Anyone with their natal Sun between 5 degrees and 29 degrees Cancer, (allowing an orb of up to 8 degrees), will have a trine aspect in their natal Astrology chart. Jupiter which was previously retrograde went direct on July 10, 2018 releasing its energies and they will work favourably for those with this placement in their birth charts. When Jupiter makes a direct contact (to the exact degree of your natal Sun) it will have its strongest effects for you. Jupiter is the planet we wait for during transits to make favourable aspects to our natal chart. It brings optimism, expansion, good luck and opportunities into our lives. It expands on growth on many levels specifically defined by the house positions of your natal Sun and transiting Jupiter. We should also look to see what aspects we have between our natal Jupiter and Sun and if the energies are positive then the opportunities and possible growth can be quite extensive. We always have to take into consideration what the rest of our chart is implying, but Jupiter will help promote good fortune and fortunate events to unfold. Our Sun (speaking specifically today to Cancer sun individuals) often speaks in terms of our goals and aspirations in life. There are opportunities for these goals to be met as long as we are willing to do some of the work required to make this happen. Cancerians may find that because of this energy in place (which lasts well into 2018), they may be inclined to sit back and not put any effort into what is transpiring because things just seem to fall into place. This is NOT suggested. Your self-confidence may be at an all-time high and you feel as though you can accomplish anything, so go for it and utilize this energy. If this is a time of financial expansion, you may find that things go well and opportunities seem to flow your way with little interference. You may feel very free with your finances and should take into consideration that Jupiter does tend to give us too much confidence so be wary and use common sense with spending or with speculation. The potential, however, for good things to transpire financially are currently in place, especially if you have your Sun or Jupiter in the 2nd or 8th houses. Your creative potential might also be enhanced at this time, especially if the fifth house is involved. Opportunities may reveal themselves to you if you have been working towards a promotion or raise. You may receive recognition for hard work especially if Jupiter or the Sun are in the tenth house. Since the Sun also rules your vitality, your health may be enhanced at this time. You may want to explore the great outdoors and go for nature walks at this time. Watch for overdoing things if you are normally a sedentary individual. If you push things you may become accident prone so take your time and make sure things are safe. Travel is often part of the process during this time and many will make plans or actually travel and in most cases to far away destinations. You could learn a lot from these travels as the mind is open to new and exciting potentials under this influence. If you can’t travel, you can always put on the learning cap and explore through research and mental travel. Life, in general, may feel just about perfect, unless of course there are other mitigating factors found in the birth chart. The opposition from Pluto (Capricorn), or the quincunx from transiting Mars (currently in Aquarius and moving retrograde back into the sign of Capricorn) becoming an opposition as well can both make things feel a little challenging but necessary so don’t fight the energies. Make sure you look at the whole picture when delineating your chart. Without doing this, you will never get the full picture. If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â

