ASTROLOGICAL SNAPSHOT

This is the 99th day of 2023
73 days until the Summer Solstice
12 days until Mercury Retrograde
266 days until 2024

Sun is in Aries
Moon is in Scorpio
Mercury is in Taurus*
Venus is in Taurus
Mars is in Cancer
Jupiter is in Aries
Saturn is in Pisces
Uranus is in Taurus
Neptune is in Pisces
Pluto is in Aquarius
Chiron is in Aries
Ceres is Rx in Virgo
Node is in Taurus
Lilith is in Leo
Fortune is in Virgo
Ascendant is in Aries
Midheaven is in Capricorn

*Mercury is in the pre-shadow phase of its retrograde motion that begins April 21st.

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DAILY SPIRIT ANIMAL
BAT SPIRIT

Bat symbolism and meanings include community, longevity, maneuverability, balance, good fortune, evolution, and supernatural powers. Around the world, there are over 1,400 species of bats,¹ and they live everywhere except in the most extreme deserts and polar regions. So, bats are subjects in the mythology and folklore of many cultures around the world.

While some bat species are solitary, most bats live in large colonies with other bats, sometimes in the hundreds of thousands. Biologists surmise that bats learn about safe places to roost from other bats. Thus, bat symbolism includes community.

As a symbol of community, the bat knows there is safety in numbers and value in being a part of a community of like-minded individuals. If the bat spirit animal resonates with you, or if a bat suddenly makes itself known to you, it can be a sign for you to tap into the power of a community more. Whether for work, a shared cause, recreation, or some other reason, the bat reminds you to not to go it alone – find others whose goals and values align with yours.

Bats are known to live for a long time – up to 20 years.² This is about twice as long as your average squirrel.³ Bats have also inhabited the Earth for a very long time – over 50 million years. (By comparison, we humans have only been here for about 2.8 million years.)

Because they have lived on the Earth for so long and the fact that they live relatively long lives, bat symbolism also includes longevity. In fact, in China, where older people are revered, the bat is viewed positively as a symbol of wisdom and longevity.

(Of course, most of us know that vampires, who are associated with vampire bats, are said to live forever!)

As a symbol of longevity, the bat reminds you that your best years are ahead of you. Indeed, bat people are the types who get better with age. In addition, the bat spirit animal reminds you that nothing can make up for experience – one of the gifts of getting older.

Meditate on the longevity of the bat when you consider things in your life that you want to withstand the test of time, such as a relationship, your health, or a project. Bat energy helps to ensure that it will be built the last.

If you’ve ever seen a bat flying, it can look like they’re a little out of control. However, bats actually have excellent maneuverability skills – even better than birds. The reason that bats have excellent maneuverability is that a bat’s wings are designed like human hands – only with a membrane and more joints.⁴ So, the bat has a high level of control as they fly.

As a symbol of maneuverability, the bat reminds you to be flexible and quick on your feet. You may feel like you face more challenges and obstacles than others do – even like the deck is stacked against you. The bat is a reminder that it’s not a matter of more problems, more obstacles, or even more stress – it’s how you deal with them.

The bat says – If things are not going your way or you feel like you’re heading in the wrong direction – maneuver! Envision your ability to pivot and adjust. You might even imagine the skills that Batman or Bat Girl display as they dodge bullets and speed away in the Batmobile. Know that whatever comes your way, you have the ability to maneuver and create better outcomes.

Like the crow, raccoon, or wolf, the bat is a very misunderstood animal. Their association with nighttime, vampires, and even diseases, like COVID-19 (which is yet unproven), has given the bat a bad reputation.

The reality is that, like the bee and the butterfly, the bat is critical for supporting life on Earth. In essence, the bat keeps things in balance. For one, bats are pollinators. They help to extend the life force of important plants, including bananas, mangoes, agave, and others. Bats also keep insect populations in check, with some bats consuming as many as 5,000 insects per night.⁵ In short, the bat is a keystone species in their ecosystem: If the bat wasn’t there, the ecosystem could collapse.

Another interesting fact about bats is that vampire bats will care for and feed elderly or sick bats in their colony. They will also adopt and care for baby bats who lose their mother. In other words, the bat is eager to pick up the slack and fill in when needed.

So, the bat is a powerful symbol of balance. As we consider how nature has perfected itself over eons, the bat is an important part of this miraculous design as they fulfill an important role.

you may be in a situation where you are called to fill in for a co-worker or to care for someone in your life who needs help. A willingness on your part to help is your way of keeping things in balance. This selflessness means you are in tune with the positive forces of the Universe.

Likewise, the bat may also be reminding you to keep your own life in balance. For example, this can apply to balancing social and alone time, work and play, rest and activity, your diet, finances, etc.

