As an astrologer, one thing that amazes me is the architectural beauty inherent to our solar system's design. Most of us were intrigued as children when shown the image of the planet Saturn with its colorful orbital rings. Few of us consider a purpose greater than caprice by which the planets were placed into orderly concentric orbits. It seems that our solar system marvelously demonstrates the handiwork of that master clockmaker who set the varied planets into skillfully timed revolutionary trajectories to fulfill specific purposes. Each planet is encoded, perhaps mandated with its own unique messaging system. Given the predictability of their orbits 'round the sun, over time those that studied the "as above, so below" equation drew compelling data to suggest strong analogies between the regular movements of planets and the events/effects that would follow. While the moon is not actually a planet, the astrologer affords it that designation; and no planet impacts the rhythm structure of human feelings more than the moon. Nor is it debatable that the lunar cycle at twenty-nine days matches the natural menstrual cycle of all living females of childbearing age. Interestingly enough, no research has ever been conducted to link the variables of human emotion with the powerful lunar cycle. Our convenience culture places a premium on the marketplace; and since its myriad goods are rendered desirable to the vast majority, significant portions of our living quota of time on earth are devoted to work. The workplace ethic generally tolerates little emotion, as more often than not, employees are expected to meet protocols, deadlines, and behavior more suitable to robots. It's little wonder that our varied human feelings forced into suppression express in dazzling displays of social dysfunction. Our society is incomprehensibly violent (note recent school shootings), demonstrates escalating rates of obesity and early on-set childhood Diabetes; hides its obscene addiction and alcoholism rates; and blithely prescribes anti-depressant drugs to millions. Given these aberrant behaviors, is anything to be gained by studying the moon's cycles? The astrologer is positioned to enlighten those ready to take the ultimate journey. Its destination self-awareness is resonant with the sacred words etched into the temple built in Mercury's honor: "Know thyself." Although "astrologese" may sound complex, it's ultimately based on a living symbolic alphabet composed of the planets; added to the twelve zodiac houses, themselves modeled after the twelve original signs (each governed by one of those same key planets). A superficial knowledge of geometry lends insight into the various angular relationships or "aspects" made between planets. Those that are flowing are characterized as harmonious, while angular obstructions of energetic alignment are considered challenging or malefic. Every planet exerts both positive and negative affects, as do all signs; however it is the moon that is designated the celestial ambassador most intimately connected to why we feel what we feel, and how those feelings change in a fashion set to celestial rhythms. It's fair to say that the moon governs not only the oceanic tides, but also the interior tides that residence in a mortal body makes us heiress to. Just as no two snowflakes are exactly alike, yet all conform to a hexagon pattern; we can generalize how the moon behaves in each sign, but each person will individualize the effects based on the specifications of his or her birth blueprint (natal chart). It's elemental, Dr. Watson, as virtually everything on the earth plane reflects the manifest result (is a product) of cosmic chemistry!

