
SkyWriting

Pisces Eclipse: Release and Leap into the Unknown
The upcoming Pisces Lunar Eclipse on September 7th begins a new eclipse season, with its counterpart, the Virgo Solar Eclipse, following on September 21st. Eclipses always come in pairs and often signal significant shifts in our lives. They invite us to let go in one area so that we can step into new energy in another. This pair falls along the Virgo-Pisces axis, which may bring changes related to the houses these signs occupy in your chart. With the South Node in Virgo, eclipses on this axis encourage us to release the need for control, perfection, and over-analysis (Virgo) so that we can embrace intuition, compassion, and a deeper sense of trust (Pisces). These themes may show up in the areas of life represented by the houses where Pisces and Virgo fall in your chart.
For instance, if you’re a Sagittarius Rising, the Pisces eclipse might activate your 4th house of home and ancestry, while the Virgo eclipse could impact your 10th house of career and public life. This might look like deciding to let go of perfectionism at work so that you have more time to focus on caregiving or personal responsibilities.
This eclipse will tend to have the greatest impact on those with mutable rising signs—Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, or Pisces—or for those born near an eclipse. These transits often feel like turning points, where we’re invited to reflect on what no longer serves us and make space for new opportunities. The Pisces Lunar Eclipse, in particular, may feel like a culmination, while the Virgo Solar Eclipse may feel like a culmination or release. If you’re curious about how these themes might play out in your own life, I’ve created a YouTube video that dives deeper into the astrology of these eclipses.
To explore how these eclipses might impact your unique chart, you might consider booking a reading. Digging into the details of your rising sign and natal chart can help clarify what areas of life are being activated and how to navigate these changes with confidence. Scroll down for the video, expanded transcript, and more insights about this eclipse season.

Virgo New Moon: A Time of Reflection and Shakeups
The New Moon in Virgo on August 23rd is all about getting focused, refining your work, and being open to shifts—whether they come from within or the world around you. With Uranus, the planet of sudden change and wake-ups, in a tense aspect to this lunation, things might not go as planned. If you’ve been stuck or holding onto outdated ideas, this energy could push you to see things differently.
Virgo energy is about perfecting and improving the tangible aspects of life. Whether it’s a project you’re working on, habits you’re trying to refine, or a skill you’re mastering, this new moon asks us to get practical and intentional. But with Uranus in the mix, don’t be surprised if something shakes loose—especially if you have planets in the early degrees of Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces, or Gemini. It’s less about control and more about learning to adapt and flow with the changes.
We’re also working with a Yod, or “Finger of God,” aspect involving Pluto and Neptune, which adds an almost fated quality to this lunation. It’s like the universe nudging you toward growth, even if it feels awkward or uncomfortable at first. I’ll break down how this energy might show up in your life, what it means for your chart, and why this isn’t the best time for manifestation rituals but is perfect for self-reflection and recalibration.
Stick around as I also bring in tarot imagery—like the Eight of Pentacles and the Tower card—to help illustrate the themes of this new moon. These visuals can give us another way to understand and integrate the energy of the moment.

Understanding Planetary Rulership: An Introduction to Domicile in Hellenistic Astrology
In this post, I dive into the concept of domicile, or planetary rulership, in astrology. Domicile is all about planets being in the signs they rule—like a planet being at home, where it’s comfortable, strong, and able to express itself fully. I’ll explain what planetary dignity is, the different types of dignity, and why domicile is such a foundational concept in understanding how planets work in a birth chart. Using real-life examples, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s chart, I’ll break it down in a clear and straightforward way so you can start applying it to your own astrology practice. This post is part of the Twin Cities Astrology Meetup series, where we explore practical techniques from Hellenistic astrology each month.

