Forward Through The Eyes of The Transiting Nodes Of The Moon
Our experience of the world has changed greatly over the past few months. We are undergoing a collective experience in a manner that most of us have never encountered within our lifetime. Never has it been so abundantly clear that we are all connected, everything is connected.
As we consciously work to evolve, to experience more coherence between our inner and outer worlds, our unfoldment implicitly and explicitly nourishes others and offers sustenance to to the world on a collective level as well.
The concept of the butterfly effect, that when a butterfly flutters it wings in Japan it essentially affects the air currents thousands of miles away, is part of what is known as Chaos Theory. An interdisciplinary idea that spans both science and mathematics, Chaos Theory holds that that within the apparent randomness of chaotic complex systems, there are underlying patterns, interconnectedness, constant feedback loops, repetition, self-similarity, fractals, and self-organization.
In essence Chaos Theory explains the core of astrology.
Astrologers use the practice of astrology to see through the moment to something more. We look at patterns reflected in the chart experienced that are experienced both physically and psychologically by the individual. The intricate mathematics used to erect astrological charts unfailingly reflect the interconnectedness both within the microcosm of the individual and the macrocosm of the collective whole with the breathtaking accuracy. You would recognize this as predictive work.
Those who work with me doing depth work using their chart in a process I like to call Alchemical Midwifery know that I am all about the embodiment of the energies symbolically represented in the chart. It is after all the map(personalized alchemical compass) not the territory of your life.
We work to experience their chart as living entity that mirrors their experience, a sort of alchemical compass that is their companion on this journey. A Daimon (guiding spirit) of sorts that reflects both the inner and outer landscape. We explore uncharted territory together bringing the subconscious and unconscious world to the surface of awareness where we can harness the energy and reimagine the path available enabling them to more fully live the lives they desire. In essence we are working to actualize more consciously the potentialities expressed within.
I deliberately use the word Alchemical because we are always changing and transforming, in the actual process of alchemy nothing ever stayed static. It was a dynamic process that began with the Nigredo, the blackening, which Jung referred to as the dark night of the soul. In other words to symbolically go from lead to gold took something and involved a lot of soul work. The process of transformation is beautiful and intense but it certainly isn’t just pretty vistas along the way.
The journey of life is the ultimate Alchemical process for us both an individuals and as a collective. 2020 has been deeply discussed by astrologers for years as there was so much happening from a planetary perspective we knew it symbolized a time of great change. The implicit invitation of the present moment being offered is abundantly clear when we examine the transiting Nodes of the Moon.
The Nodes represent the point where the Moon, representing the entire repository of our past experience in the material world (in many lifetimes, if belief accepts it) crosses the ecliptic, or path, of the Sun in relation to the earth. It is, in essence, the conjoining of two pathways, the material (represented by the Moon) and the spiritual (represented by the Sun) as viewed from the earth. The Nodes symbolize the experience of life crossing with the infinite potential of the life path.
In our individual charts the the Sun and Moon, known as the luminaries, are more than planets; they are the lights of our inner sky, our inner universe. Most people know their Sun Sign, yet it is the moon with its more reflective light that we live much of our life from on a daily basis. Acting as a mediator between our inner and outer worlds it contains our experience. It illuminates our sense of belonging, our sense of safety, our instincts, our body both physical and emotional. Often operating unconsciously, it acts as the repository of our past experience in the material world both in this lifetime and others.
When I was a baby astrologer in my 20’s I often was willing to play the skeptics game of “Guess My Sign” and I would inevitably be wrong only later to find out that I had correctly guessed the sign of their their moon. This is because while we may think we know our selves though Sun in its beaming brightness, we live our day to day lives from our Moon and this is reflected in our unconscious habitual behavior.
The Sun on the other hand, represents the spirit’s way forward. It the present moment the here and now. It is the new energy, the path our soul is sojourning on. The luminaries are both essential in this pilgrimage we call life.
Also known as the Dragon’s head (North Node) and the Dragon’s tail (South Node) are profoundly revealing both individually in our Natal chart and also as they move though the various signs. They illuminate both the past and the pathway forward thus providing a guiding light in the present moment.
This year at the beginning of April the transiting Nodes changed signs, moving from Cancer/Capricorn to Gemini/Sagittarius symbolically meaning that as a collective for the next 18 months the conscious path forward has shifted.
Now, what does that mean on a personal level?
The South Node, now in Sagittarius, is more connected with the Moon, the habitual response AKA unconscious, our past.
Ironically a sense freedom is very important to Sagittarius at its core and on a collective level as the Node shifted signs we found ourselves on lockdown which is a very literally experience of the node in this sign.
To be able to use this energy we need to examine the invitation it extends. From my perspective as it moves through Sagittarius we are being asked, both personally and collectively, to let go of unconscious patterns of belief, ways of seeing, of imagining our world, that are no longer serving us.
Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, meaning symbolically Jupiter is the guardian of this particular area of the Zodiac. Jupiter, the principle of expansion, is connected to our beliefs. When Jupiter is afflicted we lose confidence and have to work to reclaim it. Certainly we can all see this currently reflected around us in a myriad of ways on a collective level.
