ASTROLOGICAL SNAPSHOT
This is the 116th day of 2023
56 days until the Summer Solstice
Mercury is Retrograde in Taurus
249 days until 2024
Sun is in Taurus
Moon is in Cancer
Mercury is Rx in Taurus
Venus is in Gemini
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 Rx in Taurus
Lilith is Rx in Leo
Fortune is in Leo
Ascendant is in Taurus
Midheaven is in Aquarius
MERCURY RETROGRADE IN TAURUS
April 21, 2023, to May 14, 2023
from 15º to 5º Taurus
Mercury goes Retrograde in Taurus from April 21 to May 14, 2023. This is the second of three Mercury Retrograde cycles of 2023 occurring solely in Earth signs. Mercury’s retracing of Earth sign themes this year asks us to reflect on just how impactful words or communication can be. Additionally, it asks us to reexamine the tangible effect of our systems of organization and our thinking upon our lives.
To put it another way, Mercury’s earth sign tour teaches us that our cerebral lives can affect the real, material parts of our lives. In Taurus, we specifically consider our finances, our sense of stability, our bodies, and our value system.
When Mercury is retrograde in Taurus, we rethink our sense of security and all that contributes to it. Obviously, this includes the material realm of our personal belongings, assets, our financial situations, and our food, shelter, and bodies.
Mercury retrograde periods mark times when we review and rework the area of our chart that he is traveling through. You may find yourself creating new budgets, going over expenses, and considering what needs to be changed. You may consider what has and what hasn’t been working in your diet and your spending.
Venus-Ruled Taurus wants to feel good in its own skin. On a deeper level, Taurus rules our self-esteem, our self-sufficiency, and our value systems. That’s because self-esteem is derived from feeling like we can take care of ourselves and know what is important to us. Values may be theoretical (Air), but they have a very real impact on your material choices (Earth). In fact, values are the cutting edge of what we materialize and what we give energy to.
Our sense of what is important may be in flux at this time. It can be difficult to know what to put our energy into, what to invest in, and what to allow into our world. We may feel vaguely insecure in the very essence of who we are. As long as Mercury is retrograde, we are plunged into an introspective period with regard to our values. So, we may need to wait until Mercury is direct again for any uncertainty to clear. At this point, confidence in ourselves can be re-established.
DAILY SPIRIT ANIMAL
SNAKE SPIRIT
Few non-human animals provoke strong feelings the way that snakes do. For millennia, world cultures and religions have developed elaborate symbolism, myths, and stories revolving around the snake. While it is true that snakes generally do not prey on humans, many people remain fearful and seek to actively avoid serpents. Still, if you encounter a snake, you may wish to keep in mind the power of these creatures, understanding that a message from Spirit may well be embodied in this legless reptile.
Animals as symbols always come to us in times of change, however, it’s up to us to decipher the message that each particular animal carries with it—the type of change on the horizon or change that is already present. The meaning of a snake sighting is about the expansion of the mind and spirit. It’s a transformation or awakening of sorts. However, it can be a reminder to remain grounded and in touch with the magic held in nature—the earth, the water, the air and even the fire in the earth’s core. Respect the snake, respect the earth, and respect the gifts of all spiritual journeys.
An animal spirit’s meaning is often tied to its physical attributes. As we examine the meaning of snake sightings, it’s a good idea to consider the snake itself, with its abilities, shortcomings, and way of living.
Snakes are, of course, reptiles. They do not have legs, and have several means of locomotion, which typically require the snake to adapt its body movements to the surfaces on which it wishes to move. Snakes are also cold-blooded, which means that they have to rely on outside sources to maintain their body heat.
When the snake outgrows its skin, it sheds it. The process of shedding is a short window of vulnerable time where the snake’s skin experiences exposure to outer elements. The expansion of our spiritual bodies feels just as comfortable and invigorating as a snake living in his new skin. The snake is aware. He relies on sight, smell, and even vibrations in order to navigate his path ahead. As we increase our own awareness, it is important not to lose the basic skills we, as humans, were born with—including our sixth sense.
The snake strikes at opportunities with precision. When we choose a path to follow, it’s important to choose the precise path that is right for each of us. And when we have an opportunity to further our awareness or expand our path, we should do so with explicit intention. Our beliefs are powerful, and it’s important to understand that everything has a positive and negative side. Therefore, we should always focus on the positive while being aware of the negative—giving each healthy respect.
If you feel that you identify with the snake or you consider it your totem or spirit animal, it’s very likely that you have dealt with many changes and chapters in your life already, and you somehow adapt yourself to these changes more easily than others might. Like the snake, you are able to shed your skin and be reborn in this way. It’s also likely that you have some healing abilities with a particular talent to balance opposing energies.
