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Cancer Astrology

Seeking some wisdom and guidance from the stars? Ayesha Grice, the renowned Essence astrologer and spiritual guide, tells what's in store for you Bonus: Your horoscope into the year 200

As the millennium approaches, we're all seeking greater peace and balance--and ways to make sense of our lives. Astrology, the study of the stars and their relationship to events on Earth, is but one of the tools we have to help us understand ourselves and our purpose in this world.

There is much debate among Westerners about whether astrology is a science. I think it is, with hints of mythology, history and religion. Some folks even see it as a form of therapy. Scientists and meteorologists at least agree that the moon's gravitational pull affects the tides. Because the human body is about 75 percent water, it shouldn't surprise us that the same pull affects us, especially when the moon is full. And just as the moon can have an impact on us, other planets can influence us as well.

What can astrology do for you? Consider it a road map to your life. How specific the guide is depends on the type of astrology you consult. It can range from your broader sun-sign horoscope, like my monthly column in Essence, to the longer, more in-depth reading I do for the magazine's Horoscope Line, to a reading of your unique astrological chart, which is a personalized horoscope tied to the very moment you took your first breath (your chart is interpreted, or read, by a practicing astrologer). Your natal chart tells the position of all the planets, depending on when and where you were born. This picture of the heavens can be interpreted to offer us clarity about ourselves--our strengths, weaknesses and preferences--and the lessons we were sent here to learn.

The ancient Egyptians knew this well, as evidenced by the astrological symbols etched in their pyramids. One of the oldest horoscopes was drawn by Imhotep, the grandfather of modern medicine, more than 4,500 years ago. Astrology is still prominent in our lives: An Internet search found more than 36,000 astrology-related Web pages in such categories as Western, Chinese, romantic, erotic and Buddhist.

Want more astrological enlightenment? Here are answers to some of my clients' most commonly asked questions, plus an Essence bonus: your sun-sign horoscope for 1999 (see page 92).

Why do planetary alignments affect our lives on Earth?

Planetary alignments provide patterns of energy that influence your life (remember the moon and our tides). That doesn't mean the planets control your life. My teacher, the late Isabel Hickey, the noted author of Astrology: A Cosmic Science (CRCS Publications or New Pathways, $14.95) and It Is All Right (New Pathways, $17.95), would often say, "As above, so below." It's up to you to channel those planetary energies to use as you need.

Okay, so what is my horoscope telling me?

Your horoscope (hora means "hour" in Greek and skopos means "observer") says much about your talents and inclinations, the challenges you face and your dharma, which is Sanskrit (the classical standard language of ancient India) for "purpose in this life."

I want to get my chart done. How is that different from the horoscope I read in the magazine?

In a way they're the same. The short monthly description in the magazine is an interpretation of the surfs energies during the astrological month in which you were born. It applies to all the people born in your astrological month. Your personal chart goes deeper, showing all the planets' influences based on when and where you were born. There are 12 types of Scorpios, for example, depending on where the moon was on the day of their birth. The Scorpio with a moon in Cancer will be more nurturing and family-oriented, while the Scorpio with the moon in Leo is strong-willed, proud and dramatic. Factor in the other planets, and those Scorpios become even more complex. As the planets are constantly moving, most clients return for an updated reading of the planets, or a transit chart, to get a projection of planetary energies for the coming year, or for insight when making life-changing decisions.

What are the limitations of astrology? Can we take it too far?

Astrology is not destiny. It does not predict the future. It can only tell you what trends are coming. You can use that information to determine your own future. We take astrology too far when we believe the stars have the power to make us do something, or when we blame negative behavior on the stars. A new client said to me, "My old astrologer told me I was going to have trouble on the full moon." I looked at her chart and told her that the full moon brings heightened sensitivity--that's why African and Native American cultures teach us to use this period for rituals. Police and emergency-room staffs have recorded surges in crimes of passion during this time. I encouraged my client to turn the energy she felt from the moon into something positive, like meditation. She had the power to use the negative information to her benefit.

How do the planets affect the signs?

You may often see a horoscope reference to "your ruling planet." Each of the 12 signs is ruled by one or two planets. The planets each represent a certain kind of energy, and the signs determine how that energy manifests itself. You could say that the planets represent our basic instincts, or our need to express ourselves, while the signs show our individual styles of behavior, which flavor the expression. For instance, Venus is the planet of love and beauty. Venus rules the sign of Libra, a sign that seeks balance and harmony. So a Libra is inclined to be creative and artistic and to seek peaceful and fair solutions to problems. Venus also rules Taurus, the "I have" sign, so Taureans are likely to acquire beautiful things to make their homes lovely sanctuaries.

