The moon will be new on Tuesday February 17 in the airy sign of Aquarius. New moons occur every month when the sun and moon are in the same sign at the exact same degree; this is known as a conjunction in astrology. For this particular new moon both the sun and moon will be conjunct at 28 degrees of Aquarius. New moons are symbolic of new beginnings so it’s the perfect time to set new intentions and make new wishes.
This new moon is special because it’s also a solar eclipse. Solar eclipses can only occur on a new moon when the moon is between the sun and the Earth partially or totally blocking out the light of the sun. You can think of a solar eclipse as a more dramatic and hyped-up new moon and they have the potential to bring about great change in our lives. If we’ve been dragging our feet and not making necessary changes, a solar eclipse can come along and give us a push we may not like but we know we need. These changes can continue to occur as much as six months from the eclipse. This is quite a special day not only do we have the solar eclipse but it’s also the beginning of the Lunar New Year (Horse), Mardis Gras (Fat Tuesday) and Ramadan begins at sundown. Find your sign below to see how this first solar eclipse of the year affects you.
Aries: It’s all about being a team player and that’s not really your strong suit Aries unless of course you’re the one in charge. There’s a cosmic change of plans this month and being a team player will be easier than you think. Your fairy godmother and guardian angel will be played by Venus and Mercury both of which are in the dreamy sign of Pisces. This dynamic duo will help smooth out some of your rougher edges when it comes to communicating and working with others. Actually you’re just very direct and that doesn’t always go over real well with some of our more sensitive signs. Playing nice will actually play in your favor this month; friends, work associates and your social network can open new doors of opportunities.
Taurus: While others may call it a rut you Taurus call it your safe space. In astrology you belong to the fixed modality meaning you’re a sign that’s loyal and dependable but not big on change. This is your call to adventure and that adventure involves your career and your overwhelming need for security. You know you’ve got to make a move in your career but the very thought of that brings up your security issues. Forget that fearful voice that tells you your current situation is the best you can do. If a new opportunity presents itself don’t be afraid to take it. If an opportunity hasn’t presented itself just remain open to change.
Gemini: You need a distraction Gemini, a break from your brain and the grind. Planning a trip or a vacation is a great option to break up the monotony. This solar eclipse lands in your foreign travel box so if you need to update your passport now is the time to do it. You’re looking for new adventures and a change of scenery. The song Roam by the B52s goes on your playlist this month. Learning and education are also linked to this new moon and that’s right up your cosmic alley; you love new information. If you’ve been thinking about taking a class or going back to school start putting that plan into action. Basically, we’re trying to keep boredom at bay. Boredom is the worst for you Gemini. It brings out your evil twin that stirs up drama for the sake of entertainment.
Cancer: Alright Cancer this is your game changer moment. No more hiding out or retreating into your infamous shell. You get lonely and what you really want is a deep connection with another. You crave intimacy but you sabotage yourself when you shut down and withdraw. Even worse are the times you opened up to the wrong person. Just awful! The solar eclipse this month opens a door that can begin to change all that but you have to walk through that door. You have a deep, sensitive and emotional nature; it’s how the Universe intended you to be. Trust that others can handle your depth and emotional honesty and those who can’t? Well, starting today that’s a thing of the past.
Leo: You are the star of the zodiac Leo but this month you’ll have to share the spotlight because the solar eclipse highlights relationships. You’re naturally charismatic and taking center stage is second nature but if you share the stage and the spotlight this month your interactions with others will go so much smoother especially at work. Love is also in the air. New moons are about new beginnings and yes this means you could meet someone new. You’re such a warm, generous and gregarious sign that loves to share those gifts with someone special. You’re built for partnerships. Sure, you can fly solo but when you do everything just seems so to get so much harder.
