Everything but the Kitchen Sink

The Astrology of March 2025

It appears that 2025 is set to be a year where everything undergoes change. This brings to mind the saying "everything but the kitchen sink." Upon investigating its origin, I was surprised to learn it emerged around WWII when numerous household items were donated to support the war effort, including all metal for the U.S. arsenal. However, the old ceramic and cast iron kitchen sinks typically remained, being considered too heavy. There may well be aspects of our lives resembling that proverbial kitchen sink, but aside from those, everything is up for grabs this year.

March has traditionally signified a period of new beginnings. It is when the Sun moves into Aries, signaling the spring equinox. This year, it takes place on Monday, March 20th at 5:01 a.m. Besides this eagerly awaited event in the northern hemisphere, March is also filled with several significant astrological events. There are two eclipses, two planetary retrogrades, two planetary sign changes, and a significant amount of Venusian activity.

The month begins with Venus entering retrograde at 10:50 in Aries on March 1. This astrological event marks a significant turning point, as Venus, the planet that governs love, beauty, harmony, and relationships, begins its backward motion through the sky. In astrology, Venus represents not only our relationship issues but also encompasses a wide array of themes that are integral to our daily lives. It influences our values and attachments, shaping how we connect with others and what we prioritize in our personal and social interactions. During this retrograde period, which typically lasts several weeks, we may find ourselves reflecting on our desires and the nature of our attachments, prompting us to reassess what we truly value in our relationships. Additionally, Venus governs our physical security and pleasure, highlighting our need for comfort and indulgence.

This retrograde phase can lead to a reevaluation of our sources of comfort, prompting us to consider whether our current habits and pleasures are genuinely fulfilling or merely temporary distractions. Financial matters also come under Venus's domain, and during this time, we might experience shifts in our financial priorities or reconsider our spending habits, which can lead to new insights about our values related to money and material possessions. Moreover, Venus is intricately linked to all things feminine, embodying qualities such as nurturing, intuition, and creativity. As it moves retrograde in the assertive sign of Aries, we may witness a clash between these nurturing energies and the more aggressive, pioneering traits associated with Aries. This dynamic can inspire us to explore how we express our femininity or embrace our softer qualities in a world that often rewards assertiveness and boldness. The retrograde period serves as an opportunity to delve deeper into our relationships with ourselves and others, encouraging introspection and a reassessment of what we truly desire in love and life.

The next event is a Total Lunar Eclipse at 23:56 Virgo on March 14. To recap how a Lunar Eclipse works, the earth moves between the moon and the sun, causing the earth's shadow to block sunlight from reaching the moon. During a total lunar eclipse, the moon is entirely within the earth's umbra shadow. In astrology, eclipses are significant because they tend to "obscure" issues related to the house or planets they aspect. They also "reveal hidden things" concerning the house they occupy and the planets they aspect. To assess an eclipse's impact, overlay the eclipse degrees onto your birth chart. Identify which house it occurs in, as this is the area of your life affected. Then, check for aspects from the eclipse to your natal planet placements. The most crucial aspects to consider are conjunctions and oppositions. If you don't have planets near the eclipse degrees, it's unlikely to affect you. Additionally, besides applying this to a personal natal chart, an eclipse can also be superimposed onto a country's chart.

March 14, 2025 Total Lunar Eclipse in a bi-wheel chart with USA Sibley Chart

In the United States founding chart, this eclipse occurs in the 9th house, which is a significant astrological placement with profound implications for various sectors of society. In the context of a nation's astrological chart, the 9th house encompasses a wide array of themes, including but not limited to shipping, sea and air traffic, religious institutions and churches, legal systems, universities, laboratories, international and academic communications, trade, scientific advancements, and foreign relations. This house represents the broader philosophical and ethical frameworks that guide a nation, as well as its interactions with the world beyond its borders.

Additionally, this eclipse is in conjunction with Neptune, a planet known for its association with illusion, spirituality, and the subconscious. This significant alignment with Neptune in the 9th house suggests several intriguing possibilities. Firstly, it is highly likely that during the six-month period influenced by this eclipse, issues related to the aforementioned 9th house themes may become obscured, leading to a foggy understanding of international relations, legal matters, and religious dynamics. Alternatively, hidden matters that have remained in the shadows may come to light, revealing truths that challenge the established order or the prevailing narratives. This dual potential for obscurity and revelation creates an atmosphere ripe for significant developments.