As a person, you possess a charm and self-confidence that people can find appealing and comforting. As a healer, you will likely spend your life continually expanding and growing your abilities and your levels of awareness.
As we’ve already noted, the snake is a powerful symbol in many diverse cultures. Curiously, this symbolism widely varies. Some lore posits a serpent as a truth teller, a healer, or even a source of wisdom. In other cases, serpents indicate deceit, danger, and possible ruin.
Two snake symbols are the Staff of Hermes, also known as the caduceus, and the Rod of Asclepius (the Greek god of Healing). Both appear in logos and symbols of the medical and metaphysical healing arts. Some have even suggested the snake symbolizes our own DNA.
In the Tarot, the Two of Cups depicts a couple exchanging golden cups, as if to imply a ceremony of marriage. Between them is the Caduceus, a representation of balance, the joining of energies, and a healing connection.
Perhaps you’ve heard the term “awakening your kundalini.” According to elephantjournal.com, “One of the aims of Hatha yoga is to awaken the dormant kundalini energy (which is said to lie curled up sleeping at the base of the spine like a snake) and to raise it up through the chakras. As it goes higher and higher, various abilities are awakened, evolution is accelerated, and finally, enlightenment is achieved when the kundalini goes up through the crown chakra.” Many say that this is also the path to the ultimate orgasm.
As a shamanic culture, the Celts revered the snake. One of the most interesting Celtic beliefs is that when the snake sheds his skin, and his eyes begin to glaze over, he has access to all the knowledge of the Universe—past, present, and future.
Native American cultures hold wildly differing beliefs about the snake. Some connect him with birth and fertility, some with thunder and rain, however, others see him as a lethal serpent. In Cherokee legend, snakes are “supernaturals” that require fear, reverence, and respect. That seems to be the overall nature of the snake throughout most cultures, which makes sense since so many ancient cultures point to the snake’s ability to balance energies—both good and bad.
DAILY ORACLE CARD
TWO OF WANDS
Your leadership in a cooperative effort brings exceptional results. Expect new and exciting offers. When they arrive, accept them graciously. Why hide your light under a bushel? It does not become you to display false modesty. Practice saying to yourself, Thank you, I accept the compliment until you learn to fully let in this kind of affirmative grace with ease.
The threes in the tarot represent the successful completion of a goal – it takes the sources of energy in the ace and the twos and adds a foundational factor, and usually involves a group of some sort. In this scenario, the upright three of pentacles meaning is that there is a successful achievement of all the requirements to pursue your business, deal, venture or any other kind of endeavor. Successful projects usually require different kinds of expertise, and at this moment, the Three of Pentacles means that all the skills required are coming together. In short, you are enjoying enjoying working together as part of a team, and also in the initial success of this bigger project.
Successful projects usually require different kinds of expertise, and at this moment, the Three of Pentacles means that all the skills required are coming together.
The three pentacles reveals a successful beginning towards achieving your goals, it is a sign of encouragement that you should press on with the same effort without giving up. You may struggle to accomplish your goals as an individual, but the Three of Pentacles also teaches people not ignore the talents of the others that surround you. You need the collaboration of others, with diverse viewpoints, experiences and expertise to accomplish something more than you could have ever dreamed of.
APRIL 2023 LUNAR CALENDAR
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.
April 2023 Astrological Events
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
MAY 2023 ASTROLOGICAL CALENDAR
MAY 01 — PLUTO GOES RETROGRADE IN AQUARIUS
While Pluto is still in Aquarius for another month, this is a great time to reflect on what you’ve learned and experienced during its brief visit to the Water-Bearer. How can you prepare for the next decade ahead?
MAY 01 — SUN IN TAURUS CONJUNCT MERCURY IN TAURUS
A great day to use logic to solve problems, especially in financial matters. Take your time to brainstorm in order to get the solutions your need.
MAY 01 — JUNO ENTERS GEMINI
With the asteroid of marriage in witty Gemini, the next few weeks are great for having deep talks in your important relationships, as communication will be key to happiness. However, beware of being too flirty, as you may lead people on.
MAY 02 — PALLAS ENTERS LEO
Asteroid Pallas roars in the sign of the Lion for the next few weeks, giving us a boost of valor, courage, and strength to be the royalty of the jungle. However, beware that putting yourself in the spotlight could lead you to danger. Avoid drama when you can.
MAY 04 — VENUS IN GEMINI SQUARE NEPTUNE IN PISCES
A good day to set up strong emotional boundaries to keep manipulative people out of our lives as we focus on cultivating good vibes.
