When the whole world is running headlong towards the precipice, one who walks in the opposite direction is looked at as being crazy.
~ T. S. Eliot
Coming up on March 7th is the sixth Full Moon in a series of seven that fall at around 16 degrees of their sign. In the Tarot, card number 16 is that of The Tower, energy which is sometimes necessary to destroy the narrative you have built your life around, often a challenging and disorienting experience. The stories and beliefs we hold about ourselves, our experiences, and our future aspirations provide a sense of coherence and continuity to our lives, help us make sense of the world around us, and when events occur that challenge or contradict our narratives, such as the loss of a loved one, a significant setback in our career, or a sudden change in our life circumstances, it can be difficult to reconcile our expectations and beliefs with the new reality we are faced with. It can feel like the foundation of our lives has been shaken, and we may struggle to find meaning or purpose in the aftermath.
We can see Tower energy’s obvious and devastating manifestation in the devastating Syria-Turkey earthquake that occurred at the last Full Moon. Below is the Tower image from the Thoth, painted by Lady Frieda Harris, which, in my opinion, is unsurpassed in its depiction of this martian energy.
I purified my lips with sacred fire that I might speak of love, but when I opened my mouth to speak, I found myself mute.
Khalil Gibran.
The Tower card is associated with the Hebrew letter Peh, meaning mouth, and you can see the mouth issuing fire in the bottom right-hand corner of the card. The horror of the catastrophic earthquake has rendered many silent, not only the dead but also their relatives, who sometimes are the sole survivors of several generations in a family.
Thankfully we are not all affected in such a momentous and obvious manner, but the same energy works on a multipe of levels and there are countless ways in which we are being challenged to change. Despite the difficulty of any experience that blasts us out of our sense of safety, whether that be mental, emotional, spritual or physical, these events also offer an opportunity for growth and transformation. By forcing us to reconsider our inner narratives and how we may have been limiting ourselves, these ‘unwanted’ changes can eventually give us a deeper understanding of ourselves. We may discover new strengths, interests, or values that we had not previously considered, and find new ways to connect with others and find meaning in our lives. Rebuilding is very challenging, but ultimately transformative, helping us to cultivate resilience, expand our perspective, and develop a greater sense of compassion and empathy for ourselves and others.
As an earth sign, Virgo is associated with practicality, attention to detail, and a focus on self-improvement. Therefore, this lunation may bring a strong urge to organise your life and to focus on self-care and health. On a note of interest, this upcoming Full Moon connects very strongly with the event chart of the first covid vaccination, which took place on December 8th 2020.
This is an excellent time to take stock of your habits, routines, and goals; to consider what is working well for you and what needs to be adjusted or improved. You can engage Virgo’s analytical skills and flair for critical thinking to help you make the most of this phase and make some practical and realistic plans to take you forward in a better way.
I love using the Sabian Symbols as a focus for the lunar cycle. The wide variety of images seems to marry extraordinarily well with the shifting cycles of the Moon as it weaves itself through the zodiac signs, fulfilling its phases of fertilisation, growth, blossoming, death and decay. Because the Sun and Moon are in opposition at the Full Moon, there are two symbols; this month and we are looking at the following pair:
PHASE 167 (VIRGO 17°): A VOLCANIC ERUPTION.
The explosive energy of long-repressed contents of the subconscious.
At this second stage, the objective confrontation with an image of the karmic past is replaced by a subjective irruption of repressed memories and primitive cravings. Everything must be released from the psyche seeking to attain the transfigured state. The soul must become empty, the mind translucent. The Keyword is EXPLOSION.
Dane Rudhyar
PHASE 347 (PISCES 17°): AN EASTER PARADE.
The capacity inherent in all great sociocultural Images to unite the members of a community in a display of excellence.
At this second stage of the five-fold subcycle the Collective dominates the Individual, Yin overpowers Yang. It is a time for conformity to what constitutes the highest ideals of one’s culture and for PARTICIPATION IN COLLECTIVE PEAK EXPERIENCES.
Dane Rudhyar
The imagery of the sign of Virgo has been taken up in more recent times by Christianity’s expression of the Holy Mother, but I always like to consider the myth of Persephone when I think about Virgo, and in light of the pairing of the Sabian Symbols for this Full Moon, I feel it is particularly relevant. Persephone is the daughter of the earth goddess Demeter, who wanders happily with her daughter across a land of endless summer. The world is fertile, and all are blessed. Enter Pluto, the lord of the underworld (probably on a motorbike and wearing a leather jacket), who takes the beautiful Persephone back to his lair. Demeter, distraught at the loss of her daughter and inconsolable, plunges the earth into winter. (My mother did this, when I eloped at the tender age of 17 with a Scorpio, no motorbike, but yes to the leather jacket, and a large black dog into the bargain, although not named cerberus!)