One of the great lessons in life is the recognition and acknowledgement of our control in our life’s circumstances. We alone control our response to our destiny. Although life does happen and sometimes the lessons can be difficult, we always have a choice as to how we respond and deal with whatever comes our way. We will go through extremes events and emotions throughout our “study” of life. In one lesson, life may seem to fall apart and we will experience change on some level and this change will be apparent. Sometimes it feels as though we have been cast into oblivion and we may feel as though there simply is no remedy. We struggle with our understanding and as a result, the lesson feels as though it is filled with adversity and we in turn experience anxiety. These are the times that we must dig deeper and reminder ourselves of the control we have. We must remind ourselves that we are the orchestrators of our life’s journey. We may not consciously remember where we have come from before we entered this incarnation, but we can remind ourselves that these conditions are in place for our greater good. These conditions do not define us but they do teach us. When these types of life conditions present themselves to us, it can be very difficult to accept responsibility let alone find it within ourselves to know that this is happening for our greater good. It can be hard to look past the lesson or event to unearth anything that even resembles anything good or positive, especially when we are caught up in the moment. As time passes, if we choose to look at life from this perspective, we will find our way through the lesson and come out the other side stronger, more resilient and much wiser with the lesson well learned. It becomes apparent that our mental focus is of primary importance when dealing with life’s lessons and this applies also when life seems perfect too. We should never take anything for granted and always be thankful for life’s opportunities. Wonderful experiences come along regularly too; it is far too easy to forget to appreciate these events. Feeling love, knowing the satisfaction of a job well done, hearing the laughter of a child, sharing with friends, experiencing good health, being open to learning, encountering good fortune, being able to share our bounty, freedom to think and speak, understanding hope, knowing the feeling of a full stomach, feeling the sun’s rays shine upon our face, experiencing the wonder of nature……these all can fill us with deep contentment and appreciation if we see them for what they are. It is important to remember our focus and what it is creating; recognize the control that we have; place faith in ourselves and be honest to ourselves as well. If we feel small flaws in our approach, change them. If we feel responsible for any form of pain felt by others, we should take action to correct this, if we can give love then we should be receptive to receiving love; we can share our love unconditionally. There is no greater gift. You are the orchestrator of the emotional condition of your life. You dictate how your approach to life unravels. You are your best friend or your worst enemy. Which do you choose? Two individuals attend a wedding and sit together at the same table. When the wedding is over, you question them both on how they enjoyed the celebration. The first individual tells you that it was a wonderful event and that they are so appreciative to have been able to share in the celebrations. The second individual reveals that it was boring and a waste of their time. Both people experienced exactly the same event. Their attitude has dictated their experience. Which person are you? If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit ww.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â

A planet in its own sign (example Saturn in Capricorn, Jupiter in Sagittarius or Mercury in Gemini or Virgo) also known as a planet in its rulership or dignity is strengthened in its energy or influence. With this intensified energy, the planet is comfortable within this placement (as it is at home there). Its energies are enhanced and you can utilize this in whatever way you wish to. This is a very favourable positioning. Someone with Saturn in the sign of Capricorn, for example, would have executive abilities or would at least work well at their occupation. They would probably have leadership abilities, should have a leading role in what takes place whether this be within the working environment or in orchestrating life’s objectives. This example individual would be reliable, steady and in control or at least this is how others would see them. They would be someone you would feel comfortable handing over responsibilities to, and you would feel that they would do their utmost to produce the best product or results. They may appear very businesslike and willing to go the extra mile. They could also be relied upon to work towards the betterment of whatever they apply themselves to and they would feel responsible for the outcome or at the very least want to help achieve a favourable outcome for whoever is involved. Someone with their Jupiter in Sagittarius would have a fondness for travel. They could actually do well in the travel business. They would appear to be optimistic in their life’s approach and would also seem to be fairly lucky when their Jupiter is in favourable aspect by transit. They would have an open view on religion and would be honest and open to dialogue when discussing religious doctrines. They would have a wide open view with life philosophies and would probably share their views with others. They may appear jovial, optimistic and willing to learn what life has to teach. Their approach to life would be on a grand scale and nothing would be halfway or stifled especially when it comes to mystical learnings, religious schooling and philosophic teachings. They would make good teachers and/or good clergy people, some would enjoy a religious path and become priests or nuns or take on new wave religious or spiritual training and become ministers. Those individuals with Mercury in Gemini (and from a different perspective someone with Mercury in Virgo) would be very adept with learning. Those with Mercury in Gemini would have a quick mind, be very receptive to communication, open in dialogue and always willing to learn anything new and exciting. They would do well in the teaching profession. They could make excellent writers, good public speakers and would be proficient when it comes to learning new languages. They actually would be quick to learn almost anything that is put before them. They have a quick, responsive and agile mind. Those individuals with Mercury in Virgo also have good mental capabilities. They would be avid learners, able to decipher anything with great detail, and would be proficient in their understanding of whatever was at hand. They would also be perfectionists and able to come up with viable and profoundly conclusions to whatever issue is at hand. They would make excellent secretaries or clerks due to their invaluable preciseness and organizational skills. They would also do well in most businesses due to their diligent approach and ability to orchestrate objectives into practical form. They would do well at problem solving, detecting flaws in any system and would actually find great pleasure in putting things in their proper order or place. Their mind would be deep, introspective, analytical and precise. As you can see by these examples, a planet in its own sign offers very favourable energies, although as always we will need to take into consideration how the planet is aspected by other planets as this will help determine its efficiency and how its energies are released. The house placements will be the areas of life where these energies will play out. If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â

