CALIFORNIA SHAKING

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Data: Earthquake 5.8 Southern California 18:42:15 UT Lat 33.96 Long 117.75



Seismic Monitor Here

Earthquakes in CA here


News filtered in this evening that Los Angeles has suffered a moderate earthquake. Having been in a couple of severe earthquakes (7.1 and 7.3) in California, I know all about the anxiety levels in the first few hours and indeed days and weeks after a strong tremor. People try and laugh it off , some even feel thrilled by the short sharp adrenaline rush and sudden community spirit as everyone discusses what happened, but for many there's also a hidden dimension to earthquakes. Anxiety levels skyrocket and there's a feeling of instability that has less to do with shifting ground and more to do with uncertainty and facing up to issues of one's mortality and powerlessness.

An earthquake of the magnitude of the one felt today is almost an annual event in California and people are well prepared but it's still not only a seismic shock, but a physical shock, to those who felt it strongly.

Here's what I experienced .......

After an earthquake, once you've established that you and your loved ones are safe and your building is still intact, you don't think 'Wow that was scary' and then relax, instead you enter a period of time in which your body is constantly in a state of high alert. In subsequent hours and days, every little movement is registered; trucks thundering by your location can become a trigger for severe palpitations, whereas just hours before the event the ground movement they create would have been been filtered out by the sensory system. One can't help but feel jittery whilst on freeway overpasses, or in elevators, high buildings, or when away from loved ones. If you are forced to live or work in high rise buildings the fear is subtle but for most it's fair to say it can feel like a mild form of post traumatic stress syndrome.

I wasn't a mother when I was involved in the two big tremors I experienced (the largest in 40 years for SoCal), but I can easily imagine the anxiety that parents would have over the next few days if the kids were back in school (and will have if they are in childcare) - especially in the wake of the China Earthquake TV footage.

Maybe I'm just more highly strung than the average Joe but however sanguine you are about the nature of your fate, most people living (or even visiting) California would have to admit that whilst the little tremors are a well known and frequent part of life, the large tremors instantly trigger a fear that at any moment 'The Big One' is about to strike, razing everything to the ground.

If you have never been in a big shaker and want an insight into how perturbed one becomes, imagine that you had to fly on American Airlines in late September 2001 or were living in London around 7/7, or even had to go to Istanbul this week. People like to stay well away from places where terrorist attacks have recently occurred, even though statistically the chances of them being involved in further attacks are lower than before the incident. In California, the fear is far from irrational, it's statistically red hot but, other than everyone leaving the State, the threat cannot be controlled - hence the feeling of impotence. A bomb would affect a very localised area but the effects of 'The Big One' will, when it inevitably occurs, straddle miles and miles.

People who live in hurricane and tornado alleys at least have some warning of imminent trouble, the problem with Earthquakes is that there is none.

My personal way of discharging some anxiety over subsequent earthquakes was by getting informed. I read up on all the quake related data I could find. Caltech's (the seismic info agency) hotline was on speed dial, I got my 'Earthquake Preparedness Kit' stocked up, moved all heavy objects away from the bed and in that bed I bored my husband to sleep with pillow talk about shear waves, right lateral strike slips, epicenters, liquifaction and tsunami's*. I guess in some obsessive way I figured if I could persuade him to move somewhere the geologists considered to have 'the right type of earth' underneath it I'd increase our chances of reaching middle age!

What I didn't have in my self preservation arsenal at the time (early 90's) was a computer and the ability to collate a lot of astrological information about previous earthquakes in relation to current planetary cycles.

I do have that now and although I'm no longer in LA I obviously have empathy with anyone who is there and I'm sure all astrologers are keen to use whatever forecasting methods we can. One person's blog won't save lives and astrological prediction techniques are really only as good as any long range weather forecasts -and we know they are a hit and miss affair - but until the Mars/Uranus opposition is well over AND the eclipse season is finished and Mars out of Virgo (see dates further on) I would urge those in California, Nevada, Hawaii and the Pacific Rim to check that you know the drill if you are staying in a hotel or that everyone in the family knows what to do in the event of another rattler.

Most astrologers would agree that Mars/Uranus oppositions are related to severe tension and then sudden , unexpected release. Mars in an Earth sign is related to stress in the earth and eclipses, whilst not necessarily related to good nor bad events, are well documented times of greater tidal pulls and planetary stresses and if you look at the ACG map for today's earthquake above you will see the Sun and Moon were brought into alignment at this precise location.

Last week helio Pluto moved into zero degrees Capricorn and today's LA quake took place as the Moon came to the Cardinal cross/ World Point of 0 Cancer (Geo) Additionally we are moving into a period where many planets will be passing through the sign of Virgo which has been prevalent in past seismic events involving California. Today Mars is conjoined to the Sun of The State of California chart ( 9 Sep 1850, Sacremento, Noon) at 16.44 Virgo and Pluto squaring California's Jupiter at 29 Virgo and trining California's Uranus at 29 Aries. California does also have the Yosemite Wildfires to contend with and this is shown by these aspects too. The chart for LA itself shows todays earthquake Moon moving to conjoin Uranus at 2 Cancer with Pluto opposing. The LA Sun, at 12 Virgo, is bang on the tr Mars/Saturn midpoint. It would be fair to say there's a chance of another aftershock tonight.

