Taurus: Mine is the Path of Natural Magnificence

Posted on May 11, 2011 by Lisa

As we enter the sign of Taurus, the fiery blaze of Aries subdues into smoldering embers and ash that heats and nourishes the earth. All the ideas, new adventures, and self-discoveries that we started in Aries begin to take root. This is the time to focus on what we want and enjoy and find ways to acquire more of it. In the northern hemisphere, the ground softens and nature awakens. The warm earth fosters the growth of a multitude of life forms that choose to rest upon and beneath its surface. Yet, not everything has made it through the winter, especially the things that were unprotected or unprepared for a time when the earth was barren. Taurus people take heed of that lesson, and make sure they are protected and prepared for every circumstance. They are determined to make it through any winter that life throws their way. Now ready for spring, Taurus energies concentrate on tending the earth by removing what is considered noxious or invasive and replacing them with items that contribute to the majesty, restoration, and serenity of the landscape, both their inner and outer landscape. This takes muscle, hard work, and a respect for nature—qualities that are the essence of the Taurus spirit.

Taurus is a feminine, fixed, earth sign. In the sign of Taurus, the person is interested in the material world, the body, and physical security. The five senses are developed, and individuals influenced by Taurus energy seek things that look good, feel good, smell good, taste good, and sound good. Hence, they value quality, adore the finer things in life, and are willing to work diligently to obtain them. They are often collectors or partake in some vocation or hobby that appeals to the senses. Surrounding themselves with their treasured belongings relaxes Taurus individuals, and they in turn feel happy and safe. Their intuition is intrinsically connected to their bodies making them great healers and builders in the physical realm. Because they are sensual beings, Taurus energy that is pronounced and well placed in a natal chart gives the native a beautiful voice, an enjoyment of the outdoors, craftsmanship, and a sensitivity to touch. They are keenly aware of their surroundings and have a powerful, laid-back persona. Their compassion, patience, and follow-through make Taurus people excellent teachers in whatever subject interests them.

The symbol for Taurus is the bull. Like the bull, Taurus individuals are strong, persevering, and connected to the land. Brave and nurturing, Taurus provides the practical necessities for survival. They are extremely loyal and are reluctant to walk from a situation or relationship no matter how difficult or unpleasant it becomes. They will persist through bad times in the hopes that the good times will return. The bonds they form with others develop slowly and deepen over time. Trust is of the utmost importance to them, and once they decide they can trust you, you have a Taurus friend for life. However, if they feel betrayed by someone they care about, they shut the door on the relationship forever. Because Taurians tend to hang on to things, including people, it takes them a great while to process and finally let go of the experience. Closure doesn’t come easy to them, and mistrust triggers Taurian anger. When the loving bull has been hurt, it responds like the stereotypical raging bull. Their voice booms, doors slam, and the earth trembles under the Taurus stampede. Learning to release their past and not hold on to their anger until it erupts into rage are life lessons for Taurus people. They can endure a lot and carry a heavy load like the bull that represents them, and Taurus energy can be “bull headed” and closed to outside interference or advice. However, this sign also instructs one to focus on the job at hand and put one foot in front of the other ensuring success in the end.

In Taurus, we move into the toddler stage of the zodiac. The terrible twos of Taurus translate into a will of iron, feet planted firmly on the ground, and a fierce temper when their needs are continually frustrated and just out of reach. Here the earth energy is in the building process. Taurus individuals are concerned with maintaining and sustaining what they consider theirs. Determining what is mine, yours, and ours is an important matter for Taurus. They have solid boundaries, and if they find you messing around with their toys or in their territory, you will find yourself face-to-face with a wild bull. Taurus energy is not in a hurry. If you think of a Type A personality, Taurus is somewhere further down the alphabet, perhaps Type H or I. However, Taurus is not a passive sign. They just don’t like to be rushed or pushed into doing things they don’t value or aren’t ready to accomplish. Imagine a toddler when they don’t want to do something, and they sit down on the floor refusing to move. They resist their parents’ efforts to pull them up, body limp and hollering for effect. With Taurus children, their parents need an extra dose of patience and stamina to match the will of their tiny bull. That’s true for the people that love grown-up bulls too. The storm does blow over, and they return to their affectionate selves if you give them enough space to allow their concentration to shift naturally. Taurus energy takes its own, sweet time. It has its own rhythm, slow and steady. They follow their instincts and wait for the internal signal that tells them it is time for action. Taurus people will achieve their goal, just not today, tomorrow, or maybe even this year. Multitasking is not something this sign enjoys unless it involves engaging all the senses at once. With Taurus energy, the person wants to make sure they have a solid path to walk on before heading in the direction of their dreams and desires. They are not fond of change and do everything they can to make certain their choices will endure. When winter does arrive, they are always ready for it.

Venus is the planet that rules Taurus. Under her influence, Taurus receives an appreciation and an eye for art, design, and beauty. She also bestows them with creative talents. As the goddess of love, Venus brings a sweet and maternal quality to this sign making Taurus the earth mother that supports the development of everyone and everything she loves. She mentors Taurus people by encouraging them to create enticing works of art that can be seen, touched, tasted, heard, and smelled. Guiding them to share their masterpieces with others, Venus casts reflections of her loveliness throughout the world, one Taurus at a time. She inspires Taurus to fully explore the tangible world and indulge the senses. Therefore, temptation and immoderation can be a problem for Taurus individuals. Getting outside and active in nature tempers that inclination. Fertility, deep affection, and body wisdom are a few of the gifts Venus gives to Taurus.