Aquarius Full Moon: Truth, Illusion and the “Kite” Aspect
On August 9th, the Full Moon in Aquarius promises to be one of the most significant astrological events of the year, both on a global and personal level. This lunation carries complex and dynamic energy, with the potential to influence world events and spark meaningful shifts in our individual lives. In the accompanying video, I break down the astrological chart for this Full Moon, highlighting key aspects like the challenging opposition between Mars and Saturn, the transformative kite pattern, and the influence of Uranus, the planet of sudden breakthroughs. If you have planets in the early degrees of the cardinal or fire and air signs, this Full Moon may resonate even more deeply with your personal chart.
Throughout the video, I explore how this energy can manifest in both mundane (worldly) and personal contexts. On a global scale, the chart suggests a pivotal moment where new information could emerge, potentially sparking impulsive actions or significant decisions by nations. On a personal level, this lunation encourages us to pause, reflect, and carefully evaluate the truth of the information we encounter. Whether you're navigating tensions in relationships, career, or home life, the video offers guidance to help you center yourself amid the heightened energy of this Full Moon. Watch the video below for a detailed explanation and leave a comment if you have questions about how this lunation might affect your chart.

New Moon in Leo: Change is in the Air
On July 24th, we have a New Moon in the sign of Leo which in a tight aspect to all of the outer planets, bringing powerful energy and a chance to step into a new chapter of self-expression and creativity. Unlike a Full Moon, which highlights what’s already come to fruition, a New Moon signals the start of something fresh—a time to set intentions and take action. Leo, a fire sign ruled by the Sun, is all about embracing your individuality, standing out, and stepping into the spotlight.
In the video below, I break down the energy of this New Moon in detail, including its connections to the outer planets Pluto, Neptune, and Uranus. All of the outer planets have moved into fire and air signs and will remain there (except for a brief period later this year when Uranus and Neptune will retrograde into earth and water signs) until 2032 when Uranus moves into Cancer. This consolidation of outer planets into swift moving fire and air signs suggests rapid changes in our world. With all of these planets in a tight aspect to the New Moon in Leo, we’ll get a preview of the meaning of this energy as the New Moon unfolds over the next couple of weeks.
The energy of this New Moon, influenced by Pluto, Uranus, Saturn, and Neptune, may feel intense but also offers opportunities for growth and change. Pluto’s opposition could bring power struggles or force you to confront areas where you feel blocked or oppressed, especially as you try to express yourself authentically. Uranus provides a sense of liberation, encouraging bold, unexpected actions or realizations that help you break free. Saturn and Neptune, in a supportive trine, bring a mix of structure and imagination, but with Saturn in its fall in Aries, there’s a risk of impulsivity or acting without fully thinking things through. Neptune’s influence might add a sense of confusion or dreaminess, pushing you to clarify your vision.
To work with this energy, start by examining where you feel resistance or control and consider whether it’s time to release old habits, patterns, or relationships that no longer serve you. Be mindful of impulsive decisions and instead focus on taking deliberate, well-thought-out steps toward your goals. Stay open to sudden insights or opportunities from Uranus and use Neptune’s influence to dream big, while grounding those dreams with Saturn’s steady energy. Aim to balance bold expression with thoughtful action to navigate this dynamic time effectively.
This New Moon occurs at 2 degrees of Leo, making it especially significant for those with planets or key points (ASC, DSC, MC, or IC) near 2 degrees of the fixed signs: Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius, and Taurus. If you have placements in this range, you’re likely to feel the effects of this lunation more strongly, particularly in areas related to identity, creative expression, or personal power.

Full Moon in Capricorn: Finding Joy in Hard Work
On July 10th, we have a Full Moon in the sign of Capricorn, bringing clarity, culmination, and the drive to take action. This lunation encourages us to focus on our goals and take practical steps forward, making it an ideal time to reflect on what matters most and how to achieve it.
Capricorn, an earth sign ruled by Saturn, is associated with discipline, structure, and long-term achievement. As a cardinal sign, Capricorn carries initiating energy that motivates us to start or advance something meaningful. This makes the energy of this Full Moon perfect for making progress, setting goals, and building something lasting.
In the video below, I explore the energy of this Full Moon, the significance of Capricorn’s connection to Saturn, and the themes of collaboration and craftsmanship reflected in the tarot card associated with this lunation, the Three of Pentacles. I’ll also share insights into how this energy might show up in your life based on your rising sign, and how to work with the grounded, achievement-oriented qualities of Capricorn.