We were questioned last week by someone reading one of our posts if we could offer some insight into the large number of planets in retrograde and Jupiter stationary. We appreciate the question and it is certainly a valid one. This is a significant point in time when we have all the planets excluding Jupiter and Venus in retrograde (beginning August 7, 2018). Mercury will go direct on August 19 followed by Mars on August 27. The period between August 7 and August 19 should be particularly interesting. Retrograde planets, except Saturn, become stifled in their natural expression. Their energies feel harnessed and they are not allowed full expression. This can create great difficulty with life events and decisions made under these energies, especially with Mercury retrograde (towards the end of July, 2018). Jupiter was stationary July 10 and 11 which indicated profound energies. Jupiter’s energies focus on expansion, so we may yet experience something more relevant and extensive than what is unraveling now. If there are hasty decisions being made, it might affect us on a global level, although I never predict doom and gloom as there are always alternative ways of dealing with life. There are valuable lessons being taught all around us at this time and we should be listening. When Mercury goes retrograde, any profound decision making is best to be delayed and then acted upon once Mercury turns direct again (August 20). This energy should be used as a period of deep reflection and it affords insight not action. Contemplation too will be stifled especially when Uranus goes retrograde on August 8. Saturn retrograde is actually a positive energy as it operates similar to Jupiter. Saturn retrograde promotes growth rather than prompting stagnation and obstacles. Saturn should promote sturdy and reliable results over the long haul. It builds structure and solid ground. It suggests stability over time, but the rest of the energies are harnessed at least for now. Maybe this is suggesting a focus on Saturn’s energies and allowing the other energies to be reviewed while we build this solid foundation to move forward in the future. Once all of the restricted energies are release by these planets going direct again, we will be able to use their energies beneficially. For now on a personal level, understand that we are being challenged and making rash decisions just might be part of the process. We must use as much rational as possible, noting irregularities and responding with much more caution than we normally do. The energies around us are stifled somewhat and it is best to wait before responding especially in matters that can have profound and lasting effects on us and the world around us. If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â

Sometimes the best laid plans go awry and because we do not always travel the path we prefer, we allow reactions of disappointment, stress, frustration, etc. and these emotions can be intense. If we continue to battle the path set before us, we feel as though the stress will never end. This feeling and lack of acceptance can leave us quite depleted and overwhelmed and can eventually lead to serious “dis-ease”. All things in life, no matter how we label them, are temporary and all things will pass. This passing can be accelerated if we allow ourselves to let go and if we change our attitude which changes our approach. Nothing remains the same in life. Shifts of consciousness and shifts in circumstance often run hand in hand. Sometimes we have to let go of where we have been and take new paths that can be quite foreign to us. This can be frightening but at the same time very exciting. Take the bull by the horns (as they say) and move forward. Sometimes we need a little push from life or from others and other times we take these first steps on our own. The latter choice is usually the easiest in the long run. It is usually best not to wait for others or circumstance to push us to make change. Each one of us has the capabilities to move ahead, but it is important to recognize this fact. It is also important to face our fears. We may feel at the mercy of life, but this is just a belief. Emotional disruptions, more often than not, signify the need for change, and we must allow ourselves that freedom to grow and expand. A place of disruption must only be visited. We do not have to set up camp there. We do not have to stay within any type of energy of confinement or with an energy that feels anything less than fulfilling. Do not wait for life to dictate that change must take place. It is usually much more pleasant and less disruptive if we take the initiative and make those steps willingly. This IS your life! Live it to the best of your abilities. Never sell yourself short or create stress and frustration when it is not necessary. If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â