Eventually, Demeter realises that there is no getting away from what has happened and agrees with Pluto that her daughter will reign as queen of the underworld during the winter months and will return to the earth with her mother during the summer; thus restoring some sort of order and ensuring that the planet still supports life.
Within the two Sabian images, I see a spotlight being put upon our very human need for connection to others of our tribe, something inherent in all of us at some level; the importance of sharing our cultural symbols, stories, and traditions so we can feel united in our achievements.
As the tribes and nations of the world become more fragmented and diluted, the focus on historical sociocultural images, such as national flags, religious icons, or symbols of historical events, can carry deep meaning for members of a community and serve as powerful reminders of shared values, beliefs, and aspirations. When individuals come together beneath these images, it can create a sense of collective identity and purpose that transcends individual differences and unites people in a common goal. The danger is that long-suppressed grievances could erupt in explosive and unpredictable ways, as individuals may be unaware of the depth of their collective racial pain or what will be released as specific memories or emotions come to the surface.
As humanity struggles between paradigms, like the myth of Persephone, it may seem as if winter will never end and that our world is being plunged forever into chaos. However, no birth was ever achieved without blood, pain and tears; the balance will return when peace can be made between the darkness and the light, and I always feel, powerless as I am in the face of global change; what I can do is imagine myself as a tiny version of planet earth, and work on that. In any case, in some schools of thought, the troubles we see in the outside world ARE ONLY a reflection of our internal situations….. and that is a mind-bending thought!
Full Moons are the perfect time to shed light on what has been hidden, and this particular lunation calls us to let go of mental clutter and distractions to tap into our inner power and creativity. By cultivating a state of inner stillness, we may be better able to recognise opportunities for growth and transformation and to take bold action when necessary. This, in turn, will help us contribute to the well-being of our community and uphold our cultural ideals so that we are better equipped to participate in the shared experiences that help us gain a greater sense of connection to others and society as a whole.
Later in the day, Saturn ends his 5-year reign in his own signs and moves into Pisces for the next two years; you can read more about that HERE.
So….For that all important question!!
“How will this Full Moon affect me?”
Read for your Sun, Moon and Rising Sign.
Aries-Air 2
This month finds you grappling with everything you would rather not pay attention to. As your solar year is coming to an end, you find yourself dealing with all the shit you didn’t get around to doing earlier on. Whether this is in actuality or symbolically, you are facing up to things you would rather ignore. Whether it is your own propensity for self-sabotage or niggling health issues that you have been putting off, Air 2 advises you on your inner conflict. You may find yourself in a standoff with another person or in a situation requiring a decision; it may be challenging to determine what to do. Trying to act from a single point of awareness rather than taking another’s point of view can be helpful here. However, ideally, operating from a place of inner peace and acceptance will likely bring the best results. Two is a number of conflicts, duality, and the need to balance opposing forces. In the suit of Air, it relates to the need to decide whilst considering differing points of view. Seeing things from a different perspective brings internal balance and fosters harmony; think before you speak and be aware that words can be hurtful.
Taurus-Water 9
For Taurus, this month’s focus is on creativity, children, romance and socialising, fun and friends! This could see you out on a hot date, but equally perhaps falling out with your bestie…forewarned is forwarned Taurus. Your card this month is Water 9, which generally augers a time of emotional security, peace and contentment but also reminds you that relying on external sources for these experiences can ultimately result in disappointment. Building a strong heart from within is critical to the most profound enjoyment of life’s blissful moments, so make time to reconnect to the sources that offer you a sense of emotional well-being. Perhaps look at whether you are continually employing the same methods or people for those feelings of well-being and try to find a better balance if it has all been a bit one sided recently. The number nine brings the results of past actions and how they will define future events; ‘as you sow, so shall you reap’. In the suit of Water, your dreams of past emotional highs help you to recognise that gaining emotional contentment independent of others is a worthy goal.
