Aspects in Astrology Grand Square The Grand Square (also known as the Grand Cross) is an aspect in Astrology and it involves at least four planets, two oppositions and four squares. The first and third planets will be in opposition (180 degrees) to one another, the second and fourth planets will be in opposition to each other, while the first planet squares (90 degrees) the second planet and the second plant squares the third plant and the third plant squares the fourth planet and the fourth squares the first planet involved. A strong Grand Square will have all of the four planets in the same mode (cardinal, fixed or mutable). If one or more of the planets do not fit into this criteria then it is considered a weak Grand Square. The closer the squares and oppositions are by degree to one another, the stronger the energies of the Grand Square. The Grand Square is considered a challenging aspect because of the general nature of these aspects. They often produce stress and inner tension or offer a challenge that will require inner strength and determination in order to advance through the lessons. This aspect can either become the stagnation in the lives of those under its influence or the motivating factor that has the potential of producing great strides forward. When this natal aspect becomes activated through transit or progression, the individuals with this aspect in their natal chart will feel as though they are being pulled in four directions indicated by the planets involved and the houses that the planets are found in. They may feel over-burdened and paralyzed by life’s conditions. There is usually a planet that forms a tight trine or sextile within the Grand Square and the energies and house placement of this trine or sextile will often help unlock the potentials found within the framework of this larger configuration. This contained energy resulting from the aspect needs to find a release and this trine or sextile is often where the energies are released which, if used properly, can produce great results. These individuals often need to turn inward and find their own strength. Many with this aspect feel as though they cannot rely on others to help them through life’s difficulties and therefore become stronger over time and very self-reliant. This is not to say that reaching out would be a bad idea or that no one can assist them in their time of crisis, however, many with this aspect become reliant on themselves and motivate themselves forward conquering these energies which in turn builds inner strength. Most people with challenging aspects find ways to use the energies in a positive manner, and they are often the ones that push ahead in life and make something out of themselves as they become experienced in dealing with these energies. If they can find a goal or spiritual purpose behind the difficulties at hand, they can make their way over the hurdles and rise above any difficulty that comes their way. The key is to know that they are not trapped and that there is always a way out. It is imperative that they not beat their heads again the proverbial wall. Again, they must realize that they are never trapped. There are many valuable lessons learned from challenging aspects found within the framework of the Natal Astrology chart. We need to address each challenge head on, one step at a time. Back to Aspects Back to Astrology 101

The Seventh House The Seventh House The Seventh House cusp is known as the Descendant. This is an angular point suggesting an area of action. When Transiting Planets cross this line things happen, and often these things deal with intimate one to one relationships, such as marriage partners. It is an action point as is the Ascendant, the Midheaven and the IC, although the Ascendant and Midheaven are more predominant when it comes to action. We will discuss these Angles under a page of the same heading in the near future. The seventh house deals primarily with relationships, especially marriage partnership, but it also has to do with one on one personal relationships. This often includes business partnerships and mediators. This house can assist us with locating our open enemies. The Seventh house rules intimate relationships and as the First House often describes the point of self, the Seventh House refers to the point of others. It is a social house and takes in other people’s needs as opposed to our own. Often the sign on the cusp of this house describes the type of individual we would be attracted to. Sometimes this house can define them, along with any planets found within this house and aspects to the planets. For example, Saturn in this house often speaks of a later marriage or difficulty finding an appropriate mate. Neptune in this house may describe an elusive or mystical individual. The Seventh house brings a greater sense of self-awareness through intimate relationships with others. We often put out self-projected images onto our partner and any characteristics that you dislike are often reflections of portions of ourselves, or alternative, qualities that we fear. Getting to know your partner often opens us to an innate understanding of our own qualities. Some of these characteristics we alter or change and others we take in and make them our own. As mentioned, Saturn in this house may suggest that partnership comes a little later in life, but it can also suggest that our partner would be steady, serious and potentially older than we are. Mars could suggest that we are in search for a very active individual who displays sensual characteristics and it may also suggest that they may be somewhat aggressive in their nature. The sign on the cusp of this house defines the partner and how you react within the partnership, but you must take into consideration the ruling planet of that sign and its placement in the horoscope as well. Astrology 101 The Seventh House is naturally ruled by Libra. It focuses on PARTNERSHIPS. The First House The Second House The Third House The Fourth House The Fifth House The Sixth House The Eighth House The Ninth House The Tenth House The Eleventh House The Twelfth House