We all have Taurus and Venus operating somewhere in our astrological birth charts. There are places in our lives where we are stubborn, unwavering, and interested in material satisfaction. These are also the places where we are comfortable, unhurried, and tender. Taurus energy allows us the sovereignty to move at our own pace in the direction of our aspirations. Here we take the time to learn thoroughly, the steps and skills needed to thrive instead of merely surviving. And, Taurus teaches us to have reserves to draw upon in times of need.

During this time of earthly knowing and investigation, discover what supports your physical body and delights your senses. Examine what requires your patience and focused energy in order to manifest. Find ways to pool your resources and use them in ways that provide the maximum return on your investment. Explore what prosperity means to you. Is there something that you have been holding on to for sentimental reasons that no longer serves you? If so, gently release it knowing that something better is waiting for you. Enjoy a good meal, concert, makeover, or a day at the spa with the special Taurus people in your life. Celebrate the beauty in nature and honor your own beauty. Do something just because it feels good. Connect with the rhythms of your body and feed your artistic yearnings. Make your living space more beautiful by painting the walls, adding a plant, listening to your favorite music, or displaying a cherished collection. Become aware of what you value and create an atmosphere that reflects your beliefs. Most of all, Taurus is a time to eat dessert first while sitting in a comfy chair, wearing your favorite outfit in the place that makes you blissful!

Copyright ©2011 Lisa Finander

 

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Aries: The Sensitive Warrior

Posted on April 8, 2011 by Lisa

As we move from the ethereal land of Pisces to Aries, we begin again, and the great wheel of the zodiac ushers in a new cycle for learning and evolving. It is a time for letting go, spring-cleaning, and inviting in new energy. The bridge between Pisces and Aries brings the wisdom of the spiritual realms into action. What has been sleeping is now awake and the unconscious becomes conscious. In the northern hemisphere, this is the time of year when the snow melts and reveals what has been trapped in its icy fingers all winter long. Spring in Minnesota is a mix of 50-degree days, rain, and impromptu snowstorms. You’ll see people in shorts and flip flops walking over patchy mounds of snow alongside people in winter coats. The temperature changes quickly throughout the day, warming up and cooling down as if a child was triumphantly pressing the buttons on a thermostat. This is Aries energy, pushing forward, overcoming obstacles, and enjoying the warmth of the Aries Sun as it beckons us to come out and play.

Aries is a masculine, cardinal, fire sign. Symbolized by the ram, Aries energy is impulsive, spontaneous, and assertive. The ram represents the passionate side of Aries, the part that is quick to anger when challenged and instinctively rushes forward, headfirst in whatever direction entices him or her at that particular moment. Aries energy is the energy of the individual acting upon its environment. Fiery and fierce when provoked, Aries is also warm, creative, and spirited. As the first sign of the tropical zodiac, Aries is also associated with the infant. The innocence, curiosity, and expressiveness of a newborn child or animal are the heart of Aries energy. Aries is the hope of the future, the new life that must be cherished and protected, and the sleepless nights required to bring this brand-new creation to maturity. Watch people’s reactions around babies and you’ll see the magnetic quality innate in Aries individuals. They can command a room just by smiling at you and snuggling in your arms. They can also clear a room by howling until their needs are met, exhausting the strength and patience of their loved ones.

Continuing with the image of the infant, this is a stage in our lives where we have just entered physical reality. We have traveled from a place of non-form, a place we may only vaguely remember, and into a world where we cannot yet effectively communicate our experiences verbally. Sometimes it is a language barrier, and sometimes, Aries has intelligence and a knowing that may not be understood or acknowledged by others. Their emotions and actions move swiftly though them, and their reactions are instinctual. Like a flare, they express what is inside of them, and then it’s over. They have cleansed themselves and moved on to the next thing unburdened. Although those around them may get ruffled or frustrated and find the Aries individual’s behaviors combative, the Aries person sees it as expressing their opinion simply and directly.

Aries people are on the hero’s journey. Their goal is independence and self-awareness. They are in a hurry to follow their passions and move boldly into uncharted territories. Charismatic, they persuade people to follow them as they blaze new trails, but as leaders, they serve to inspire and excite others—not take care of them. This is another area where Aries individuals get into trouble in their interpersonal relationships. If they lose interest in something, they abandon it and start something else. The people that followed them thus far can be left wondering what to do next and expect their Aries leader to show them the way. However, Aries energy is much more enterprising than it is sustaining. The implementation of the idea or endeavor is handed over to others to execute.

Like all the fire signs, Aries people bring enthusiasm, self-reliance, and inspiration to everything they do. But unlike their fiery cohorts Leo and Sagittarius, they are in the early stages of developing their confidence. Therefore, Aries individuals are the most influenced by feedback from their environment. On the path of self-discovery, early on, Aries individuals want to know who they are, what they like, and what makes them different from everybody else. Their life force is courageous and trusting like the first flowers of spring emerging from the ground. And, like the first blooms of spring, if they emerge too soon, they run the chance of encountering an environment that is inhospitable, harsh, and unable to foster their growth. Because they must discern how others respond to their actions in order to survive and mature, Aries individuals are the sensitive warriors of the zodiac. Returning to the image of the baby, next time you have a chance to spend some time with a newborn, notice how their expression and mood changes when different people come into the room. They sense the energy of everyone around them and definitely state their preferences about whom they want to hold them. Many Aries persons have telepathic abilities, and it is in this beginning stage of the zodiac that their power and sense of self is forming. They are discovering how to exert their will. Over time, by continuing to test the limits of their surroundings and the people in it, they gain the wisdom of how to balance their needs with the needs of others. They learn to rein in their spontaneity just a tiny bit and listen to their environment for vital clues of how their actions will be perceived. They still proceed quickly, but now their actions are based on having more information and assessing the potential consequences and outcomes of their choice. This shift in awareness makes life for the Aries much more pleasant. Ascertaining how to exert their desires without alienating those in their surroundings is the life lesson that will lead to their success.