Moreover, the presence of Neptune in the USA's 9th house is further complicated by the activation of a square from Mars (which exists in the founding chart), which introduces an element of friction and potential conflict. Mars, the planet of action and aggression, can bring challenges and confrontations, especially when it interacts with Neptune's more nebulous qualities. This configuration suggests that there may be turbulence in areas where deception, lies, and cover-ups are prevalent. As noted by the esteemed mundane astrologer Raphael, when Neptune is positioned in the 9th house, it can signify a range of troubling scenarios, including scandals within religious and legal circles, criminal proceedings that may expose corruption, and instances of fraud in trade and commerce. Additionally, it may herald strange and unusual events within the religious community, leading to the exposure of charlatans and impostors who have operated under the guise of legitimacy.

Given that Neptune in the USA Sibley chart is afflicted by a square from Mars, the likelihood of hidden secrets being unveiled due to this eclipse is notably increased. The tension between these two celestial bodies could lead to confrontations regarding beliefs, ethics, and the truth behind various institutions. Furthermore, another renowned mundane astrologer, H.S. Green, elaborates on the implications of eclipses occurring in the 9th house, indicating that such events can lead to turmoil within religious organizations, religious dissensions, and complex issues arising from various religious sects.

Green's insights also extend to potential disasters and misfortunes, particularly those involving maritime activities. He warns of "storms and accidents, or disasters at sea," which could result in significant challenges for shipping and sailors. The references to disasters at sea and misfortunes for shipping and sailors are particularly significant, especially considering that this eclipse occurs in conjunction with Neptune, the planet that governs these maritime affairs. The potential for unforeseen events in international shipping routes or maritime incidents could be heightened, leading to broader implications for trade and commerce.

The eclipse in the 9th house of the United States' astrological chart, in conjunction with Neptune and influenced by Mars, suggests a complex interplay of revelation and concealment in matters of religion, law, and international relations. The potential for scandals, exposure of deception, and challenges to established institutions may manifest, while the maritime implications raise concerns about the safety and stability of shipping and trade during this significant astrological period.

The day following the eclipse, a well-known astrological event will take place on March 15, marking the beginning of a significant period in the celestial calendar. Even those with only a casual interest in astrology are likely to be familiar with the concept of Mercury retrograde, a phenomenon that tends to capture the attention of both enthusiasts and skeptics alike. Mercury goes retrograde approximately three to four times each year, with each retrograde phase lasting about three weeks. This particular retrograde will span from March 15 to April 6, creating a window of time that many astrologers and followers of astrology consider crucial for reflection and reassessment.

Mercury, the planet that governs communication in all its forms—be it listening, writing, reading, or speaking—is also intricately connected to the realms of negotiations, contracts, and agreements. This means that during the retrograde period, individuals may find themselves facing challenges in how they convey their thoughts and ideas, as well as in their interactions with others. Misunderstandings can arise more easily, and messages may be misconstrued, leading to potential conflicts or confusion. It is advisable to double-check all forms of communication, whether they are emails, texts, or verbal conversations, to ensure clarity and prevent misinterpretations.

Moreover, Mercury’s influence extends beyond communication to encompass transportation as well. This includes not only personal vehicles but also broader systems such as shipping and mail services. During the retrograde phase, delays and disruptions in travel plans or shipping schedules are often reported. Therefore, it is wise to exercise caution when making travel arrangements or sending important documents through the mail. Being prepared for unexpected changes or hiccups can help mitigate the stress that often accompanies this astrological event.

In light of these influences, the retrograde period encourages individuals to cultivate patience and mindfulness. It is a time to slow down and take stock of one’s current situation, reflecting on past decisions and considering adjustments that may be necessary moving forward. Engaging in thoughtful dialogue and being deliberate with one’s words can foster better understanding and cooperation with others. Additionally, this period can serve as an opportunity for introspection—an ideal time to revisit unfinished projects, review past commitments, and clarify personal goals.

