Ephemeris for 2021
I have just found a great site - Cafe Astrology - that offers an ephemeris. Here is January 2021 which can not only be used to track planetary movements, it also show void of moon times and eclipses.
May the stars be with you!
I have just found a great site - Cafe Astrology - that offers an ephemeris. Here is January 2021 which can not only be used to track planetary movements, it also show void of moon times and eclipses.
May the stars be with you!
Are you feeling extra anxious and stressed now? Many of us are. Consumer Reports has offered a few ways to reduce stress during this pandemic. Read the full article in the above link and here are the toplines --
Getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet can help you manage stress and reduce anxiety, and may help maintain a strong immune system. These goals may seem unreachable when you’re stressed out, but they don't have to be.
Before you give in to a food craving, ask yourself whether you're really hungry or whether you're actually feeling frustrated, sad, empty, or lonely. Once you identify the feeling, it's easier to consider better choices. Here, other strategies for reinforcing healthy eating.
Whether you go to the gym regularly or like to walk, jog, or ride a bike outside, your exercise regimen has probably been disrupted, too. That means you’re probably not getting your usual stress-relieving dose of the feel-good neurotransmitters endorphins that exercise provides. But most areas still allow solitary outdoor walks and runs (as long as you socially distance), and today, there are more ways to exercise indoors than ever. And you may not need a whole lot of physical activity to improve your mood; even a 15-minute walk can make a difference.
And though it’s not surprising that stress can keep you from sleeping well, a lack of sleep and an abundance of stress can create a vicious cycle: lying in bed awake can lead you to ruminate even more, and those swirling thoughts can further keep you from dozing off.
Basic bedroom sleep hygiene—keeping the room cool and dark, staying off electronics before bed—is a good place to start. Some sleep apps may be helpful as well, by blocking out outside noise, for instance.
Stressed-out people tend to take quick, shallow breaths, which further exacerbates the fight-or-flight response.
Interrupting that cycle through a conscious effort to breathe slowly and deeply—aiming for five to six deep breaths per minute—just for a quarter-hour or so a day is a surprisingly effectively way to relieve feelings of anxiety and stress.
Corsica recommends diaphragmatic breathing, a form of slow, deep breathing that involves a purposeful expansion and contraction of the diaphragm and belly. A small study published in Frontiers in Psychology in 2017 found that people who engaged in 15 minutes of diaphragmatic breathing 20 times over 8 weeks showed improved attention and mood, and lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, compared with a group who didn’t do the breathing sessions.
Want to try? The Cleveland Clinic is one source for online instruction in the technique. The University of Michigan’s Michigan Medicine provides video instruction.
It's hard right now not to wonder how the pandemic will resolve, but thinking shorter-term has been found to be a more useful way to handle the stress, according to a study led by Neupert and published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences.
“My lab’s study found the best recipe for dealing with everyday stressors is to try to simultaneously plan ahead about what you can control and stay in the moment mindfully,” she says. “That means recognizing what’s going on in the present without trying to change it. That’s what we found was the best combination for resilience to stress.”
These findings might be especially relevant now, she says. Mindfulness—which has been defined as staying focused on the present—has long been known to help reduce stress, and there are techniques you can use to get better at it, such as yoga (you can search for "yoga for anxiety" or "restorative yoga" online, and if you're new to yoga, here's how you can get started) and meditation (the UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center provides free online guided meditations).
Mapping out and following a plan for the week or just the next day can also help, by giving you a better sense of control, experts say. Clinical and forensic psychologist Paula A. Madrid, Psy.D., of New York City, recommends creating a daily schedule of simple, reasonable actions to take: call a friend, try a new recipe, work in the garden. If you’re working from home, shower and dress, says UC Irvine's Garfin.
It may feel like we've all spent an eternity social distancing, but the pandemic will eventually end, Madrid points out. And while there’s no way to know what details of your life may change permanently, it’s fine to put your imagination to work in a positive way.
“Project your mind to the future, to a year or even a few months from now, to give you a sense of relief from the present,” Madrid says.
Planning a future winter vacation or figuring out the details of your next landmark anniversary party can remind you that there are happy activities to look forward to down the road.
Working on projects or skills that you can use after the pandemic—learning a language, taking an online knitting class, or reorganizing your home—may also be helpful, says Corsica: “Tasks that distract you in the here and now but also benefit you in the future are wonderful.”
Whatever communities are most important to you—whether it’s your religious congregation, gym buddies, or book group—try to stay in touch.