Mars is the planet that rules Aries. As the god of war, Mars is the drive we need to defend ourselves and go after our desires. Its energy is directed outward. Mars is the power of “I”. Vitality, strength, and force are qualities of Mars. Representative of masculinity, Mars solves problems by doing things and acting alone. Traditionally, Mars in a woman’s chart describes the qualities she is looking for in a partner. It still holds some truth; however, women have an easier time claiming their Mars energy today than women did a few generations ago. A prominent Mars placement in the chart of either sex signifies someone who is self-assured, autonomous, and open. An indomitable planet, Mars energy requires a constructive outlet to keep it from becoming self-destructive and antagonistic. This potent energy is the stuff of great athletes that gives them the ability to put the body to the test and achieve heroic feats. Any activity or profession that necessitates muscle and expediency falls under the domain of Mars. Additionally, Mars can also represent intensity of the mind and spirit. Yoga, meditation, or working with energy and the energetic body are other possible Mars pursuits.

Each of us has Aries and Mars energy stirring up mischief in some part of our astrological birth chart. In this time of new beginnings, look for the areas in your life that need more vitality. Where do you need more get-up-and-go to achieve the results you desire? If there is a place in your life where you have experienced setbacks, re-double your efforts, and don’t underestimate your ability to achieve your aspirations. Embrace the grace of beginners mind, and explore the places in your personality that require more attention and care to develop. Attune yourself to the energy of your environment. Send out happy vibes. Exercise and get outdoors. Nurture new life. Volunteer to work with children and animals. Bring your enthusiasm, creative brilliance, and warmth into the world. We need your passionate creations, your unique talents, and your confidence to lead us in new directions. Be the hero or heroine in your life and in the lives of others. Go on a quest that enlivens your spirit. With gratitude, call out to the first flowers of spring coming up from the ground and thank them for their courage and beauty. Hug the special Aries people in your life. See them light up. Don’t procrastinate; go out and have some fun! Play in the Sun, play indoors, play at work, play at night, play, play, play! You’ll be all the wiser as a result.

 

 

 

 

 

Copyright ©2011 Lisa Finander

 

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Pisces: Dreams that Fill the Heart and Mind

Posted on March 1, 2011 by Lisa

If I were to express the sign of Pisces in its truest form, instead of using words and text to create this blog, I would upload a collage of pictures to reflect its energy. The reader would then gaze at the images and come up with his or her own understanding and interpretation of what Pisces meant to them. They would let their intuition and feelings guide them and wouldn’t question if what they discerned was real or an illusion, because reality is fluid and subjective in the land of Pisces. Each image would represent a world that was kinder and less harsh than the one we live in on a daily basis. The colors in this montage would soothe and heal our eyes and open our vision to the realization that we are all connected. The veil between worlds and states of consciousness would be easily lifted and transparent. The kaleidoscope of pictures would provide a safe refuge for us to heal our broken hearts and love unconditionally. It would be a world filled with the authentic beauty of the imagination. There would be few words. Communication would take the form of an encouraging embrace, a welcoming smile, and a knowing touch.

Pisces is the twelfth sign of the zodiac. The last one before we start again with the sign of Aries. Pisces is a feminine, mutable, water sign. Its symbol is two fish swimming together in a circle or connected to each other in some way. It symbolizes endings and beginnings, in particular, the space or threshold where they coexist. Similar to the yin yang symbol, everything is contained in the sign of Pisces. The lessons and evolution of the previous eleven signs culminate in Pisces. The ego transforms and merges with something larger than itself. In Pisces, the yearnings of the spirit and soul are stronger than the needs of self. Piscean energy affects and is affected by its surroundings.

Imagine kneeling at the edge of a riverbank and watching the movement of the water and everything being carried along in the rhythmic current. You can’t see things as clearly looking at them through flowing water. This fuzzy vision invites the mind to guess and invent what it is that flashes before it as it moves in and out of sight. The sound of undulating water relaxes the mind and teases the senses. It is almost impossible to resist slipping your hands or feet into the water as the waves reach closer to where you are, linger a while, and then retreat.

The uniting of physical reality and magical reality is a blessing and an obstacle for Pisces persons. The gift comes in the form of a vivid imagination with the ability to create intricate fantasies that entertain and inspire others. The barrier that keeps Pisces suspended in time occurs when this envisioned world is nothing more than a fragile and an ill-concocted form of escapism. As a result, any encounter with reality shatters their self-esteem and scatters the cherished images of what they so desperately wanted their life to be on the floor of their psyche. Because when Piscean energy isn’t grounded or structured, it expands and floats away like mist gliding over the water and dissipating once the Sun, or in this case, the consciousness, awakens. This is disappointing to the Pisces person. The world they created is so beautiful to them; they are hesitant to focus their vision on what exists in front of their eyes, when it is what lives behind their eyes that intrigues them. This is when Pisces energy becomes spacey, depressive, and lost. Their ability to express great compassion and love is inaccessible, because no one is home. Their spirit is on some great adventure in a distant land that disappears and reforms itself to the wishes of the daydreaming Piscean person.