MAY 04 — VENUS IN GEMINI SEXTILE JUPITER IN ARIES
While this is a great day to have fun and take risks, don’t forget about your limits. Remember that you don’t have to open your heart to everyone.
MAY 05 — FULL MOON LUNAR ECLIPSE IN SCORPIO
This volatile eclipse in mysterious Scorpio can make even the gentlest sign vicious right now. The energies are unpredictable, making us all a little edgy and paranoid. Don’t jump to any conclusion, as conflict is easy to start but difficult to finish.
MAY 06 — CERES GOES DIRECT IN VIRGO
With Ceres finally moving forward again, this is a great time to take care of ourselves for the next few weeks—especially our bodies. It’s a good time to take care of our health, start routines, and feel a little more productive.
MAY 07 — VENUS ENTERS CANCER
Get ready for waves of emotions when the planet of love enters nurturing Cancer, which can make us both sweet and a little crabby. While we are very protective of our hearts and loved ones right now, we are also very tender.
MAY 09 — SUN IN TAURUS CONJUNCT URANUS IN TAURUS
After a few tense weeks, we’re ready to start thinking logically again this week. Now is the time to trust our thinking and know that we can creatively solve any problem that comes our way.
MAY 12 — MERCURY IN TAURUS SEXTILE SATURN IN PISCES
Even with Mercury being currently in retrograde, this is still a great aspect for business dealings, signing contracts, and catching up on important paperwork. Just remember to use common sense.
MAY 12 — VENUS IN CANCER TRINE SATURN IN PISCES
A romantic aspect that allows us to dream and plan a future with our partners. Important relationships finally find solid ground.
MAY 15 — MARS IN CANCER TRINE NEPTUNE IN PISCES
Break out the Tarot cards, as this mystical aspect allows us all to embrace our spiritual side. A great day for divination, spiritual practices, and connecting with the overall universal vibe and your higher power.
MAY 16 — JUPITER ENTERS TAURUS
After the urgency of Aries, Jupiter slows down in grounded Taurus as we spend the next year learning to enjoy the ride of life. Over the next few months, we are here to appreciate the small sensual pleasures of life. Remember, it’s the journey, not the destination that matters.
MAY 17 — JUPITER IN TAURUS SQUARE PLUTO IN AQUARIUS
This tense aspect can lead to a stand-off as people stubbornly stick with their convictions. There’s no point in trying to change minds when everyone thinks that they’re right.
MAY 18 — MERCURY IN TAURUS SEXTILE SATURN IN PISCES
Now that we’re finally out of Mercury retrograde, we can start wheeling and dealing as we can make the best decisions in business, finances, and our dreams. Use logic and keep a clear head today.
MAY 19 — NEW MOON IN TAURUS
Career ambitions are at an all-time high during this full moon as we’re all encouraged to make plans that will help us in the long run. Plant the seeds from business goals to romance, and watch them grow throughout the lunar cycle. Nurture them well.
MAY 20 — MARS ENTERS LEO
Summer starts a little early as Mars in Leo brings the heat over the next several weeks. With the planet of drive in the bold Lion, our actions become glamorous, generous, and pretty dramatic. A word of advice: don’t start fights you can’t finish.
MAY 20 — MARS IN LEO OPPOSITION PLUTO IN AQUARIUS
This moody aspect may make it hard for everyone to get along today. Avoid the crowds and do your own thing.
MAY 21 — SUN ENTERS GEMINI
We’re all given the gift of gab over the next four weeks, when the sun shines in the sign of the Twins. As we transition from spring to summer, this is an ideal time to learn to adapt to new situations, ask plenty of questions, and finally make a decision!
MAY 21 — SUN IN GEMINI TRINE PLUTO IN AQUARIUS
This is a good connection to do some research, as we’ll be struck by questions that could keep us up at night. This aspect brings out our inner detective to investigate the truth of deeper issues.
MAY 21 — SUN IN GEMINI SEXTILE MARS IN LEO
This aspect gives a major boost of self-confidence, as we feel we are the star of the show. However, be careful not to be so competitive, as it can drive us to bite off more than we can chew.
MAY 22 — MARS IN LEO SQUARES JUPITER IN TAURUS
Fights start easily during this stubborn aspect as everyone believes they are right. Old grudges can come back to the surface, too. Don’t engage with people who just want to cause problems on purpose.
MAY 26 — VENUS IN CANCER SEXTILE URANUS IN TAURUS
A great aspect for success in both love and money as you make your home a safe haven for your loved ones.
MAY 28 — SUN IN GEMINI SQUARE SATURN IN PISCES
This lazy aspect won’t keep you busy with work but will allow you to have fun with your friends or get lost in a good book.
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DEER MOON ASTROLOGY 