transition we may notice a shift from the mental realm of social networking to experiences based more on shared feelings like musical events or religious gatherings. Over time I think we may come out of our separate spheres, connected to each other through the internet, to more interactions we share in physical space. Neptune represents the part of us that wants to connect and dissolve barriers and in Pisces we will yearn for an emotional and mystical connection, rather than a purely mental one.

How can you incorporate this into your business? It’s really too soon to tell, but look for tools and technology based on media that provides a more sensual, overall experience and for breakthroughs in fields ruled by Neptune such as oil, pharmaceuticals, health, marine biology, film, and space. Unified field theory? You bet. Theory of everything? Probably so.

Sun conjunct Jupiter

Wednesday is the annual meeting between the Sun, representing you in your leadership position in your business, and Jupiter, representing new opportunities, new growth, expansion into new fields or territories, and general optimism. In Aries it could even spell exuberance and extravagance. This is a wonderful week for larger-than-life ideas and the willingness to speculate based on an accurate assessment of the future.

The only caution is to remember that Mercury is still retrograde, so the information you receive may be twisted in some way or only partially true. Check everything twice but don’t hold back. This is an excellent time to begin a whole new endeavor.

Pluto Retrograde

On Saturday, Pluto enters into retrograde motion. Pluto is in retrograde motion for five months every year, backtracking over the same few degrees of arc it just traversed. Look for a post later in the week that discusses this important planet and its retrograde motion. In a nutshell, Pluto in Capricorn represents the global movement to destroy and then rebuild the massive structures of our lives: business structures, political structures, economic structures, transportation structures, military structures. You probably recognized, just at the end of last year, an area in your business life that needs a similar revamping and hopefully you have been undertaking (there’s a nice Pluto word!) this work since then.

The annual period of retrograde motion allows us a second chance to look at the same issues again. During the next five months your awareness of your role in the challenges your business faces will go much deeper, subtle aspects will come to light, and we will all become more and more conscious of the part our own attitudes play in keeping worn-out and decaying structures in place.

If you experience a setback this week, especially one connected to the structures mentioned above, take it as a signal that you have some excavation work to do, either inside your own psyche or in your business.

Sun Conjunct Retrograde Mercury

Also on Saturday, the Sun meets with Mercury in retrograde motion. This is a critical date in the whole cycle of Mercury retrograde. This is the best day for a formal meeting with your staff, anyone involved in collecting or disseminating information in your organization. Your people have something to share with you today although they may need to express it in alternative ways to the usual emails, texts, or power point presentations. Look for synchronicities and connections that aren’t apparent on the surface. A glimpse of the future is promised today if you can put yourself in a listening frame of mind.

Have a great week and let me know how this powerful time goes.

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For an overview of the month, see Astro4Business Month Ahead – April 2011

For an overview of the year, check out these posts:

Pluto’s Journey through 2011

Neptune Swimming through 2011

Uranus Flashes through 2011

Have you seen my new blog? Discussing all things astrological, for anyone interested in real-life astrology, check out Ellen Longo’s Astrology Blog.

Do you have a question for Ellen? See the “Work with Ellen” tab at the top of this site for my Straight to the Point Response service.

To read more about the business descriptions of the planets mentioned today, see

The Sun

The Moon

Mercury