Aspects in Focus for April 2015

After the dramatic aspects and energising angles formed during March, April appears comparatively, dare I say without jinxing us all, mild. For most of the month there is at least one planet in steady-as-she-goes Taurus, which can inspire a slower pace, or a more measured approach to events. Jupiter, also in a fixed sign (Leo), stations direct, returning to forward movement on April 7. Progress might take extra time, but it looks like stalled plans, especially those for adventure, discovery, and the search for meaning, may be finally implemented.

The first half of April includes the Sun and Mercury in Aries, both of which will make aspects to Uranus and Pluto. This may bring a little chaos or a reminder that a big change you’ve had in mind is still worth pursuing. Later in the month, aspects to Saturn and Neptune are active (discussed below) and triggers to Uranus and Pluto look potentially productive.

One thing to keep in mind this month is that Mars, traditionally considered a malefic or difficult planet, is in a classically weak condition. Mars in Taurus is the sign of Mars’ detriment. This combination can indicate some challenges, especially with Mars things like action, progress, or wanting to move quickly. A cautious or considered approach can help minimise any difficulties that might arise from a reactive or impulsive decision.

Venus and the Sun will both be in comfortable signs for part of the month. Venus is in Taurus, one of her rulership signs, until April 11. The Sun is in Aries, its exaltation sign, until April 20. This can add strength or vitality to both planets and the things they represent. Each can offer support or access to a particular kind of resource.

Venus in Taurus may symbolise women, little luxuries, pleasure and enjoyment. Your ability to fully indulge any goodness this placement might offer could be limited by the presence of Mars, also in Taurus.

The Sun in Aries can highlight leadership, as well as the passionate or inspired desire to boldly follow a dream or push ahead on something you want. If you want to create progress with the Sun in Aries, it may be best to go solo, rather than wait on others.

Early April: Opportunity + Drama

In the first half of the month, there are two aspect patterns that stand out.

April 2: Sun trine Jupiter, 12°–13° Aries/Leo
This classically lucky aspect can lead to opportunity and growth, or invite you to try an experience outside your comfort zone.

April 5 – 8: Uranus and Pluto, 15° – 16° Aries/Capricorn
During this period both Sun and Mercury will conjunct Uranus and square Pluto, one after the other, like a series of dominos. This occurs just after the Libra Full Moon Lunar eclipse and is likely to be the most dramatic period of the month.

There are two ways people typically respond to this type of celestial drama. If you are someone who normally takes your time with any decision, this may inspire you to make an impulsive or unexpected yet totally right-for-you choice. If you are someone who is often quick on your feet, you might be over-the-top responsive or reactive. Adjust your normal way of operating accordingly!

April: Variety is the spice of life

The second half of April is more varied. I have highlighted seven different aspects that will form, involving the Sun, Venus, and Mars at various times. Mercury is moving quickly through April (almost 2° a day at the start of the month and around 1°30′ by the end of the month), and moves through two entire signs (Aries and Taurus), so discussing his aspects would require a separate post in itself! I have chosen to focus on the other (relatively) slower-moving planets.

Mars in Motion

Aspects from Mars occur the least frequently of those on this list, as Mars moves more slowly than Venus or the Sun. Mars spends approximately six weeks in a sign when moving at average speed, typically visiting each zodiac sign just once every two years. Even though I mentioned that the Mars-in-Taurus combination has a detriment quality about it, we mustn’t be too picky. The house in your chart ruled by Taurus can receive the energy or drive of Mars through this combination, so there is still progress or activation likely around topics associated with your Taurus house in the month ahead.

Mars aspects can be active for one-to-two days before and after the exact date listed. Three aspects that Mars will make this April include:
·       April 12:  Mars sextile Neptune, 8°–9° Taurus/Pisces
·       April 17: Mars square Jupiter, 12°–13° Taurus/Leo
·       April 21:  Mars trine Pluto, 15°–16° Taurus/Capricorn

Creative projects or holiday plans might be highlighted when Mars aspects Neptune. This can be a day of low or reduced energy. It might bring the desire to escape, especially from any situation that causes stress or tension.

When Mars aspects Jupiter, a stretching energy, like that of a tightly pulled elastic band, is activated. This can encourage moving beyond familiar territory or getting out of your comfort zone. Of course, it also includes a caution against excess, since the elastic, if pulled too tightly, will snap back or break. Try to go a little further than normal, perhaps to a point where you feel a little uncomfortable, but not so far from what’s familiar that you feel unsafe.

Mars trine Pluto may be the most productive of all the Mars aspects this April. This might reveal a hidden obsession, but it also highlights the progress that’s possible when you focus exclusively on one goal or outcome at a time. Together Mars and Pluto represent pure force or directed will, and a narrow focus can help you move through a previous barrier.

Venus Delights

Venus spends time in two signs this April — the latter part of Taurus and the first two-thirds of Gemini. Venus moves close to her fastest speed, though by month’s end it begins to slow down in anticipation of her upcoming retrograde, which will occur mostly in Leo starting in July.

Venus makes two aspects in April:
·       April 14: Venus opposite Saturn, 4 –5° Gemini/Sagittarius
·       April 26: Venus sextile Uranus, 17°–18° Gemini/Aries

Venus opposite Saturn can highlight challenges and choices, especially within relationships. (If you’re familiar with your chart, check the houses that hold 4°–5° Gemini and Sagittarius to further personalise the topics that might be highlighted for you.) This is like a see-saw energy, under which your focus can shift. You might need to decide between honouring a commitment and looking after yourself. The idea of an opposition is that you change perspective or see things from another’s point of view. Don’t be shy about adapting as circumstances change.

Venus sextile Uranus can bring excitement and energy, especially in a dating or relationship situation. This is an aspect of activation, where things that have been stuck can start moving. Thus, it’s likely to bring progress or highlight new areas of opportunity. Again, check the houses in your own chart for the degrees noted above. As an example, if either Venus or Uranus is in your 2nd house of money, this might bring welcome progress regarding a financial matter rather than mean something about love.

Last But Not Least — the Sun

The month closes with one final aspect from the Sun, a supportive, flowing sextile to Neptune on April 29, at 9°–10° Taurus/Pisces. This aspect combines planets in signs that are compatible by element, that of earth and water. Together earth and water create mud, which is like comfort. It may inspire you to reach for something that fills your spirit or adds ease to your daily life.

April offers plenty of variety. Many different signs, elements, and modalities are triggered, so there will be an aspect for almost everyone. You can simply enjoy the astro weather as it rolls in and out, or take the time to see how your personal chart may be triggered. Either way, you’ll be better able to make the most of each day with your planet tips in hand.

Bio:
Kelly is a consulting astrologer, teacher, writer, and editor who works with clients and students around the world. With more than 12 years in private practice, Kelly is experienced, warm, and insightful. She loves exploring astrology’s history as well as escaping into the ocean. Kelly’s passion for astrology is infectious, and her specialty areas include Moon Phases, timing techniques like progressions, and incorporating traditional concepts. She can be found lecturing at conferences throughout the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Kelly holds the Australian FAA Practitioner’s Diploma and is an expat Aussie who lives in Canada most of the year. Website: kellyastrology.com