Seasons, Stars and Ceremony

Changes in the cycles of the seasons or the movements of the sun, moon and stars often give us points in time that are particularly wonderful for doing ceremony, ritual, space clearing or personal growth work. 

A few things of note are happening in the seasons and in the sky over the next few weeks:

Jan 21 – Jupiter-Saturn trine, exact.  This powerful and productive influence (which occurs again in September and November) encourages building new, cooperative structures.  It can offer support in the practical manifestation of our dreams.

Jan 28 until Feb 18 – The planet Mercury turns retrograde.  These retrograde periods allow us to reflect and go back to old projects or issues.  This month, utilize the Aquarian capacity to find new and creative solutions.

February 1 — Venus-Jupiter conjunction. This will be the first of two meetings this year between the two brightest planets in our sky. This beautiful meeting between the planet of love and beauty and the planet of expansion will be visible in the early morning sky, about 45 minutes before sunup. On Feb. 4, a luminous crescent moon will join the two planets. 

Feb 2 – Candlemas.  Brigid’s Feast of the Waxing Light. As the sun’s light grows stronger, traditionally this is a time to seek healing and inspiration.  And – as Brigid was the ancient Celtic Goddess of water and fire - it is a time to honor the sacred flame and holy well.  I have always found that this is a wonderful time for doing ceremony or space clearing, as the energy is one of purification and initiation.

February 20-21 — A total eclipse of the moon occurs during the late-night hours of February 20-21. This eclipse can be seen in much of North America, occurring during evening hours, although Europeans will also be able to enjoy a view of the darkened moon before it sets. Adding to this event, Saturn and the bright star Regulus will appear close to the eclipsed moon forming a broad triangle.

Deb Swingholm, 2008

Tags: Astrology, Ceremony, ritual, Space Clearing