Whole Life Times: Take a Real Vacation

August 2006 | Astrology

Take a Real Vacation

by James Jarvis

One of the (perhaps best) definitions of vacation is “freedom from occupation.” But we’re sometimes so busy that even on “vacation” we’re unable to unwind, rest and recuperate from our work. If you’re taking off work this month, make sure to save some of your downtime for reflection. Tap into what has meaning for you through meditation, being in nature and, if possible, retreat. Look to see how you can create a harmonious balance between alone time for expanding your insights, and practical accomplishment.

Jupiter in Scorpio semi-square Pluto in Sagittarius 8/1-5 provides the fuel for changes in mass consciousness. With Jupiter/Pluto aspects you become aware of the need to balance emotions (Scorpio) with wisdom (Sagittarius). Use this transit to re-examine and re-evaluate your fundamental beliefs. Jupiter/Pluto asks you to transform your beliefs by stepping back to gain a larger perspective.

Mars in Virgo sextile Jupiter in Scorpio 8/6-10 is like the warrior going on a crusade in support of a lofty vision. Use this transit to ramp up your idealism and get into action! Since Mars is in an earth sign, representing grounded action, this is a great time for completing projects that speak to your highest ideals.

With the full Moon at 16º Aquarius on 8/9 at 5:55am you are learning how to be emotionally present for others while maintaining your individuality and center. The Aquarius full moon also heightens your desire to find the “tribe” that supports and nourishes your vision.

Mercury in Leo 8/10-27 emphasizes using the imaginative and playful aspects of the mind to create your own reality. By using the power of imagination and play, we free the mind to generate new possibilities that far exceed the dualistic “this or that” mentality of the concrete mind.

When Mars in Virgo is in opposition to Uranus in Pisces 8/11-14, you’re being asked to push the envelope a bit. Mars/Uranus energy is very good when you have to be daring or audacious in your work or home life. Let Mars and Uranus help you take risks and move beyond what you once thought was possible.

With Venus in Leo 8/12-9/6, you can reinvent your values so that they are rooted in your own unique experience. By sharing your values with other likeminded souls, you have the opportunity to let down your guard so that you can be truly received and appreciated for who you are.

Mars in Leo inconjunct Neptune in Aquarius 8/19-21 helps you gain a deeper understanding of the power of surrender. As your personality gets out of the way, you invite grace into your life. By allowing spirit to support you, you establish a co-creative relationship that is nurturing, empowering and fulfilling.
It’s time to harvest our creativity as the sun moves into the sign of Virgo on 8/23 at 1:23am. Our job during the sign of Virgo is to utilize the discriminative faculties of the mind to improve and perfect our innate gifts so they are ready to share with others.

With the new moon at 0 degrees Virgo 8/23 at 2:10pm, our awareness is focused on nurturing body and mind. Use this month to discover what your body needs to support your emotional health. Maybe it needs more exercise, better nutrition or more attention to your diet. Let the new moon in Virgo help you begin a new relationship with self-nurturing.

Saturn in Leo opposing Neptune in Aquarius 8/24-31 confronts us with the contrast between our ideals (Neptune) and reality (Saturn). Sometimes the gap between the two can be disconcerting but ironically it’s also the best time to bring your vision down to earth. Ask yourself: “What will it take to bring my dreams into reality?”

For Sun, Moon and Rising Signs

Aries 3/21-4/20
Paying attention to your health, diet and daily routine is paramount this month. Look to streamline your life and make it more efficient. Focusing on body-mind health supports larger goals.

Taurus 4/21-5/21
You are very open emotionally and the desire to communicate your feelings with loved ones is strong. Breakthroughs in familial relationships are possible when you communicate with your head and heart.

Gemini 5/22-6/20
There’s tremendous power behind your words helping you speak your truth. Use intuition to tune into others empathically so you can compassionately communicate without alienating.

Cancer 6/21-7/20
Are you getting enough alone time right now? Chances are you’re conflicted between caring for everyone else and taking time for yourself. Choosing yourself now will enable you to be more present for others later.

Leo 7/21-8/22
You may be feeling blocked at a time when you want to expand and grow. Try to balance growth with responsibility. Remember: too much duty impedes growth and too much expansion undermines stability.

Virgo 8/23-9/22
Are you feeling stressed out? The new moon in Virgo on 8/23 is a time to develop stress management tools. Practices like meditation or visualization will calm your mind and relieve anxiety.

Libra 9/23-10/22
Long-range goals and dreams are key now. Have you ever taken the time to write out your “ideal scene”? This is where you let your imagination soar to access your ideal life vision.

Scorpio 10/23-11/21
Your desire to express your creative power is bursting at the seams! And yet there is so much to do that you’re probably feeling overburdened. Allocating time for creative pursuits will relieve considerable tension.

Sagittarius 11/ 22-12/20
When was the last time you got away for a quiet retreat? Maybe it’s appropriate now to withdraw from the world to get in touch with your inner authority. Time in nature will give you new clarity.

Capricorn 12/21-1/20
Ever the pragmatist, you’re being challenged to get in touch with your idealistic side. Focusing only on what’s possible will deliver more of the same. Focusing on the ideal accesses new possibilities as yet undreamed.

Aquarius 1/21-2/18
The full moon in Aquarius on 8/9 heightens your connection with others’ feelings. It’s as if you are acting as a conduit for the emotions of those around you. Compare notes with friends, and you will be amazed.

Pisces 2/19-3/20
Are you doing more than your share of the work and enjoying less of the experience? If so, it’s time to speak up about what you are willing and unwilling to do. Sacrificing yourself for others doesn’t serve anyone.

James Jarvis, MA is a master astrologer, transpersonal counselor and professional life coach. To contact James, call toll-free 866.454.8199, e-mail [click to e-mail] or visit lifeqwest.com.

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