Astrology Column


Belinda Dunn is a professional astrologer, trained at The Temple of Kriya Yoga in Chicago, and has more than 35 years experience. See her bio and contact info at the end of this column.

What's UP: February 2012

with Astrologer
Belinda Dunn

Neptune enters Pisces
February 3 @ 1:52 pm
Saturn retrograde
February 7 @ 9:03 am
Leo/Aquarius Full Moon
February 7 @ 4:54 pm
Pisces New Moon
February 21 @ 5:35 pm

See February specials below)


Perhaps I am longing for a vacation or exotic getaway from the daily grind, but like so many others this time of year, I am feeling a distinct pull to the ocean. It beckons, calling my name, reminding me of years gone past; the joy of pure abandon, laughter and relaxation. Deep royal blue of Pacific waters, the soothing turquoise of Caribbean seas, it doesn’t matter. Blessed water circulates our globe, cleansing, restoring, nourishing, healing.

In a way, we are taking a collective plunge into ocean waters this month. On February 3, to be exact, Neptune enters the zodiac sign of Pisces. A relative newcomer to astrology, in the far reaches of outer space, Neptune was discovered in 1846, and named after the trident bearing Roman god of the seas. In 2010 Neptune completed a full 165 year orbit, returning to its exact location upon discovery.

Long term cycles of slow moving outer planets (Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) are extremely important in defining collective consciousness, and Neptune is considered a generational influence. In fact, each newly incarnating soul born between February 3, 2012 and March 29, 2025 will have Neptune in Pisces for their astrology chart. Profoundly and meaningfully, this generational shift affects each of us, so let’s consider Neptune’s influence and take a look at possibilities for the new cycle.

Planetary Connections
In late 1998, Neptune entered Aquarius, the zodiac sign of technology, science, experimentation and community. Aquarius is future oriented, mobilizing whole groups of people to unite, address social problems, and take progressive steps for the common good.

For example, computers have been around for decades, and the world wide web came into being in the early 1990's, but it was the first decade of this century when the capacity for global communication really took off. The advancements are extraordinary and mind boggling when we consider the rapidity of connection, and role technology is playing in global society.

Over the past several years, as Neptune’s transit in Aquarius concludes, we have seen a blending of race, culture and creed, a true unification of humanity’s heart and mind. If you think this is idealistic, have a conversation with anyone under 35, and you will see their worldview is far more open and embracing of differences than previous generations. Neptune’s transit through Aquarius set the stage for worldwide collective momentum in the task at hand; adapting, surviving and thriving in the coming century.

Neptune Rules Pisces & Assists Humanity
What are the next steps for humanity as Neptune begins its long sojourn in Pisces? First of all, Neptune is planetary ruler of Pisces, thus together they share an affinity for the ocean. Research into ocean depths will accelerate, and radical, unprecedented discoveries will be made.

Secrets of humanity’s past will surface, and break the bonds of historical perspective. Our oceans will be seen as holding survival keys for many species, including our own. Earth’s waters will give the necessary and direct feedback for humanity to clean up their act, once and for all.

Secondly, Neptune and Pisces are the most spiritualizing of astrological influences. Together they stimulate new horizons of understanding and realization of Source. The heart’s longing for transcendence and freedom from the thralls of physical existence will become paramount in the quest for liberation.

New sciences of spirituality will emerge, taking us by surprise, and the general public will be more receptive and ready for new forms of devotion and connection to Source.

Beyond Addiction
Neptune and Pisces rule over addiction, and real advancements in this field will offer hope to those suffering from obsessive and compulsive addiction. In many ways, everyone will glean understanding and healing from these advancements as addiction effects society as a whole.

Addiction takes many forms. The consequences of substance abuse are usually obvious. But what about the attachment to suffering, playing the victim role, or the slippery slope of negative emotional states? Who among us does not experience the repetitive pull of less than healthy lifestyle choices?

The very nature of this dimension presents choices for the purpose of transcendence, and ultimate release from the bond of physicality.

On a humanitarian level, Neptune in Pisces will challenge us to address the climate of environment. Whether we are speaking of pollution and actual environmental conditions or the more subtle environment of psychic interconnection, the boundaries between us are dissolving.

Major Events Humble and Unite Us
As this occurs, there will be a stimulation of genuine compassion. With insistence, this compassion will encourage reaching out to one another, and this includes all life forms on a global and even cosmic level.

Neptune in Pisces has the potential to bring humanity to its knees in prayerful supplication to Source. "Not my will, but Thy Will," is the prayer of surrender. In other words, we can look forward to major events that united us, humble us, and dissolve limitations of perception.