You may not be going out, but technology today provides us with multiple ways to connect with other people. For instance, your gym or house of worship may be holding livestream or recorded sessions online. And you can “see” friends and family on your smartphone, tablet, or computer by using video conferencing services like Google Hangouts, Skype, or Zoom, many of which offer free versions (be aware, though, of potential privacy concerns).
If you miss catching a favorite show with a friend, innovations like Google Chrome’s free Netflix Party extension let you share that experience long-distance, too. Playing online group games like Words with Friends can also help you feel connected.
“Try to find whatever ways you feel comfortable with to stay socially connected,” says Neupert. “Reach out via phone, text, video conference when you find yourself missing a social connection or feeling lonely.”
That said, you may feel you’re getting too much contact with others, especially if your family is large and your home is small. “You don’t usually spend this much time with anyone,” Garfin points out. Make sure to carve out private time for yourself, and let each member of your family do the same.
Watching and reading endless news stories about the pandemic? Getting accurate information is crucial for well-being during quarantine, according to a review of research published online in February’s The Lancet. Having the right info about the real risks of contracting COVID-19 and the reasons for self-quarantining and social distancing can also help keep you from catastrophizing, experts say.
At the same time, too much information—even if it's correct—can be overwhelming. “Staying glued to the TV, watching the exact same press conference three times, is probably one of the worst things you could do,” Garfin says.
How much is too much? Madrid’s rule of thumb is “Do not watch the news more than an hour a day.”
And limit the number of media options to those that you really need. Stick with trusted, science-backed sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and news from your state or local government and health department sites, which can advise you on issues such as park closings or transit changes in your area. If you're frustrated by the ever-changing guidance and advice, know that it's normal in a new situation. As experts learn more about the coronavirus, you can expect guidance to change again.
Feeling a connection with nature has real, restorative effects on your sense of well-being and, according to a 2019 study from University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, even 20 minutes can measurably reduce levels of stress hormones.
That’s especially true if you can get a little exercise while you’re outside. “It’s helpful to take walks for mental and physical health within social distancing guidelines,” Garfin says.
But if you're stuck indoors, research suggests that soaking in a view of a natural setting—trees, a lawn, a garden—can reduce stress symptoms, as can exposure to household plants or herb gardens. Even sitting near a window that provides sunlight can help improve your sleep and quality of life, which in turn can ease feelings of anxiety. And a small 2015 study from the Netherlands found that gazing at photos of nature helped people recover from stressful events. No pictures of forests or fields on hand? Try a virtual tour of a national park or live cams of waterscapes.
Hardship can be easier to bear when you feel it's for the good of the larger community, according to the authors of The Lancet review about quarantines.
Research also shows that giving to others in some way—whether it’s sewing masks, food shopping for an at-risk neighbor, or talking a not-so-tech-savvy friend through setting up FaceTime—can make you feel happier and less stressed, Neupert notes. (Here, a rundown of ways to help.) "And it’s a two-way street," she adds. "People you reach out to can benefit you, too."
Some of us may need, or simply want, more support in coping with anxiety or sadness.
Seek help right away if you've thought of harming yourself or others. If you don't have a mental health provider, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255, which offers free, confidential help.
For others, "if you realize that your thoughts, behaviors, or feelings are preventing you from feeling like you’re functioning or able to get through a day, that’s a sign to reach out,” says Neupert, including “if you’re having trouble getting out of bed, or you’ve lost interest in activities, or you feel really hopeless.”
Fortunately, finding counseling or a medication consult via phone or computer is far easier than it used to be. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has been training its member doctors in telehealth, and regulations on telehealth have been temporarily relaxed.
If you have a therapist or psychiatrist, ask whether he or she can “see” you virtually (check your insurance coverage first). Many health insurers are also now offering telemedicine services, or your primary care provider may be able to recommend a mental healthcare provider who does virtual counseling.
Your local hospital may also have sliding scale mental health services, and some local health department websites offer contact information for social service resources. Companies, like Amwell and MDLive, offer telehealth psychiatry as well as psychological therapy. (Costs vary depending on insurance; out-of-pocket fees are usually less than $100.)
The National Alliance on Mental Illness has a long list of mental health resources, including hotlines and warmlines—for non-emergency situations. The APA has a resource list as well, along with advice for families of those who are struggling emotionally.