We will experience a New Moon in the sign of Cancer at 20 degrees on July 12, 2018, at 10:49 p.m. EDT. There will also be a partial solar eclipse on July 13, 2018 (due to the time zone differences) which will be seen between Australia and the Antarctica. Although all continents we will not be able to see the eclipse, its energies can still affect us. The Cancer New Moon’s energies are highly sensitive and intuitive. With the Moon being in its natural sign of Cancer, this New Moon is set to be a powerful one. It will enhance our emotions, our intuitive understanding and our sensitivity especially when our emotions revolve around our family and close friends. Our protective instincts will be heightened, and we will intuitively feel if there are any underlying currents of safety or danger involved. We will engage in confrontations if necessary and deal with open enemies if required. This extreme is unlikely, however, for the general population. The potential for some type of interaction between us and others may be highlighted due to the opposition aspect between the New Moon (20 degrees Cancer) and Pluto (19 to 20 degrees Capricorn). This opposition can bring issues to the surface that may be hard to deal with although this confrontation is necessary. The issue may stem from our early years or it could be something that we have omitted from our consciousness mind. Whatever this may be, it will probably require some type of focus and this issue that surfaces will often be brought on through our connections with others. Others may unwittingly bring these issues to the surface or they may intentionally bring the issue to our attention. One way or another, we are meant to face whatever surfaces so we can deal with it appropriately. It has been said that solar eclipses can have an impact in our lives in years by comparison to the hours they last. If, for instance, this eclipse lasts 90 minutes, we may find that for the next year and one-half (when activated) we will experience something related to the areas of life involved, expressed through the house that the eclipse is located within in our natal chart. In order for this to have an impact in our lives, we will also have to have links to our natal chart to this position; Conjunctions, squares and oppositions will have the most powerful impact while trines and sextiles would not be as powerful, at least in their expression. The challenging aspects will bring important pieces of our life to the surface. We will be confronted with how to deal with them, and we have to make adjustments or changes. The more gentle aspects will create easy flow and opportunities to resolve any issues. Many of those we speak to become fearful when eclipses make contact in their natal chart. There is no need to anticipate hard lessons. Difficulty is not always the way the Solar Eclipse and its energies need to express their energy. Remember everything, without exception, in life happens for a reason. Use these energies creatively and push through any lessons that are tabled for you. Remind yourself that any challenges are life lessons that in turn make us stronger, well equipped for our journey and more resilient. If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â

If we hold on to what needs to change, we inevitably create a continuous struggle. If we accept the changes that need to take place, we can close the door to what once was and flourish in the here and now. How extreme do events have to become before we are willing to let go of the past? How much abuse are we willing to take before we allow? Have you given your best shot at repairing what once was? Is there something more you can to improve the situation? Answer these questions honestly then re-evaluate your situation. Do so with a clear mind (not during a moment of despair). Sometimes the answer may be quite clear and other times it may not be clear at all. When we have exhausted all avenues available, change (whether extreme or minimal) may be the only option. Sometimes all that needs changing is our perspective. Sometimes we have to change everything. Life can certainly be a roller coaster ride. If the roller coaster is broken, repair it but if it is beyond repair, release your seatbelt and step out onto solid ground. Sometimes stepping off the roller coaster ride is more frightening than the ride itself but if the roller coaster is broken you will be left suspended in mid-air. Find the ride that is functioning perfectly for you. Buckle in and enjoy. Let go of the bars, raise your hands and know that you are safe. Enjoy your new ride with all of its twists and turns. Letting go adds to the pleasure of the ride and having faith in the process (our safety belts) is all that we need. Life’s roller coaster can feel rickety at times and the ups and downs can be quite intense, but there are always other options. We CAN choose the roller coasters we want to ride. If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â