Personally off put by the high numbers of persons seeking to anesthetize their true feelings by daily ingesting anti-depressant drugs, I designed my new book Moon Dance: Charting the Female Side of Time to provide a unique guided tour into the uncharted domains of the interior self. While men, particularly Cancer natives respond to the moon, they do not experience the same level of intimate connection that women biologically clocked to this luminary are destined and designed to feel. A fire sign moon native will feel rather sluggish and earthbound when the moon transits an earth sign. In contrast, a water sign moon native may feel more steady, secure and contained at such junctures. Since the lunar cycle is approximately twenty-nine days, the moon spends just over two days in each successive sign. Thanks to Dell Horoscope Magazine (as well as the internet) anyone can determine where the moon is on any given day as numerous chart services (some free) exist to assist you. Make note of the moon's transits and how you feel. Keep a journal so that a discernible pattern or rhythm begins to emerge. You will see firsthand that moods are not accidental; there is a profound lunar method to the great cosmic "madness." For instance, I notice that my capacity to articulate complex ideas is facilitated quickly and easily when the moon transits Virgo (it's ruled by Mercury, not to mention being the sign of precision) or Aquarius (it links with the highest octave of the air trinity, and is associated with tapping into the great reservoir of intuition). For advanced Moon Dancers, you can keep track of the cycles of family members, and come to anticipate charged occasions before they arrive. This could well constitute cosmic therapy at its best! Years ago I lived with a sun Aries fellow who had Mars conjunct Saturn in Cancer. My Libra daughter's sun exactly opposed his sun and fell into square with his Mars-Saturn, while my Saturn in Libra opposed his sun (conjunct my daughter's) and squared his Mars-Saturn Cancer. Our family went into virtual "Red alert" mode every month when the moon crossed Cancer. Keep in mind, this aspect of the lunar cycle proved challenging within my family paradigm; and that may not prove the case for readers of this article. Moon Dance is a discovery process. Each of us experiences not only the moon in her regulated orbital cycle, but every planet, according to his or her own unique natal chart wiring. Many persons locked into the linear illusion their separate body represents laugh off the idea that the planets can affect them. Strange the way they dismiss the coincidence of the moon's orbit with that of the menstrual tides of half the human population! Nor can they present much of an argument to the synchronous truth that they happen to age as a direct result of the earth's orbit around the sun. When people say to me "I don't believe in astrology," I like to come back with the snappy retort that "gravity doesn't believe in you, either." In other words, when it comes to universal law, human belief is not a requirement. There is evidence of a great cause-effect relationship writ into our planet's blueprints; and it impacts all living creatures, particularly human beings who operate within its dominion. It's awesome to observe our planet circling the sun; for what is revealed is not unlike the design structure of the tiny atom composed of varied electrons spinning their orbs around a central (sun) nucleus. And while the human ego may believe it's the only created intelligent life form that exists in the vast unknown reaches of the limitless universe, our planet could just as well be an atom in the body of Creator/Creation. For centuries human beings have cast death sentences upon one another for disagreements based on their limited understanding of their origins, the Creator, and their purpose for assuming bodies. Today, at the closing phase of the Piscean Age we see this folly drawing the world dangerously toward a severe "holy" war in the Middle East. Again, astrology, the oldest story seldom told can cast timely light on our human dilemma. It seems to me that each religion has a piece of the puzzle, and when they agree upon anything, that point of consensus is likely indicative of universal truth. Take the case of twelve. Jesus specified twelve disciples and Abraham, founder of three of the world's most popular religions, fathered twelve tribes. This is also the number of the zodiac. Suppose each sign (or tribe) embodies one facet or face of God, the Creator, the Infinite. No singular race, religion, sign or nationality can therefore claim to know Creator without including the other quintessential facets of Creation in its conjecture! I believe this is the great paradox; and it's one that stretches human enlightenment to include the practice of wider ideological tolerance. As the moon crosses each sign, she enlivens its symbolic kingdom and rouses its particular (Divinely designated) potentials. We all have the opportunity to become one with that Divine principle. Thus in a very real sense we may truly become part of all that is, as we are given the chance to connect to all aspects of Creation. When sun (father principle, or supreme Yang) and moon (lunar principle, supreme Yin) meet for new moon, their unified force-field works like a cosmic consummation. Although astrologers and those interested in this ancient realm of study readily agree that many Aries persons indeed act and sometimes look (ram-like facial features) like Aries, who can explain why this is so? I believe the zodiac signs, each charged with Divine fire emanating through thirty-degree filaments extending from the great cosmic circle, are endowed with a cosmic form of DNA. Frequencies of the light alter to produce the special qualities associated with these twelve sign-expressions. When sun and moon merge at new moon, their monthly "marriage" draws from the Divine primal template the qualities consistent with the sign of their meeting. In other words, at new moon, the archetype that dwells in the sign-field is summoned from the ethers by virtue of a consummation of the lights (Sun-Moon fusion). Visionary psychotherapist Carl Jung believed that these timeless archetypal forces derived from the collective unconscious; however, it may well be that this pool of human sentience draws its character directly from the greater celestial tide-pool. Just as nations draw artificial divides to set boundaries, our notions of where our beings begin and where the cosmos ends are abstract fictions at best. Indeed our linear minds formatted to emulate structured left-brain educational protocols have scant understanding of the greater mystical relationships that indeed exist. (For a full understanding of this unique thesis check out my new book: Moon Dance: Charting the Female Side of Time.) For Dell readers I will present a practical overview of Moon Dance. You are now cordially invited to observe the twelve signs and explore the energies the moon awakens in her passage through each one of these during the course of every month. You are the only expert involved in this exploratory journey. There is no external authority to judge, validate or chasten the way you feel. Observe yourself honestly. And remember that at new moon, the intrinsic essence of a sign is deeply and profoundly awakened. Everyone is equipped to feel these transitions; yet those wired to respond to the moon (planets in Cancer, difficult aspects made to the natal moon) will experience the lunar permutations more intensely than those whose charts are designed to respond to denser energies, like Saturn. Part of being alive calls for the recognition that all living beings swim (share) in a vast celestial sea. The great universal theatre features twelve timeless themes. These stories, associated with ancient myth often dovetail with zodiac sign symbolism. Occasionally I have taken liberties (with respect to conventional astrological theory) to broaden the reader's understanding of how eternal forces continue to shape our human dramas, "as above, so below" style. This Divine equation is sacrosanct and will never go out of style!