The eclipses occur on 1 Aug and 16th August. Mars leaves Virgo in late August but the influence of tr Saturn opposite tr Uranus remains for the next few years and Pluto transits the Californian chart Mars/ Saturn midpoint at the end of November 2008.

Update: I just noticed that the Jupiter Saturn alignment of early September occurs at 12 Virgo/Capricorn i.e Saturn exactly on the Sun of Los Angeles trine to Jupiter just as it turns direct. This aspect is usually one of stability or attempts to shore up buildings and institutions, so possibly refers to the housing market and credit crunch but I just think it may be prudent to mention this period too (early to mid Sep) in relation to quakes as the Sun will be moving towards an opposition with Uranus. Yesterday's earthquake has also now been downgraded to a 5.3

Further update: ACG charts of the 1 Aug eclipse show Pluto through California which is also a bit concerning. Western Canada reported a small quake recently. Looking to charts of the biggest quake to ever strike them on 26 Jan 1700, we find corresponding activity at this time as the 9 Leo eclipse hits this charts Pluto at 10 Leo.

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* The local library in California very kindly provided me with a copy of Cycles of Heaven by Guy Lyon Playfair and Scott Hill which led to a fascination with Sun spots and the behaviour of animals, including whales, birds and dogs as a precursor to quakes as a result of increased electromagnetic fields and ELF's (Extremely Low Frequency Waves). Maybe I was looking for it, but even after all these years I still recall that I noticed an increase in dog's barking before one strong aftershock and also a stillness in the air, like right before a storm. In all the ones in the middle of the night I had awoken just before they happened. The message - pay attention to your animals behaviour!

TELL THE TRUTH - ALL THE TIME

The title of this post repeats advice from an inspiring lecture by Randy Pausch. The professor, who was suffering from pancreatic cancer, passed away this morning at the age of 47. You can read the story here or read his book - The Last Lecture.

Here he is addressing and inspiring graduates at Carnegie Mellon. I urge everyone to watch this...........




Professor Pausch was born with a Mars/Saturn opposition:

"The brick walls are there for a reason," "The brick walls are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something."

He succumbed as Saturn conjoined his Sun ruler, Pluto and Tr Pluto conjoined natal Jupiter. Pr 12 noon Moon conjunct Pluto. Venus newly entered Aquarius after 25 years in Capricorn.

"You will need to find your passion; find your passion, follow it and if there is anything I have learned in life you will not find that passion in things or money"

I'm sure everyone's thoughts are with his children, wife and family.

What a life, what a legacy.

WEALTH DESTRUCTION - news on the economy

Hot off the presses, here is the latest news on the economy from the world expert financial astrologer, Christeen Skinner.

If you would like to keep one step ahead the game then I highly recommend you subscribe to her mailouts and you can do that by visiting her website via the horoscopes tab on my website www.kathryncassidy.com

Remember helio Pluto flips over to Capricorn on 19th in the early hours of the morning BST, so all change this weekend! Here is Christeen's newsletter:

At 12.43 GMT on Sunday 20th July, Venus will hold the position that will shortly be held by the solar eclipse. I suspect we may be given a clue as to what this particular eclipse (which is a sophisticated New Moon) will mean – at least in terms of finance.

Mergers This could coincide with good news: certainly new thinking as to how best to balance the books may be much discussed. I expect Tuesday 22nd to show a definite upturn. One possibility is that news of a merger (Venus is, after all, about relationships) will take the edge of recent gloom. It may be that this is linked to events last summer.

Deals (these may be plural) that were derailed in August 2007 could be put back on track.

Recent forecasts and new ones In my last letter I singled out a few dates when I expected negativity. Sadly, though marked volatility was right on, I was out by 24 hours in each case. As always, these are learning experiences. With this in mind I am going to single out Friday 25th July as being the potentially 'best' equity day of the next two weeks. Strong moves in an upward direction seem more likely than not.

The following week (the days leading into the eclipse) could bring other dramas – specifically in the world of media. On 31st there might even be stories reminiscent of the dot-com bubble of 2000.

Commodities Monday 28th and Tuesday 29th could see a change of direction in commodity markets. Attention could then be drawn to gold. This would hardly be surprising given that the eclipse will be in Leo (the sign associated with the sun-metal, gold).

Currencies As you know, I have anxieties for the currency markets in the period between the solar and lunar eclipse next month. To my mind these could be in some turmoil toward the end of that period. So far I have been unable to determine which currency is likely to fail – though as you also know I've been looking at many: including Korean and Vietnamese money. Whatever the disturbance there is no question for me that currencies with which I am more familiar (the US dollar, Euro and Sterling) will be affected. Hopefully by the time I write again I will have honed in a little more. Much longer term (this time next year), the outlook for the US dollar does not look good at all. Analysis of recent downward moves suggest that these will be even stronger next year – a bleak outlook indeed.

The US mortgage market As we know, the 4th July chart for the US determines its Sun position in Cancer. Pluto has recently visited Capricorn (Cancer's opposite) and will be firmly in that sign from November 2008 through 2024. The opening stages of this will place Pluto directly opposite the US Venus position – suggesting a complete change in their foreign policy, their key relationships and in their financial situation. I fear that what we have seen in recent weeks is but a dress rehearsal for severe difficulties from 2009. In the short term (perhaps early September), plans to stabilise – and even a four or five year plan to resolve the mortgage situation may be announced. The planets suggest that these plans might not work. Something radical – and which has yet to reach human consciousness – may not emerge until late next year at the earliest.