Additional reporting by Nadia Torres
The Centre for Psychological Astrology just released it schedule of Spring online courses. I am happy to share the announcement with you in this post:
Dear All
Here are the details for our Spring 2020 Webinars - you can see the full details and book at www.cpalondon.com/seminars.html
Our webinars are real-time, online seminars in psychological astrology. You are able to interact with the tutor and other students as the session happens via a chat box. Experience a CPA/MISPA seminar live from anywhere in the world through your computer browser. If you can't make it live you can still book and receive four weeks access to the recording of the event afterwards.
Juliet Sharman-Burke
The Craft of Chart Interpretation
Sunday 2nd February 2020 - 15.30-18.00 GMT
You have learned the astrological theory but now how to put it into practice? This seminar will concentrate on the “how to” of chart reading. We will start by looking at some basic counselling techniques which can be usefully applied in chart readings, as well as simple ideas to follow when setting up an astrological practice. I will then present an example chart from my own practice to demonstrate possible ways to interpret a chart. Students will be encouraged to offer opinions, ask questions and share experiences during the seminar.
Darby Costello
Water: Giver of Life
Sunday 9th February 2020 - 15.30-18.00 GMT
Water is perhaps the most mysterious of all the elements. It is in everything, and mostly invisible. And yet, it is so visible: in ponds, streams, rivers, lakes, oceans and seas; below us in the earth and above falling from the sky. It always heads for the sea when left on its own - always seeking unity with its larger self. In our charts it shows us where we are seeking unity, with ourselves, with others, with life itself. Where there is water, we must attend our emotions so they stay healthy and life-giving. Ignored, they become harmful to ourselves and others – over-purified and they become sterile. In this webinar we shall explore astrological Water through signs, planets and houses.
Lynn Bell
The 2nd House
Sunday 23rd February 2020 - 15.30-18.00 GMT
What truly belongs to us? We often judge our self-worth by what we have or don’t have, an object a talent, a treasure. What are we worth to others? Planets in this house need to be part of an embodied experience. We will look at how different planets in the second house affect our self-worth, and what they require of us. People with second house planets can have difficulty recognizing themselves until they have accomplished something tangible. Money, or the lack of it, can be a reflection of these inner issues.
Alexander von Schlieffen
Applying the philosophy of the astrological quadrants in theory and practice
Sunday 1st March 2020 - 15.30-18.00 GMT
The origin of the theory of the astrological quadrants is based on Aristoteles’ writings on the four causes (causa materialis, causa efficiens, causa formalis and causa finalis). Once we understand the inner dynamic of Aristoteles’ beautiful thoughts, we can easily apply them onto any birth chart. That will allow us to get a very quick and profound inside into the dynamic of the horoscope. This perspective requires some new interpretations of the astrological houses as well, this is more than fun.
Shawn Nygaard
Saturn in Aquarius - The Difference Between Us
Sunday 8th March 2020 - 15.30-18.00 GMT
When Saturn leaves Capricorn in March of 2020 and enters Aquarius, it moves into the second sign of its traditional rulership. Where Saturn in Capricorn maintains limits and seeks a disciplined approach to its accomplishments, managing a life in control, Saturn in Aquarius goes further, heading into the outer limits, often deviating from established norms. Saturn in Aquarius takes a breath of fresh air and moves to a different beat. New innovations and potentials present themselves, sometimes as crazy ideas. New and interesting characters, often unfamiliar, step onto the stage where we may not have been looking. Social justice enters the conversation where injustice has prevailed. The focus is on the future while we deal with the difficulties of the present. Saturn in Aquarius asks each of us to participate.
This webinar explores different facets of Saturn in Aquarius, from the nature of the water it carries, to the more complicated tendency of holding onto tradition while heading into the future. Do we bend, or do we break? The answer, as they say, is blowin' in the wind. Includes numerous chart examples and historical events that help to illustrate the gifts and challenges of Saturn in Aquarius.
Safron Rossi
Archetypal Polarities 2: Pisces - Virgo
Sunday 22nd March 2020 - 15.30-18.00 GMT
The zodiac contain 6 natural polarities. These polarities depict archetypal configurations between two signs which symbolize two patterns of consciousness. Each sign contains its own energy as well as the energy of its opposite, and learning to see in terms of polarity helps with understanding both the shadows and potential gifts of each sign.
Session 2: Pisces-Virgo
Essential themes in the Pisces-Virgo dance: Form and vision; matter and spirit; alchemical coagulation and dissolution
See all the full details and book at: https://www.cpalondon.com/seminars.html
Very best wishes
CPA - www.cpalondon.com
I just discovered a new blog on the Tarot and wanted to share it with you. It is called Tarot Cards - More Than Just a Deck of Cards.
