This morning I got up at 7:15 am to do my P90x workout. Today was plyometrics – a combination of aerobics and jumping. I felt great after it was over- energized and ready for my day. So I showered, had a protein shake and then settled into my desk chair. And that’s when the lethargy set in. Now I feel a little tired, unmotivated, and distracted. Oy. I need to wake up. Coincidentally, today the planet Uranus stations retrograde. What does this mean? Why do I care? When can I take a nap?
In astrology the planet Uranus is a symbol for “the awakener,” “the maverick,” and “the trickster.” Even the
actual planet itself rotates vertically instead of horizontally, adding to its eccentric reputation. The function of Uranus in astrology is to shake things up, redefine structures, and rebel against the status quo. Now that it’s turned retrograde it’s time for us to collectively turn that energy inward.
All the planets (except the Sun and Moon) appear to go retrograde at various times throughout the year. This is the universe’s way of giving us all an opportunity to integrate the function of those particular energies into our lives. With Uranus in retrograde motion until early December we’re all being challenged to look within and find that spark of genius, uncover new insight, and overturn structures that may be limiting us.
Here are five questions to consider over the coming months to help you awaken within:
- Where are you getting your inspiration? “We should be taught not to wait for inspiration to start a thing. Action always generates inspiration. Inspiration seldom generates action.” -Frank Tibolt. If you’re watching six hours of reality TV a week it may be time to turn off the boob-tube and listen for what your mind is really craving. When was the last time you went to the museum? Read something other than your preferred genre? Inspiration enlivens us and feeds our soul. Where do you get yours?
- When is the last time you surprised yourself? “One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his great surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn’t do.” -Henry Ford. We all like to play it safe- it protects our ego. But unless we stretch ourselves from time to time we risk becoming to static, stiff, and stale. Say something unconventional, be brazenly engaged in life, or push yourself past a self-limiting behavior.
- What needs to be different in order for you to grow? “Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” -Albert Einstein. Even plants need to be repotted in order to keep growing. All of us have of one or two things (or seven or eight) in our lives that are out-dated, old-fashioned, and worn out. Is it a relationship? A job? A wardrobe? If you haven’t seen any personal growth over the past six months maybe it’s time to find out why.
- How often do you change your mind? “A fanatic is one who can’t change his mind and won’t change the subject.” -Sir Winston Churchill. Ideas and opinions are like underwear- they should be changed often. Reconsider your beliefs- about yourself, the world, or God. Why assume the conclusions you drew last year are still valid? Give yourself permission to rethink where you stand on important issues. Do some research. Be open.
- How much freedom do you give yourself? “To be pleased with one’s limits is a wretched state.” -Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. I believe we all condition ourselves to live, think, act, and love within a relatively small space. The world is big and the power of our minds and imagination is even bigger. How much freedom do you really give yourself? Consider giving yourself more. Assume there are no limitations. Look for endless possibilities. Act accordingly.
Uranus will be retrograding from 26 degrees of Pisces back to 22 degrees of Pisces. If you know where that falls in your natal chart then you’ll have a better idea of where your awakening needs to take place. For example, if you have these degrees of Pisces in your fifth house then you should focus on creative aspects of your life. If Uranus is retrograding through your tenth house then reflect on how you can awaken in your career.
If you don’t have a copy of your chart you can order one from my website. And I’m always available for consultations should you want to explore this or other themes in your life.
“If every day is an awakening, you will never grow old. You will just keep growing.” -Gail Sheehy
Namaste’