Pluto Pluto Pluto, the powerful planet of transformation and regeneration, holds a very significant energy in any chart. It is an extremely dominant planet and when activated through progression or transit, it is best to let things happen as they will. Any type of resistance to Pluto's energy is futile. Pluto is the ruling planet of Scorpio and speaks of death and regeneration sometimes literally, but usually Pluto works beneath the surface bringing about long overdue change to life. Before these transformations can take place, however, there is usually a period of deep reflection and the shedding of unwanted and unnecessary elements in our lives. Pluto’s action is to break down structures that have taken hold in our lives that now hinder our evolutionary growth. Its actions are finite in the sense that whatever structure that has been built previously will be torn down and replaced with a new structure that is much sounder. To put up resistance to the required changes that Pluto insists are necessary, usually brings about a much more violent and aggressive change to take place than if you were to let go and allow yourself to remain open to the eventual change that will happen regardless. Pluto represents decay on some level or another and is often evident in times of accidents along with Mars and often suggests actual death of an individual or circumstance. If Pluto is strongly placed in your chart, you are the type of individual who seeks transformation on many levels and wants control of your environment. You may be the instigator of required change for others. You may also engage in power struggles throughout your life, and life may also force change on you. People with their Sun in Scorpio , many planetary aspects linked to Pluto, an emphasis of planets in the eighth house or Pluto as the Ruler in their chart will be under the influence of Pluto’s powerful energies throughout their life and particularly when transits and progressions become linked to Pluto in the natal chart Astrology 101 Pluto is the "planet" of transformation and regeneration. Pluto is the ruler of Scorpio and is associated with the eighth house . In astrology we still refer to Pluto as a planet even though NASA has downgraded it to a dwarf planet. The Sun The Moon Mercury Venus Mars Jupiter Saturn Uranus Neptune