The Mercury retrograde from March 15 to April 6 presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. While it may be tempting to see this time as merely a period of inconvenience, those who embrace the lessons it offers can emerge with greater clarity and insight. By being mindful of communication and transportation issues, and by allowing oneself the space for reflection, individuals can navigate this astrological event with grace and intention.

March is a month filled with numerous Venus-related activities that hold significant implications for our emotional and relational landscapes. As previously mentioned, the month begins with Venus turning retrograde in the fiery sign of Aries, which sets the stage for a period of introspection and reassessment in matters of love and relationships. This retrograde phase invites us to delve deeper into our feelings, urging us to reflect on our past romantic experiences and the values we hold dear.

As Venus moves backward through Aries, it will also form some significant aspects throughout the month, creating dynamic interactions that can influence our relationships in profound ways. On March 21, Venus will sextile Pluto, a powerful aspect that can bring intense emotions to the forefront. During this time, obsessive feelings in love relationships can flow strongly and effortlessly, illuminating the more profound desires and motivations that drive our connections with others. It is essential to be cautious of feelings of jealousy or a need to control in relational matters during this transit, as the intensity of emotions can lead to situations where possessiveness may rear its head. The transformative energy of Pluto can stir up deep-seated feelings, making it crucial to navigate this period with awareness and care.

Moreover, feelings of passion could intensify, and you might find that a new relationship brings euphoric sensations, making you feel as if you are being reborn. The excitement of new love can feel exhilarating, but it is also important to remain grounded and mindful of the potential pitfalls that can arise from such heightened emotions. The interplay of Venus and Pluto during this time can create a magnetic pull, drawing individuals together in ways that feel fated or destined.

Adding fuel to this potential fire is the fact that Venus is in detriment in the sign of Aries. This simply means that Venus is positioned in the opposite sign from the one it rules, which is Libra. When a planet is in detriment, there is a level of uncomfortableness in the manner it is able to express its true nature. In the case of Venus in Aries, the assertive and independent qualities of Aries can sometimes clash with Venus's desire for harmony and connection. This tension can manifest as impulsive actions in love or a struggle to balance personal desires with the needs of a partner.

Furthermore, the retrograde motion of Venus adds an additional layer of complexity to this period. It encourages us to reevaluate our relationships, values, finances, and self-worth. This is a time to reflect on what truly matters to us in our connections with others and to reassess how we express love and affection. Are we prioritizing our own needs at the expense of others? Are we holding onto relationships that no longer serve us? These questions may arise as we navigate the emotional currents of March. This is a month rich with opportunities for growth and transformation in our romantic lives. The combination of Venus's retrograde in Aries, its sextile to Pluto, and the inherent challenges of being in detriment creates a potent environment for introspection and change. Embracing this period with an open heart and a willingness to explore our innermost feelings can lead to profound insights and the potential for rejuvenation in our love lives.

On March 27, the astrological landscape will witness a significant shift as Aries Venus Rx transitions back into the sign of Pisces. This movement is noteworthy because, while Venus typically finds itself in a position of detriment when in Aries—where its natural qualities of love, beauty, and harmony can feel somewhat stifled or misaligned—its return to Pisces marks a period of exaltation. In astrological terms, exaltation is a state of elevated status, akin to being an esteemed guest of the king; although Venus does not wield control over the kingdom’s affairs, it is treated with great respect and privilege. This transition allows Venus to express its qualities more freely and beautifully, akin to receiving the "red carpet treatment."

However, it is essential to note that Venus remains in a retrograde phase during this time, which adds a layer of complexity to its expression. Retrograde periods often invite introspection and reflection, encouraging individuals to look inward and reassess their values, desires, and relationships. Therefore, as Venus shifts into Pisces, it may lean towards idealistic romantic encounters that are infused with a dreamy and ethereal quality. This can lead to a heightened sense of imagination and creativity, particularly in artistic endeavors or personal expressions of love and affection. The energy of Pisces is known for its emotional depth, intuition, and compassion, which can enhance interpersonal relationships, allowing individuals to connect on a more profound level. During this period, there may also be opportunities for healing past relationship wounds. The compassionate nature of Venus in Pisces encourages forgiveness and understanding, making it an ideal time for reconciliation or closure.

