WITCH TIPS & HOROSCOPES 6/19-6/25

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA EMILIE

Astrology by Lisa Stardust

WITCHTIPS

What this week lacks in astrological transits, it certainly makes up for in intensity. We start off this week with both Mercury and Mars, who are both in sensitive Cancer, opposing Pluto, who is moving backwards in pragmatic Capricorn, on the 19th. Mercury in Cancer is a mute sign. Meaning, it’s more meditative and not openly communicative. Mars is in its fall in Cancer. It’s not in a place of strength. Pluto, even retrograde, is extreme in Capricorn. When these planets come together, we can expect an emotional volcano to collide with a tornado. Arguments, dominance, love triangles, paranoia, secrets and lies, and abuses of power now come to light, as we are tired of being constrained and manipulated by others. The lesson to be learned from this transit, is Pluto retrograde wants us to evolve. That means purging and releasing that which is not serving our highest good. Be prepared to let go of people and situations which are not healthy, as we walk down the truest path to self-discovery and actualization. Mercury enters its pre-retrograde shadow on June 20th, setting the stage for its backwards spin on July 7th. Take stock of the events that unfold on the 20th, as it will become our personal  Mercury retrograde story. Neptune starts it’s retrograde journey on the 21st, creating confusion and uncertainty until November 7th. June 21st also kicks off Cancer Season and the Summer Solstice. Cancer Season 2019 will bring major emotional shifts. We must prepare ourselves for a profound Summer. Venus, who is in chatty Gemini, butts heads with Jupiter, who is retrograde in philosophical Sagittarius, giving us much to talk about surrounding matters of the heart and finances. June 24th adds mystery to Venus, when Neptune retrograde in dreamy Pisces sets off illusions to our hearts and wallets. Watch out for get rich quick scams on the 24th, as Neptune retrograde will play tricks on our minds and make us more susceptible to deceit. The flip side is that we may temporarily enjoy being caught up in the rapture—until reality sets in.

Aries

March 21-April 19

A warrior by nature, you’re used to asserting your will. However, this week you are emotionally drained and depleted of energy to argue further with others. The reason is that all the conflict and drama has gotten you nowhere. You may even feel as though you are running in circles and not mending any situations—rather, just having the same discussions on playback. While you may still feel raw and defensive from recent drama, have faith that these emotions shall pass the moment you let go of upsets. Don’t dwell and obsess over details, just move away from this bad situation.

Taurus

April 20-May 20

Learning to speak your truth has been a process. Not that you are a liar (you’re far from it), but you tend to use flowery words during confrontations to avoid conflict. You’re bursting at the seems to express your sentiments after being pushed to the emotional brink for weeks. While you may choose words that shoot from the hip, try not to rush through communications. Think carefully before you speak your mind only to articulate your thoughts and to be heard. You are taking charge and fighting back. You’re the one in control of your life. Don’t you forget it.

Gemini

May 21-June 20

Playing by the rules has certainly affected your confidence. While you’ve been doing the right thing and honoring ethics, you’ve noticed those who take the easy path and side step are becoming more successful than you, at a rampant pace. Before you experience a Mercurial meltdown and let this situation weigh on your confidence, note that you are walking down the righteous avenue towards self-fulfillment. You don’t need accolades and status to prove your triumphs. You’ve got something no one else has—staying power. Although it may seem you are being kicked to the curb, you’re not. Believe in yourself more.

Cancer

June 21-July 22

Now is the time to use your voice to speak up. While you may have taken the silent approach to mending issues in your personal life in the past, you are learning that the only way to be heard and bring change in your life is to express (not repress) your emotions. The flip side to this week’s transits, is that you may feel as though you are receiving the backlash from others and are the victim of their emotional protections. Although it may be hard, try to rub off their influences and embrace your personal power to rise above.

Leo

July 23-August 22

Fear is standing in your way this week. Be careful, because it’s also the only thing holding you back from manifesting your desires. Recent emotional upsets have taken a toll on your heart, forcing you to question your goals and intentions. Instead of reveling in newly found insecurities, try to rise above such sentiments. First, acknowledge what you are scared of. Feel it. Realize that even the worst scenario is very likely from happening in reality. Prepare yourself to power through and attain your goals. This will help you to squash your fears and move towards your dreams, without hesitation.

