HAVE WE CLIMAXED YET?

Planetary alignments this summer have been leading up to the formation of what astrologers refer to as the cardinal cross or the “cardinal climax,” which can be represented by today’s energies as reflected in the event chart below. The term “cardinal” refers to the mode of the signs that form the aspect of the current event chart. Cardinal energy is new and initiating, and represents the beginning of a new season. This cardinal cross is an uncommon occurrence, and its effects not only impact the present but will linger for some time to come. It may be the prelude to major shifts in both our personal lives as well as in the collective.

The Cardinal climax will affect those individuals who have planets around the zero degree of cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn). Without getting too technical, suffice it say that Saturn (restrictions, limits, commitment) in Libra has been opposing (180 degrees apart and symbolizing “awareness of the other”) Uranus (freedom, innovations, sudden change, radical actions, and authenticity) in Aries. Jupiter (expansion, the higher mind, the provider of benefits, enthusiasm) is conjunct (within close proximity) Uranus. At the same time, Pluto (purging, transformation, the underworld) in Capricorn is squaring (forming a 90 degree angle) both Uranus and Jupiter and Saturn. The faster moving planets Mars and Venus are conjunct Saturn in Libra. Mars and Venus often represent the forces of attraction (one active and the other passive or receptive), and more specifically romantic or sexual attraction. Since these planets are presently in early Libra, the theme of the “other” or relationships is particularly important. This planetary formation is characterized by great tension, because the signs occupied by these planets have characteristics which are at odds with each other.

Has someone new gotten under your skin unexpectedly (Uranus) and you feel the tension of doing something about it? For those in relationship, has the subject of commitment (Saturn) been surfacing, or has the need to give the relationship greater depth (Pluto) been voiced? Have couples in long-term committed relationships felt the need to make their understandings more authentic (Uranus) or entirely break free (also Uranus)? If you have planets in these sensitive points (early cardinal degrees) you may have felt great tension and the need to resolve this tension by taking some form of action. This tension may also be felt outside of romantic relationships, where there is the pull of doing what you need for yourself (Uranus and Jupiter in Aries) versus taking into consideration the interests of others (Saturn in Libra).

I myself have experienced jittery energy for a number of weeks, and it seemed to have begun subsiding today. The moon (although very fast moving) is at the release point of this cardinal cross. The moon is currently in Cancer, which rules the moon. The moon’s involvement in this formation, although very temporary, may have “soothed” some of the tension of conflicting energies.

Astrology is a tool to help us become aware of the energies we are experiencing. The symbolism for this period indicates that we may feel overwhelmed by all this cardinal cross tension and fears may surface with the issues brought forth at this time. This fear may take the form of resistance. We can address this resistance by understanding that the forces of growth are favoring the initiation of new phases in our lives, although we may not at this time be aware of its full scope. May you all benefit from the unfolding of this process of major change.