As a great fan of the tarot and its meditative powers I think it is important for one to choose the right tarot decks -- one that offers the reader a contemplative, non-subjective read capacity. I tend to read with decks like the Swiss or the Spanish. And yet many readers like the Ryder Deck. It is one of the most popular. For me, that deck has too much subjectivity in the drawings on the cards. But that is why there is so much choice out there - everyone seeks a little something different. And that is great!
When it comes to me and meditation, the spirit is willing but the flesh is over-scheduled. I can't tell you how many times I have said to myself, "Now is the time to start learning how to meditate." But the time fills up with other things and I never seem to be able to get to it. For those of you in the same situation, here is Gaiam Life - a wellness website that introduces you to meditation.
Gaiam Life says that “In Buddhist tradition, the word ‘meditation’ is equivalent to a word like ‘sports’ in the U.S. It’s a family of activity, not a single thing,” University of Wisconsin neuroscience lab director Richard J. Davidson, Ph.D., told The New York Times. And different meditative practices require different mental skills.
It’s extremely difficult for a beginner to sit for hours and think of nothing or have an “empty mind.” But in general, the easiest way to begin meditating is by focusing on the breath — an example of one of the most common approaches to meditation: concentration.
Concentration meditation
A concentrative meditation technique involves focusing on a single point. This could entail watching the breath, repeating a single word or mantra, staring at a candle flame, listening to a repetitive gong or counting beads on a rosary. Since focusing the mind is challenging, a beginner might meditate for only a few minutes and then work up to longer durations.
In this form of meditation, you simply refocus your awareness on the chosen object of attention each time you notice your mind wandering. Rather than pursuing random thoughts, you simply let them go. Through this process, your ability to concentrate improves.
Mindfulness meditation
Mindfulness meditation technique encourages the practitioner to observe wandering thoughts as they drift through the mind. The intention is not to get involved with the thoughts or to judge them, but simply to be aware of each mental note as it arises.
Through mindfulness meditation, you can see how your thoughts and feelings tend to move in particular patterns. Over time, you can become more aware of the human tendency to quickly judge experience as “good” or “bad” (“pleasant” or “unpleasant”). With practice, an inner balance develops.
In some schools of meditation, students practice a combination of concentration and mindfulness. Many disciplines call for stillness — to a greater or lesser degree, depending on the teacher.
Other meditation techniques
There are various other meditation techniques. For example, a daily meditation practice among Buddhist monks focuses directly on the cultivation of compassion. This involves envisioning negative events and recasting them in a positive light by transforming them through compassion. There are also moving meditations techniques, such as tai chi, chi kung and walking meditation.
Benefits of meditation
If relaxation is not the goal of meditation, it is often one result of it. Back in the 1970s, Herbert Benson, MD, a researcher at Harvard University Medical School, coined the term the relaxation response after conducting research on people who practiced transcendental meditation. The relaxation response, in Benson’s words, is “an opposite, involuntary response that causes a reduction in the activity of the sympathetic nervous system.”
Since then, studies on the relaxation response have documented the following short-term benefits to the nervous system:
Contemporary researchers are now exploring whether consistent meditation practice yields long-term benefits, and noting positive effects on brain and immune function among meditators. Yet it is worth repeating that the purpose of meditation is not to achieve benefits. To put it as an Eastern philosopher might say, the goal of meditation is no goal. It is simply to be present.
In Buddhist philosophy, the ultimate benefit of meditation is liberation of the mind from attachment to things it cannot control, such as external circumstances or strong internal emotions. The liberated, or “enlightened,” practitioner no longer needlessly follows desires or clings to experiences, but instead maintains a calmness of mind and sense of inner balance.
How to meditate: Simple meditation for beginners
This meditation exercise is an excellent introduction to meditation techniques.
1. Sit or lie comfortably. You may even want to invest in a meditation chair.
2. Close your eyes.
3. Make no effort to control the breath; simply breathe naturally.
4. Focus your attention on the breath and on how the body moves with each inhalation and exhalation. Notice the movement of your body as you breathe. Observe your chest, shoulders, rib cage and belly. Make no effort to control your breath; simply focus your attention. If your mind wanders, simply return your focus back to your breath. Maintain this meditation practice for 2–3 minutes to start, and then try it for longer periods.
Get your Zen on! Watch meditation videos on GaiamTV.com.
http://life.gaiam.com/article/meditation-101-techniques-benefits-beginner-s-how