Cancer New Moon: Love, Tension, and Transformation
On June 25th, we have a New Moon in the sign of Cancer, bringing an opportunity to nurture emotional connections and plant the seeds for deeper relationships and personal growth. Unlike a Full Moon, which highlights completion and release, a New Moon marks the start of a new cycle—a time to set intentions and focus on what you want to grow. Cancer, a water sign ruled by the Moon, is associated with care, emotional depth, and creating a sense of security.
This New Moon will have the strongest impact on those with planets or points between 0 and 5 degrees of the Cardinal Signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) or between 0 and 5 degrees of Leo. If you have placements at or near these degrees, you may notice the energy of this lunation showing up more strongly in your life, particularly in areas related to emotions, family, and how you connect with others.

Sag Full Moon: Lighten the Load
On June 11th, we have a Full Moon in the sign of Sagittarius, bringing a culmination of energy and the opportunity to reassess what’s truly worth carrying forward. Unlike a New Moon, which begins a new cycle, a Full Moon shines a spotlight on what has grown and asks us to evaluate whether it’s aligned with our goals and capacity. Sagittarius, a fire sign ruled by Jupiter, is associated with exploration, optimism, and big ideas—but at this point in the lunar cycle, we’re being asked to balance those grand visions with practical realities.
This Full Moon occurs at 20 degrees of Sagittarius, meaning it will have the greatest impact on those with planets or points (ASC, DSC, MC, IC) near 20 degrees of the Mutable Signs: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces. If you have key placements at or near these degrees, you may feel this lunation more strongly, particularly in areas related to growth, responsibility, and the balance between ambition and practicality.
In the video below, I explore the energy of this Sag Full Moon in greater depth, unpack its astrological context, and share insights on how to work with its themes. Understanding how this lunation lines up with your birth chart can give you a clearer sense of what it means for you personally. If you’d like to explore this further, check out the video or reach out for a reading!

Gemini New Moon: Break Old Patterns
On May 26th, we have a New Moon in the sign of Gemini, bringing fresh energy and the opportunity to plant new seeds for mental and intellectual growth. Unlike a Full Moon, which illuminates and culminates, a New Moon marks the beginning of a new cycle—a time to set intentions and initiate change. Gemini, an air sign ruled by Mercury, is associated with communication, adaptability, and curiosity. This New Moon invites us to break free from old thought patterns, embrace flexibility, and explore new ideas with boldness and creativity.
This New Moon occurs at 6 degrees of Gemini, which means it will especially impact those with planets or points near 6 degrees of the Mutable Signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces). If you have key placements at or near these degrees, you may feel the influence of this lunation more strongly, particularly in areas related to communication, learning, and mindset.

May 12 Full Moon in Scorpio: Navigating Emotional Depth and the Intensity of Algol
On May 12th, we have a Full Moon in the sign of Scorpio that carries an intense and transformative energy. Scorpio, the sign of deep emotional waters, is known for its ability to confront themes of life, death, and rebirth. Opposite this Full Moon is Uranus, the planet of sudden change and liberation, which is conjunct the fixed star Algol—historically called the "demon star" and associated with themes of trauma, feminine rage, and injustice. This alignment creates a highly charged atmosphere, ripe for emotional breakthroughs or unexpected disruptions.
A Full Moon opposition in astrology highlights tension and polarity. In this case, the Scorpio Moon opposes the Sun in Taurus, which is conjunct Uranus and Algol. This configuration pits the stability and groundedness of Taurus against the emotional depth and transformative energy of Scorpio. Uranus adds an unpredictable, revolutionary quality to the mix, while Algol deepens the intensity, evoking themes of confronting buried emotions, grappling with trauma, and seeking liberation.
In the video below, I describe the energy of this Full Moon in greater detail. I’ve also included a modified and expanded transcript that elaborates on the themes discussed in the video. As always, the lunation will affect you differently depending on the placements in your birth chart. If you have planets or points near 22–26 degrees of the Fixed Signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius), this Full Moon is more likely to impact you significantly. If you’d like to know more about how this lunation might affect you personally, you can book a reading below.