What does it mean to have a planet in a particular house?

Think of your chart as a pie divided into 12 equal slices, or sections. Each section is a "house." While the planets represent certain kinds of energy, the houses show the areas of your life affected by the energy. Over time, the planets move to new houses, bringing new energies to different areas of our lives. For example, Mars is the action planet of outgoing energy. If Mars is in your sixth house of health, work and service, you may be inclined to start an exercise routine or improve your diet. At work, you might act assertively on an unresolved issue.

Can religion and astrology coexist for us?

Barriers between religion and astrology are slowly dissolving, though some religions still do not condone the practice. Many of my clients are active members of a church, mosque or temple who see nothing wrong with getting an astrological consultation. That's a big difference from when I first starred doing charts 30 years ago. Those of us who believe in astrology consider it a spiritual science that can bring an individual closer to the Creator. The planets themselves represent spiritual laws. For instance, Mars is the sower and Saturn is the reaper.

How is astrology different from numerology, palmistry, tarot card reading or other ancient metaphysical disciplines?

Astrology and numerology provide blueprints of our personalities and of energies in and around us. While astrology uses planets in interpreting, numerology uses numbers derived from details of our lives such as names, birthdates, addresses. Tarot cards, which relate to both astrology and numerology, are usually used as tools to predict the future. Palm reading is primarily a fortune-telling practice as well. As an astrologer, I wouldn't say, "You're going to be rich." I'd say that Jupiter, planet of expansion, is in your second house of money. This planetary aspect favors an increase in finances. Do you then play the lottery? Ask for a raise? Start a business? That's up to you. But beware. Predictions can be self-fulfilling prophecies.

I got along with a friend until I found out our signs were incompatible. How much of astrology is based on the power of suggestion?

First of all, no two signs are truly incompatible. And remember, astrology can help promote self-understanding and the understanding of others. If you got along with your friend before but don't now, you probably were swayed by the power of suggestion and should reevaluate your friendship.

Based on the planets and stars, what can sisters expect from the last year of the century?

As we move toward 2000, the cosmic clock is pointing to Uranus, planet of extreme change, and Neptune, planet of spiritual visions. Both planets are in Aquarius, the sign that rules the millennium and recognizes the equality of all people. Look for people to move out of their current selfish phase and into more group activity with a broader concern about the fate of humankind. More women will come into power in various arenas--politics, business, media, religion. Sisters will be at the forefront of this new leadership, and we'll be on the frontline of a spiritual revolution. As we make our move, we will take on more responsibility for our health, our finances and our relationships with our partners and children. Now is the perfect time to release any toxic situations in our lives, whether it's our job, our residence, a friend or a lover. The new year will be successful if we are open to change and to heating the voice of wisdom within.

Ayesha Grice's Horoscope column appears monthly in EsseNcE. Christine Reisner contributed to this report.

RELATED ARTICLE: Signs of the Zodiac

?? ARIES Cardinal fire sign ruled by Mars. Key words: "I am." Courageous, innovative, a leader.

?? TAURUS Fixed earth sign ruled by Venus. Key words: "I have." Trustworthy, creative, spiritual.

?? GEMINI Mutable air sign ruled by Mercury. Key words: "I think." Intelligent, friendly, multifaceted.

?? CANCER Cardinal water sign ruled by the moon. Key words: "I feel." Nurturing, empathetic.

?? LEO Fixed fire sign ruled by the sun. Key words: "I will." Loyal, generous, loving, talented.

?? VIRGO Mutable earth sign ruled by Mercury. Key words: "I analyze." Service-oriented, efficient.

?? LIBRA Cardinal air sign ruled by Venus. Key words: "I balance." Fair-minded, creative, cooperative.

?? SCORPIO Fixed water sign ruled by Mars and Pluto. Key words: "I desire." Industrious, mystical, a healer.

?? SAGITTARIUS Mutable fire sign ruled by Jupiter. Key words: "I perceive." Humorous, philosophical.

?? CAPRICORN Cardinal earth sign ruled by Saturn. Key words: "I use." Organized, practical, productive.

