Monthly Vedic Astrology Forecast

Mercury Retrograde persists in Pisces April 1 - April 12

Mercury, ruler of the forecast, has been treading water in Pisces since March 21, accompanied by Venus, Sun, and Ketu, the Moon's south node. Pisces is ruled by Jupiter, who is also currently retrograde, as well as being positioned opposite Pisces in Mercury's earth sign, Virgo. I feel that the current positions of the aforementioned planets are creating a rather balanced and supported environment for Mercury's retrograde cycle. The oceanic environment of Pisces makes difficult Mercury's main purpose, which is communication. Mercury here is challenged to make his exchanges on different levels than those which are most facile for him. Mercury is considered debilitated in Pisces, while Venus is considered exalted in the same sign. The presence of both in Pisces serves to even the keel a bit, and encourages the collaboration of human relationship and non-verbal, possibly even sub-conscious communication. This is a great time to explore the possible end of a cycle or otherwise transformational time period from a sensual, spiritual vantage rather than an intellectual, analytical, or calculating mindset. Forging forward on new projects is not encouraged until after Mercury resumes direct motion, April 12. Even then, we may feel more like we're slogging than forging for a few more weeks.

New Moon in Pisces April 8

The New Moon of April 8 is joined in Pisces by the Sun, Venus, Ketu, and Mercury (still retrograde.) We can really get very familiar with the expansive nature of the life that we encompass at this time, and possibly glean some direction from deep within. Expect that direction to be both powerful and extremely vague. Intellectual understanding is at a premium at this juncture. Attempt to at least orient yourself toward that direction at this time, while remaining patient for any actual forward motion, which will come along as the perceptive and directed nature of Mars is awakened as the...

Sun and Venus move into Aries April 11 - April 14

Venus enters Aries on April 11 and the Sun follows soon after on April 14. Aries is ruled by Mars, who is currently moving through his sign of exaltation, Capricorn. Mars in Capricorn can conquer through fortitude and determination. This is a great position for hard work, however the current troupe of planets in Pisces is not. That Piscean energy will begin to dissipate a bit as the Sun and Venus move into Aries, stepping into position to harness some of that Mars in Capricorn power. Use that power to make connections with other people. Put yourself out there, and make known your intentions at this time. Rushing forward with extreme force is not recommended.

Mars moves to Aquarius April 23

Use the time between April 13-April 23 wisely, as that is the window through which that steady push of Mars in Capricorn can be reached without getting too much water up your nose. Mars will move his nose from the grindstone and possibly into your face, as the airy nature of Aquarius combined with the contentious nature of Mars could present us with the possibility of increased philosophical debate as Mars transits Aquarius from April 23-early June. Mars is a bit subdued in this position, but his collaborative side could be highlighted during the upcoming months, and channeled toward humanitarian or group efforts. This would be a good time for think tanks, or culling out non-productive systems.

Full Moon in Libra April 24

As the inner planets move toward the Aries/Taurus region of the zodiac, we begin to experience the Mars/Venus passion of interaction that these planets and their zodiacal signs represent through the male/female archetypes. The Moon will be full in Libra, Venus' air sign, while the Sun and Venus will be opposite in Aries, Mars' fire sign. Even though spring officially began at the equinox on March 20, the actual consummation could be during this full moon. The planetary configuration of this full Moon, and really for most of April is more geared toward feeling, sharing and philosophizing than directed action. Allow yourself to enjoy the boundless expanse as you float through the cosmos without having to know the hows and whys for the nonce.

May the wisdom of the planets guide you always, whatever direction you choose.