MIDHEAVEN The midheaven also known as the cusp of the tenth house is a very sensitive area in the natal chart. Any planet in transit (the movement of planets through the zodiac) particularly outer planets, (Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) or inner planets that are in retrograde motion (appear to be moving backwards) that conjunct, square or are in opposition to this point have powerful influences in our lives. In many cases Uranus, Neptune and Pluto will remain in this critical degree for a year or two having a significant influence on our occupation, our standard of living, our goals, aspirations and our status in life. Uranus often produces unexpected, sudden events when it makes a significant aspect to this critical degree. Neptune tends to cloud these areas of life making things unclear or it can add a mystical approach, while Saturn tends to create challenges, obstacles or lessons that need to be overcome. We are tested in these areas. Pluto transforms and may cause disruptions although much of what happens is beneath the surface until it makes a direct contact to this degree. The trine of these planets to the Midheaven or also known as the MC often provides opportunities and good luck with an easy flow into these areas of life, depending on what other aspects within the chart. The opposite house (4th) is often also affected, as when these aspects are making contact to the MC, they are also making an aspect to the fourth house cusp. The fourth house deals with the home and family particularly the mother while the tenth house usually identifies the father. The tenth house usually identifies the most dominant parent while the fourth house is usually the more submissive and protective parent. A conjunction to the tenth house will also present an opposition to the fourth house cusp and oppositions usually deals with something related to or coming from someone else. If, for example, Uranus were conjuncting the IC, it would be in opposition to the MC. We could, as a result, expect changes sometimes drastic in nature to the home and family, such as a move and influences in our occupation and status in life. These changes could be of a rather sudden nature and a need for freedom and breaking free in order to create change would be on the agenda. Much would depend on the overall conditions of Uranus in the birth chart and its location by house and sign. The MC, the Ascendant, the Sun, the Moon and the progressed Moon are often used to rectify a birth time, especially when Uranus and Mars conjunct the MC. Uranus and Mars often indicate something happening on the exact day when it becomes direct especially in conjunction. The progressed Moon moves one degree a month also assisting with pinpointing a birth time. Uranus really seems to disrupt activity related to the specific house cusp. The only guaranteed is something unexpected and sudden will occur with Uranus making contact which often causing disruption into that area of life. Be ready for change, disruption, transformation and activity when the MC becomes activated through transit or progression. Although the changes that take place may be disruptive, agitating and sometimes chaotic in their nature, in most cases, these changes are a requirement. It is best not to put up too much of a struggle, especially when Uranus, Neptune and Pluto are making contact to this area of life. In a year or so after the contact, you will realize that the transformations to your life and disruptions were beneficial to your overall evolution and were requirements brought on to enforce growth on a subconscious and soul level. PLANET ON THE MIDHEAVEN Any planet which is found to be conjunct (same degree) to the MC or Midheaven (2 degrees conjunct from the ninth house or 5 degrees conjunct from the tenth house) has a profound effect on our goals in life and our drive to succeed or our drive to make a name for ourselves. The closer this planet is to the MC, the stronger its influence will be. Since the MC is connected closely to our profession and public status, this planet or planets will influence our ability to succeed. Also look at any aspects from other planets to the MC or any planet that fits this conjunct criterion for more information on the energies of this aspect. These natal statements will certainly colour our profession and our ability to achieve in life. It has been noted that around 5 percent of the general population has this conjunction within one degree of the Midheaven. If you have for example Saturn within this orb of this Midheaven conjunction, there would be obstacles and challenging conditions linked to making a mark in life or achieving recognition for your efforts. Saturn, however, does offer great potential when you work meticulously and conscientiously towards your objectives. If you have put forth great effort, the likelihood for success is there but there may be some type of delay in reaching your goals in some way. We have the potential to make any aspect work positively in our life regardless of challenges attached. We may just have to work harder and have faith in our own abilities, however. If, for example, Jupiter is conjunct the MC, the potential for growth and expansion as well as some good luck especially if the aspects from other planets also point in this direction, will be increased. The sign and planetary link on the MC defines, in part, our occupation and drive to succeed. Having Taurus or Aries on the cusp of the tenth house or having Saturn or Jupiter in this place would certainly have a profound and different approach to how we would address our push for advancement and also our occupation’s potential. There are other factors that can determine what we might want to do for a living, such as our Sun sign and house position, our Ascendant as well as our Nodal positions, but the first place to provide us with direction would be the MC and any planet conjunct its position. Many famous people have planets conjunct this position in their chart. The Midheaven’s sign, any planets conjunct this positon and the ruling planet of the MC play significant roles in determining what might fit into our occupational profile. It also should be noted that if any angle especially the MC or ASC degree falls in the “Aries point degree”, the potential for recognition (even heightened potential for fame) is increased. The Aries point is any angle which is from 0 to 1.5 degrees in a cardinal sign (Aries, Caner, Libra or Capricorn). The closer to exact (degree), the stronger the possibilities. ASCENDANT OR RISING SIGN DESCENDANT OR DC IMUM COELI OR IC Aspects to Midheaven Back to Axis or Angular House Cusps Back to Astrology 101

Sun in Gemini Gemini With the Sun in the sign of Gemini, a mutable air sign, those under this solar placement come from a place where thinking is the most important life force of their character. They are extremely curious individuals who intellectualize everything, often flitting from one thing to another. They are on a constant search, collecting data, internalizing feedback, and storing some of this information to enlarge their ever expanding knowledge reservoir. They like to be on the move, to keep busy and share their day with those around them. Communication is the key and if they are not sharing life with others verbally, they will do so using modern technology, never missing a beat. Some of these individuals simply skim along the surface, but much depends on the sign in which Mercury is located in their Natal charts. Other individuals under this sign will go deep into all subjects, again depending on the placement of their Mercury. Those that skim along the surface, often have a tendency of leaving things unfinished which creates a need to go back and complete the tasks of the day, although they have to deem it important enough to do so. These individuals have a love of variety and need constant stimulation to be happy. They easily become bored with routine and enjoy most things that life offers. Reading, writing and learning are prime objectives and furthering their knowledge on a wide variety of topics keeps them satisfied. They are in pursuit of intellectual stimulation. These individuals are considered friendly, cleaver and witty people. They truly like most individuals and most people like them. They make great teachers, are quite able when it comes to writing and communication of their ideas, love to share and display their intellect and make interesting and exciting companions. Astrology 101 Gemini is ruled by the planet Mercury and the third house . The stone for Gemini is Agate. Other stones associated with Gemini include Aquamarine, Amethyst, Apophyllite, Blue Sapphire, Celestite, Citrine, Chrysocolla, Emerald, Serpentine, Tanzanite, Thulite, Tigers Eye, Ulexite, and Variscite. Return to Sun Sign Page