The Banking Industry A similar forecast can be made for the banking industry. September announcements are likely to include rescue packages (especially on 8th/9th of that month). It is even possible that bank-stock values will rise into that date. If the past is any indicator of the future, then these positions are unlikely to hold however.

Depression There has been much speculation that a 1930s-style depression will soon take hold. There are indeed planetary similarities between that time and the next few years – but the cosmos doesn't do exact repeats, - and on the horizon, there are other formations pointing to expansion. Inflation That said, a worrisome combination of Jupiter, Chiron and Neptune in Air sign Aquarius next year suggests rampant inflation in 2009.

Final note I will be spending the next two weeks completing the revised edition of The Financial Universe and studying charts from Latin America – even a brief look suggests that this may be the best emerging market of the coming years.

Until the solar eclipse,

Yours from the stars Christeen

You can purchase Christeen's Book from her site, or via the Horoscopes tab on my website

Whilst Uranus and Neptune are in mutual reception (i.e Uranus is in Pisces and Pisces is ruled by Neptune. Neptune is in Aquarius and Aquarius ruled by Uranus), the terms liquidity and illiquidity abound*. In opposition to Saturn, the Uranus in Pisces process of sudden waves of financial uncertainty and meltdown (UR/Pi) of solid assets, goods and institutions (Saturn) will peak - that takes us into 2010. So anyone looking for the bottom, that's it and not before. That's my take on it anyway. Pluto into Capricorn speaks of the longterm (17 year) changes that will result from all the financial mess, corruption and hidden agenda's, being brought to light in the next few years.

Keep ahead of the game by reading Christeen regularly but also watch what George Soros says and does. I've always had a niggling suspicion that Soros must either use astrologers or the Gann trading methods - I could be mistaken. Whatever his secret he always seems to have his finger on the pulse. News reports state this:

The gathering storm over London's financial markets hardly needed a pessimistic intervention from George Soros. The billionaire speculator weighed into the gloom this week with a prophecy that Britain and the United States were heading for recession. It was, he said, 'the most serious financial crisis of our lifetime'.

This may send the ever-optimistic 'strong Saggie natal positions' amongst you into a spin, especially as I highlighted the bit I believe to be true. I can almost hear the question from you now " Why don't you be more positive?" Answer: It is positive. It's just a question of perspective.

Pluto brings to the surface all the 'stuff' other people would rather gloss over or prefer to remain shoved under the carpet. Scorpio's, who are ruled by Pluto, tell it like it is because they know that out of truth always comes good. This current crisis has been writ large in the sky for years and, to my Scorpio mind, this is what 2012 is all about.

Out of this gradual meltdown ( which will undulate over the next few years) will come a 'new age'; one where people realise that we reap what we sow ( literally too*), and security is not something you can buy - it's something we carry inside us. People act very strangely when their security is under threat. Some get all militant and antsy, picking fights etc (which is why the Obama campaign is such a potential flash point)** because to many their security is their identity and they forcefully try to wrestle with change.

If you make your security about what you own (or believe) then problems always ensue. If your security is not attached to what you own then you will always ride the the up and down waves of the economy - and indeed life. That is the underlying secret of all of this Law of Attraction/manifesting craze - you'll only ever attract what your ego is not invested in. You have to be prepared to let things flow in and out or your life with EQUAL ease.

$$$$$$$ Update 19th July: Well hey, look what just pinged into my inbox This is called synchronicity! See especially the 5th paragraph of this article.$$$$$$

If you know that as long as you have life, love and the earth beneath your feet you will always survive, you'll pass through the next few years relatively unscathed because it means you have trust in a supportive, abundant universe. If what you own you equate to 'Self' you'll already be feeling very insecure. Coming events will only affect us all in direct proportion to the amount we need to question our values and what is important in life. It is really that simple. If you are living consciously. If you know your inner motivations and trust your instincts; you'll sail through because you'll easily adapt to whatever comes your way. If you're not living consciously and authentically? Well, Saturn and Pluto insist it's time to wise-up. Ready or not here they come.

When a hurricane's on its way forewarned is forearmed. We can take steps to protect ourselves and our property. We should all have got the message by now, astrology warns of it, as does Soros - there's a depression brewing out there. If we do take a direct hit, those of us who can bend in the wind may take a slight battering but we certainly won't be beaten. Futhermore, what's cleared away will leave room for new growth and new attitudes.

Ultimately, we can bank on the fact that everything always has been, and always will be, ordered and perfect.

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* In 2012 Uranus and Neptune change signs for good

** I feel that his wife may be the target, or his unwitting downfall, but that's another post.

We reap what we sow - this is a great time to start growing your own veg, even if it's only on a windowsill or in a gro-bag. Many planets moving into Virgo suggest this.

MAMMA MIA !

An extra packed post today as it's the holidays now and updates may get a bit sporadic from me until September.