Consider, too, how the bat rests. They hang upside down. As the bat rests, it’s reminiscent of the restorative pose in yoga: You lie on the floor and put your feet up against a wall or chair. This is a great way to rest your feet and legs and get more blood flow to your brain. The bat says: Find balance!

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DAILY ORACLE CARD
II. TWO OF SWORDS

When we see the Two of Swords in a reading, we are encountering a stalemate. Two equal and opposing forces are joined in battle, and there seems to be no end in sight. This wasn’t what you had in mind when you chanced to walk down this path, and you find yourself caught in the middle. Without something, or someone to intervene, this may continue indefinitely. We find ourselves in a situation where we must make a choice, we can side with one part of the situation, or we can side with the other. Neither seems particularly appealing, which makes the decision even more difficult. But unless we move past this stalemate, there can be no more progress.

We find ourselves in a situation where we must make a choice…Neither seems particularly appealing.

The Two of Swords is often related with balance and partnership. It signifies the need to keep your relationships balanced. Regardless if it is in business, friendship or romantic relationship, you may find yourself struggling to maintain the current state of affairs, and may find yourself caught in the middle.  In regards to your work, you may be currently stuck in limbo and are perhaps waiting on another party’s decision. Remain patient and avoid pressuring people in making their decision abruptly. 

The Two of Swords meaning may depict a warning to have caution. Like the woman in the card, you may be choosing to keep the blindfold on, hoping the problem will just go away. You should avoid evading any issues that you are facing, since it will not solve your problems. 

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APRIL 2023 LUNAR CALENDAR

THURSDAY, APRIL 13: LAST QUARTER MOON IN CAPRICORN

You might have a strong need for being useful to the society and you look for justification in the outside world. You may underestimate what you want from yourself and for yourself. Shyness may be accompanied by resentment of the fact that others ignore you. Do not seek approval from the outside, it will not help you get rid of your doubt and it is harmful to you. You have to trust your inner values.

THURSDAY, APRIL 20: NEW MOON IN TAURUS

The feeling of uncertainty can make you solve problems faster then is natural. Do not rush as if there was a deadline. Try to slow down so that you can decide what you want to do and proceed at your own comfortable pace.

THURSDAY, APRIL 27: FIRST QUARTER MOON IN LEO

You feel safe in moments when you can impress others and get praise and admiration. Yet, when you get into the spotlight, you may find yourself at a loss. Maybe you should admit your fear of criticism and your inability to accept criticism. It is very important to accept feedback and use it for improvement.

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April 2023 Astrological Events

09

Moon Enters Sagittarius 

You may feel like getting out there in some way and doing a little exploring, even if it’s only in your own head. You can enjoy new experiences and take in new knowledge.

Waning Gibbous Moon in Scorpio/Sagittarius

10

Moon in Sagittarius Trine Jupiter in Aries

Expansive energy can surge, and you can focus on what will help you expand in new ways. You can be optimistic and focus on the big picture.

Waning Gibbous Moon in Sagittarius

11

Venus Enters Gemini

Mental connections in love can become more important with Venus in Gemini, and you can work on improving the lines of communication with the people in your life. This can help you feel closer, and you may be more open with your thoughts and ideas and enjoy flowing conversation.

Venus in Gemini Trine Pluto in Aquarius

Passion can be strong in your relationships, and you can feel more dedicated and loyal to the people you care about. You can work to transform your connections for the better, which can make you feel better.

Sun in Aries Conjunct Jupiter in Aries

There is so much out there for you to experience in life, and you may keep your eye on something specific that you want to explore. Keep an open mind, an open heart, and a healthy dose of realism.

Moon Enters Capricorn 

The goals that are most important to you at the moment can get more attention, and you can feel more stable and secure if you’re making progress or feel you will be. You can hit your stride in some way, and this feels good.

Waning Gibbous Moon in Sagittarius/Capricorn

12

Moon in Capricorn Trine Uranus in Taurus

If there’s something that has been vexing you lately, being innovative and unconventional may be the right approach. Let yourself entertain the unusual and see if that might work best.

Waning Gibbous Moon in Capricorn

13

Last Quarter Moon in Capricorn

Letting go of old responsibilities that are no longer good for you to be doing may be a focus over the next week. This can free you up from old restrictions and help you feel more open.

Moon Enters Aquarius

Your friends may be of help to you, and you can show your appreciation and be there for them. You may feel more open to new people as well and expand your social circle.

14

Venus in Gemini Square Saturn in Pisces

Responsibilities in relationships may feel stifling, and you may want to run away. This rarely solves the problem, so try to get underneath the surface of the problem and figure out what the right approach would be.