One of my favorite Carl Jung quotes is “What we Don’t integrate on the inside shows up on the outside dressed as fate.”
To be able to personalize this moment and consciously use the energy of the transiting nodes I offer these these questions as a leaping off point. I invite your o use them as them to as a means of contemplation whether though journaling, meditation or though any activity that helps to assist you in exploring the uncharted territory within.
Where do you consistently find yourself stuck in life? What happens again and again? How is the external world acting as a mirror of your internal assumptions of what is possible for yourself and your life? What are you afraid of or what triggers your anger? What are you clinging to even though it hasn’t really nourished you for some time?
There is a hidden belief underneath any pattern that is deftly helping to shape the outcome of your experience. It filters everything you perceive. It’s not about recrimination or blame. We developed these beliefs, these defenses, in many cases as children or even young adults in response to a very big world we couldn’t control or we were conditioned to believe certain things about ourselves.
The path forward, the North Node, now lies in the Gemini. The clue to this lies in Gemini’s planetary ruler Mercury, the God of communication, travel, thresholds and the crossroads. He literally could be dubbed the God of reinvention. This is a period of exploration, of discovery, a fork in the road. This is a moment to try many new things. A time reinventing yourself and reimagining what is possible for yourself and your life. A metamorphosis.
In Greek mythology Mercury was known as the way finder, the God who was always sent in to move the story forward when the hero or heroine had become mired in their circumstances.
Explore what thresholds are beckoning you to enter or are you already standing at one in your life? What new curious horizon is calling you forward? What urge might be hovering just below the level of conscious awareness? Most importantly, what may have worked in the past, “what you know” isn’t going to work the same way right now. Just look at what has happened for most of us in our work life, everything changed in a moment.
Whether it is emphasized or not we all have the Gemini/Sagittarius polarity somewhere within our natal chart.
Aries and Aries Rising:
The nodal axis is moving through your 3rd and 9th houses until January of 2022 so the transit of the North Node in Gemini’s overall message of letting go of what you know and being willing to discover and explore is tantamount right now as it is being doubly emphasized in your solar chart. Aries is always up for a challenge so this should be an exciting period as there will be a lot of movement both in your inner and outer worlds during this period. In other words, boredom should not be a problem. The 3rd house is connected with communication, our neighborhood and siblings. You might find yourself moving to a new area or getting a new job which would be a new work neighborhood from an astrological point of view. Listening is going to be key through this period. Don’t make assumptions that you know what someone is thinking. In a similar manner don’t make assumptions about your own life and listen deeply within. Seize the moment to initiate the changes you have been hungering for. Use your experience but approach everything from the perspective of beginner’s mind.
Taurus and Taurus Rising:
The nodal axis is moving through your 2nd and 8th houses until January of 2022 when the transiting Node moves into Taurus and it will be a personal time for new beginnings. On a certain level the insight for Taurus echos Scorpio’s message of letting go as the 8th house rules elimination. But in your case it is South Node in the 8th. The North node, the path forward, is in the 2nd so much of your focus will be rediscovering, or perhaps truly discovering for the first time on a conscious level what profoundly matters to you. Taurus more than any other sign appreciates the comfortable and familiar so it can settle in long past the time to move along and thus you might find this period a little discombobulating. The invitation, the opportunity now if you want to harness the energy for your own benefit is to dig below the surface and find what treasure is buried below. The 2nd house rules money and possessions but at its core it is all about self worth and value. Questions that might be helpful to ask yourself are: What do I own literally, or metaphorically what can I take ownership of that gives me a sense of value? Where am I undermining my sense of self worth by just surviving? How am I devaluing myself? If you listen within the answers you receive may surprise you.
Gemini and Gemini Rising:
For Geminis, more than any other sign, the period between now and January of 2022 when the nodes move into Taurus/Scorpio heralds a time of new beginnings. Whether it is a new relationship, new vocation, new home you are very personally being impacted by this period. This is the moment to prepare to launch what you’re going to do next from the small to the more significant. The nodal axis is moving through your 1st house (North Node)which rules you personally, from your body to your personality and your 7th house which rules committed relationships, which can be anything from romantic to people with whom you have a contract. People will be moving in and out of your life. Those that you have outgrown will move on and those that arrive will more reflect who you are becoming. Ask yourself what new horizon to I want to take a step towards?
Cancer and Cancer Rising:
The nodal axis is moving through your 12th house(North Node) and 6th House ( South Node). The path forward currently is in the 12th which on the positive side rules our unconscious mind, and intuitive abilities. On the more challenging side rules escapism and addiction. It is a house of letting go. Keeping a dream journal during this period could be particularly rewarding. Meditation also will be especially gratifying. This is a gestation period, pay attention to signals from your unconscious mind. It might be that there is a lot going on behind the scenes, this could be a very creative period but it is important to ground yourself and expect the unexpected. Don’t try to control the uncontrollable by holding on to what is no longer serving you so you will feel more secure.