As 'predicted' the Californian wildfires have now turned the corner This is an area of astrology that should be noted by non astrologers - tense situations will always start to ease a few days after the relevant aspect has perfected. In this case we were looking at the Mars/Saturn conjunction.

As I noted in my previous post however, I'm still not in total agreement with some of my colleagues that the 'relief' comes precisely after the moment of 'perfection' (i.e the exact aspect) it can sometimes get worse in the ensuing hours and days. Then about 2-3 days after, unless there's another stronger aspect at work, things usually 'turn'.

If an aspect perfects then retrogrades we see an abatement of a problem but rarely is it over. Unfortunately the planets involved in bringing all our current financial turmoil are long-term and some are retrograde, so although it's a bit unpalatable, forearmed is forewarned; do as much as you can to safeguard your savings and spread them around. Some people in the know - and obviously I am not a financial advisor and you should always consult one if investing your money - suggest purchasing Silver. You may find this article interesting in that regard.

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I went to see the feel-good movie Mamma Mia yesterday. Obviously the double MM in the middle of that name, and in the title itself, blows the theory put forward by the numerologist I mentioned in my June 29th post, right out of the window!

Anyway it occurred to me, whilst watching, that Pluto's move into Capricorn could bring more than just the collapse of the building trade, house market and big institutions, it may well see the collapse of ageism and the emergence of more film roles for older actors - specifically actresses. Capricorn and the 10th house can apply to 'Matriarchal' figures. Male actors have never had a problem getting parts whatever their age but it has been notoriously difficult for actresses of a certain age to find good roles (Dame Judi Dench apart!) . The one thing that's striking about this film is that the actresses actually looked their age - well almost. Pluto in Capricorn could see more of those age barriers being torn down and more studios, becoming happy to celebrate the lines and character in a woman's face rather than the airbrushing, botoxing (or cutting) them all out, as has become the norm!

According to the bumpf accompanying the soundtrack, Mamma Mia was 'born' on 6th April 1999 in London. No time, but one assumes around 7pm, although it doesn't really matter. What is interesting to me, and therefore maybe to you too, is that Mars was opposing - 180- Saturn on that date in 1999 and the film opened on July 11th 2008 (outer wheel) just as Mars conjoined -0- Saturn. That is another great example of a cycle in action. Note too that tr Uranus is conjoining first show Mercury and sextiling Venus guaranteeing this will be a huge box office success. Tr Jupiter squares the show Sun showing that not all hard aspects are 'difficult'. Midpoints show Saturn, Neptune, Sun and Venus aligned, perfect for a musical about love and confusion.

I recognised the island in the film. Out of all the hundreds of tiny Greek islands there are, the only one I have visited is Skopelos. You guessed it, that's where the film was made. To get to Skopelos you have to get a boat from Skiathos (horrible touristy place compared to its neighbour) now I fear Skopelos is in for an invasion and Pluto in Sag on 11 July 2008 tends to back that up. Intriguingly I visited Skopelos way back in 1989 and it was 1989 when the upcoming 1 Aug eclipse series last occurred. Everything is connected!!

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Now back to what I was saying about people 'getting real'. A few of you will know that many of my soapbox soliloquy's have been about the growing need for authenticity. That may well be coming with Pluto in Capricorn, and there are already lots of signs and signals to foreshadow this. In The Sunday Times today it said that there is a growing trend for people to reveal their battle with depressive disorders and mental illness. Those of you who have seen my last newsletter will see that I featured a great article from a fellow blogger called Monica in the summer edition. Monica has since gone on to write a very moving post about mental illness and you can read that here. I sincerely doubt Monica wrote just to join a growing trend; she was obviously just moved by an inner impetus. It is precisely these trends and cyclical impulses that we astrologers study.

Here's another piece of news from The Times that could fall under the heading of 'Let's Get Real'. This is something I feel passionately about, and personally connected with, so I hope if these next paragraphs strike a chord with you, that you will pass them on:

Writing in the Spectator Magazine where she was discussing the case of Roger Took, the child abuser, Charlotte Metcalf wrote:

"If we are to learn anything from this case it is that paedophiles are those members of the establishment whom we meet in lecture halls, galleries, boardrooms, on private jets and at dinner parties."

Bravo to Charlotte for flagging this up and I would also like to remind people that abuse of every description i.e. mental, physical and sexual permeate all strata's of society too. Substance abuse, alcoholism and deviant behaviour doesn't just occur in sink estates and low income households. Some people, who you and I might regard as really nice neighbours or pillars of society; Doctors, Bank Managers, Councillors, high level executives and those of virtually every profession, can turn into demons behind closed doors.

The problem is that the middle and upper class women* who are caught up in domestic abuse are more likely to drive their shame underground and/or cover it up with elaborate acts of denial to friends, family and neighbours. They do this because they hear less about it from their peers and because they fear the consequences of revelation.

These women can feel incredibly isolated. Often their self esteem is very low. Depending on the type of abuse, they worry about different things, all of which can seem more cataclysmic from their standpoint than the actual abuse - their children could be embarrassed at school; some fear a loss of status and a fall from social grace. For others their motivation for keeping quiet could be that they fear complete financial ruin and penury if the problem is revealed. Obviously a large majority keep quiet as they fear for their safety if the spouse were to discover they had 'talked'.