Individuals might find themselves revisiting old connections or memories, which can lead to a deeper understanding of their emotional landscape. This reflective energy can inspire a journey into one’s inner world, prompting a reassessment of personal values and what truly matters in relationships. Moreover, this cosmic alignment could facilitate reconnections with individuals from the past, as the energies of nostalgia and familiarity may be heightened. You might encounter someone who feels profoundly familiar on a soul level, sparking feelings of recognition and a sense of shared history. This could manifest as an unexpected reunion or a rekindling of an old flame, prompting you to explore unresolved feelings or unfinished business. In summary, the movement of Aries Venus Rx into Pisces on March 27 heralds a time of profound emotional exploration, imaginative creativity, and potential healing. It invites individuals to embrace the complexities of love and relationships with a compassionate heart, encouraging a deeper connection to oneself and others. As the energies of exaltation blend with the introspective nature of retrograde, the stage is set for transformative experiences that can lead to greater emotional fulfillment and understanding in the realm of love.

But wait, if that wasn't enough, the plot thickens further, revealing layers of complexity that intrigue and captivate. Additionally, on March 27, this Pisces Venus Rx will conjunct Pisces Neptune at 29:53, a moment that holds significant astrological weight and symbolism. This celestial event evokes a vivid image of feet leaving marks in wet cement, a metaphor that illustrates the lasting impressions that this conjunction can create in our emotional and relational landscapes.

This conjunction fills Venus with the profound energy of deep Pisces, a sign known for its sensitivity, intuition, and connection to the ethereal realms. The merging of these two planets—Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and relationships, and Neptune, the planet of dreams, illusions, and spirituality—creates a potent atmosphere ripe for exploration of our innermost desires and fantasies. When these two celestial bodies come together and dance closely for a few days, Venus will be enchanted by Neptune's dreamy, whirlwind trance, swept away in a sea of romantic idealism and creative inspiration.

Under the influence of this conjunction, Venus might find herself inclined to idealize her relationships and experiences, viewing them through a lens of enchantment that may obscure the more practical aspects of love and connection. This dreamy state can lead to a tendency to avoid setting clear relationship boundaries during this short but impactful interaction, as the allure of fantasy may distract from the necessary work of establishing healthy limits. As the days unfold, individuals may find themselves grappling with the tension between their dreams and the reality of their relationships, leading to moments of clarity as well as confusion. The energy of this conjunction invites us to reflect on how our ideals shape our interactions and to consider whether we are living in alignment with our true values or merely chasing illusions.

At this juncture, just as with the total lunar eclipse, which is a powerful celestial event that can bring about profound transformations and revelations, it is crucial to overlay the Venus retrograde onto your birth chart. Venus retrograde is not merely a phenomenon that occurs in isolation; it interacts with various elements of your astrological profile, influencing your relationships, values, and sense of beauty. By examining this retrograde period, along with its significant aspects—such as trines, squares, and conjunctions—and any sign changes that Venus may undergo during this time, you can gain a more personalized and detailed comprehension of its possible effects on your life. Each aspect can reveal different nuances in how Venus retrograde may manifest for you, affecting everything from your romantic partnerships to your financial decisions. Additionally, understanding the sign that Venus is transiting can provide insights into the specific areas of your life that may be highlighted or challenged during this retrograde phase. Therefore, taking the time to analyze these astrological movements in relation to your unique birth chart can offer invaluable guidance and clarity, helping you navigate the complexities of this period with greater awareness and intention.

As we approach the end of March, we leave with excitement rather than quietly. On March 29, a Partial Solar Eclipse will occur. Similar to a lunar eclipse, it's crucial to overlay the eclipse degrees on a chart to identify the specific area it affects. Unlike a lunar eclipse, where the earth comes between the moon and sun, during a solar eclipse, the moon positions itself between the earth and sun, obscuring the sun. A partial eclipse indicates that the sun is only partially covered by the moon. Like the lunar eclipse, a solar eclipse can also "obscure" issues of the house or those related to the planets they aspect, as well as "reveal hidden things" in these areas.