ASCENDANT OR RISING SIGN ASCENDANT OR RISING SIGN The Ascendant Sign or Rising Sign is descriptive of our outside personality, the one we reveal to the world. This will usually differ from our Sun Sign and this is a sure reason why some individuals are seen as quite different from the typical characteristics associated with their Sun Sign personality. The Sun Sign still resonates and is usually more prominent as we get to know and fulfill the characteristics of our true selves. The Sun Sign is you’re inside personality while the Ascendant sign reveals an outer personality that we are willing to reveal to the world. The Ascendant Sign often depicts our appearance and the way we carry ourselves in our outside environment. It is believed at least by this Astrologer that we are meant to merge our Sun Sign with our Rising Sign as well as the sign and house placement of the Moon as we develop and mature. It is with this merging that we can distinguish our true more complete selves and we can represent our true selves in a more authentic manner. The Ascendant sign is also a very significant point when transits and progressions move across or make important aspects to it. The changes and transformations that are often accompanied through the transit connections to this point are very significant to our overall development. Changes in our appearance, our evolution, our ideologies and life concepts as well as changes to relationships with important people all come under careful scrutiny during these transiting times. For example, Uranus crossing over the Ascendant often correlates with major wants for something new and exciting in life. We are often viewed from the outside world as being rather eccentric in our behaviour during powerful transits or progressions affecting this area of our chart. The want to break free from restrictive or old outdated ways or relationships that fall into this category are often by-products of a Uranus transit especially when in Conjunction, Square or Opposition. Uranus is also known as the awakener and many will go through an awakening process as Uranus transits this placement. It is important to also look at the opposing house cusp (7th) and the ruling planet and house placement of your ascendant sign to gain further insight into potential changes taking place in your life. The aspect that the planet is making will define whether it is stressful or an opportunity or just plain easy flow, while the planet will define the type of action that can be anticipated. The house placement of the Ascendant’s ruling planet will also define the area of life that will be affected. Any outer planet that transits this placement will have significant influence on your life. It often takes several years for these slow moving bodies to move out of the orb of influence. Those that are sensitive can feel the approach of the planet by as much as 4-5 degrees and the separation of the link by up to 2-3 degree. The affects will be felt for a long period of time and will change life’s conditions significantly. Often these outer planets signify a complete change in your life’s course and a new beginning. Have a close look at any outer planet making a conjunction in particular, as this is the most powerful of the major aspects. The planet and the sign on the Ascendant will merge and act as an intensifying agent of the conditions already in place in the birth chart. Be ready for change, transformation and a new beginning as these powerful entities begin taking hold in your life. DESCENDANT OR DC IMUM COELI OR IC MIDHEAVEN OR MC Back to Axis or Angular House Cusps Back to Astrology 101

Information on energies related to Aspects to Sun ASPECTS TO THE SUN The Sun is our core self and is not always shown to the outside world. Our face to the world is usually our Rising Sign. The Sun is our soul and life force but we are so much more than just our Sun sign. Leo is ruled by the Sun. With this in mind, we will delve into aspects to the Sun. SPECIFIC ASPECTS In a one-year period, the Transiting Sun will move through the complete Zodiac (360°), Because the Transiting Sun moves so quickly, it makes short aspects to all the other planets within the framework of the natal Astrology chart. We invite you to read the aspect to the Sun from Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. These Transiting planets move slowly (especially Uranus, Neptune and Pluto). Their effect can last up to three years, creating a powerful influence in our lives whereas the fast moving planets, such as the Sun, create fleeting influences. Back to Aspects

Astrology Classes ASTROLOGY CLASSES All courses are held just north of Barrie and the address details will be provided upon registration. Please be sure to provide us with your email address. Each class, unless advised otherwise, will begin promptly at 7 p.m. Please arrive early enough to be settled and ready to go for that time. All classes will have a duration of 2 hours teaching time and one-half hour of discussion period at the end, finishing off by 9:30. All questions are welcome and encouraged. Any questions that do not get answered at the class, can be addressed through either email or on a private Class Facebook page which will be created for the convenience of our students. BEGINNER'S COURSE LEVEL II COURSE LEVEL III COURSE COURSE REGISTRATION

