The sign of brotherhood-sisterhood

The sun entered Aquarius, the sign of brotherhood-sisterhood, on January 20, and a new moon occurred on January 24, combined with the mystical planet, Neptune, also in Aquarius. What this means for us as we enter the month of February is that we are given an opportunity to experience the themes of Aquarius, which are humanitarianism, global perspective, future-oriented thinking, gender equality, social awareness, and progressive breakthroughs in communication.

A new consciousness dawns

We are now entering the age of Aquarius, a two-thousand-year cycle initiated by a shift in our pole star that occurs because of the wobble in the Earth's rotation on its axis. Humanity's orientation shifts with the coming of a New Age, as it did two thousand years ago with the Christ consciousness of unconditional love. A new consciousness is now dawning, nascent in the hearts and minds of all of humanity, yet apparent in the new literature, the "new age" subculture, the bare beginnings of a new alternative political party in America, as well as a growing awareness about holistic mind-body health.

Timing is everything

Following two powerful eclipses in the past five weeks, planetary energies in February provide an opportunity for us to realize the dynamic changes that must be put in motion in our lives. To see when it is best to institute changes, it is important to be aware that the planet that symbolizes communication, Mercury, begins retrograde (apparent backwards) motion on February 3. This makes the first three weeks of February a poor time to actually initiate anything new. Instead, use the dynamic planetary energies this month to get clear for yourself what life changes are necessary.

Changes come with clarity

A full moon in Aquarius on February 7 brings us to a full realization of the issues we need to come to terms with in order to move on to a new level of consciousness. We are challenged to let go of, or at least re-examine current values. There exists now, in the collective unconscious, a strong tendency to revert to what has been comfortable, or considered "safe" in the past. This is perhaps best evidenced by America's hesitant choice of a President who represents the values of a dying Age. If you experience a sudden, extreme, or radical life challenge and an urge to bring changes into your life this month, you are responding well to the current planetary energies. Allow yourself time to be certain and clear in your choices, and the support you need to make the changes will be there.

Sun completes 12-month cycle

On February 18, the sun enters Pisces, the last sign of the zodiac, bringing a symbolic "close" to a 12-month cycle of experience which began at last year's Spring Equinox. Characterized by the two fish, bound together, yet swimming in opposite directions, Pisces is one of the most complex signs of the zodiac. In part because it symbolizes the collective unconscious, Pisces is mysterious, veiled, obscure, and deeply compelling at the same time.

Pisces and the mystical realm

While the sun is in Pisces, and especially following the new moon in Pisces on February 23, our attention is drawn into the inner, mystical realms of consciousness. For us, Pisces brings the completion of a cycle, along with an opportunity to penetrate the veil and experience the sublime. Although we are still not quite clear about which new direction to pursue, the last ten days of February offer the potential for much clarity in our communications, our relationships, and our philosophical or spiritual awareness. Mercury resumes forward motion in Aquarius on February 25, and begins to pick up speed in early March, making this an excellent time to embark on new endeavors.

Sun Signs for February 2001

ARIES - The full moon in Leo sheds light on your hopes, wishes, and dreams for the future, but challenging aspects from Mars and Saturn stress financial limitations and possible disagreements, or disputes that must be resolved before money can flow freely again.

TAURUS - Extra career demands strain your family life, and you may feel challenged to both meet your work responsibilities as well as nurture important relationships. Creative solutions come from unexpected sources

GEMINI - Your philosophical or spiritual beliefs get challenged this month and you may find your energy scattered in too many directions. Find out what is most important to you and concentrate your energy there.

CANCER - Disputes over money, or differences of values with partners can put a damper on your fun this month. Discover your mutual goals and values and commit to developing them together.

LEO - Limitations and challenges at work leave you feeling restless and resentful and can lead to strained relationships. Remember the foundation of mutual respect and love that you have with loved ones or partners

VIRGO - Health issues can surface from running on too much high-strung energy, and you may find yourself in a "dark night of the soul" search for balance. Teach yourself to relax, meditate, and find some joy in life.

LIBRA - Long range goals need to be reassessed in the light of recent financial challenges and value differences with partners or co-workers. A healing experience lights the way for you, and friends and loved ones offer support

SCORPIO - While your career life surges with creative energy and demands much attention, changes and challenges at home create tension in your primary relationships. Finding mutually acceptable solutions strengthens your love.

SAGITTARIUS - Your spiritual beliefs and values are tested this month as you struggle with either making your philosophy practical, or feeling comfortable with "walking your talk". Be willing to let go of concepts that simply do not work. A little sense of humor will go a long way.

CAPRICORN - Sudden, unexpected changes in your financial situation "rock the boat" in terms of your well laid plans, but new possibilities arise, offering a different direction which ultimately may be even more satisfying.

AQUARIUS - The full moon opposite your Sun highlights changes you have been intending to make for a long time. It is time to get yourself "unstuck". When you take the first step, your friends and loved ones are there to help.

PISCES - Longtime spiritual pursuits or practices go through some creative transformations this month as you seek to integrate your inner, spiritual life within your daily routines and your career.

Carolina Eastwood is a professional astrological consultant, counselor, and teacher with over 22 years experience providing insight and guidance for clients throughout the world. Carolina has appeared on national TV, hosted radio shows, spoken at national conventions, and presented classes and workshops to numerous audiences

Your astrological chart is your "blueprint" for this lifetime. A personal session with Carolina Eastwood is a journey deep into the heart of your being, a look at your entire lifetime, and a remembrance of your spiritual purpose.

For more information, or to schedule a session with Carolina, call Earth Star Consulting Services 1 858 - 259-1590, or email to estar@cts.com. You can also visit Carolina's website at www.earthstarconsulting.