Brave New World 2015

Picture from Big Sky Astrology

Despite the fact that the common definition of astrology tends to revolve around the ability to predict the future, the actual function of the ancient art is more to do with keeping track of cycles. All the planets have very predictable orbits that are calculated by astronomers and interpreted by astrologers.

This week there are a few significant cycles worth noting.

Firstly, two of the furthest planets from the sun, Uranus and Pluto have just completed a quarter of significant cycle. This cycle started in the early 1960s and has the astrological world abuzz with the importance. Simply put, it means some of the ideas of the 1960s are being challenged and put to the test. Astrologers work in different ways and therefore different opinions will be very common. My personal take on this event is that we, as a society, need to consider how we handle our technology. In particular, in my opinion, is the effect of the internet on our children. Do we need more control or more freedom? These are important questions we should be asking ourselves during this time.

Secondly, no doubt you’ve heard about tomorrow’s total eclipse. Eclipses are not “rare” as they can happen up to seven times per year (but usually only four). But what makes tomorrow’s eclipse special is that it takes place on the final degree of the zodiac. It is kind of the reincarnation point, the moment just before a re-birth. Many of us may be experiencing the need to let go of the old ways of doing things and clearing space for fresh experiences. Even if you don’t “believe” in astrology, you may find it helpful to have a little ceremonial clear out to make way for new, more up to date circumstances.

Just a few hours after the eclipse, the sun crosses the vernal equinox. For us in the western hemisphere, this means warmer weather, longer days and a freshening of the spirit that can only come once winter has been banished. The proximity of the eclipse and the vernal equinox is surely an opportunity to set aside our assumptions and see the world through the eyes of innocence.