Stellar Insights: June 12 - 18
Slowly and Thoughtfully
Here are some insights about the opportunities and challenges that this week’s astrology may offer. May they help you make the most of this moment. Remember that if you would ever like to see how the planetary movements are inspiring you, based upon your personal astrology chart, we can explore that in a Stellar Guidance Session. As many people have recently asked, I thought to share that I do offer gift certificates for astrology readings; for more information and/or to order one, see this page.
Also, in response to my previous query about which day you preferred to receive Stellar Insights, I received resounding affirmation that Sunday was better as it allows you greater time and space to reflect upon the week ahead. Therefore, expect these in your inbox each Sunday moving forward.
With Pluto entering back into Capricorn yesterday (June 11), our collective attention may now further hone in on the institutions that define our current society, those that are purported to have a consistent structure, uphold traditions, and provide a reliability of accountability. As Pluto is the planet associated with both guarding secrets and wanting to pull back the veil to release them, in the realm of issues that affect societal structures, we may see a push-pull between the reveal of the hidden as well as dedicated efforts to keep them as such. Over the next year and one-half as Pluto swings between Capricorn and Aquarius, we will likely bear witness to whether the foundations and constitutions of these institutions have the structural integrity to withhold pressures applied to them while also seeing the extent to which certain demands for modernization will be adapted.
As it turns out, the planet that rules both Capricorn and Aquarius, Saturn, plays a starring role in our cosmic environs this week given that on Saturday it will begin its yearly retrograde cycle. As I’ve shared before, days before and after a planet seemingly shifts directions, the invitations/lessons it embodies seem to be amplified in the field. As such, following the rules, being aware of cause and effect, adopting diligence, honoring the value of time, prizing sustainability, ensuring alignment, and revering the wisdom that comes with age/experience can be part of a stellar strategic plan this week. Given that Saturn’s in Pisces, we may see news related to Piscean themes such as water, spirituality, healing, art, glamour, and boundlessness.
Also this weekend, on Sunday to be exact, we have a Gemini New Moon, an annual lunation that prompts us to consider how we want to expand our knowledge base and communication abilities. This year it squares dreamy Neptune, inviting us to explore ways to open to our intuition and imagination while also seeing how compassion can be a healing salve.
Between the mercurial and butterfly-like energy of Gemini and the dreamy and symbolic qualities of Neptune, it does feel important to let ourselves be in a flow while also ensuring we are paying attention to our surroundings so as to not encounter mishaps that can come from having our head too much in the clouds. Being moved, touched, and inspired by ideas and concepts, letting them sift both through your mind and your heart, feels like one way to swim with this lunation’s qualities. (For more detailed reflections on this month’s New Moon, look for a dedicated article on the subject arriving in your inbox later this week.)
Also a reminder that for about three days before a New Moon, the Moon is in its balsamic phase. This is a time of release and renewal. For more about this moment, I thought I’d share a short passage from the Balsamic Moon chapter of my book, The Complete to Living by the Moon:
Like the New Moon, the Balsamic Moon is a time when Luna is veiled in darkness. Yet during this lunar phase, a waning Crescent Moon, not only is there little light but what there is continues to recede until it disappears. Not only is Luna reflecting scant luminescence, but during this phase it isn’t really even our evening companion. Rising at pre-dawn, it follows us through the day rather than at night.
Without our sky-bound lunar beacon of light, we quest for another source of illumination. To discover it, we can turn within to the sanctum of our heart and mind. The route to accessing these reservoirs of wisdom is through quietude and reflection. We find ourselves with a greater receptivity, tapping into our intuition, attuned to what it is that moves, touches, and inspire us. Discovering the light within is a hallmark of the Balsamic Moon.
Wishing you a stellar week!
xxStephanie
Astrological Highlights
June 15: Mercury/Saturn Square
June 17: Mercury/Venus Sextile; Saturn Retrograde Begins
June 18: Gemini New Moon; Sun/Neptune Square
All days reflect Eastern Daylight Time (- 4 hours GMT)
Photos: Dynamic Wang, Rachit Tank, and Vighnesh Dudani, all via Unsplash