Combining Sabian Symbols with Progressed New Moons: Lessons from MLK’s Life & Legacy
In the video below, I share a talk I gave at the Twin Cities Astrology Meetup on the Sabian symbols and the progressed lunar phases. These are two fascinating tools for understanding the themes and cycles that unfold in our lives. The Sabian symbols assign a unique image to each degree of the zodiac, while the progressed lunar phases track a 29.5-year cycle that begins with a progressed new moon. Together, they offer a way to explore the deeper patterns and turning points in our personal journeys.
In the talk, I dive into a detailed case study of Martin Luther King Jr., exploring how his progressed new moon in 1954 coincided with the start of his leadership in the civil rights movement, and how a second progressed new moon in 1983—posthumously—aligned with the establishment of Martin Luther King Day.
These examples highlight how astrology can illuminate the themes and challenges we navigate, both individually and collectively.
The video and transcript are both available below. If you find this content helpful, please consider liking the video or subscribing—it helps others discover this material. Thanks for watching, and I hope you enjoy it!

New Moon in Taurus: Perseverance and Balance Amid Conflict
On April 27th, we have a New Moon in the sign of Taurus that carries a fairly conflictual energy with it. Mars, the god of war, is opposite Pluto, the god of the underworld—a deity associated with power and the things we may not want to confront or acknowledge. When Mars and Pluto are opposed in a chart, it often signifies power struggles. Adding to this tension, this Mars-Pluto opposition forms a T-square with the New Moon.
What is a T-Square?
A T-square in astrology is a challenging planetary configuration involving three celestial bodies. Two of these bodies oppose each other (in this case, Mars and Pluto), while both also form a 90-degree angle (a square) with a third point (here, the New Moon). This creates a "T" shape in the chart. The energies of a T-square are often dynamic and pressurized, pushing us toward action and resolution. The key is to find balance and integrate the lessons of the configuration.

Finding Balance in Uncertain Times: The Full Moon in Libra (April 12th)
On April 12th, we’ll experience a Full Moon in Libra, a cardinal air sign known for its focus on balance, harmony, and diplomacy. Libra’s energy encourages us to examine the dynamics of “you and me”—the give and take in our relationships and the effort to understand multiple perspectives. Ruled by Venus, Libra seeks connection but also justice, reminding us that harmony often requires action. Full moons illuminate, bringing clarity and culmination, and this lunation may highlight where we need more balance in our lives.
This full moon carries a complex energy because Venus, its ruling planet, is positioned in Pisces—where she is exalted and elevated—but also closely aligned with Saturn and the North Node, bringing restrictions and confusion. On the same day as the Full Moon, Venus stations direct after a weeks-long retrograde, amplifying her energy and creating a moment of pause and reflection. This retrograde has likely brought old themes or relationships back into focus, allowing us to resolve unfinished business. The Four of Swords, a tarot card associated with this segment of Libra, suggests a need for rest and introspection, aligning with the slower, more reflective energy of Venus as she begins moving forward.

Karmic Ties, Relationships, & Astrology
Astrology provides fascinating insights into the dynamics of our relationships, whether with a partner, friend, or family member. In this video, recorded at a recent Twin Cities astrology meetup, I introduced three types of relationship charts that astrologers use to understand compatibility, challenges, and karmic connections.
The first type I discussed was the synastry chart, which overlays one person's birth chart onto another's to reveal how their energies align or clash. I then explored the composite chart, a symbolic blending of two charts that uncovers a relationship's psychological and karmic essence. Finally, I introduced the Davison midpoint chart, a practical tool for interpreting the relationship and predicting its future. To illustrate these concepts, I used the charts of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry as examples, highlighting the strengths, challenges, and deeper purposes of their connection.
This presentation offered a beginner-friendly overview of how astrological charts can clarify emotional connections, karmic ties, and potential relationship conflicts. Whether you're curious about the role of planetary alignments in compatibility or looking for tools to understand your relationships better, this teaching offers valuable perspectives. If you enjoy the video, please like and subscribe—it helps others discover this content. A full transcript of the presentation is available below for your reference.

