Aquarius New Moon: Off to the Races

Sometimes an awe-inspiring creature appears on the scene just when it’s most needed, sparking widespread devotion. Like gentle, loving Aloka (faithful companion to the peace-walking Buddhist monks, who has become a superstar during a time of rampant hatred and division), the racehorse Man O’ War held a similar level of fame in his day. This wonder-horse won 20 of 21 races, shattered every record, and captured the heart of a nation still reeling from the horrors and hardships of WWI.

Born March 29, 1917, Man O’ War began racing two years later. His spirited Aries stellium (Sun, Mercury, Mars and Venus in that brave fire sign) took him straight to the top. When he died on Nov. 1, 1947, over 2,500 people lined up to say farewell. For three decades, his name had been synonymous with power, speed, and excellence. Americans mourned him as a national hero. His body was embalmed and placed in a solid oak coffin lined with his signature red-and-yellow racing silks—which had blazed across finish lines two decades earlier. Our nation’s most beloved steed was laid to rest at a Kentucky farm, where he’d spent his last years in retirement. People wept openly for him.

As the Chinese Year of the Fire Horse races in on Feb. 17, we can still find inspiration in Man O’ War. He represents the courage and energy to move forward and trust our hearts. As we shed our old skins with the passing of the Snake Year, the Fire Horse brings a quickening, a desire for action, independence and stimulation. The last Fire Horse year was 1966, a time which sparked upheaval and necessary change. The Fire Horse awakens desire, vitality and the urge to overthrow whatever no longer works. In addition to its strength and endurance, the Fire Horse is also a sensitive, intuitive creature that can pivot on a dime – so it’s a good year to test out various things, have patience and see what works best.

On February 17 at 4:01 a.m. PT, we also have a dramatic, annular ring-of-fire solar eclipse at 28 Aquarius.  This lunation is tightly square Uranus, the modern ruler of Aquarius, bringing extra volatility. Expect change – and embrace it. Fueled by Fire Horse energy, like Man O’ War charging out of the gate, this tells us that it’s time to embark on a new course of action. Just do it mindfully, as eclipses are known for being unstable. Aquarius rules technology and collectives. When the Sun (masculine) is eclipsed by the Moon (feminine), the Aquarian water bearer can help forge a more equitable experience between men and women. Equality is also favored by the North Node’s shift into Aquarius, initiating a new eclipse series that will last for the next two years. Whatever happens now is likely a preview of what’s to come.

This eclipse can trigger a profound reset of systems. Surprises with technology are likely. A group that was once stimulating may suddenly feel all wrong. A leader you admired might turn out to have feet of clay. If a structure cannot support your progress, you may need to bid it farewell. Be careful traveling or making big decisions around this eclipse; things are unstable. Get extra rest, and don’t push yourself too far, too fast. You have the next few years to accomplish goals you’re dreaming up now. And bear in mind that not only are we in eclipse season, with another due on March 3, but Mercury is slowing down to turn retrograde at month’s end. Get those taxes done early if possible, and leave nothing to chance!

So, is it “off to the races” or “hold your horses”? Likely a bit of both. Three days after the eclipse, on February 20, Saturn joins Neptune at zero Aries – the pivotal world axis point – for the first time since 1989. That was when the Berlin Wall fell. This is powerful medicine. Old structures crumble so new ones can take their place. Saturn-Neptune’s highest vibration is spiritual maturity – and in Aries, the willingness to stand courageously for what is right. What does that look like for you? For me, it represents the unshakable awareness that the seen (Saturn) and unseen (Neptune) worlds are one. The dead aren’t really gone; they’re still here in a parallel dimension, and they long to help us overcome our difficulties.

Whatever your highest desire might be, set your intention for it at this powerful portal. Call on Man O’ War or your beloved dead for help. Saturn loves a daily practice, so do it every day, imbued with fiery passion. Bear witness to what you love most, dream big and take steps over time to make it happen.