If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â

When deciphering a chart, it is important to take into consideration the Sun’s ruling planet, its sign and house position. This planet will have considerable influence in the person’s life. If, for example, you have a Sun in Aquarius in the second house, you will have some Taurus links to your personality due to the second house location. Knowing that Uranus is the ruler of Aquarius we can use its position in the natal chart to help further define the character traits. If for example, you have Uranus in the eighth house, we would know that you search for the truth and want to get to the bottom of things. You would be a “digger” in life and surface things might not hold much importance. The occult might play a significant role as might a leaning towards sexual tendencies. Taking this further, if, for example, you have Mars in Scorpio or in Taurus this sexual expression would be enhanced even further. Using another scenario, if, for example,you have a Cancer Sun that is found in the first house, we would know that you have Cancer tendencies but would also have Aries characteristics as part of your character makeup. This would make you more aggressive in your pursuit of emotional expression and would probably enhance family concerns with a powerful urge to protect and take care of those in your family circle. The Moon rules Cancer, so let’s say that you have the Moon in the sixth house. The sixth house is naturally ruled by Virgo. You would still be a caring and protective individual but you would analyze the situation very carefully, scrutinizing the conditions and looking for any flaws or discrepancies that might stand out or that might be beneath the surface. You would carefully decipher the best approach to helping these family members not only from an emotional point of view but also through analytical observations. This example does define the Moon and it positioning. However, if the Moon was in Libra or Leo let’s say, we would have to take this into consideration as well. Those with the Moon in Leo would have a strong need to have their emotional responses to life’s events recognized. The Leo Moon individual would also place a lot of attention on assisting others, but would want to play a key role in this. They may perhaps feel that they would know what is best for the family member they are assisting, although this may not be the case. Those with the Libra Moon might want emotional balance and fairness in their emotional expression. They may constantly try to balance the needs of those around them as well as their own needs. They would also try to keep things smooth and filtered without being abrasive or putting too much weight in one given area or the other. As you can see, it is a complex study to analyze any given part in an Astrology chart. If you can put these pieces all together, you will have a clear, concise and elaborate definition of the characteristics of any given individual. Although Astrology is very complex, with practice and patience, we are able to put the pieces together. Much can be determined by following these deciphering techniques. If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â

In order to maintain a positive outlook throughout our journey, it can be necessary to realign our focus from time to time. Sometimes we get a little lost in events (we feel as though they are a part of us) and forget that our concentrated focus forms our reality. We, humans, find it easy to get lost and become complacent. Unintentionally, we go on automatic pilot and become absorbed and all consumed in events. When the lessons get tough we can get lost in an attitude of “why me” and allow this less than ideal attitude to weigh us down. We can forget that we are not what we experience and begin to own what is happening in our lives. Thank goodness something eventually jolts us back into the moment and reminds us that our negative focus is actually exaggerating the lesson into stress and turmoil. We have to remind ourselves that we are human when we find that we have somehow turned our “life” boat around and are paddling up stream against the current of life. Always be gentle with yourself and through a loving reminder turn that boat back around to flow downstream with the current. The faster we recognize our “against the current” struggle (negative focus), the faster we can return to the natural flow of the current and re-centre ourselves and start to enjoy the ride again. If we can truly focus on what bring us happiness during these life lessons, we can at the very least ease the stress of these lessons. Do not take life’s lessons personally. They are not in place to punish us. We are always capable of shifting our focus to anything that helps us to experience contentment. Happiness is a choice. We can learn to choose calm over stress. The object of our focus does not have to be anything colossal. As a matter of fact, it is usually the small simple pleasures of life that help to uplift us. As we are well aware, focusing on negativity only brews sadness, fear and anxiety. If we have allowed ourselves to slip back into a more negativity outlook for an extended time or if this is a new concept for us, it can certainly take some work to learn not to identify with these energies. It can be difficult to even recognize in the beginning, but with constant mental reminders and a gentle but concentrated effort, it does get much easier. Eventually a focus on negativity will become effortlessly recognizable. Your vibration (energy) changes as you regain your positive momentum and life will feel as though it is lifting. It will feel much lighter and easier. It may take some time for these effects to be noticeable as much depends on how long we have been drawn into negative drama and how studious we are at practicing this shift. Little by little, we notice the subtle changes and our lives will begin to feel and look much more promising. Do not give in to the challenging conditions in life. See them for what they are. Acknowledge them and let them go. You do not have to own them. View them simply as lessons that lead you to great growth and development. We can never forget our focus. By being aware of our focus, we take control of our journey and our attitude towards it. If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us