Please don't underestimate the extent of this problem, especially now that people are feeling added financial pressure. Domestic abuse is probably happening right now, somewhere in your neighbourhood and maybe even. although I hope not, in your extended family.

Thankfully, far more attention will fall on the women and children who have to suffer the plight of abusive males as Pluto moves into Capricorn. Light may yet fall, not only on the anguish of these families, but on how we can notice the signs and get help to those who will take it.

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One person who is blowing the whistle on behaviour in the business world that we have turned a blind eye to is Geraint Anderson in his book Cityboy, Beer and Loathing In The Square Mile by Headline Books. Geraint isn't exposing anything we didn't already know but Pluto into Capricorn is going to ensure we no longer tolerate it. The tragedy is that for many of these 'Cityboys' there are wives and children who will have to deal with the fall out. These are father's and husband's who may lose their jobs and cashflow but won't lose their addictions quite so easily.

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* I appreciate that there are cases of females being the abusive partner too

WATCH WHAT OCCURS FROM 19th JULY 2008

As I write the planets Mars and Saturn are now separated by precisely 20 arc minutes of celestial longitude. This means the conjunction is all but over, however, both planets remain at 5 degrees Virgo until late on the 11th July 2008 ( GMT) and in conjunction for a few days yet. Even after millennia of observation by interested parties there is still some dispute as to whether a conjunction starts to lose its power as soon as the two planets have joined in longitude, or whether the actual release of the energy occurs in the ensuing days and hours. By way of analogy a dam burst, eruption or detonation all spew energy and cause the most visible results after the actual event as water, lava/stones or debris fall.

It doesn't have to be that dramatic though, but for many it seems that some kind of 'release' or breakthrough should have occurred. Even if you can't yet see any obvious physical manifestations, a new course has been set. I say this because Mercury the ruling planet of Virgo changed signs just a few hours after the conjunction 'perfected'. Mercury has been strong in its own sign of Gemini since the start of May but Gemini is mutable and therefore indecisive. In recent days it has come under extreme tension from an opposition to Pluto, this again suggests that this vacillation or some protracted negotiation has finally come to a head*.

Here's a very mundane example of all this at work. I joined up to a scheme at the very end of April that has caused me a certain amount of time and 'grief'. I decided last week to just pull out as it just wasn't working as planned and I had reached frustration overload. The company informed me that I would lose all my money, even though I felt it was they who were at fault. Another frustrating interchange ensued and they agreed to compromise and refund half of my money - which still left me a bit angry (Mars) at a big institution (Saturn). Last night I opened an e-mail and they had relented and refunded in full, so kudos to Royal Bank of Scotland** for looking after their customers interests.

Anyway, the entire Mercury in Gemini period coincided with this saga. It came to a head at the Mars/Saturn applying juncture and ended as it perfected - with a good result - and as Mercury finally changed signs.

Mercury has moved into the Cardinal sign of Cancer (and is today on a World Point) and this gives added forward momentum and decision making ability. There is also an obvious switch from the logical and mental processes of Mercury in an earth sign to a more emotional, instinctive path, with Mercury into a water sign. Whichever way it's gone i.e., whether you took a decision or had one foisted upon you; whether you are pleased with the outcome or not, at least the tension and frustration of being in an impasse and unable to move forward is ending.

Mercury now moves very swiftly indeed through Cancer leaving for the more fixed sign of Leo on the 25th July. Mars remains in Virgo and the next major outer planetary aspect involving Mars is the opposition to Uranus on 6 August 2008, in between now and then we have a Solar Eclipse on 1 August. Eclipses always act like powerful triggers - they shut one door and open another and Mars/Uranus aspects bring freedom and sudden change. All in all a dynamic, change-filled and 'very edgy' summer lies ahead.

By far the most noteworthy event of the next few weeks though is the movement of Pluto into Capricorn by heliocentric motion. From our earth bound vantage point Pluto appears to go back and forth, hence why it has gone into Capricorn and slipped back out again into Sag, in what is known as retrograde motion. In reality of course there is no such reversing or hanging around, it just keeps on cycling around the Sun.

This is where the art of astrology becomes more inexplicable than normal. One minute astrologers say that we use a Geocentric (Earth based) perspective and divide the apparent path of the Sun up into 12 equal divisions of 30 degrees and now I'm trying to throw in something about the enormity, in symbolic terms, of the movement of a planet as seen from the Sun (heliocentric viewpoint).

Don't ask me why this is - why we can merge two completely different systems - I just know it has value or, as some may say, ' it works'. It's something to do with the entire art of astrology really being about geometry in motion and, believe me, the heliocentric movement of Pluto is an astrological and geometric 'biggie'

Watch what shifts in your life from 19th July onwards and watch for an upsurge in Pluto in Capricorn stories in the news after that date too!

Finally I noticed a great piece of astrological symbolism yesterday. In my last post I mentioned Victoria Beckham has a Mars/Saturn conjunction. Well, Pluto at 29 Sag (flight) is exactly opposing her Mars/Saturn conjunction at 28/29 Gemini (frustration, hard things, fire). This means that this week she has had Mercury applying i.e. Mercury/Mars/Saturn/Pluto all aligned. Newspapers are reporting that the take off of a flight Victoria was on was aborted due to an engine fire. One fellow passenger remarked:

"It was really scary when the pilot suddenly slammed on the brakes"

That was a very lucky escape for Ms Beckham and her fellow passengers. In this astrological climate it was probably closer than they care to know, and the term 'slamming on the brakes' is so appropriate for any Mars/Saturn conjunction that it just couldn't go unremarked upon in this post.

