April features two important retrograde cycles, as both Saturn and Mercury turn retrograde. This leads us to a process of introspection and a measured look at where were going and the skills we are using to get there. By the end of the month, we are once again charging headlong into the next chapter of our life with the onset of a new Aries cycle.
April 2-3
The Moon is in Gemini aspected by Saturn. This is a good time to explore new interests with depth and commitment. What is that new skill or interest you’ve wanted to develop? This aspect of Saturn can help to focus your mind, and stop your restless heart long enough to concentrate and go deep.
April 5
Saturn turns retrograde in Sagittarius today through August 26. When Saturn is retrograde we reflect on our commitments and duties, so you may notice a refocusing of your goals and long-term commitments now. That is good. We are supposed to be reflecting on our long-term plans almost half the time. For the next week or so, make sure to take time to introspect and connect.
April 7-8
The Moon is in Leo with Rahu so be careful strutting your stuff a little too loudly and proudly. You may feel mightily impressed with your big bad self, but it may come at the expense of personal connections and partners. Step up, contribute, and share your power. Resist overpowering others.
April 10
Mercury turns retrograde today in Aries until May 1, making this a time to reflect on the words we speak as well as all of our other forms of communication. Beware of strong opinions masquerading as intelligence. In many ways, opinions are the opposite of intelligence. Pause before dumping your frustrations on others.
The Full Moon is in Virgo today, showing an earthy harmonizing of the watery, Pisces energy. The recent Sun cycle in Pisces created a dreamy and escapist energy. We can ground that creative, metaphysical style with a more practical and hands-on approach. This Full Moon is also joined Jupiter, which brings with it both optimism and hope. It is also aspected by Venus in Pisces, which supports the watery, Pisces style. Now is the time for a practical mysticism, where you may bring otherworldly romance and beauty into tangible form.
This Full Moon happens in Chitra Nakshatra, ruled by the celestial architect, the god who builds the structure of the universe. Now is a good time to create something tangible, yet beautiful.
April 14
The Sun is exalted and will be for the next 30 days, making this a great time to follow your instincts and pursue what lights you up. Now is the time to make that inspiration the center of your existence. Trust your gut and act from a place of strength and purpose. Let the chips fall where they may; if you’re connected to your truth, good things will happen.
April 15
Venus turns direct in Pisces today. Venus has been retrograde since early March, a position which had us reflecting on our relationship entanglements. We can now integrate these reflections and move forward. The last several weeks may have seen relationship boundaries dissolve and now you may be trying to put it all back together again. This is also a great time to be moving forward on your creative projects and devotional practices.
?April 17-22
The energy of the Moon will be under some distress now because of the close involvement of both Saturn and Ketu. We may feel the seriousness and pressure of time bearing down on us. Making peace with the harsh realities in life and eventually looking deeper than this world for solutions, will be important at this time. Of course, many of us may be unclear about what those deeper solutions are. That confusion and stress will be apparent now, and we would do well to engage in the practice of introspection to find answers.
April 23-24
The Moon is in Pisces with exalted Venus, an aspect that supports devotion and creativity. Now is the time to fulfill your romantic desires and connect with something that is beyond just this Earth. There are many ways to express this. The easiest way to connect to something not of this Earth is through drugs or alcohol or escapism. But of course, the more creative option is to escape into yourself, into the truth through a heart-centered practice or activity.
April 26
The New Moon is in Aries beginning a 30-day cycle of feeling passion and enthusiasm for our goals. It’s time to break the mold and set off on a new course, perhaps even with new people. Take a chance and live the life you’ve always imagined you could. Take up a new challenge this month. But be careful, as this New Moon is also joined Mercury retrograde, which may have us overlooking important details or speaking impulsively.
This New Moon is in Ashwini Nakshatra, ruled by the twin horses. The energy of these two horses allow us to begin our journey with enormous power, but they may be pulling us in different directions. It’s important to focus and not just run quickly in any direction.
Sam Geppi (Sadasiva) is the author of Yoga and Vedic Astrology and The Ascendant—108 Planets of Vedic Astrology. He is the founder of the American Academy of Vedic Art and Science which offers three levels of certification programs in Vedic Astrology. Currently the Academy has more than 120 students enrolled. Visit Sam’s website at: vedicartandscience.com.