Although the Sun is often considered to be the determining factor in planetary strength in an Astrology chart, it is important to take into consideration any emphasis within the natal chart as well. For example, someone with a Capricorn Sun, although very much an achieving sign, could be an individual that is introverted and subject to challenging conditions when releasing emotion. Because emotion is represented by the Moon in our charts, much of course as far as emotions are concerned will depend on the Moon’s positioning and sign emphasis within the natal chart. Continuing with the example of the Sun in Capricorn, let’s say that this individual has a rising sign of Leo. Leo, as we all know, is not submissive or introverted. Leo individuals will speak their mind; they will want control and can be very aggressive when pursuing their objectives. Anything Leo represents is far from quiet or reserved unlike a Capricorn individual. This Leo influence will change the expression of our example individual with a Capricorn Sun. Continuing, let’s say that this individual has five planets in the fifth house, which is naturally ruled by the sign Leo. This placement of the five planets will now intensify an already outspoken and extroverted individual (even though they have Sun in Capricorn). The five planet placement again softens the Capricorn influence at least with respect to being subdued and introverted. The need for recognition and an extreme need to achieve will now become a primary focus of this individual in our example. They will work exceedingly hard to make a name for themselves and stop at nothing to reach their goals. This individual would now be seen as aggressive in their pursuits, while the Capricorn without the added emphasis of Leo would slowly (and perhaps behind the scenes) work towards a similar objective. Leo’s influence adds to the flavour of this Capricorn Sun individual. This would be particularly true if for example they had the Sun (inner self, core identity), Mars (energy and drive, passion and action) and let’s say Mercury (mind’s focus and thought process) in this fifth house position. Now put the North Node (life’s purpose) and perhaps Jupiter (expansion and grow) in this house as well and we now have a very strong emphasis of Leo influence in this chart. It would be somewhat different if Saturn (Karma, restrictions, life lessons) was placed here or Neptune (illusion, inspiration, psychic development). It is imperative to decipher and expand on what the whole chart is saying. Always take into consideration the planets and their positioning and any emphasis as well. In deciphering the story a chart is telling, it is also important to take into consideration the number of aspects to any one planet. A planet with many aspects to it can play a central role in determining planetary strength; however, if all these aspects had a wide orb, they may still have an impact although certainly not have the same powerful they would have if they were in tight aspect. The type of aspect also changes the strength of the influence being made. In deciphering the story, it is also important to see how many planets fall into each element and quality. When calculating, using the Sun and Moon we give two points to each, the rest of the planets we give one point, the Ascendant and Midheaven also count as one point each and the Nodes each have half a point. I, personally, do not use the asteroids or the part of fortune when calculating points for influence, although they certainly have their part in the overall story of the chart. If you have a total of 6 points or greater in any given element (air, water, fire and earth) or quality (cardinal, fixed, mutable), this will signify an emphasis in the element and quality. For example if you have 7 points in Cardinal and 6 points in water, the water cardinal sign which is Cancer would be emphasized and could be a determining factor when deciphering the chart for strength. If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â

In the face of adversity, push forward; When in doubt, push forward; When you feel safe, push forward, When you are worried about failure, push forward; When you are told by everyone that you will never make it, push forward; If the road ahead looks impassible, push forward; If the path ahead looks easy, push forward; If you are worried about the final outcome, push forward; If you think you might have made a wrong decision, study the route options, then push forward; If you are at wits end, take a breath and push forward; If you feel you are at the mercy of life, push through it and push forward; Under all conditions, push forward! I could keep going but suffice to say that the only roadblocks, the only thing holding you back is your decision not to push forward. Build your confidence, set your sights and push forward. You are stronger than you think. Push yourself forward. KNOW that you can do this. KNOW that you can conquer anything, big or small. PUSH FORWARD! If you are commenting on or have questions concerning a specific post, (even though you are making your comment on the post) please include the title of the post in your comment. We receive a notification of your comment but do not receive a link to the specific post. We cannot respond without your quoting the post name. Thank you. Visit www.holmastrology.com for more information on Astrology and information on the Astrological charts we offer. Holm Astrology also offers individual intuitive readings or group parties. For more information, visit us at www.holmastrology.com/intuitive-readings Are you interested in learning Astrology? Holm Astrology offers courses in astrology. Visit our calendar for dates at www.holmastrology.com/apps/calendar/ Please “Like” us on Facebook. Your “shares” are appreciated and your questions are welcomed. If you have confidential comments or questions, or if you would like to speak to us concerning the preparation of a chart, please visit www.holmastrology.com/contact-us Â