Virgo: The solar eclipse highlights your health and your work; interesting combination. Your emotional nature and your health have always gone hand in hand. If you’re upset about something your body definitely lets you know. I’m sure you already know that your digestive system is super sensitive so keeping your anxiety under control is a must otherwise you risk having all kinds of stomach and digestive issues and with a to-do list like yours you have no time for that. In the work department you finally get some much deserved recognition for a job well done.
Libra: You agonize over making decisions. You want so badly to make the perfect decision, the one that will be the most fair to everyone involved. You’re the relationship sign that thinks in terms of “we” instead of “me”. Forget about all that this month Libra. Try as you might to be fair and make everyone happy has left you exhausted and worse no one’s happy. It’s time to focus on you. Let others sort out their own problems and find their own happiness. You need some fun and pleasure Libra and I’ll leave it to you as to how you go about getting said fun and pleasure.
Scorpio: In the early 2000’s feng shui was all the rage in the new age community. Feng shui is an ancient Chinese practice of placement and the gist of the philosophy is about arranging our living space in such a way that it promotes peace, balance and flow in our lives. You’re having your feng shui moment Scorpio. You thrive on solitude and this is your hibernation month so look around your living space and make sure you have it exactly the way you want it especially the bedroom since this room is a reflection of your subconscious mind and your emotional outlook. Some of you Scorps will be looking around for a new abode.
Sagittarius: Communication is key this month. If you don’t want an honest answer then don’t ask a Sagittarius for their opinion because they will give it to you straight with no chaser. This is a very electrical and erratic solar eclipse so the chances of putting your foot squarely in mouth are higher than usual. Many moons ago a wise friend gave me some sage advice that I’ll pass on to all you Sagittarians. Before you speak especially in a heated conversation ask yourself these three questions. Does this need to be said? Does this need to be said by me? Does this need to be said now? It will save you some sleepless nights tossing and turning regretting what you said.
Capricorn: Back in 1986 the Pet Shop Boys sang let’s make lots of money. That song goes on your playlist this month Capricorn. Solar eclipses are about change while new moons are about new beginnings and this all lands right in your money box so look for new opportunities to make more money. This happens in the sign of Aquarius so expect the unexpected like a promotion, a bonus or even a gift you weren’t counting on. You’ve always been a shrewd money-maker while also being a professional worrywart. You worry you’ll never have enough money. Just this month take a page out of Sagittarius’ rule book and have fun, enjoy your money. Believe me Capricorn you will always make some more.
Aquarius: Aquarius you have arrived. A solar eclipse in Aquarius means you’re in the spotlight. Last month you were clearing out some of the emotional and psychological clutter that had been holding you back. Now you’re ready for new beginnings. In a sense you’re building a new you, one that is based on who you are today. It can be a little scary at first because the Universe has taken the handrails away, not to punish you or make things hard but to get you to trust yourself and your instincts. This isn’t about what others want for you. This is about you stepping out and announcing what you want and then going for it. Any guilt-trips others may present to you will be marked null and void.
Pisces: You’ll take a pass on the social invitations this month. You prefer to spend some quiet time alone. You aren’t trying to be distant or aloof you just need some time to recharge. Other signs have a difficult time with this alone time but you Pisces are right at home. This solar eclipse lands right in the part of your chart that deals with karma, the past and surrender. New beginnings are around the corner but first you have to do a purge. You can start with drawers and closets getting rid of things you don’t use or no longer serve a purpose in your life. Believe it or not this clearing out process can act as a spiritual ritual. You are putting the Universe on notice that you’re clearing space to make way for the new.
Kevin Casey is an astrologer and card reader who first encountered metaphysics in 1991 through the spiritual text A Course in Miracles. He began his reading practice in 2003 and joined Body Mind & Soul as a reader in 2007. His blend of astrology, numerology, and Tarot make for fascinating and insightful readings and his undying passion for pop music allows him to look at popular culture through astrological and metaphysical eyes.
He is available for both 30-minute and 1-hour personal readings at Body Mind & Soul. Bookings can be reserved at bmshouston.com/pages/kevin-casey.