Structure and form is the key to Piscean happiness. They really don’t want to drift away into a make-believe life. They long to be of service and ease the pain of others. It’s just that structure doesn’t come naturally to Pisces. The boundary between self and other, self and spirit, and dreams and reality are blurred. Still, their ability to rest between worlds accessing the information found in both is their gift to the rest of us who need help comprehending the concepts of spirit and oneness. Therefore, Pisces individuals need an outlet that opens the door to the musings of their inner world and brings its contents into form where it can be seen and appreciated. Pisces people make excellent intuitive healers, writers, artists, movie makers, and spiritual guides. Their minds are like cosmic photo albums holding the past, present, and future simultaneously. Sensitive and psychic, Piscean energy effortlessly bonds with the energy in its environment. Accepting of the imperfection that is part of being human, these individuals are not afraid of sacrifice or suffering. Pisces people know that everyone experiences heartbreak and loss at one time or another in their lives, and they provide the only real cure—patience and compassion. As long as they stay grounded, the Pisces individual is a great source of spiritual wisdom. When they are ungrounded, their energy becomes a murky, swampy mess of undifferentiated emotions and muddled thoughts. For that reason, Pisces must stay connected to the mundane world and the needs of the body so they can share their otherworldly wisdom with humanity.

Pisces is one of the signs that have two ruling planets, Jupiter and Neptune. Jupiter is its traditional ruler and brings an expansive quality to the energy of Pisces. Jupiter’s influence on the sign of Pisces instills generosity, inclusiveness, optimism, curiosity, and a willingness to explore and absorb metaphysical teachings. Additionally, Jupiter brings clarity of the mind and the ability to change one’s point of view and beliefs when presented with new information. Drawing on these qualities can augment the impact of Neptune in beneficial or undesirable ways, as we will see below.

Neptune is the land of creation before form. It is the womb of the unconscious mind. A place where things could exist, might exist, but don’t yet exist. It takes another kind of vision to navigate Neptune’s domain. Neptune is where we see what we want to see. We see the highest potential in all matters. This is what the person could be, but isn’t. Neptune charms Pisces by showing him or her what lies at the end of the evolutionary journey. The problem is that we are human, and it takes us lifetimes to master our scared, neglected, and wounded parts. Focusing on what could be instead of what is happening in the present is how Neptune trips Pisces up. Neptune reveals what we all long for, to merge with something greater than ourselves and our earthly existence, but our fantasies keep getting in the way. Neptune shows us our castles in the sand so that we can face them, not be defeated by them. Through Neptune, we see our illusions about the world and ourselves. It is here on our cosmic movie screen, safely nestled inside our minds, where we get the opportunity to challenge, change, and gain insight into our deepest desires. In this psychic court where we are forever the star, the superhero, and the king or queen, we can view our naked ego and its struggle to feel worthy. Although Neptune welcomes all of us to create magnificent dreams and masterpieces during our visits to his world, he doesn’t want us to stay there indefinitely. The purpose of our daydreams and vision quests is to bring what we have learned and experienced into the physical world so it can be enjoyed and treasured by others. It is the story of the hero we write about, or the painting we create that depicts the king and queen that live inside our heads, that speaks to the heroes and royalty that inhabit all of our imaginations. And, Pisces individuals are innately equipped to bring imaginings to life.

Taken together, Jupiter will magnify, intensify, and energize whatever Neptune creates. If the Pisces person focuses his or her attention on behaviors and habits with the intention of avoiding or fleeing from his or her life, then Jupiter will make those actions bigger and more time consuming. However, if the Pisces individual is seeking knowledge and awareness, Jupiter will expand the person’s ability to discern and recognize the truth in their surroundings.

Since our astrological birth charts contain all the signs and planets, we all have Pisces, Neptune, and Jupiter operating somewhere in our lives. During this time when the Sun is in Pisces, look for the places in your life where you seek an escape route and the situations you find hopeless and difficult to manage.  Where can you bring more love and compassion into your life and into the world? Consider the circumstances where you are naturally the most selfless. Examine the recurring themes in your daydreams. This is the time to strengthen your intuition, listen to and record both your sleeping and waking dreams, tune into the needs of your body, and bring stability to the areas in your life where you feel you have lost control. Notice the places where you forfeit yourself and undervalue your services. Connect to your spiritual side, surrender your everyday survival worries to your guides and guardian angels, and seek spiritual answers to ordinary problems. Enjoy the company of Pisces friends and loved ones. Let their loving nature fill your heart. Spend some time in or around water and symbolically release what no longer serves you, allowing the water to wash it away and transform it into something new. Take a mental vacation by immersing yourself in a good book, movie, museum, song, or one of your own reveries.

Sweet Dreams!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copyright ©2011 Lisa Finander

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Aquarius: Thinking Outside of the Box

Posted on February 1, 2011 by Lisa

As we move from the sign of Capricorn to Aquarius, I experience this time as the time when our New Year’s Resolutions are put to the test. If our intentions and affirmations are really going to manifest, we must embark on a journey that requires new ways of thinking, leaving our comfort zone, and putting our faith in an unknown future. This is a time for joining groups that foster our individuation and letting go of alliances that keep us too comfortably nestled in the past.