While the planetary influences of February set the pace for years to come, let’s return our focus to current and more immediate concerns. February 7 is a potent and important day to watch. Not only is there a Full Moon, but Saturn in Libra goes retrograde. Activating the zodiac signs of Leo and Aquarius, there will be plenty of activity affecting social interaction.

Add to this Saturn’s long term influence in the relationship sign, and people will be evaluating their relationships in light of future plans. Personality and ego are on full display. Differences in perspective come to the forefront as this Full Moon intensifies and highlights hidden factors in the close and personal domain. Some relationships may dissolve, some may be put on hold, and others may transform to greater harmony.

On the heels of February’s Full Moon, and Saturn’s reality check, Venus enters Aries on February 8. Once a year, Venus joins Uranus, and this occurs on February 9. This is probably not the best week to make major commitments as decisions are likely to spontaneously change, especially in matters of the heart.

Some people will choose responsibility, while others seek release. A false sense of obligation is draining, but the thrill of freedom is contagious. In response, people will break out of the box and make radical, unexpected moves – some together with others.

Mars and Saturn Retrograde All Month
Mars and Saturn are both retrograde this final full month of winter. Some people cringe when they encounter the word retrograde, but retrograde simply indicates a phase to review forward motion.

Life circumstances show up in a variety of ways depending on each person’s unique astrology chart. Even though the phase is typically marked with frustration and delay, it is essential to slow down, get more information and discover why things aren’t working according to preferences.

While outer conditions are often obvious, there is a deeper purpose. The personality/ ego self wants to run the show, and dictate to the universe how it should be. A retrograde period directs our focus inward. It is a time for reflection, patience, careful planning and sincere, honest appraisal. When we honor a retrograde period, instead of resisting it, we gain insight into the larger plan. We discover what is out of balance, and how to make adjustments to get on course again.

A Healing New Moon
The retrograde pause is further accentuated by a New Moon in Pisces on February 21. Deep, mystical, intuitive, creative and spiritual, this zodiac energy pulls consciousness away from daily commotion, irritations and hassles. Like the rhythm of ocean waves, Pisces sings a lullaby of sweet, simple, still, quiet absorption in the healing balm of Source’s complete love.

This return to silence can happen in a variety of ways. Illness, a snow storm, a broken down vehicle, exhaustion of overwork or by conscious choice. This is a chance to watch yourself, and learn how to retreat and unwind from stress. Knowing how to take care of yourself in the midst of complications is to be empowered.

The Pisces New Moon on February 21 is extraordinary for additional reasons. Not only do the Sun and Moon join in Pisces, but Neptune, Pallas Athene, Chiron, Mercury and Vesta all work together to produce unusual results.

Archetypical themes emerge into everyday consciousness. Watch for themes of the Divine Feminine in your life. Vulnerability and sensitivity, imagination and intuition, these play a key role in our humanity. Too often these vital traits are ignored and devalued, tossed to the side. Ignoring these virtues contributes to wounding on many levels of our being.

Pisces reminds us that the greatest strength can abide in gentle vulnerability.

Deepest Truth & Trust
One more thing about this prominent emphasis on Pisces. Let’s go back to the ocean . . . the ocean of emotion. The currents are strong and there is an undertow. While astrological trends of February present a rare opportunity to tune into your deepest truth, there is a caution. According to my training in yoga and metaphysics, the emotional body has a life of its own.

After hundreds, if not thousands of lifetimes, the emotional body is filled to overflowing, polluted with unresolved pain. It can easily take charge, and spin uncontrollably, like a top in multiple directions.

Keeping with the analogy of ocean depths, take this month to drive deep beneath the surface of temporary and fleeting emotion, tap into intuition and the dream state. Rest as much as needed, remember to breath deeply and relax.

We tend to underestimate the power of relaxation, but it means everything in this hurried and busy world. The zodiac teacher of Pisces says, "There is a whole universe awaiting beyond the boundaries of self, and it is entirely possible to adjust frequency and perspective to live moment by moment in peace and joy." The key phrase for Pisces is, "I trust."

Yes, it takes trust and faith to experiment, find what works, and dedicate one’s self to the spiritual life, but why not give it a try? Truly, there is nothing to lose, and everything to gain.

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Belinda C. Dunn offers personal consultation, workshops and classes. Her training started in 1972 at the Temple of Kriya Yoga/Chicago where she studied astrology, metaphysics and yoga. Over the years, her approach has evolved to a psychological, spiritual and personal growth orientation. For decades her insightful and down-to-earth consultations have been shared with clients around the world. Seen in a variety of publications, Belinda’s monthly astrological update has been in circulation since 1992. See, www.astrodelight.com: www.astrodelight.comCheck out her site for articles and a full listing of her consultation services - Phone: 828-215-2101