It’s 10 days past Summer Solstice. Have you sensed any
changes in the air yet?
 |
| Seattle Astrologers mull over transiting planets |
With the Sun in Cancer, people tend to be more
family-oriented. And because Cancer also rules our memories, this season often
finds us being overly sentimental about the past.
An emotive, cardinal water sign, Cancer is a lot more
take-charge than most people give them credit for. Look at how many U.S
presidents had their Suns placed in Cancer. Even though it’s known for being
nurturing and supportive, Cancer’s moonstruck personality shouldn’t fool you.
Remember, Cancer rules mothers who are fierce fighters when it comes to
protecting her young—whether human or animal.
While Mercury (communications) just moved into shy Cancer,
aggressive Mars went direct in Scorpio. This Mars placement sometimes portends
violence, although it can also be indicative of intense energy. It can be a
good time to focus on your career goals if you have a 10th House
Scorpio. Look where Scorpio appears in your natal chart; then, check out where
Mars is transiting it. Chances are this is the area where you’ll be
concentrating most of your attention.
 |
| honeymooning on a sunny Ala Moana day |
We like to think of summertime as an easy-breezy time to
spend vacationing or hanging out with loved ones at backyard parties and
b-b-q’s, but with Pluto’s continuing presence in Capricorn, we’re in for more
political and government upheaval, too.
 |
| yoga on the beach, Westside-style |
Try to maintain some lightness in your life. Drink lots of
water, eat fresh organic fruits—watermelon, frozen grapes and lychee are
especially refreshing now—and practice yoga to relax your mind and keep your
body flexible during these turbulent times.
 |
| Bon No Tsuki |
Meanwhile, for Japanese living anywhere, it’s the season for
Obon or Bon Odori--bon dance. Summer is
when our departed ancestors return to earth to spend time with us. So we
celebrate their homecoming by dancing.
Buddhist temples erect a yagura (sacred bandstand) to hold musicians and singers,
and dancers perform in a circle around it. In most locations, anyone can join
in the dancing. A lot of participants like to wear colorful summer kimono or a hapi
coat.
There’s no specific date for Obon as different communities
like to hold their own special event. In Hawai’i, where there are 40 Buddhist
temples, there are as many celebrations scattered throughout summertime.
(public domain artwork usage clearance:
Additional components of Obon can include floating lanterns
to help the ancestors find their way back to the other side. Names of the
departed are sometimes tied to lines strung across temple grounds. At some
festivals, booths sell food and omamori
(good luck charms). Dances vary from region to region as do the songs, although
some have become quite standard like Tanko Bushi, the coal miner’s song.
Remember, Gypsy Stars is on Facebook where we host The Urban
Goddess. If you have a metaphysical service and want to post it on our page,
please do so.
And, don’t forget we have t-shirts: http://www.cafepress.com/t_zing
See you in September, following the Autumn Equinox!
Until then…
Good luck, light and love.