?? AQUARIUS Fixed air sign ruled by Uranus and Saturn. Key words: "I know." Humanitarian, open-minded.

?? PISCES Mutable water sign ruled by Jupiter and Neptune. Key words: "I believe." Spiritual, supercreative.

RELATED ARTICLE: ESSENCE BONUS 1999 HOROSCOPE

Your astrological guide into the new millennium

CAPRICORN Dec. 22-Jan. 19

THIS MONTH: Venus, planet of love and beauty, joins intuitive Uranus in your second house of money January 6-28. Both planets favorably influence Mars, the action planet. Follow your hunches. The new moon on the 17th is an ideal time to launch projects. Spiritual lesson: Focus on loved ones.

YEAR AHEAD: The new cycle begins on March 1, when Saturn moves into Taurus for a two-and-a-half-year visit. Expect to develop new partnerships. Jupiter adds joy to the mix by favorably influencing your sun until October 23. As you approach the year 2000, accomplishments boost your confidence, and you'll be sitting pretty, financially, socially and spiritual.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20-Feb. 18

THIS MONTH: Venus moves into your sign on the 4th, bringing love blessings. Set goals when the full moon's in your opposite sign on the 31st. Spiritual tip: Love is life's greatest power.

YEAR AHEAD: Mars, the action planet, moves in and out of your tenth house of career through September, urging you to do what you want to do--not what others expect of you. On March 1, Saturn, planet of discipline, squares your sun as it moves into Taurus, which rules money, challenging you to stop overspending. The turn of the century could find you among new friends, in a new job and possibly in a new residence.

PISCES Feb. 19-March 20

THIS MONTH: Joyful Jupiter is in your sign until next month, so no matter what you face, your positive attitude will help you. The sun in practical Capricorn urges you to take care of responsibilities. Spiritual tip: See yourself successful.

YEAR AHEAD: Jupiter moves into your second house of money on February 12 for a year, while on March 1 restrictive Saturn moves out of that house, opening channels for the flow of money due you for past work. Start new projects when Mars, the action planet, favorably influences your sun January 26 through May 6, and again July 5 through September 2. Months leading up to the new millennium find you helping others.

ARIES March 21-April 20

THIS MONTH: Mars, your ruler and the action planet, opposes your sun until January 26, raising chances of awareness through social interaction. This aspect, with Saturn's restrictive energy, may make you feel as though you're driving with the brakes on, so be patient. Spiritual lesson: Take your time and get it right.

YEAR AHEAD: From February 12 through June 26, Jupiter planet of expansion and joy, moves into your sign, while restrictive Saturn exits, not to return for 29 years. Hold on to Saturn's lesson of self-discipline to balance Jupiter's tendency toward excess. From June 26 to October 23, Jupiter in your second house of money favors finances.

TAURUS April 21-May 20

THIS MONTH: The new moon in Capricorn on the 17th in your ninth house of higher mind is ideal for contemplating spiritual matters and improving your life. People from different cultures may be your teachers. Spiritual lesson: Welcome change.

YEAR AHEAD: The action planet, Mars, teaches flexibility when it opposes your sun January 26 to May 6, and again July 5 to September 2. People with high energy inspire you to consider new possibilities. With Saturn's arrival in your sign for two years on March 1, joined by Jupiter June 26 through October 23, you'll benefit from the balance of their energies. (Saturn restricts while Jupiter expands.)

GEMINI May 21-June 20

THIS MONTH: Mars favorably influences your sun until the 26th, helping you work with ease. In contrast, Mercury, your ruler, moves into practical Capricorn on the 7th, telling you to get serious. Lesson: There's a time to work and a time to play--learn to master both.

YEAR AHEAD: From February 12 through June 26, joyful Jupiter favorably influences your sun, activating your friendly twin. Opportunities come through people you meet. Expect a year of supercreativity, with Uranus urging you to try new things and Neptune stimulating your imagination. From June 26 to October 23, Jupiter and Saturn move into your twelfth house of behind-the-scenes activity, so you may feel less sociable.

CANCER June 21-July 22

THIS MONTH: Until Saturn and Mars stop squaring your sun, you'll want actin but may feel as if something's in the way. Two full-moon periods this month heighten sensitivity, and you can use what you're learning to help others. Lesson: Focus on the present.