Waning Crescent Moon in Aquarius

15

Moon Enters Pisces

Intuition can be strong, and taking time to reconnect to your intuitive self can help. Use intuitive exercises, and gain a little more trust in your instincts.

Waning Crescent Moon in Aquarius/Pisces

16

Moon in Pisces Sextile Mercury in Taurus

Your schedule may be busy, and you can tackle a variety of projects and commitments. This variety can satisfy your mental demands.

Waning Crescent Moon in Pisces

17

Moon Enters Aries

There can be extra energy for you to access, and you can focus that energy on whatever excites you most. You can be enthusiastic and ready to take action.

Waning Crescent Moon in Pisces/Aries

18

Moon in Aries Square Mars in Cancer

Something may get under your skin, and you can lash out as a result. Work on the root issue, and try to have a healthy outlet for frustrations.

Waning Crescent Moon in Aries

19

Moon in Aries Conjunct Jupiter in Aries

There can be more opportunities around you than you realized, and you can get excited by what’s possible. You may want to focus on new experiences, explore new places, and take in new knowledge.

20

Solar Eclipse in Aries

The Aries Solar eclipse is full of high energy, and both Aries and Solar Eclipses are times of new beginnings, so this is extra strong now. This eclipse, in particular, has even more energy than usual, so you can feel extra pushed to take action, start anew, and embark on a new beginning quickly.

Sun Enters Taurus

Getting grounded and improving stability and security can be important during Taurus season, and you can work on giving yourself permission to slow down. Work on your confidence levels, and focus on greater self-respect.

Sun in Taurus Square Pluto in Aquarius

There may be fights for power and control, and this can feel like it comes out of nowhere, but it’s likely triggering something deep within you. Focus on that, and try to find some middle ground.

Moon Enters Taurus

Sensual energy can be stronger than usual, and you can connect more to your body and to the physical world around you. You may want to take more time to relax and indulge.

Moon Enters Taurus

Sensual energy can be stronger than usual, and you can connect more to your body and to the physical world around you. You may want to take more time to relax and indulge.

21

Mercury Retrograde Begins in Taurus

Mercury retrograde begins now and lasts until May 14, and this retrograde occurs entirely in Taurus. With Mercury moving backward in Taurus for almost a month, this can kick up stubborn, inflexible, and proud energy, and we have to work to be more open, ground ourselves and stay humble.

Waxing Crescent Moon in Taurus

22

Moon Enters Gemini

Keeping busy may be easy as there seems to be a lot you want to focus on. Try to avoid keeping yourself too busy, and becoming frazzled and scattered.

Waxing Crescent Moon in Taurus/Gemini

23

Mercury in Taurus Sextile Mars in Cancer

It can be easier to control mental energy or to at least take action with some of your ideas and plans. You can get extra excited about one idea or plan, in particular, and this may be a new one or it may be something you’re digging back up to give another chance.

Waxing Crescent Moon in Gemini

24

Moon Enters Cancer 

Staying in your comfort zone, and sticking to the people who support you, might be a good idea, as it helps you feel more emotionally secure. Try to tend to your emotional needs and strengthen yourself internally.

Waxing Crescent Moon in Gemini/Cancer

25

Sun in Taurus Sextile Saturn in Pisces

Ambition can run high, and you can be more disciplined with what you want to achieve. You may focus on new goals or pick back up old ones.

Waxing Crescent Moon in Cancer

26

Moon in Cancer Trine Neptune in Pisces

Imagination can be strong, and you can focus on creative projects or hobbies. You can feel dreamy but have control over it.

27

First Quarter Moon in Leo

There may be adjustments required over the next week that allow you to have more fun and get more time away from work and chores. You may be creative with the adjustments and take a positive approach to them.

Moon Enters Leo

Make time for the people you love, the places you love, and the things you love to do most in healthy and positive ways. This can help you connect more to your heart.

28

Moon in Leo Sextile Venus in Gemini

It can be easier to deal with other people, and you can find the right words and actions that get people on your side. You can be pleasant and charming.

Waxing Gibbous Moon in Leo

29

Mars in Cancer Sextile Uranus in Taurus

Change can be easier to focus on, and you can take action to create the changes you want and hope for. This can get you closer to your dream future, and you can embrace doing things unconventionally.

Moon Enters Virgo

Extra chores and tasks may need to be done, and you can focus on being as efficient with your time and energy as possible. You don’t want to waste time, and you can improve your approach to ensure you don’t.

Waxing Gibbous Moon in Leo/Virgo

30

Moon in Virgo Trine Mercury in Taurus

Sorting through your ideas and plans can be easier for you to do, and you can tweak your plans, so you’re ready to take action when you get the chance.

Waxing Gibbous Moon in Virgo

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