Virgo

August 23-Sept. 22

You’re being put to an emotional test this week, Virgo. Love has been an ever confusing sentiment for quite some time. Now, friendships are coming into question. While you’ve tried to find a balance and create space for all parties to coexist in your life, the time has come to make serious decisions about relationships. Having to choose between love and friendships will prove challenging. But, think of it this way, if someone really cares about you they won’t force you to give up a relationship. They will only want you to be happy, not aim to control your decisions.

Libra

Sept. 23-Oct. 22

The epic clash you are experiencing between the id, ego, and superego is having a toll on your psyche. Your mind and heart are being pulled in different directions, forcing you to vacillate between sentiments. All of this inner conflict may make you feel as if you are losing control of many aspects of your life. Take a momentary pause. Make a list of your desires and goals. Then, write out a plan stating how you morally want to methodically put your objectives into action. Having a plan will allow you to act strategically, not impulsively, which will guarantee success.

Scorpio

Oct. 23-Nov. 21

Your inner views are shifting, which is serving your transformational and transcendent needs. While you may take on an idealistic persona this week, others may prove to be unscrupulous and untrustworthy. You have no space in your heart for connivers. Rather than arguing with others who have proven unworthy, you're taking the high road this week. No more theatrical  confrontations. If people wish to be deceitful, let them. You just don’t have time or space in your life for that energy anymore. Choosing to disengage from the dramatics will only elevate your vibe. Focus on yourself this week, not others.

Sagittarius

Nov. 22-Dec. 21

In the past, you’ve been a live and let live type of person. But, recently you’ve had the urge to control others. The reason for your inner shift is that you feel out of control in your personal life, which is causing you to project your anxieties and fears on others. You are riding high on emotional extremes this week and trying to figure out your next step. Take some time for yourself to figure out how you will implement your desires into reality. Also, avoid conflicts and power struggles with others (which are looming and brewing in the air).

Capricorn

Dec. 22-Jan. 19

Your sensitivities are awakened this week, making you feel more partner oriented than ever. You’re now moved to give 100% to relationships, collaborations, and partnerships. The reason for your emotional heart is that you are yearning for deeper  friendships and connections. Just watch out for power struggles within these relationships, as you may over-assert your opinions and dominate others. Find a balance in how you declare your views—use cheeky, not austere sentiments in your presentation to appease the crowd. This will prove your mastery and ability to woo the masses and even those close to you with your commanding words.

Aquarius

Jan. 20-Feb. 18

Your intuition may be playing tricks on you this week. Paranoias and fears are consuming your mind, making you feel as though others are trying to play tricks on you. Although you may convince yourself of their intentions and believe it to be true, take a step back and observe the situation more closely. Ask yourself if the facts line up with your instincts. Are your suspicions correct? If you are feeling confused and anxious about your visions, take an auric cleanse to get your sixth sense back. Then, revisit your prophecies to see if they are correct.

Pisces

Feb. 19-March 20

While you desperately want to take action and movement in your life, this week will make you feel stifled and stuck in the same issues you’ve had for months. Situations aren’t advancing, which in return is making you stir crazy from the inaction. You may feel lost amongst the breakers. However, don’t disconnect from others. Reach out to friends and family for help and guidance. You don’t have to go through your emotional ups and downs alone. People want to comfort you. Let them help. Word of advice: Don’t be too proud to accept their guidance and support.

The Realms of Truth and the Strawberry Full Moon in Sagittarius

By: Lisa Stardust

The Strawberry Full Moon, occurring June 17th, offers us a time to connect to our inner truths on a deep level. The past and upcoming week’s cosmic energy is intense. During this luminary, we will have a momentary reprieve from the confusion and power struggles that have been permeating our auric fields and allow ourselves to evolve our thoughts.

The Sagittarius Moon will align with the asteroid Ixion (who rules over futurity) and softly connects with passionate asteroid Eris. Fair minded Juno and lovelorn Sedna (two other asteroids) will both form a frustrating aspect with the Moon. All together,  this means that we will be cosmically tasked to assert our will and fight for our dreams—no matter what obstacles stand in our way. The only caveat, is that Neptune, who is extremely active in the sky, may create confusion around what our truest visions are. This also can mean self-deceit, which may create inner conflict, as we are not being honest with ourselves. However, there’s hope for us to reach our most idealized potential.