Introducing the Archetypes of Time

Aries: Not surprisingly when the moon (especially new moon) crosses Aries, she awakens the archetype of Mars. Jean Shinoda Bolen in her masterful Gods in Everyman describes Mars as both warrior and lover. The astrologer adds a further designation, that of pioneer. Aries is ruled by Mars; and its primal force is associated with basic sexual and survival urges. In Eastern mysticism these drives are linked to the first charka, impulses psychologists associate with the "fight or flight" syndrome. As the moon crosses Aries, everyone should make note of what shape his/her ego is in. Are you feeling roused too easily to aggression? Is energy pent up that would be better expressed in exercise, or some personally innovative attempt at pioneering or discovering new terrain? Is your sense of self (and its desires) crowding out your capacity to listen to others or get along with them?

Taurus: Although conventional astrology associates Venus with Taurus, to better tap the mythological root symbolism of the Zodiac sign that connotes Mother Earth, I have chosen Demetra, the great Mother as its representative. I encourage readers to learn more about Demetra. To paraphrase for Dell readers, she is the quintessence of nurture. Taurus, related to the mouth and throat signifies our first nourishment. The moon is exalted in Taurus. The mother by virtue of her breasts presents the primal source of nourishment to her newborn baby. When the moon transits Taurus, we must focus on the ways we nurture our bodies. To the degree we respect the body as temple extends to how we treat and reciprocally nurture others.

Gemini: Both mythology and conventional astrology dovetail when it comes to the sign of the twins. The winged god of roadways, communication venues, and the marketplace is an easy fit for Gemini. When the moon crosses this lively sign, observe your belief system and whether your actions correspond with what you say. Many of us enter into debates and unconsciously project our "hidden twin" onto others. In other words, suppose your personal philosophy is conservative; then you might project your "closet liberal" (or antithesis) onto others and challenge them to substantiate their positions. Ultimately you are battling with an unexpressed aspect of yourself so as to clarify your true beliefs!

Cancer: Since Cancer is the sign astrologers designate as the moon's zone of dominion and the moon refers to our family paradigms, the moon's monthly transit of Cancer is likely to pull up family dramas, even those that recede far back in time. Author John Bradshaw (Homecoming) suggested that over 90% of families are dysfunctional; whereas America's premier 20th century mystic, Edgar Cayce termed family life "the hotbed of karma." When the moon transits Cancer, be mindful of those dramas and dynamics that seem to recur as if placed on a virtual autopilot mechanism. Where possible, change your operation (your instinctive responses) to alter the pattern.