Aquarius’s symbol is the water bearer. Although Aquarius is shown pouring the waters of life on to the ground, Aquarius is an air sign, a fixed, masculine, air sign. Through the mind, Aquarius perceives alternate realities and frequencies and finds ways to make them usable on earth. These are the non-traditional healers that have the courage and purpose to implement their expertise. It doesn’t matter if what they imagine doesn’t yet exist or is misunderstood. They will follow this tiny spark of nothingness and make it into something spectacular. The water bearer brings knowledge from other realms for the sole purpose of awakening and evolving the self and humanity. If you think of trying to catch air with your hands, you’ll get a feel for the restless side of Aquarius. Think of a wind turbine, and you see the power and the positive effects of Aquarian energy and the Aquarian mind as it benefits not only society but also the planet. Since the sign of Aquarius is associated with electricity, the turbine is a great image of the Aquarian person using invisible frequencies in powerful ways.

Aquarius is the inventor, the genius, the absent-minded professor, and the eccentric individual that is even different from his or her fellow Aquarians. There is an innate impulsiveness associated with this sign that doesn’t have time for rules, discipline, structure, or social norms. Even if they appear ordinary on the surface, you will definitely come across something unusual about Aquarians if you look a little deeper. It maybe their friends or partners that are unconventional, or perhaps it is their habits, hobbies, tastes in food, music or movies that seems a bit strange to the mainstream crowd. They are on a quest for individuation, and Aquarians by nature like to experiment with ideas and life in general. If we go back to the image of the water bearer, I think of Aquarian energy as the energy that begins in the mind but must take into consideration the emotions of others and their own feelings in order to have their brilliance appreciated and accepted. To push this concept further, think of your own response to being exposed to something or somebody from another dimension or planet. The more free-flowing Aquarian energy you have in your chart, the more excited you will be. For those less comfortable with this energy, terror is a most likely response. Aquarians, who are welcoming, curious, and inclusive, would invite their new, extraterrestrial friend home for dinner.

This presents a quandary for the Aquarian personality and for those who love them. How do they remain true to their pioneering spirit while fostering their important relationships? Their ideas and lifestyle can be unsettling to some people. At times, the Aquarian feels like they are the alien in the room because they just can’t quite fit in. They don’t know how. They think differently. Nevertheless, Aquarians thrive when they are part of a group and have their own family of diverse friends. These alliances are essential to their well-being and invigorate them as they continually push the limits of the mind, body, and soul. Aquarians don’t seek the spotlight for their accomplishments; they seek friendship and people who will discuss and take interest in their novel insights and philosophies of how the world could be a better place sooner rather than later. In fact, Aquarians are idealists. They envision a world based on equality and acceptance, a world where everyone’s differences are respected and welcomed. Aquarian energy is very healing when it is able to function simultaneously on the personal and collective levels; that is their authentic gift to the universe. We need Aquarian minds to improve our world by developing new technologies and challenging antiquated belief systems.

Uranus is the planet that rules Aquarius. Before Uranus was discovered in 1781, Aquarius was ruled by Saturn. This dual rulership affects Aquarians in several ways. First, Aquarians can draw on the Saturn energy to ground and provide a structure for their inventions and causes. While they still require a certain amount of freedom in their lives, Aquarians who integrate the energies of Saturn, tend to have the resources and community they need to support their ideas. This may happen early in life through the stability and assets provided by their parents or something they consciously build for themselves as adults.

On the other hand, they can abandon the energies of Saturn altogether and follow only the rebellious and spontaneous energies of Uranus. Uranus requires the Aquarian to look beyond what is known and can be seen through ordinary vision. Uranus energy is sudden and dramatic. In an instant, the world changes and everything in it is viewed from a different perspective. The mind is clear and what was certain a minute ago, now is something quite different. Relationships come and go; the person has an unyielding desire to move and change jobs, or the answer to a problem reveals itself. The insights gained will the last a lifetime or at least until the next flash of consciousness descends upon the Aquarian individual. Aquarians can get addicted to those moments of genius. Uranus is a jolt of energy that moves through the person and frees the mind from its previous constraints. This transformation can be worrying to those who live with Aquarians because friends and loved ones don’t see it coming. But more often than not, the Aquarian didn’t see it coming either. They wake up one day and realize they can’t live life the way they did before. There is no ruminating or pondering on what to do next; their only option is to start walking on the new path. Living life this way, on an accelerated, evolutionary course, is normal for the Aquarian personality. By comparison, the rest of us can seem dull, boring, and too attached to the status quo.

Another option for utilizing this dual rulership is for the Aquarian is to explore forgotten or discarded teaching of the past and modify them so they are relevant for today’s society. The New Age movement is a good example. If you study new age subjects, you discover that they are not new at all. Instead, you’ll find a history of dedicated and exceptional teachers who brought new insights and applications to these practices making them relevant for the times. Aquarius is the sign said to rule astrology, and astrologers have expanded both the knowledge and applications of this field over time.

