N is for Neptune

Neptune is considered one of the "outer planets" of astrology, and as such can have less of a day to day impact on a chart. With that said, its energy still plays a role in astrological interpretation.

Neptune is the ruling planet for the very watery sign of Pisces. Before the discovery of Neptune, however, Pisces people were ruled by high-minded Jupiter. Keep this in mind, Pisces folks--you should know where both of these planets are in your chart and how they fit in.

It takes a long time for Neptune to move through each of the signs, a total of about 165 years, so we won't see a full run of Neptune through the Zodiac in our lifetimes. Recently, however, Neptune moved into the sign that it rules, Pisces--astrologically, Neptune is "in its dignity"--and that is a very powerful position indeed. Many Neptunian events and problems will likely take the forefront over the next 14 years as Neptune makes its way toward Aries.

Generally, Neptune rules mystical visions, artistic endeavors, intuition, delusions, craftiness, self-dramatization, illusion, and unconditional love. Many believe that Neptune's energy is that of Venus, but vibrating at a "higher octave", if you will.

To put this in more practical terms--because Neptune is NOT a practical planet in any sense of the word--here are some areas and disciplines that are Neptune-ruled:

• Dreams and dreamers
• Artists
• Musicians
• Filmmakers
• Deception, lying, or anything clandestine or deliberately kept hidden 
• Psychics and psychic ability
• Spirituality
• Drugs--anything that helps you escape from reality is Neptune-ruled! 
• Cosmetics
• Psychiatry

This is a planet that I know very well, and one I have been working with quite a bit in my professional life. Just take a look back at my "Saturn vs. Neptune" posts pretty much since the beginning of my time blogging and you'll get a sense of why that is. 

In many ways, for me Neptune is finding that escape, that release valve from everyday life. It can help you get in touch spiritually and really feel a sense of peace and total ecstasy. Its energy is amazing. The problem comes when you overdo it with Neptune; too much of a good thing is always a problem. With Neptune in the driver's seat too often, you may have escapist tendencies that lead you toward abuse of alcohol or other drugs. Sadly, many Pisces folks do "drink like a fish", and addiction is also one of the areas Neptune rules. You need to have some Neptune but it must be carefully balanced among everything else. 

Thanks so much for your faithful, patient attention! Please tune in tomorrow for my "O" post.