Leo and Leo Rising:
The nodal axis is moving through your 11th house(North Node) and 5th House ( South Node) which means the 11th house of Tribe (community/friends) and goals is being highlighted. It’s time to reach out and connect or reconnect to close friends. Getting involved with people in your community, even virtually (the 11th rules the internet) will bring great rewards. Look to the big picture. Shake the dust off of your dreams and reimagine what’s possible. If you are a creative type or have creative aspirations now is the time not just to o plan but to take action by being in the area and connect your vision with the world.
Virgo and Virgo Rising:
Your professional life and who you are in the world is in the spotlight. The big question to be asking yourself is does my outer world reflect my inner world? In other words am I living authentically? There is a line in a sacred Hermetic document known as the Emerald Tablet that almost everyone knows “As Above so Below.” Symbolically that is a reference spiritually in the natal chart to the 4th and 10th houses, the 4th being below, our roots, foundation and innermost self and the 10th which represents how we are known in the outer world, our reputation, what we are known for. This is a time of opportunity, between now and January of 2022, to harness the energy and align your inner and outer worlds creating a seat of power that transforms your place in the world.
Libra and Libra Rising:
Yours is in interesting conundrum right now. The 9th and 3rd houses of your solar chart are being activated. With the North Node in the 9th, You are being asked to expand: to expand your beliefs, your territory, in essence to journey from knowledge to wisdom. To explore what gives you life meaning. This could take many forms. The 9th house rules long distance travel, higher education, publishing. It’s time to sojourn, hold the attitude of a pilgrim, one who journeys a long distance to a sacred place as an act of devotion though they don’t know what they will encounter along the path.. In the Tarot this would be resented by the Fool card, someone taking a leap of faith as they set out.
Scorpio and Scorpio Rising:
With the transiting Nodes activating your 8th and 2nd houses. The North Node, the path forward, is moving through the 8th a house of transformation. It literally rules elimination. This is a profound time of letting go of what is no longer serving you or your life. Where have you put off moving forward in order to “stay secure?” This won’t work any longer, and if there is anything I have learned from my own experience is that it is better to move forward into the unknown even if it is scary, or the universe will “help” you take the steps you know must be taken through a series of circumstances. What are you trying to make work that really has outlived its time? The 8th house, ruling death, reminds us that everything in our lives has a cycle. If you have been considering therapy or some type of inner work it will be particularly rewarding currently. The 8th also also rules inheritance and other people’s money, including wealth, debts and taxes.
Sagittarius and Sagittarius Rising:
The North Node is traveling through your 7th house of relationships, which means the South Node is moving though the 1st house of self. Now is the time to cultivate your relationships with others whether a more committed romantic relationship or a business partnerships. Remember the north node is in Gemini; work on discovering your partner anew in each moment rather than “knowing” who they are. Let go of your preconceptions and really be present with the people in your life as you continuously become in your journey together. Practice the art of deeply listening.
Capricorn and Capricorn Rising:
The North Node is moving though your 6th house, the South through your 12th. The 6th house is connected to our day to day life, our work, our habits, our health, our diet, our digestion. It is the house of mastery and devotion. It asks us what we serve. Use this time to focus on the smallest details of your day to day life and explore them to build habits, or rather rituals, aka conscious habits, that serve your daily existence. That danger, so to speak, lies in the fact that the south node is traveling through the 12th in your solar chart, which can be the house of self undoing, our blind spot. The more you discover things you simply hadn’t noticed before and then consistently consciously practice actively taking care of what needs to be taken care of the more your world will open up.
Aquarius and Aquarius Rising:
The North Node is traveling through your solar 5th house which in Hellenistic Astrology (ancient Greek) was the house the Venus the Goddess of love and creativity found her joy. It is the house of pleasure. It is the house of children, both literal and creative. It is the arena of self expression. Make Love, dance in the rain or under the full moon, paint, reclaim your creativity and break your inner child out of jail. Allow yourself to be a beginner and try a new form of self expression. Rediscover your sense of play. Call on the muse for a creative project. Have a love affair, revamp your social life. Not networking, not saving the world. Your social life. Cultivate the joy of simply being with people you love.
Pisces and Pisces Rising:
Since the beginning of April your inner world, roots, physical home and family are all being highlighted with the transiting North node in the 4th house. A certain type of movement is being called for, this might be literal as in a physical move or you might finding yourself metaphorically looking for where you feel you belong in the world. You might be feeling a great push and pull between the inner world and the outer world. With the South Node in the 10th house the universe is asking you to put your career on the back burner if it is not in alignment with who you really are. You will feel pushed to make sure the two are in closer alignment. Authenticity is the word of the day. Letting out your deeper expressions of feeling to another can make things especially intimate right now, but make sure you express yourself clearly and are not misunderstood. The perfect time to feel “at home” with someone, either literally or figuratively. Where you stand is sacred ground, now is the perfect time to reclaim it.
Click here to download the slides from the Day of Pace Music Festival