In addition, there is the electronic era of computers and “smart” devices. Nothing represents Aquarius and the Aquarian Age better than the Internet. Having worldwide information at your fingertips 24/7 allows a person to connect with anyone from anywhere at any time. You can experience history in the making while keeping in contact with 1500 of your closest friends (smile). It brings people together in a new way and levels the playing field. Vast amounts of information are available to everybody who has the time and patience to pursue it. There are relatively few secrets on the internet, and this electronic intimacy illustrates another quality of Aquarian energy. Aquarians are more comfortable in large groups than in one-to-one relationships. Communicating online, at your convenience, and from a distance is appealing to Aquarians who frequently find face-to-face encounters too intense. Friendships are much more pleasant. But if Aquarians allow themselves to enter the messiness of personal relationships, their genius will find a home. Because while most of us are trying to find a way out of our struggles and self-imposed limitations, Aquarians have long since freed themselves from such trappings and built a bridge of consciousness for us to walk across. As a result, the Aquarian’s wisdom is validated and the world is a better place. Their quest is complete, at least for now.

Aquarian and Uranus energy is available to all of us and is located somewhere in our astrological birth charts. Take a moment to think of the places in your life where you feel a little different from everyone else. In what area of your life are you rebellious and impetuous? In what circumstances will you risk everything and courageously work towards an uncertain outcome? Where does your genius lie? If you’re wavering in your commitment to change and really want to make those resolutions stick, seek out your Aquarian friends and call upon some Aquarian energy to shake things up inside your psyche to liberate yourself and your life. You’ll be glad you did, and you’ll have a new friend and more likely a new community to show you the way.

It’s time to jump out of the box and spread your wings!

©2011 Lisa Finander

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Capricorn’s Winter Workshop

Posted on December 21, 2010 by Lisa

One of the things I like best about living in Minnesota is the changing seasons. It keeps me in tune with nature and her cycles. This year there is no doubt that winter has arrived. Mountains of snow flank my driveway. The boughs of the evergreens hold heavy armfuls of snow bending and arching towards the ground in complex yoga poses. There is no sign of my shrubs or the boulders that curve around my flowerbeds. Buried underneath frozen drifts of snow, I am careful not to disturb their slumber when shoveling the stairs. Boots, mittens, and scarves are part of my everyday attire. The night sky greets me as I make dinner. I know that the snow, ice, and cold that have enveloped my home will stay with me until spring. I also know that the beauty of this wintry landscape is often lost and unappreciated, because it comes at a time when our social calendars and family obligations are the most strenuous. Trying to do and be everything perfectly at a time of year that requires increased effort and preparation is a fitting description and introduction to the sign of Capricorn.

In the Northern Hemisphere, Capricorn marks the winter solstice, ushering in the beginning of winter. Along with Aries, Cancer, and Libra, Capricorn is one of the four cardinal signs that initiate the change of seasons. Capricorn is a feminine, earth sign that nurturers us in the darkest, coldest time of year. Her symbol is the sea goat granting her dual access to the realm of spirit and body. A beautiful relationship ensues between the physical world and the spiritual through the sign of Capricorn. We value the body while acknowledging we are also made of spirit. Each is a gift to the other. Capricorn cares for us in a concerned, encouraging, intuitive, and structured way. Routine and discipline are important to this sign. They value tradition and established patterns. At the same time, Capricorn is also the sign that takes novel ideas and makes them physical, practical, and profitable. Capricorn soothes fears by allowing ample time for learning and for growth to occur. Society relies on Capricorns and Capricorn energy to create lasting structures and to provide the blueprints needed to achieve success.

Because our culture tends to reward hard work and the material status that Capricorns can and often do attain, this sign can naively seek validation and love from only that single aspect of themselves, believing that their other qualities are insignificant.

When this happens, the tender, sweet side of Capricorn is swept aside and the sea goat’s tail fins glide over a frozen lake of fiercely guarded emotions where spring never comes to thaw the waters. Sensations and feelings that once inspired are now a source of discomfort and fear. This is one of the universal qualities of the Capricorn archetype. We all hide the parts of ourselves we are ashamed of and that cause us to feel insecure. However, her external success cannot be maintained if she remains in this unbalanced state forever. Her victories are born out of her ability to feel, sense, and express her own emotions while understanding and considering the needs of others. Once she abandons the land of spirit, she abandons herself.

The way back is to shorten the distance between her worldly and otherworldly self by sharing her accomplishments and opening herself to loved ones, allowing them to see inside her heart. Validating and recognizing her worth by reclaiming her fins and spending time swimming with the needs of her spirit reawakens and renews her original bond between body and soul.

 

Thus, Capricorn energy can operate at many levels. At her lowest, she can be competitive, cut off from her feelings, and frozen in old patterns. At her best, Capricorn instills wisdom by teaching us how to hear and bring the yearnings of the spirit into form.

Saturn is the planet that rules Capricorn and reinforces the qualities of longevity, lessons, and resolve. A masculine planet, Saturn points us to our expertise and shortcomings. He calls attention to our desire for security and our deeply guarded vulnerabilities by presenting the same situation or circumstances in our lives repeatedly until we master and integrate the knowledge gained by facing our fears. This is one of the reasons Saturn gets a bad rap. Nevertheless, Saturn is a karmic planet, and he makes us face what we are desperately trying to avoid. Because Saturn knows who we really are and what keeps us from fulfilling our destiny, he will open the gates and set us free only when we discover this for ourselves. By not rushing us, Saturn is supporting our unique process of evolution. As Father Time, he plays with the rules of time making his subjects act and appear older or younger than their actual age. In fact, Capricorns can often appear to age backwards starting out as intensely serious and responsible children and “maturing” into light-hearted and spontaneous elders.