As Pluto will remain opposing Victoria's natal Mars/Saturn we can expect to hear more news about her soon. Is it time to return from LA? Certainly 'the brakes' may be put on some part of her status or career this year as Saturn rules her Solar 10th. The Mars/Saturn conjunction fell in her solar 6th and reports are that her dvb fashion range has been scrapped.

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* Some Gemini's may actually be moving nearer to water today for their holidays or into a more emotional/family oriented, and even relaxed phase, after weeks of hard work and activity.

**I actually never really doubted I'd be okay over this as I have great prosperity lines through Edinburgh, RBS's home base of operation AND I had received 3 separate, unexpected, cheques yesterday, all from RBS accounts! I'll maybe focus more on RBS soon as they are hitting the news recently and their 'birthchart' is very revealing. If you want a pre-emptive peek it's 3 July 1727 Edinburgh, Scotland.

LEARN ABOUT THE MARS/SATURN ASPECTS

UPDATED - Please scroll down.

We know, from looking back at previous cycles, that the Mars/Saturn cycle corresponds to situations that bring attacks (Mars) on the body (Saturn) or to energy (Mars) being put into structuring the framework (Saturn) of one's life.

Saturn by itself has been shown to correlate to anything hard and dark - and this applies to all planes of manifestation, so mental hardship (depression); the colour black (darkness); hard materials that form structures (bone, steel, coalfaces etc); physical striving or hardship (endurance, ambition, inhibition). Using these as our Saturn keywords and adding Mars (energy, heat, anger, cuts, attacks) into the mix AND looking at the houses naturally ruled by Mars (1st house- you and your physicality) and Saturn (10th house; authority figures including parental ones, bosses, leaders, Presidents*; one's status, profession, reputation) we can arrive at relevant themes.

So either a lack (Saturn) of forward impetus, energy and progress (Mars) may occur, or anger/energy (Mars) towards boss, leaders or other authority figures (Saturn) can often be observed during the 0, 45, 90, 135, 180 junctures of this cycle. Today sees the start of the G8 Summit where a great deal of effort, energy and anger will be focused on World Leaders.

This cycle also speaks of anger, effort and energy (Mars) towards our physicality (Saturn) in the form of endurance sports etc. Tests of strength and fortitude may be apparent, while at the others end of the spectrum some may experience complete lassitude and feelings of impotence. Those wanting to work with the Mars/Saturn energy in a positive way should be speaking out in a cool, calm and controlled way or hitting the gym more than usual at this time, rather than picking fights with parents or authority figures or 'beating up' on themselves mentally.

On the collective level we are seeing Mars/Saturn play out now in a lack of energy supplies and power cuts. Physical attacks (Mars) on authority figures (Saturn) are a real possibility at this time. Cutbacks (Mars) - job losses - in professional and respected institutions (Saturn). Authority figures having their reputations attacked. Heated (Mars) boardroom (Saturn) battles.

The end of agreements, relationships and certain daily routines is also marked as this aspect occurs in the sign of Virgo. Virgo, like Gemini, is ruled by Mercury, so trade, transport, communications, contracts that we use in a routine way in our day to day life can come under attack or endure problems. Stopping and starting, on/off situations, interest/disinterest, open/shut, blowing hot/cold - all these are very much Mars/ Saturn themes.

Putting energy (Mars) into establishing one's authority/reputation when taken to the extreme can result in abusive situations. We can abuse ourselves by overworking but those prone to give, or be on the receiving end of, domestic abuse should be watched carefully in this period.

Whilst many will be making heated efforts and expending energy (Mars) in the direction of their career, reputation, status at this time, others will feel a lack of vitality due to stress. Lots of people in service industries (Virgo) are fearing redundancy, or feeling the lack of disposable income as outgoings rise. Some in poorer countries are simply lacking adequate daily supplies.

There's no 'water or femininity' in a Mars/Saturn conjunction so it points to arid, hot conditions or those that solidify. Strength, masculinity and brute force come to the fore. The Mars/Saturn cycles bring up news stories of heroics and superhuman efforts. The military and police force - those whose job it is to enforce law and order - often hit the headlines at these times more than usual. Expect the police to have to use force at the G8 summit.

Mars/Saturn equates to situations that strip things bare. Thus we often hear of fires or attacks with fire (or firearms) and heatwaves. Having said that it is interesting to note many 'depressions' of the tropical variety i.e, hurricanes, storms and severe weather fronts appear at these times.

Putting it all together we can say that the fires in California should soon be brought under control and subside - in line with the completion of the Mars/Saturn conjunction after the 1oth July -12th July. However as we approach the peak in intensity on the 10- 12th, for some the frustration and feelings of 'hard times' may feel almost unbearable. Many of those reading who are in their 40's will be having the Mars/Saturn conjunction occurring in alignment to their natal Pluto (Barack Obama being one). The words survival and survivor comes to the fore.....people fighting for survival in some respect.