Leo: Although astrologers grant the sun rulership of Leo with its symbol the great lion; I have chosen charioteer Apollo who lures the sun across the sky to signify Leo in Moon Dance. The sign traditionally associated with love, the human heart, and where we partake of the qualities of Creator in becoming expressively creative, Apollo challenges us to inquire what proximity to the great light means for our souls and life passages. When the moon transits Leo, we take stock of our hearts (not to mention unions), and often respond instinctively to the state of our libidos. The Lion card of the Tarot suggests we either learn to ride our passions, or they will ride us. This lesson is pertinent to Leo!

Virgo: Associated with the zodiac's 6th house of health enterprises, I chose the Goddess Hestia to signify Virgo. She represents the calling of ancient female healers. (And let's face it, Mercury is already busy governing Gemini!) Jean Shinoda Bolen terms Hestia one of the "virgin" Goddesses from her book, Goddesses in Every Woman. Like it or not, our tissues reflect our issues; so when the moon crosses Virgo, it's timely to assess the state of our bodies (and whatever stress factors undermine them). Remember, prevention is worth pounds of cure. Ignoring medical anomalies is no guarantee that conditions will just disappear.

Libra: Whereas astrological theory consigns to Venus the rulerships of both Taurus and Libra, for Moon Dance I have chosen another incarnation of the Goddess Venus, Juno-Hera wife of Zeus, to represent the sign of marriage. Arguably she was probably made the most powerful female on Olympus by virtue of the status of her mate. Hera holds marital union sacrosanct, and represents women who recognizes the sacred vow of marriage. This lawful union by extension serves to further the equal and just rights of women as equal co-partners to men. Ironically Hera is known for her rages, blamed as the woman scorned due to Zeus' breaches of fidelity! Nonetheless, she connotes justice and reminds us that our word is our bond. As the moon crosses Libra, be mindful of your agreements with others; and maintain balance in all things.

Scorpio: In a society where pornography proves the most profitable "enterprise" on the internet, and women are raped every moment of every day, the link between sex and violence has become all too real. Although conventional astrology allots to rapist-abductor Pluto, the rulership of this sign, I chose to work with its watery Yin (female) equivalent and chose Persephone, the ONE abducted by Pluto to signify this mysterious sign where sexuality, transformation, and forgiveness are all allotted nearly magical transformational powers and properties. Persephone, daughter of Demetra, was kidnapped by Pluto and held hostage in the underworld. It's a fascinating mythological story that reveals much about contemporary human nature and the dark parts of our selves that are in need of collective healing, or mass societal catharsis. When the moon makes her monthly voyage across Scorpio, we sense where we harbor wounds in need of healing. Forgiveness is the plan prescribed by the vast majority of sages and mystics. It operates less as a gift to the trespasser, more as liberating "pass" to the individual sinned against. Besides, it's also the fundament of "good karma."

Sagittarius: Again, this astrologer chooses to break with convention by not applying to corporate Zeus, C.E.O of Olympus, governing rights to this sign of limitless prosperity. Ultimately all things valuable are derived from the great Earth Mother. To properly appreciate Pan's tie to Sagittarius, a complex mythological narrative that exposes the complicated phenomena known as the precession of equinoxes must be shared. (You can learn more about this fascinating relationship in Moon Dance.) To cut to the cosmic chase, in times predating our modern world true abundance derived directly from the natural world. Zeus resembled Pan, the naked flute player content to dance around in the wilds, for all his needs were easily met. Years of astrological study reveal characteristics of the remnant shaman in persons with charts strongly marked by Sagittarius placements. Etched into soul memory are indigenous lifetimes where living close-to-nature was the norm. When the moon crosses Sagittarius, some may shop to express the modern notion of prosperity; but the ones who live true to their inner spirits find ways to connect intimately with nature. They may hike, kayak, bike-ride, or get on planes to explore virgin terrain.

Capricorn: Many readers are familiar with the role played by Saturn in the maturation cycle of individuals. Each Saturn return (these occur at twenty-eight year intervals) radically changes lives by weeding them of those experiences, persons, places and things that have outlived their time. I link Capricorn with the old god Chronos who holds the hourglass that measures out the time allotted to our various plans and purposes. It is the symbol of fate. When the moon makes her monthly crossing of Chronos' domain, we're inwardly compelled to make wise use of our time by facing the projects that must be answered for. Management skills strengthen! The really attuned may feel akin to Hamlet haunted by the ghost of his deceased father, intoning, "Have you forgotten your anointed purpose?"