Saturn energy brings opposing forces and ideas together—death and rebirth, restriction and reward, and darkness and light. At his lowest, Saturn is a stern and unyielding taskmaster determined to make us meet his unattainable standards, mandatory for success and approval. At his best, Saturn lovingly provides the time, resources, mentors, and surroundings necessary to help us cultivate our talents and self-esteem before going out into the world. When Capricorn and Saturn work cooperatively, the matriarchy and the patriarchy are equally valued and empowered. They generously give of themselves to loved ones and society. Together, they are the cosmic parents fostering and developing the interests of their family, community, and vocation.

Although, Capricorn and Saturn energies are experienced on a  stronger and more personal level for individuals born under their combined influence, we all have the qualities associated with Capricorn and Saturn located somewhere in our natal charts, because in astrology, our birth charts contain all the signs and planets. To learn the lessons and wisdom found in these two archetypes, look for the places in your life where you are the most structured, traditional, parental, capable, and professional. Is it in your appearance, friendships, education, creativity, health, etc.? Exploring the areas where your thoughts are crystalized and your emotions are repetitive, habitual, frozen, and impermeable to change are beneficial Capricorn exercises. It is likely these are same areas that cause you pain, shame, and frustration. Revisit your relationship with your body and spirit. Do you value and attend to their needs in ways that support their mutual health and longevity? Check and see if there is someone depicting the role of Saturn in your life. Is this person a supportive adviser or an evil commander punishing you unfairly and taking away your toys? We all have places where we can be resistant to the hard work that goes into being adept at our vocation and life in general. Capricorn and Saturn teach us that it is never too late to begin anew. For time is a trickster that can fool us into believing we have too much or too little of it at the same time.

Each year the winter solstice reinstates the energy of Capricorn giving all of us the opportunity to understand and connect consciously to her meaning by experiencing it here on earth. Limited daylight and blustery storms make getting out of the house seem less inviting and require much more time, energy, and determination on our part. Our bodies respond to this shift too by wanting to stay inside, rest more, and eat comfort foods. The quiet winter nights beckon us to listen to the silence, slow down, and stop doing. Therefore, the winter solstice is a perfect time to begin the process of reflecting, releasing, redefining, and rebuilding. When an invitation to spend some time at home doing what inspires you comes in the form of a snow day or extra time off, embrace it. To deepen your appreciation for this time of year, prioritize your commitments by knowing what is most important to you and spending time with those that make you feel loved. Unless you are willing to let go of what doesn’t fit for you anymore and entertain the idea of inviting something new and untried into your world, refrain from dwelling on disappointing past relationships, broken commitments, and unsuccessful resolutions as you reconnect with family and friends. Instead, see if you can shovel a path to your buried beliefs about how the world should be in an area(s) of your life that you feel could benefit from some Capricorn expertise and counsel. Reach out to your Capricorn friends and family members. This is their birthday time of year when they shine the most. They have begun the process of bringing more light into the world.

This year call on the energies of Capricorn and Saturn to equip you with the insight, safe haven, and the precise skills you need to reinvent and revisit the parts of yourself that haven’t been celebrated nearly enough. Use this time to cherish and create the things that will provide the foundation for what you what to thrive in the spring. Stretch yourself ever so slightly by bringing a little more of your light into your life each day.

Happy Holidays!

Lisa

Posted in Archetypes, Astrology, Body Mind Spirit writing | Tagged , , , , | 8 Comments

The Beauty of Astrology

Posted on November 23, 2010 by Lisa

My interest in astrology began around the age of eight. I was attending a Halloween party, and instead of candy, they gave away prizes. I was having my fortune told in one of the booths, and my attention turned to a small, rectangular box in the nearby gift area. The sides were a leaf green color, and I could see there was a picture of a woman in a long, flowing dress on top. I don’t recall what my destiny was, but I do remember charging towards the gift table and picking up the box. It was a puzzle for those born under the sign of Virgo. To my relief, my birthday fell in the allotted time period, and I could legitimately take her home. I remember how happy and lucky I felt to be a Virgo, because I thought she was the most beautiful symbol of the zodiac. I still resonate to her image.

The goddess-like image of Virgo is what first intrigued and spurred me to study astrology. Back then, I was solely a Virgo astrologer. I wanted to know the story of this mysterious woman. What did she promise to those born under her sign? I was disappointed when I read the words “analytical, methodical, and practical.” They seemed very boring to me as a child, and as I grew older, they still uninspired me. Determined to find interpretations of Virgo that moved me as much as her representation, I went on an astrological quest.

As I continued to study astrology, I became fascinated with myths and the works of Joseph Campbell and Carl Jung. I first learned of Jung while reading astrology texts. For a while, I thought he was an astrologer. Maybe I should be ashamed of this fact, but I’m not. After all, it was because I wanted to know more about Jung that I re-enrolled in college and finished my degree. In addition to taking college courses in Jungian psychology, I began taking classes in mythology, symbolism, art therapy, and dreamwork. Through these classes, I learned that archetypes affect us on a personal and collective level. More importantly, I discovered archetypes are not static; they evolve and change just as humans do. This opened me up to a completely new way of looking at astrology. Once I combined the archetypal meanings with the more traditional astrological ones, it deepened my appreciation and comprehension of astrology.