YEAR AHEAD: From January 26 to May 6, Mars, the action planet, favorably influences your sun in your fifth house of love, creativity and children. March 1, restrictive Saturn stops squaring your sun, and with Mars' favorably return July 5 through September 2, confidence and spirits are lifted. You'll feel optimistic, inspired to try new ventures and accept whatever comes as the new year approaches.

LEO July 23-Aug. 22

THIS MONTH: Mars in Libra, the sign of fairness, in your third house of family members, short trips and conscious mind, may find you mediating during visits. You'll learn to be more objective in your own personal relationships. Forgiveness is key during the full moon in Leo on the 31st. Lesson: Travel light.

YEAR AHEAD: With Mars, the action planet, in your fourth house of home till May 6 and joyful Jupiter favorably affecting your sun February 12 through June 26, expect fun at home. When Jupiter squares your sun June 26 through October 23, don't stress yourself. Toward 2000, three planets in your seventh house of partnerships could make love a dream come true.

VIRGO Aug. 23-Sept. 22

THIS MONTH: Work is more interesting as planets in your fifth house of love and sixth house of work are activated. You have more power than you realize to create your future. Lesson: You are worthy of love.

YEAR AHEAD: On February 12, joyful Jupiter moves out of your house of others and in opposition to your house of self. So much of the money and energy you've been spending on others can be self-directed. From June 26 through October 23, Jupiter joins Saturn, which rules your fifth house of love, favorably influencing your sun, so this could be the year you find that special one. Think and speak only words that are loving, and you'll begin the new year optimistically.

LIBRA Sept. 23-Oct. 22

THIS MONTH: Mars, the energizer, in your sign until the 26th, is at odds with restrictive Saturn, so be patient. But Venus joins Uranus and Neptune in your fifth house of love, influencing your sun, attracting all that is for your highest good and greatest joy. Lesson: When love is your focus, waiting is easy.

YEAR AHEAD: After two and a half years of Saturn opposing your sun, it moves on March 1, clearing the way for Jupiter to brings its joy to your house of partnerships. Now you're ready to interact socially with a new set of rules that improve relationships. Other planetary influences favor successful transformations of body and spirit as you begin the new millennium.

SCORPIO Oct. 23-Nov. 22

THIS MONTH: Enjoy Jupiter in your fifth house of love through February 13. Your pride and will could be tested with the full moon on the 31st in your tenth house of careers, but all will work out if you remain calm. Spiritual tip: Life flows when you're centered.

YEAR AHEAD: Mars, your ruler, moves into your sign from January 26 to May 6, bringing energy and courage for new ventures. From May 6 until July 5, it moves into your twelfth house of behind-the-scenes activity, urging you to work on your projects quietly and with only those related to them. Saturn in your seventh house of partnerships requires attention to loved ones until Jupiter enters from June 28 to October 23.

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 23-Dec. 21

THIS MONTH: Draw close to family this month with Venus, the love planet, in your third house of close relatives. Mercury, which rules ideas, in your second house of money, boosts your confidence. Spiritual lesson: Your inspiring words can take you far.

YEAR AHEAD: Mars moves back and forth between your eleventh house of friends (May 6 through July 5) and twelfth house of behind-the-scenes activities (January 26 through May 6 and July 5 through September 2), and your mood may swing accordingly. Jupiter, your ruler, favorably influences your sun from February 13 to June 28 in your fifth house of love, creativity and children, and in Aries, which marks beginnings.

RELATED ARTICLE: CONSULTING AN ASTROLOGER

Before you go, know the day, month, year, time and place of your birth. (Without your time of birth, an astrologer can do only a solar chart, which is not as precise. The solar chart will not have houses, or specific areas of your life that: the planets influence, but it still satisfies most clients' needs.) Also take these steps:

* Get a recommendation from someone you trust. Be careful: No formal training is necessary to become an astrologer. Consider this a serious undertaking. A reading of your birth chart exposes areas of your life that you may not have considered or discussed with others.

* Call in advance. Ask how long the astrologer has been practicing and what you can expect to 'learn from your session. If you feel intimidated or put off in any way, find someone else.

* Verify fees before you go (usually $100 to 5250 for a one-to-two-hour session).

* Chances are you won't remember everything said during, your session, so most astrologers provide a tape. If the one you select doesn't, ask if taping is permitted.

* If you receive a gloom-and-doom assessment, find a wiser professional who can interpret and explain how awareness can help you handle any challenges ahead.

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