The degree of the Full Moon sits on the Galactic Center, which will help us understand and manifest our innermost desires. The Galactic Center falls in the middle of the entrance to the Milky Way. Sagittarius, who is the protector of our galaxy, stands on all fours at this celestial point with a bow and arrow ready to shoot at any given moment. As the defender of the galaxy, Sagittarius is touted as the high minded philosopher known to understand all worldly truths. This is because it’s important for the armed sign to know when and how to sling its arrows. The Galactic Center is a degree and place of insight. It’s the transmitter of “Divine Consciousness.” It’s a place of freedom. It’s where our hearts soar and where we can be the purest form of ourselves, with no restrictions and judgements.

Under the Strawberry Full Moon, in the sign of honorable Sagittarius, we will use smoke scrying to connect with the “other” world and find our inner truths. We will be able to decipher and clarify what we want as individuals. Only then, can we fight for our dreams.

*The Full Moon occurs June 17th at 1:30AM PST and 4:30AM EST.

Directions for Smoke Scrying

• Meditate on your goal or intention.

• Take a smudge stick and light it.

•  Place in a bowl or cauldron.

•  Let the smudge stick burn.

•  Follow the smoke with your eyes as it fills the air.

•  Watch the smoke dance in the air and its shadows on the wall.

•  Make note in a  journal about the messages are receiving messages from spirits.

•  Interpret the images once you receive them from the universe.

•  Use the images to help understand your truest intention and objectives to manifest under the Full Moon.

WITCH TIPS & HOROSCOPES 5/1~5-7/2019

ARTWORK BY @indg0

Astrology by Lisa Stardust

Happy Beltane! This year’s midpoint between Spring and Summer will be remembered in years to come, as the the sparks will continue going off throughout the day, due to Mercury’s many aspects.

We kick off this week, on May 1st, which is also the holiday of Beltane, with a seemingly harmonious aspect between Mercury, who is transiting impulsive speaking Aries, and Mars, who is in chatty Gemini. Both planets are currently in mutual reception with each other, and in exact orb. Mutual reception occurs when two planets are transiting signs of the other’s rulership. In this case, Mercury is in the sign of Aries and Mars is in the sign of Gemini. Mars rules Aries and Gemini is ruled by Mercury. Both signs are being controlled by the other’s planetary ruler. This is called mutual reception. Although, they do make a lovely connection in the cosmos, what happens on earth is that Mars will push Mercury to say regrettable things and Mercury will make Mars take swift action. Usually, this tends to become an argumentative energy, as both planets are feeding off of the other’s energy. However, the flip side is that we may be motivated to make plans for the future and pushed to complete tasks. The only caveat, is to think before speaking, as we may put our foot in our mouths. Later in the day, Mercury squares off with Saturn, who is retrograde in steady Capricorn on the South Node of Destiny, and the Nodes of Destiny, making us feel somber about the past. We may receive news that will alter our current decisions and change the course of events in our lives. May 2nd brings another tense Mercurial aspect our way. Pluto retrograde back steps it’s way into Mercury, causing inner tensions to flair up. Pluto is moonwalking in the pragmatic sign of Capricorn, pushing Mercury to uncover and discover new facts about ourselves. These are two planets who like each other. Remember, Mercury was the only god that Pluto allowed to enter and exit the Underworld. When these planets collide, we can expect to experience psychological barriers within and with others to be broken. The truth can set us all free and help us to gain a deeper understanding of our subconscious desires. Unfortunately, there are negative side effects, which may include power struggles and false gossip (expect major pot stirring on May 2nd). If we try to evoke the positive traits, such as curiosity and personal development—we will reap the benefits of the transit. Try to stay open minded and rational, even when provoked. The same day, Mercury and Jupiter, who is gliding backwards in retrograde motion in Sagittarius, cross paths. Mercury and Jupiter retrograde will push us to take the higher minded philosophical perspective on the Plutonian energy. Therefore, we can either evolve our desires, or keep arguments with others going throughout the day. The choice is ours. The Taurus New Moon on May 4th synchronizes our bodies and minds with the earth, alchemizing us to the spiritual world. May 5th (Cinco de Mayo) brings an opposition between Mars and Jupiter retrograde, bringing us courage and determination to move forward and carry on with our dreams. Venus, who is in fiery Aries, is busy making decisions around love and money on the 6th, by squaring the Nodes of Destiny. We will be cosmically pushed to think clearly and carefully about ALL the partnerships in our lives (as well as our relationship with money). Mercury enters earthy Taurus later in the day, on May 6th, blending poetry with our words and meaning to our actions. The week ends with Venus and Saturn retrograde making serious noise around investments and relationships. How we spend our time  will be a crucial matter, as well as who and what we give our energy to. Psychic and energetic vampires will be kicked to the curb on the 7th. Try to add extra TLC to the 7th, in order to feel confident and positive. The asteroids Pallas and Vesta clash throughout the week, while adding stress to Venus. Pallas, is currently backpedaling in fair minded Libra, the goddess of  wisdom and strength. Vesta, who is moving full steam ahead in tempestuous Aries, represents the home (or the heart of the home) and family. These asteroids are making us uncouple and disconnect from unhealthy relationships and situations. Others may fight to keep us enslaved to the past, or we may find ourselves chained to toxic affairs. It’s up to us to shut the door on that which is causing us pain and frustration. Lilith is another asteroid making waves this week, by entering the sign of mystical Pisces on May 3rd, which will add vigor and enlightenment to our magical practices. Lilith was the first wife of Adam in the Garden of Eden. She was cast away because she was more powerful than Adam. In mythology and astrology, she is the voice within us that has silenced and yearns to break free. Through willful independent acts, Lilith brings out our truest desires. Lilith will link up with Mercury on the 6th, allowing us to assert ourselves and create new enticing spells.