Gemini-Water Knight
It’s all about the work home balance this month Gemini, and you probably have a great deal to say on the matter. With Mars STILL in your sign, you can be reassured that in another three weeks, he will have moved on to sulk in Cancer, giving you some much needed respite… oh sorry, you have Cancer rising???. Coming to your rescue is the Water Knight, signalling an emotional need to connect with others of a like-minded nature, your family, or perhaps your spiritual family, those with whom you feel a common bond. A deeper and more mature understanding of your emotional nature is also indicated, where there is a reconnection to a ‘younger’ time, rekindling an emotional spontaneity and innocence within the safety and security of your maturity. The maturity and wisdom borne of long experience give this Knight the emotional freedom the rest of his family can lack. Realistic and calm, he is cautiously open to new experiences and relationships. Allow that watery energy to soothe you, Gemini, you have earned it.
Cancer-Fire 5
This month you are focused on communications, writing, travel, publication and all things to do with the giving and receiving of information. You could find this quite stressful, as it dredges things up that you may rather not address; you may find yourself in internal disputes as you try to resolve everything around you and ensure you are not missing anything. Fire 5 reassures you that these feelings are only natural, this is a familiar story of your humanity and daily struggle. It can also signify an ego battle between our childlike needs and the realities of adult life. Ultimately the competition is within but may manifest as an external confrontation where conflict is required to teach confidence in one’s personal power relative to the power of others. The number Five symbolises opposition to the status quo represented in the Four. It is a wakeup call, breaking the shell that encloses our understanding. In the suit of Fire, this relates to overcoming difficulties and obstacles through creative thinking and imaginative problem solving.
Leo-The Emperor
The focus is on finance this month, Leo, and you are challenged to take a fine tooth come to all those credits and debits. The matter of your money versus other people’s money could also arise, and it may be important to develop a strategy around that. What others value is not always the same as what you value, and it may be necessary to agree that disagreements are inevitable and natural. The Emperor announces it is time to experience new and exciting adventures or promote yourself strongly and powerfully. This is a call to foster personal strategy and planning skills rather than allowing others to fill this role for you. Stand up and be counted, exert your authority, and do not suffer fools gladly. If you have wanted others to take the lead before, you may feel like you are being pushed to stand alone and take your place in the world. Trust your skills; you have been doing this longer than you realise; it’s time to let the world see that.
Virgo-Water 8
Virgo, ever the perfectionist, will be revelling in the energy of this Full Moon but perhaps uncomfortable with looking at the reality of all the changes that need to be made. You can’t hide from yourself any longer, Virgo; it is all in the open now, no hiding!! Work matters could prove trying or challenge the status quo of your relationships, with Water 8 asking you to consider an emotional situation that no longer serves you, perhaps an emotional impasse with little left to give or a relationship where you have received very little in return for your concerted efforts. This is not an indication of failure but rather a warning of stagnation. A new road beckons; despite all the love and hard work you have given, it is time to move on. The number eight brings an opportunity to discover the divine in your situation and to see the bigger picture, which is sometimes a painful experience. In the suit of Water, this can relate to walking away from a carefully tended path as you realise it is not for you.
Libra-Air 5
Like your teammate Aries, the spotlight is on health and habits and attending to what you would rather not look at. Although Libra is notorious for only wanting the “nice” stuff, you could be in for a bit of a surprise this month! Partners could have something important to say, which could disturb your current opinions, and it may feel like the whole world is against you. Air 5 brings an internal mental struggle; either you are being unkind to yourself or are berating yourself for not doing better. Another party may even be playing the part of the underhand aggressor, and you are urged to pay attention to the dynamics around you. Resist any temptation to succumb to feelings of defeat; gather resources and stand your ground, and you will live to fight another day. Five is a number of struggle, as we seek to move away from the stability of Four; it is a wakeup call, the breaking of the shell that encloses understanding. In the suit of Air, it warns of the dangers of self-sabotage; the invitation is to move away from the negative self-talk which keeps us bound in the safety of ignorance.
Scorpio-Air Prince
Scorpio, you could find yourself (again) in a friend crisis, with jealousies over the feelings, money, loyalties or allegiances of others at the root. Harsh words could be spoken, and it may be the case that you throw the baby out with the bath water. The Air Prince is well used to such behaviour and will aid and abet you this month as you cut loose and make the necessary harsh decisions. It is not a time for sentiment or emotional persuasion but rather to look at something in the cold light of day and realise it is time to move on unencumbered. You may experience this as someone behaving in a cold, detached fashion towards you, which could be a painful experience. Energetic and motivated, this prince may be guilty of hasty decisions. His mastery of strategic thought and a strong desire for forward motion could lead him into tight corners, although he will often manage to discover success in unexpected ways. Unafraid to move on.