Once again, let's look at this eclipse through the lens of the United States Sibley chart to determine where its impact may be on the country. Below is the March 29 partial solar eclipse:

March 29, 2025 Partial Solar Eclipse in a bi-wheel chart with USA Sibley Chart

It is significant that this upcoming eclipse will occur in the zodiac sign of Aries, a cardinal sign known for its dynamic and initiating qualities. Eclipses in cardinal signs tend to manifest their effects rapidly and with a sense of urgency, often leading to swift changes and developments in various sectors. This is particularly noteworthy because cardinal signs are associated with action and leadership, suggesting that the themes and events triggered by this eclipse may unfold quickly and decisively.

Additionally, as noted by the esteemed mundane astrologer H.S. Green, eclipses in cardinal signs "are liable to disturb foreign affairs, and bring trouble to the Monarch and Government as well as the common people and the crops. In some cases they are followed by great changes politically, or national trade may be affected." This highlights the potential for significant upheaval in political landscapes, international relations, and economic conditions, all of which may be influenced by the energy of this eclipse.

When we examine the specific astrological house where this eclipse will occur, we find it will be situated in the USA's 4th house. The 4th house is traditionally associated with home, family, and the foundational aspects of a nation, including its land and resources. Referring again to H.S. Green's interpretations, he provides a sobering perspective on the implications of 4th house eclipses, stating that they are "unfortunate for the Monarch and Government and for the success and welfare of the nation; people will suffer in some way signified by the sign or the planet afflicting; ill feeling between the people and the upper classes; some great or well-known person may die or suffer a downfall or discredit; unfavorable for the crops, for agriculture, and land, mines, and house property. Solar eclipses are worse than lunar here." This suggests that the eclipse may bring about tensions between different social classes, leading to a sense of discontent and unrest among the populace. Furthermore, the potential for the downfall of notable figures could indicate a significant shift in leadership or public perception, which may have lasting repercussions on governance and societal stability.

An important aspect of this eclipse is that it is afflicted by the planet, Saturn, from the 10th house, which represents authority, career, and public reputation. Saturn, known for its association with discipline, structure, and sometimes hardship, is in opposition to the eclipse, indicating that the challenges posed by this celestial event may be compounded by Saturn's stern influence. In mundane astrology, according to the insights of another notable astrologer, Raphael, "Saturn has chief influence over elderly people, land-owners, farmers, mines, coal, and the produce of the earth." This connection implies that the effects of the eclipse may particularly resonate with those involved in agriculture, land ownership, and industries related to natural resources, potentially leading to disruptions in these vital sectors. The opposition from Saturn could signify obstacles or delays in achieving stability or progress, especially in matters concerning the nation's foundational elements such as land and agriculture. Overall, the implications of this eclipse are profound, suggesting a period of significant transformation and potential turmoil that will require careful navigation by both the government and the citizenry.

The intensity and focus of this partial solar eclipse are heightened by its visibility in the United States. An eclipse is deemed most influential in the countries where it can be observed. In mundane astrology, the 4th house pertains to a nation's land, resources, and stability, as well as weather, agriculture, public buildings, and mines. This house also represents the people, standing opposite the 10th house, which symbolizes the government.

If you've been exploring the astrology of 2025, you're likely aware of the upcoming shift of several planets into new zodiac signs this year. This series of transformations kicks off in March with Neptune on March 30. The significant and much-discussed transition of Pluto into Aquarius already took place on November 19, 2024. Now, its outer-planet counterpart will shift from Pisces to Aries. Other planets will follow, with Saturn also moving into Aries on May 24, Jupiter entering Cancer on June 9, and Uranus transitioning into Gemini on July 7. This is an exceptionally rare occurrence that will undoubtedly bring unforeseen changes to the world at large. I suspect we will experience a spectrum of emotions as the old and new intersect, heralding a new era. It reminds me of the well-known Buddhist saying... "no mud, no lotus."

I have written extensively about Neptune's movement into Aries, and that blog can be found here: https://www.theclevelandshaman.com/post/when-water-burns.

Also, more on Uranus moving into the sign of Gemini can be found here: https://www.theclevelandshaman.com/post/airing-it-out