There may be a rise in the number of grim and bleak news reports that reach our eyes and ears around this cycle. Mars/Saturn is also famously associated with the cutting- out of the physical body i.e. the energy stalls, and death occurs. In the charts of any natural disaster or large- scale tragedy Mars/Saturn aspects are usually prevalent - but this applies to the 45, 90, 135 and 180 not just the conjunction.

If you know of anyone who suffers from depression give them a call this week and help them to find a way to vent their feelings. Mars/Saturn is famously linked to suppressed rage that can be turned in on oneself and so suicide (and suicide bombers) can also be linked to this very tough cycle.

Many women giving birth in the coming days may have to endure long, hard labours. It would be intriguing to see if the incidence of Cesarean births occurs at the Mars/Saturn junctures as the controlled cutting of the body - as in the surgeon's incision - is also a hallmark of Mars/Saturn.

Anyone beginning a new project, relationship or venture now should note that it will respond to all future movements of Mars to Saturn. Therefore we can say that whatever is agreed at the G8, or that you personally begin at this time, will reach its first testing point when Mars squares Saturn around 15 Dec 2008 but it won't be until August 2009 that we'll be able to take an objective view on where things stand. At that juncture we will be given another opportunity to change course or to see the results of any efforts or new ideas.

This is a fantastic time to go on a diet or start a strict exercise regime. You will find the willpower and discipline to stick with it but, as I say, by mid December expect to be tested. The same applies with getting disciplined about any frivolous spending, or getting a handle on credit card debts etc. You can, or may have to, endure strict cut backs now but the run up to Xmas will test your resolve and bank balance.

One person who hit the headlines this week with a perfect Mars/Saturn story was the TV personality Anthea Turner. Anthea was born with a Mars/Saturn -90- and as Jupiter exactly conjoined her natal Saturn, a horse (Jupiter) kicked out, hit her kneecap (Saturn) and smashed it to pieces. Mars and Saturn are also squaring her natal Sun and approaching her natal Pluto. To the metaphysically-minded observer the fact that her husband Grant Bovey's business has become another apparent victim of the the credit crunch, could be bringing Anthea 'to her knees' with worry and leaving her feeling very 'unstable'.

Victoria Beckham and Katie Price (Jordan) were born with a Mars/Saturn conjunction, as were many other people who come to public attention. These two are interesting cases to cite because both are known for their almost ruthless pursuit of fame - and their use of the face (Mars) freezing (Saturn) drug, Botox.

Mars/Saturn inclines a person to have quite a severe, hard and even emaciated look. Their Mars/Saturn conjunction is largely responsible for both Katie and Victoria appearing to be very controlling about their professional image. On the positive side - because there are obviously many positives about Mars/Saturn aspects too - it gives incredible tenacity, discipline, ambition and single mindedness to achieve one's goals. People with a Mars/Saturn aspect are often also very shrewd, sensible and down to earth individuals.

The truth about those who have this aspect in their natal chart by conjunction, square or opposition is that they are usually very shy and lacking in self esteem. All their energy(Mars) goes into covering this up by establishing a strong identity and ego structure (Saturn). Sadly the 'structure' they erect keeps others locked out (Saturn) unable to ever really access, or reach, the real 'soft' person beneath. Consequently many people with Mars/Saturn strong in their chart feel isolated, misunderstood and alone - even in a crowd.

For some, their immense drive to achieve fame becomes a curse as it causes them to have to live in a very secure, controlled environment (behind iron gates or bars would be a perfect Mars/Saturn signature) or to keep up the facade of being perfect. Mars/Saturn people also have to spend much of their time defending their good name (Anthea too). This occurs because other people pick up on the mis-match between what the person is presenting and who they really are, thus the Mars/Saturn person subconsciously set themselves up for continual attacks on their reputation. Katie Price recently had to sue for libel as a newspaper attacked (Mars) her parenting (Saturn) skills. Anthea's reputation has never really recovered from her 'Flake Gate' affair - possibly because she tried overly hard to control her image in the first place. It's apt that her latest TV shows contain the word 'perfect' - Perfect Housewife being one. She also shows great 'control' of her body in her exercise videos!

Whatever planet you have in aspect to your natal Mars will somehow be affecting the free expression of your energy(Mars) and how you meet (1st house) the world. In my experience there is little difference between conjunctions, squares, oppositions and even the minor hard aspects - all are just harmonics of the nature of the two planets.

Astrology is not for entertainment purposes only. A birthchart is most definitely the blueprint that can help to show an individual their patterns of behaviour and why they meet the situations that they do. It can accurately predict the timing of the intensity of cycles, on the personal and collective levels. However, for any astrologer to accurately 'predict' what exact events will happen to a person will always be down to chance rather than ability. Avoid anyone who tells you they can precisely predict your future from a birthchart. You only have to look at how none of us can say for sure who is going to win the Presidential election, even horary astrologers, to see the limitations of this profession.

All we can work with is the basic themes and an understanding of the lessons intrinsic in each cycle. In the case of Mars/Saturn it is most definitely a lesson for us all to set firm boundaries but not to be overly cautious, fearful, suspicious or stuck in a self fulfilling poverty consciousness. Mars/Saturn individuals are being prompted to relinquish complete control and trust in an inherently supportive and ordered universe.

