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January/February 2010 Starscope
Facing the Fear of Change in January and February

by Emily Trinkaus

The cosmic headline is Saturn's square to Pluto on Jan. 31, intensifying a wave of accelerated growth and change that continues for the next few years. The meeting of these planets asks: What needs to die to make space for new growth? With Saturn now in Libra, relationships of all kinds are particularly ripe for change.

Even when you know you're moving in the right direction, letting go of the old and embracing the new often stirs up fear, anxiety and insecurity. One of the big lessons of this time is trust — trusting that it's safe to act on your feelings and inner knowing. Fortunately, Jupiter's move into Pisces on Jan. 17 helps to deepen your connection with your intuition and expand your faith in the universe.

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

The retrograde motion of Mars, your ruling planet, directs your attention inward to reconnect with your heart's desires and reconsider your goals. You're ready for a new start in your professional life that brings you into greater alignment with your passion. Explore your options and start planting seeds now, but wait until your birthday to take action. Patience will be rewarded.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

Your assignment is to develop consistent daily practices that build your sense of security, trust and well-being. It doesn't matter what the practice is — yoga, meditation, walking, writing in a journal — what's important is committing to a realistic plan and following through. Taking control of your everyday experience in this way helps you release self-limiting beliefs and open to more empowering possibilities.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21)

This is a year of professional expansion, when your work is ready to blossom. Instead of taking more control to make it happen, your job is to surrender and open to the flow of abundance that wants to come through you. Intimate, business and creative partnerships need to be restructured at a deep level. Trust that by releasing what is stagnant, you are creating a stronger foundation for success.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22)

In order to strengthen your base of support, you need to become aware of the elements of the past that truly nourish you, and what you're holding on to out of fear. Identify and let go of habitual patterns that no longer serve you. This foundational work opens the door to a significant new relationship beginning — whether a new partnership or a new way of being in partnership.

Leo (July 23 - August 22)

The relationship between your mental state and your ability to meet the moments of your life in an empowered way comes into greater focus. Consider establishing a new meditation practice (or deepening an existing one) to cultivate a sense of balance and peace of mind. Mars retrograde in your own sign calls for less outward action and more quiet time to listen to the wisdom of your heart.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)

You're setting the stage for a creative rebirth, while simultaneously fortifying your financial base. Trust that expressing yourself authentically will lead to greater prosperity. Rethink your creative life — how can you establish more structure and discipline without being overly controlling and restricting the flow? New allies and collaborators are ready to assist you. Get clear about what you need, and open to receiving support.

Libra (September 23 - October 23)

Saturn in your own sign signifies that it's time to reinvent yourself. Your home, family and support systems have to change as well. Rethink the inner and outer structures you need to feel secure, and reconfigure your foundation. Daily spiritual practices help you feel connected with source and deepen your faith as you take practical steps toward becoming more of who you are.

Scorpio (October 24 - November 22)

Old projects need to be completed or redone before you can move forward in your work. Rethinking sales and marketing strategies is also on the agenda — reconnect with former colleagues to gain new ideas for creative solutions. Your mind is especially powerful right now, and you can harness this power to plant seeds for future creative expansion. Release negative thought patterns that undermine your success.

Sagittarius (November 23 - December 21)

You're feeling inspired to give your gifts to the world in a bigger and more powerful way. The more you clarify who you are and what you have to offer, the easier it will be to attract allies who support you in living your dreams. Turning your home into a spiritual sanctuary helps you strengthen your connection with source and expand your foundation of faith.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 20)

Rethink the systems and structures that support you in expressing your authentic self. You're ready to shed some more layers, allowing more of your light to shine through. As the fear of change arises, stay focused on your long-term goals. Keep taking small, concrete steps in the direction of your dreams. Doors open when you quiet your mind enough to listen to the voice of your intuition.

Aquarius (January 21 - February 19)

Avert potential relationship drama by taking the initiative to clear up past issues with friends and partners. The people in your life may need some time to adjust to the expansion you've experienced over the past year — practice patience. The new year brings opportunities to increase your financial foundation. Let yourself dream big, expand your sense of what's possible and take risks based on your intuitive knowing.

Pisces (February 20 - March 20)

Jupiter in your own sign signifies a year of expansion, risk-taking and increased confidence. To support this expansion, you may need to restructure your commitments to groups, friends, and intimate or financial partners. Review and improve your self-care habits — changes in diet or exercise can help heal an old health issue. You can also increase your well-being by including more of what you love in your daily schedule.

Emily Trinkaus is a lifelong student of astrology and has practiced professionally since 1999. She is also a certified BodyTalk practitioner. Visit www.virgomagic.com for details on readings, BodyTalk sessions and upcoming workshops, or to receive free monthly astro-newsletters.