Aries I Solar Eclipse: “Don’t Tell Me Not to Live!”
On March 29, we have a New Moon Solar Eclipse in Aries on March 29th, the final event in a series of eclipses that began in April 2023. The Eclipse takes place in Aries I, the sign's first decan (10 degrees). Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and we just experienced the Vernal Equinox, the Astrological New Year.
Aries I carries a complex energy; it can be about “winning” and “losing” if you look at it from the ego's perspective. It can also be about standing up for your integrity and taking your place in the world if you view it from a holistic, self-oriented perspective. Think of the opening lines of Barbara Streisand singing “Don’t Rain on my Parade!” in Funny Girl: “Don’t tell me not to live!” Unsurprisingly, Barbara has the rising degree of her Ascendant in Aries I.

Virgo Lunar Eclipse: Let that Sh!* Go!
On March 14th, we’ll experience a total lunar eclipse in Virgo, bringing an opportunity for reflection and letting go. A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth blocks the Sun’s light from reaching the Moon, giving it a reddish glow. This eclipse is connected to the South Node, which is all about release—letting go of old patterns, habits, or attachments that aren’t serving you anymore. Virgo’s influence encourages us to focus on what’s essential, clear the clutter, and create space for something more meaningful. It’s not about perfection but about refining our lives to reflect the essence of who we are.
At the same time, Pisces energy is intense during this eclipse, with the Sun, Neptune, Saturn, and the North Node all in that sign. While Virgo helps us stay grounded and practical, Pisces can stir emotions and uncertainty. This push and pull between clarity and emotion is a chance to find balance—focusing on what matters without getting overwhelmed. The themes of this eclipse will unfold over the next two months, so take this time to identify what you need to release and where you want to focus your energy moving forward.

Birthday Charts: Insights from MLK’s “I Have a Dream” Year
Have you ever wondered how astrology can reveal the themes and events that shape your year? In my latest video, I dive into the practical application of Solar Return charts (“Birthday” charts) and annual Profections—two powerful tools for understanding the cycles influencing your plans, priorities, and personal growth. Using Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic "I Have a Dream" year as a case study, I’ll show you how these techniques can highlight key turning points and help you navigate the year ahead with more clarity and focus.
A Solar Return Reading on or near your birthday is a helpful way to prepare for the year ahead. These personalized readings offer grounded, actionable insights into the key themes and opportunities you can expect, helping you make the most of your time and energy.

New Moon in Pisces: Turning Inward
The water signs were in the background of these charts because they were “averse” to the Sun and Moon, the planets that connect us to our conscious understanding of the world. “Averse” means that the Sun and Moon last month were in signs of the chart where they did not have a direct line of sight to the water signs of Cancer and Pisces, where we had some problematic energy. While we may have felt many emotions, it may not have been easy to relate to this energy consciously—we may have acted out our feelings rather than experiencing them in a cathartic and meaningful way.

Full Moon in Leo Square Uranus, Moments of Change and Uncertainty
On February 12, we have a Full Moon in the third decan of Leo (“Leo III”). Uranus, the great “awakener,” is squaring the Full Moon, suggesting a sudden event that may force us to wrestle with complex questions that arise in its wake. We may face competing energies around winners and losers, action and non-action, insiders and outsiders, fantasy and reality. There is a lot of watery emotional energy in the background of the chart, suggesting we may feel confused and emotional in the wake of this tense energy.

New Moon in Aquarius; “There is a crack, a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.”
The New Moon on January 29 falls in the first decan (10 degrees) of Aquarius. As I look at this chart, I see an invitation for all of us to take in loss and defeat. Not just a little bit. All the way. To feel what it is to have lost something that matters to us.
I also see the possibility that out of feeling this loss, we allow the Creative to enter our lives, to adapt to what is before us and think “outside of the box” for solutions to any difficulties we are experiencing in our lives and collectively. This is not the big lofty “I’m going to save the world” solution, rather the small, humble step that allows us to engage with life and offer a hand to someone in need.