Aquarius: Fitting to the sign of the rebel, I have departed from convention to leave Uranus on the astrological back burner, and allot to Aquarius instead the regency of Artemis. The Judeo-Christian epoch has worshipped Christ as Divine son, he that is closest to the light that spawned Creation. That persona seems to constitute Apollo in mythology. How many realize that Apollo, just like Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars triology, has a twin sister! For Luke it was Leah, and for Apollo that sister is Artemis! She is his equal and thus the feminine expression of Divinity. For the Aquarian Age to manifest the precious values of peace, justice and equality that many equate with this advanced sign, the status of women worldwide must change. Humanity has failed to understand, validate, or lend due reverence to the feminine side of the Divine force. This omission has gone on for centuries! This is why I bequeath to Artemis, twin to Apollo, Moon Dance rulership of the sign that signifies a "cosmic changing of the guard!" When the moon transits Aquarius, rules change and people act against tradition and convention. Only by thinking, living, and acting out of the box can those new inventions, amalgams, and possibilities associated with Aquarius come to life! It's time!

Pisces: While the love-star Venus is said to rule both Taurus and Libra, she is exalted in Pisces. A planet's exaltation implies a special code of honor and privilege. Indeed, it was Aphrodite, the sensual Goddess whose lovemaking rites and skills made her infamous that naturally ought be associated with this watery sign. Myth has it that Aphrodite emerged (that is to say originated!) from the bubbling waters of Poseidon's ocean kingdom. The more erotic mythological rendition holds that the waters that gave birth to this sexy Goddess bubbled up as a result of her father, Uranus' severed genitals thrown there! Pisces is the sign where the circle meets itself. It connotes karma; but also holds out a potential for a rich communion of bodies, minds and spirits. Thus extending to mankind a means to alchemically shift antipathy into Divine love. When the moon crosses Pisces many persons find this world too heavy and retreat into addictive/escapist behaviors. Some choose the other fish, the path less traveled by and opt to dance, perform centering Yoga, or otherwise follow the lead of the poets of all ages. They walk by the still waters to court the muse of inspiration within. Christ, the fisher of men, taught that compassion was tantamount to the higher love. Indeed it's the mandate for Pisces. Amid our personal suffering an exquisite empathy is gained that allows us to connect with others in ways that transcend (or perhaps melt away) the ego.

Just as we cannot argue against gravity, the moon conducts powerful tides inside our bodies whether we consent to these forces or otherwise. In other words we all Moon Dance. Learning to educate yourself so that you can sense, read, and move to the rhythms of time (expressing through the moon) is volitional. Personally, I prefer to know in advance when the lunar cycle will favor my varied interests and pursuits. Being alive is to be gloriously sentient. Women, in particular, were designed to experience the full spectrum that flesh, via feelings, is made heiress to. Those who busily drown out emotions they cannot control by reaching for the latest desensitizing pill fail to realize there is a method to the variability of this Divinely shifting luminary. There is purpose behind those tidal forces that generate changes in our interior pools of sentience. To the extent each lifetime provides the opportunity to gain in self-mastery, turning off the emotive mechanisms is tantamount to cheating on your final exams. Only the truth shall set them free. Chemically anesthetizing ourselves does nothing to improve our ultimate mundane or spiritual status. With the moon as our lantern, the shadow aspects of ourselves are therapeutically illumined. Through her gifted light may we find the courage to arrive at a higher awareness that is not based upon suppressing how and what we feel, but rather using it as a rite of Initiation through which to broaden the reach of our fundamental humanity. For at essence each of us is a living prism of time, endowed by the planets with keys to varied forms of sentience. The Aquarian Age invites us to tame our demons not by denying them, but by learning why they exist. In coming to recognize the Creation blueprint we garner respect for the twelve quintessential celestial personae. Knowledge is medicine. The great heavenly plan points the way to our learning to live more lovingly with our selves and by extension-with one another.