Aries 

March 21-April 19

Your words are powerful, and certainly not meaningless this week. While you may go back and forth deciding the best way to express yourself, the New Moon offers you the chance to assert your views without drama. Owning and standing in your truth will prove challenging throughout the week, as you are pushed to make many karmic choices around professional goals. Deciding which venture is worth your energy is dependent on how valued you feel. Don’t be afraid to ask for more than your regular rate—you may be surprised by what you are offered. The same advice proves fruitful in personal relationships. Asking for more will yield high rewards, as long as you communicate honestly and effectively about your needs, leaving the subject open for negotiation. Listen to others and they will meet you half way.

Taurus 

April 20-May 20

After a mini hibernation, you are coming back in the limelight stronger and wiser than ever. The New Moon pushes you to get back into the swing of things. However, there still is a fine line you must cross this week between working and nurturing yourself. Finding a balance between what you give to others and what you take for yourself will be challenging in the beginning of the week.  Obligations consume your schedule, yet you want to enjoy the merriments of life away from the office enjoying the springtime air. Divide your time 3 ways—split between “you” time, work time, and time with others. This will allow you to find the equilibrium you need and rest before your anxieties take control. A hot calming bath with CBD oil, rose petals, and Himalayan salt will elevate you toward tranquility. 

Gemini 

May 21-June 20
No other zodiac sign knows better than you that words can hurt. While you may be tempted to get one last definitive statement out there to others who have offended you this week, you may want to take a step back and think your feelings through before cutting others down to size. What may feel good in the moment, will wind up eventually hurting you down the road. Before asserting your opinions and hurts on others, write down your feelings on a piece of paper, or send an email to yourself expressing your sentiments. This will help you understand your emotions better and allow you to release the built up frustrations and anxieties from within. If you still desire one-on-one communication, it’s advisable to call upon a mutual acquaintance to act as the buffer to minimize collateral damage.  

Cancer 

June 21-July 22

After weeks of focusing on others, you are finally reclaiming your personal power. The caveat, is that you still may be struggling to loosen your claws away those who do not serve your best interests, as the ups and downs of these relationships have proven to be exhilarating. Unfortunately, this is a false security. While you may enjoy the highs and lows of such partnerships, as they keep you on your toes, it will prove mentally and emotionally exhausting by the weekend. The New Moon asks you to place all that pent up energy on healing yourself, not others. Reevaluating your role in such circumstances and relationships will give you much food for thought, allowing you to rethink your past behavior. While you may be inclined to work out issues with others, put your needs first. Take time for yourself this week, then decide your next move. 

Leo 

July 23-August 22

Life has been a tad monotonous lately. The same old routines are making you lustful for excitement. Whether it’s your fiery thirst for adventure, or your desire for higher minded pursuits—you are in the mood to battle on all fronts (physically, emotionally, and mentally) this week. However, you are also feeling emotionally fierce and protective, which may inspire arguments to occur. Rather than battle with others, challenge yourself to grow within and use your gusto to break down the restraints of your subconscious mind through mindful breathing. Mindful meditation will help you connect on a deeper level with the self (body, heart, and mind), as well as understanding your feelings on a soulful level. Adding this healing technique to your day-to-day activities (even for two minutes a day) will prove beneficial in the long run. 