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* Note proximity in the top image of this conjunction to the Royal/Regal Star, Regulus. Regulus is the star of Leo's, Royals and leaders.

Update: Astrologers measure conjunctions in celestial longitude but astronomers only see them as conjunct when they are also at the same declination. This Mars/Saturn conjunction brings the two planets (on July 10th) to the closest they will be (astronomically) for 14 years. Here's a fabulous photo from Alan Friedman that I have marked up. You can see an even better version on Spaceweather.com If you an astrologer check to see if you or your clients have natal planets at +11 degrees (+/- 1) declination.

I hadn't quite realised the intensity of this Mars/Saturn conjunction - this is potentially quite severe so it's worthy of more study - a conjunction in declination and longitude is like a double whammy. Countries with 5 Virgo (the celestial longitude of the conjunction) prominent are Vatican City, UK, Iraq, Benin, Yemen, Niger, Yugoslavia, Canada, Chad, Congo, Cyprus, Gabon, Senegal, Vietnam, South Africa, Thailand, Sierra Leone, Kuwait, Germany. Many of the Caribbean islands are affected by 5 degree mutables

Using ACG the conjunction falls through Japan close to the G8 and down close to Brisbane and Sydney. It is also passing over Rio, Brazil and rises through Iran, the UAE, Saudi and off the coast of South Africa close to Mauritius.

HAS THE SPARK GONE OUT OF MARKS?

A few weeks ago I was pointing out how people and or companies with dual names often have Gemini prominent in their chart. In this case who can ever imagine Marks without it's 'twin' Spencer ; M without the all familiar &S . Here, in the chart (see left, click to enlarge) of this world famous retailer, we see the Sun in the sign of the twins, Gemini, and very appropriately considering the nickname is Marks & Sparks, a very volatile and 'sparky' Mars/Uranus conjunction at the top of the solar wheel.

Marks and Spencer has its roots back in the mid 1880's but its date of incorporation as a Public Limited Company was June 17 1926. Mars and Uranus in square (90 degree) angle to the Sun incline this company to lots of instability, sudden ups and downs but also marks (!) it out, at the other end of the spectrum, as being very dynamic, risk taking and pioneering. It is interesting to note this conjunction spans the World Point* of 0 Aries and this company has established itself a global brand.

Whenever you see a Mars/Uranus conjunction you can be sure that technology ,and also a strong humanitarian streak, will play a large part in the life of the person or company who has this placement. M&S were one of the first such companies to really take advantage of automation and the Internet phenomenon. Their TV marketing campaigns virtually turned the company around at one point and they famously joined up with Amazon to facilitate customer purchases. This was cutting edge at the time.

M&S were also first to introduce self-pay checkouts - all very Mars/Uranus. As far as the environment and charitable concerns go, they led the way, backing many causes and recently were the first to charge for plastic bags in an attempt to help us 'go green'. Mars in Aries, as it is in this chart, likes to be first at everything but sometimes in a very impulsive, act now/think later way.

The Sun in trine to Jupiter speaks of their huge expansion to almost every high street. Jupiter is in Aquarius, sign of the community and the Sun in Gemini sign of multiple outlets - very 'handy' and convenient locations.Venus in the sensuous sign of Taurus and trine to the Moon in Virgo reveals the impetus to provide us with clothes and food that allow us to wallow in sybaritic splendour- 'this isn't just any food, this is M&S food' ( and neatly 'Virgoanally' packaged it is too!)

So what's happening now. Well if you look at the next chart you'll see tonight's New Moon in the outside wheel denoting the transits to the 1926 chart. This lunation falls conjunct Mercury and Pluto in Cancer with a Mars/Saturn conjunction in the 3rd. This not only tells us of the timing of the profit warning (Mercury/Pluto) but that trade (Mercury) from the Public (Cancer) especially in the food division, is stagnant (Mars/Saturn). We can use the words frustrated or repressed here for Mars/Saturn if we prefer.

Look too at the position of Pluto in square to Mars/Uranus and opposing the Sun. Uranus recently turned retrograde, giving the board of directors a few months to regroup and think how they are going to face this latest challenge but by the time Mars squares the Sun and opposes that Mars/Uranus in Mid August we'll undoubtedly be hearing of the first of major cut backs and layoffs.

A radical revision of the company is needed now as by May 2009 Uranus will be crossing the MC, perhaps coinciding with a departure by a major shareholder/board member or a takeover, but it could even herald another huge shock.

Can it survive? Never underestimate the power of the Mars/Uranus energy to pull one more reversal ( for the better) out of the bag and reinvent itself. Mars /Uranus is very much associated with the energy business and, as I say, technology. So if they can perhaps focus on correct investments into these areas, it may help. Time to call in company astrological analyst, Christeen Skinner. Christeen specialises in looking at these downturn cycles and every board of directors should have an advisor who knows their cycles and where to focus your investment. Here's a good site to point anyone who has a company or trades in order to gen up on cycle lengths.

If M&S go down, Britain will surely be sunk too; symbolically M&S is a national institution. This is the first of many such boardroom crises, as noted by the position of Pluto in the UK 10th house at the Solstice, but let's hope this high street bastion can ride the storm and come out smiling.

* See my Summer newsletter for more on World Points