Sagittarius-Earth Queen
This month, Sagittarius might well find themselves in a verbal dispute with a significant other. The Full Moon illuminates issues around home versus the outer world, mother versus father. If you find yourself in a wrangle over fundamentals, try to focus on what you really want out of the matter and whether the argument is really that important. The Earth Queen reminds you to take care of yourself and attend to your needs before you concern yourself with others. We often give our strength and energy away because we prioritise others’ needs and neglect to replenish our own. After a time, we have nothing left to give and can become ill and tired with the drain on our resources. Honour your needs and take a break; you cannot deliver to others without replenishing your resources first. Practical and firmly grounded in real achievements, this queen is knowledgeable about money and practical matters. She seeks to preserve and can get absorbed in viewing the world through a monetary lens. When comfortable, she is gracious and giving.
Capricorn-Fire 2
With the focus on community versus the wider world this month, a health oversight or some careless foothold on a precarious mountain ledge (read stepladder) could undermine your travel plans and leave you roaming closer to home. Pay attention to any health flags this month and listen to the advice from Fire 2, which alerts you to the danger of being drawn into a one-sided approach. Giving up the need for control and certainty will open you to life’s potentials and promote trust in a more profound plan. On the other hand, embracing the unknown could fill your conscious mind with fear as you let go of the reins. Thunder and lightning, female and male, neither can exist without the other; allow space for what has been neglected to bring the balance needed to move forward. Two is a number of conflict, duality, and the need to balance two opposing forces. In the suit of Fire, this can relate to creative conversations with others or an internal battle for supremacy between desires.
Aquarius-Fire 3
Aquarius, it’s all about your values this month, and you may need to realise that what is a good sauce for the goose is not necessarily suitable for the gander! Creative disputes or arguments with your children could cause disruption, and you may need to reconsider your approach. It could be prudent to consider that you can’t change others, so don’t waste your energy; better to focus on your own front yard instead. Fire 3 urges the move forward to create a kingdom of your choosing rather than settle for what you have inherited. Be mindful of how energy attracts according to vibration; this card alerts you to the need to be the ruler of your domain. Create that which you wish to see, with all your heart and soul, knowing that others, who respond to a similar vision, will find their way into your life. The number Three relates to creativity and productivity, where the union of two makes a third. In the suit of Fire, this can point to a workable creative foundation, resources and the power of positive belief.
Pisces-Root of Earth
It’s all about relationships with significant others this month Pisces, and lets face it, for romantic Pisces, when is it not?? The crunch comes around matters to do with property or home, an issue which is boring you to tears at this stage, so chance meetings or significant connections could help you with that all important issue of sorting out all those annoying details around the house that have escaped your efforts. Your card, The Root of Earth announces a new beginning in the physical realm, perhaps a new diet, exercise routine or creative project. It could auger the start of a new business, creating a garden, taking up a new craft or restarting one previously put aside. Remember to keep going when the novelty wears off so the desired outcome can manifest. Aces underline their element in a reading, adding a force, which can be positive or negative. Earth is associated with manifestation, material concerns, and the earth plane: routines, practical issues, exercise, money and physical work.
coming soon
THE THOTH JOURNEY TAROT
AQUARIUS EDITION
‘NEW TOOLS FOR A NEW AGE‘
“A new age is dawning, with a need for a new wisdom, one that comes from the heart. This book is dedicated to all those who find themselves, for whatever reason, in darkness; given with love, this work, is a product of our times.”
Joanna Grant is an astrologer of some 30 years and gained her Diploma at the Faculty of Astrological Studies in 2012. Weaving her knowledge of the stars together with intuitive tarot techniques, she crafts highly personalised guidance for clients who are often navigating difficult life transitions. Lately, she has been very excited to breathe new life into her astrological practice through her study of Horary, where the traditional techniques of the ancients have helped her to interpret her knowledge in a whole new way. Having recently completed the STA Advanced Level Horary Diploma, she feels that in an uncertain world, the integrity of this tradition is an essential tool in giving clients the guidance they seek.
You can read more about her here.
Joanna-Kate Grant 
So great to find your blog.
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Just want to thank you for all the great information you provide. Always a pleasure to read your newsletter. Thanks again and all the very best. Bonnie Burns, Winnipeg, Canada
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Thanks Bonnie! Always good to know xx
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