Virgo 

August 23-Sept. 22

This week you are cosmically called upon to take a leap of faith—within others and yourself. While you may feel as though you are standing by the edge alone, you must believe in the higher good of those you hold dear. Even if people seem uninterested and busy, you can rely on their support. More importantly, learn to listen to the voice inside your head. Trusting your sentiments may be challenging, as past events have made you weary of your intuition. Don’t ignore your inner-voice. More often than not, it can be a savior from mistakes. Also, make sure to connect with like-minded people who can sympathize with your issues within your community. It’s hard to take risks alone. If your friends are busy,  then it’s important for you to meet others (who are going through similar situations) which can be a solid soundboard. 


Libra 

Sept. 23-Oct. 22

Life has been moving at an accelerated pace for you, throwing your scales off-balance. This week calls for you to take steps to reorganize and revise all sectors of your life. Making lists may be beneficial. However, you need to change your strategy in how you implement tasks. Compartmentalizing and prioritizing will allow you to focus on that which is urgent. Blocking out distractions and vampirism will add more vitality to your day. Your time will free up and your vibe will be high, as a result of disconnecting from those who drain your energy. Also, don’t be afraid to say “no.” Creating boundaries, setting limits, and turning down work can feel freeing. The final and missing piece of the puzzle, to maintain your balance, is to allot more time toward self-care. Indulge yourself as a reward for your hard work. 

Scorpio 

Oct. 23-Nov. 21

This week forces you to evoke your strategic mind, in order to win big against those who aim to hold you down. In the past, you have lost your temper and fought hard for others to see your views. This week, you are using your mind to allow others to take notice of your splendor. Manipulative games and hurtful words will seem like a waste of time, as you are realizing that you are spending more time engaging in drama than evolving your situation towards greatness. This may result in you draining your energy on nonsense, rather than the endgame. Take strategic steps and alliances that will ensure success. Most importantly, don’t be afraid. No one can hold you back from achieving your goals. Remember, you are a born fighter—don’t be scared to reclaim your throne.


Sagittarius 

Nov. 22-Dec. 21

As the cosmic doer of the zodiac, you love to manifest new projects and activities. This week, you are inclined to create something tangible, which you can touch and feel in the material world. This may result in a new partnership of artistic or romantic nature (also,, the desire to start implementing grounding exercises into your daily vibe). Awakening your senses will make you feel more alive in the moment. Connecting to earthy delights (whether it be by meditating with your feet firmly planted in the ground or ASMR) will awaken your soul and brighten your spirit—even activating the pleasure center of your chart. The tingling feeling within, will clear out your head and motivate you to feel freer than usual, evoking your passions that have been dormant over the past seasons, in time for your spring awakening. 

Capricorn 

Dec. 22-Jan. 19

Insecurities may flair up this week, pushing you to take a deep hard look at yourself in the mirror. Squashing childhood trauma can be a life long objective, but this week you are letting go of some pain from the past. Looking your fears straight in the eye, will kill any negative thinking and resentments you have with felt within, lessening the burden you have been carrying. You will feel reborn and renewed by week’s end. Change starts within. Becoming the ultimate version of yourself is a lifelong process. You have the power to transform yourself, as long as you commit to doing the work. What you may find along your path of self-discovery, is that you are already the person of your desires and dreams—you just got lost along the way and couldn’t see yourself clearly. 


Aquarius 

Jan. 20-Feb. 18

This week is pushing you to evolve your core beliefs, which may involve you implementing alone time under the New Moon to help revolutionize your life. The veil that once blindfolded your eyes is falling off, giving you the opportunity to see situations and people clearly. Recently, you may have been manipulated into conflicts and unscrupulous activities that have proven to hurt your ego, rather than elevate your spirit. This week, you are dropping the facade and allowing others to see the “real” you. Your feelings may be unfiltered and raw, but they are your sentiments and should always be honored by others. Being honest about personal setbacks and triumphs will move you past the fake tough exterior you’ve created, giving others and yourself the chance to connect with the purest part of your soul. 

Pisces 

Feb. 19-March 20

This week serves as your cosmic wake-up call. You may feel as though you have been in a deep slumber for months, as you start to clearly see who you can and cannot trust. Also, you will come to see who will stand by your side through thick and thin. Your friends may not actually be as true blue as you had once thought, allowing you to consciously disconnect and cut the cord from their energy. Letting go is always hard, but in your case essential for your personal health. Toxic connections will consume your energy, cause exhaustion, and anxiety. While you may decide not to confront others (although you will fantasize endlessly about this all week), make sure to cut the energy you give to the situation—only then can you live in accordance with your highest self.