Jupiter's aspects are almost always considered a positiveas they creates expansion and growth on many levels. Aspects to Mars We are working on this page and will be adding more Mars aspects in the future. Mars is the planet of dynamism and action and instigates activity in your life. Mars specifically deals with the energy that it takes to deal with pressures in your life. Mars can be an aggressive force and when provoked will ignite the urge to fight and stand up for what you feel is your right. The energy of Mars needs an outlet. This could be found in aggressive action, through violence and arguments or through mystical and spiritual avenues of expression. Mars when accompanied particularly with transiting Pluto (transits are planetary movements) will often be found in acts of violence or injuries caused through accidents, heavy machinery or sharp tools. Mars when transiting through certain houses can activate these areas of life and create new beginnings and fresh starts. Specific Aspects Transiting Mars is considered an inner planet moving rapidly through the Zodiac over approximately a two-years period, which includes its retrograde cycle. During its retrograde cycle, the energies of Mars are slowed down and drive and ambition is stagnated. Instead of making commitments and engagements, it is suggested that you take the time to review your upcoming plans and move forward once Mars moves into its direct motion once again. Mars can remain in its retrograde cycle from two to three months. It is important to understand that although Mars remains in its retrograde cycle, its influence will only affect a planet when it is within a 3° orb of influence. As a result of the short influence, we will not be writing aspects by Transiting Mars. To learn more about the aspects to Natal Mars, we invite you to read the transits from Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. Their effects will be powerful and can last up to three years depending on which planet is making the aspect to Natal Mars with Pluto lasting the longest. Read More About Mars Retrograde Mars Conjunctions Jupiter Conjunct Natal Mars Mars Squares Jupiter Square Natal Mars Mars Trines Saturn Trine Natal Mars Mars Oppositions Jupiter Opposition Natal Mars Saturn Opposition Natal Mars Mars Sextiles Jupiter Sextile Natal Mars Uranus sextile Natal Mars Neptune Sextile Natal Mars BACK TO ASPECTS

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Mercury Retrograde Mercury has to do with our thought process and thinking ability. It has a great deal to do with our communication techniques and our ability to create ideas and formulate action through the thought process. Mercury goes retrograde three or four times a year, with interludes every four months (approximate). Its retrograde cycle is approximately three weeks in length. During its retrograde cycle, it appears to move backwards in the heavens between 10 to 15 degrees. This is a period when we would be wise to sit back and review what has taken place recently before pushing ahead with our goals. This is a time of analytical analyses before we move ahead. Careful study is advised and then when Mercury goes direct, we can move ahead with our endeavors. If by chance we have no choice but to proceed with a project under the influence of Mercury’s retrograde cycle, we can usually expect some delays or obstructions along the way. Venus Mars Jupiter Saturn Uranus Neptune Pluto Astrology 101 Retrograde

The Ninth House The Ninth House The Ninth house is naturally ruled by the sign Sagittarius and the Planet Jupiter . Sagittarius and Jupiter combined speak of optimistic expansion through the use of the mind and through life’s experience. This house seeks to expand the scope of the mind's focus using whatever means appropriate to reach this understanding, whatever that understanding may entail. Higher education is one scope in finding answers, whether this be through actual academic schooling or the schooling of life. As learning can come from many sources in the ninth house, long distance travel, foreign cultures and travel through the mind are all areas that relate to this house. Many of life’s issues and deeper understandings can be attained while visiting foreign countries and the people one meets along this journey. One seeks to discover more of our world through communication with people of different cultures to gain an appreciation of our life’s meaning. The Ninth house provides learned information through gathering the meaning of things gained only through experience. This is the house of philosophy and religious interaction, and any planets found in this house use their particular energies to uncover philosophic meaning to an otherwise conventional world. Within the realms of the ninth house the higher meanings of life can be unearthed through wisdom gained in experience at any level that appropriately satisfies this yearning for truth. Dreams and visions also come into play in this house, as the mind's focus shifts and works through channels that consciousness only discovers when delving into these states. Problems can be resolved through these channels. This issues can then be modified to fit into the proper channels and as a result will be understood on a conscious level. The ninth house is where we uncover the truth through any channel that provides us with answers. It is the study of religion in its highest form and through philosophic understandings, we slowly weave our way through our life’s journey and uncover the deeper meaning of life and the ultimate truths. Astrology 101 The Ninth House is naturally ruled by Sagittarius. This is the house of PHILOSOPHY and FOREIGN TRAVEL. The First House The Second House The Third House The Fourth House The Fifth House The Sixth House The Seventh House The Eighth House The Tenth House The Eleventh House The Twelfth House