The way I use astrology in my life is from this archetypal, non-static perspective. As I look up at the night’s sky, I see the stars as vast, unknowable, and full of possibility. I don’t debate their validity or story. Astrology doesn’t require me to believe or disbelieve. Astrology is the hero’s and heroine’s journey, not fated but becoming, blossoming, and shape shifting. This is my relationship with astrology, and this is how I will present it to you in future blogs.

What I do believe is that each of us is inherently creative and a child of the universe.

Copyright ©2010 Lisa Finander

Posted in Astrology, Body Mind Spirit writing, Writing spiritual books | 4 Comments

The Unknown

Posted on September 12, 2010 by Lisa

For an author, the unknown is more than a blank page or an unwritten story. It is also what will happen when (not if) you finish that story. We all finish our stories in one way or another. Sometimes they lead us to a new adventure, writing class, or favorite form of procrastination. If I am tearing out the grout around my kitchen sink, I know that I have a bad case of avoidance, avoidance of the unknown.

Avoiding the unknown is not specific to authors. Choosing a path or vocation where your success depends on your creativity is as terrifying as it is rewarding. Your choices are unlimited, so much so, that it can be overwhelming. When I encounter that empty, unfilled space on the page and in my life, I can feel invigorated and excited by possibility or feel lonely and exhausted. Learning how to embrace and navigate the unknown has been life changing for me.

Let me begin by saying that I do have specific goals I want to achieve. I believe in doing things I love as often as I can and approaching the things I don’t love with patience and compassion. However, I have never found success to be as easy as wishing or longing for an outcome. There have been some amazing opportunities that have appeared in my life (writing Disneystrology was one of them), but getting from point A to point B can take me years and often does. Looking back, I see how all the seemingly insignificant, irrational, and random choices I made were necessary steps to achieving a dream I hadn’t dreamed of yet. They were all unknown choices, some big, some small, but unknown in the fact that they didn’t always lead me in the direction I had planned. Some of my choices I didn’t expect to affect my life at all. This experience has taught me that I really don’t know what my writing or my life has in store for me. Anything can happen – how wonderfully horrible!

Personality, upbringing, past-lives, whatever it is, my unconscious reaction is to engage the unknown with a sense of dread, which might surprise some of you that know me because I take lots of risks. In my mind, not knowing what will happen next is not a good thing. If I’m not careful, my mind will fill that void with all kinds of depressing “what ifs”. A good example is, “What if nothing ever happens, and I can’t do it”. Defying the pessimistic thoughts that purport to be acting in my best interest and keeping me safe takes effort and awareness. Once I realized that the gut level fear that led to my procrastination and avoidance came from my discomfort with the unknown, I challenged myself to move away from the visions of unhappy endings and started to fill the empty space with imaginings of fantastic opportunities.

To get my mind to change course, I grant myself permission to fail. It is very freeing and not as fatal as one might think. I remember the many stories I’ve read about successful people who have wrestled with failure at one time or another. Then, I define what failure would look like for me in this instance. A little ego humiliation I can survive, but forfeiting my dreams is nonnegotiable. Each time I do this, I come to a place of acceptance and strength. I know that my mind is just as capable of creating wonderful thoughts as it is of generating horrible ones. Now that I’m done creating horror stories for myself, at least for the time being, I usually have more energy. If not, I take a break and nurture myself in some small way. It might be as simple as taking a few deep breaths, making a cup of tea, spending some time outside, talking with a friend, or my favorite, petting a purring cat. In the end, I can approach the task or situation with anticipation and fun. Fun? Yes, fun.

Have I mastered the unknown? No way! I don’t think I ever will, and that’s ok. For me, it is a daily, moment to moment practice that ebbs and flows with my thoughts and emotions. There are still days when I want to stay under the covers, and I do. The difference is that now, I understand what I am experiencing. The more I don’t know and the more unknown something is, the more courage and faith it demands from me. And, the more my mind has to let go of outcomes so something truly wonderful can happen.

Today, make some room for something delightfully unanticipated to happen without knowing how or why. It can be fun.

Posted in Being a writer, Body Mind Spirit writing, Coaching for writers, Disneystrology | Leave a comment

Welcome to Gathering Words

Posted on August 18, 2010 by Lisa

I’ve created this blog for several reasons. The first being that it is something I should do to connect with people that I would never meet except via social media. The whole idea of social networking is a little overwhelming for me right now. By nature, I am an introvert that loves people. What I mean by that is that I enjoy interacting with others, but it wears me out. I hope what I learn along the way will be helpful to you.

The second reason I decided to write this blog is because I have a passion for mind body spirit subjects. For as long as I can remember, I have been intrigued by the teachings that attempt to explain how the universe works and how to find deeper meaning in mundane life. My life-long journey exploring these topics has given me many practical tools that are invaluable to me in my daily living. I’ve learned that my life feels empty and unbalanced if I am not continually learning and exposing myself to metaphysical knowledge.

And, I started this blog because I am a published author and work with authors from around the world to develop and research publishing venues for their projects. Because the publishing world is changing so rapidly, it is important for authors to stay informed.

My new book, Disneystrology: What Your Birthday Character Says About You is published by Quirk Books and Disney. http://www.amazon.com/Disneystrology-What-Disney-Persona-About/dp/159474453X Many of my postings in the upcoming months will focus on my experiences promoting the book along with behind-the-scenes info on creating it.

When you follow the posts on Gathering Words, you will find a place that values intuition, the mystery of life, and the imperfections of the human condition that make us loveable and annoying as heck.

Posted in Being a writer, Body Mind Spirit writing, Disneystrology | 2 Comments