Art Journal with the Moon for September 11-17, 2023

This is a summary of the moon’s energy for the upcoming week and the inner work and magic you can do in your art journal to make the most of the opportunities the cosmos is gifting us with.

Every week the emotional and magical opportunities the moon is sending you are different because the energy she is drawing down from the planets and stars changes moment to moment. Planets and stars and moon phases and moon signs each carry their own unique energy. This is my weekly update of the moon’s comings and goings to support you in aligning with her energy.

Get your art journal or a scrap of paper you see lying around, your art supplies or those pencil crayons you have hidden away somewhere and have fun. Spend 10 – 20 minutes focusing on the themes the moon is supporting you to explore that day while you play with colors and shapes and watch what happens over time.

It’s amazing what a little consistent creative time can do.

Happy New Moon in Virgo

Monday

The moon is in the fixed fire sign of Leo today. Leo is ruled by the sun so the moon is carrying a little of that energy as well today.

Leo energy wants to bring loyalty, dependability, power, radiance, generosity, warmth, optimism and solidity. It wants to help you shine your light in the world, believe in your worth and boost your confidence. It is warm and expressive but sometimes can bring energy that influences you to be abrupt or impulsive.

Imagine your inner light – the part of you that shines bright no matter what has happened to you or how you are feeling – the part of you that is forever radiant and worthy of goodness.

Now imagine that light grows a little brighter. As it grows brighter, it attracts more goodness to you today.

Imagine your light attracting goodness to you all day long.

In your art journal, draw, paint or collage an image that represents your inner light.

Tuesday

The moon is void of course for most of the day in the mountain time zone.

This sometimes happens when the moon is moving from one zodiac sign to another or when it’s not making any aspects with other planets – I think of it as though the moon is just hanging around alone and in the in-between space – no longer where it was but not yet where it will be. The moon likes reflecting energy down to us but when it’s void of course there’s nothing substantial for it to reflect so its reflecting that emptiness back to us.

It’s as if our celestial guide takes a brief pause, suspending its influence and opening a unique window of stillness and introspection. The moon is currently in the balsamic phase for it emphasizes this energy of introspection.

Embrace this pause, take a step back, and reflect. This period is not about making significant decisions or initiating new projects; rather, it’s a time for taking stock, for going inward, and for focusing on self-care and inner peace.

When the moon is void of course, it is a good time to engage in activities that nurture your emotional well-being. This is also an opportune time for self-reflection and introspection, allowing us to connect more deeply with our inner selves.

On the flip side, it’s best to avoid initiating new projects, making important decisions, or embarking on significant endeavors during this period. The energy of the void of course moon is not conducive to starting new things; rather, it supports wrapping up loose ends and investing in self-care.

Consider reflecting on these questions during a Void of Course Moon:

What areas of my life require my attention, but I’ve been neglecting?

How can I better care for my emotional well-being?

What loose ends do I need to tie up before moving forward?

The void of course moon invites us to embrace the pause, to indulge in introspection, and to nurture our emotional health. It’s a gentle reminder from the cosmos that in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, taking time for yourself, for stillness and self-care, is not only beneficial—it’s essential.

In your art journal, draw, paint or collage an image that represents a serene landscape. like a peaceful night sky, that represents the feeling of being in a calm and nurturing void.

Wednesday

The moon moves into the sign of Virgo today. Virgo is ruled by the planet Mercury so it’s carrying a little of that planet’s energy as well.
Virgo energy is nocturnal and of the earth. It is mutable and versatile. It supports you in being efficient and organized. It wants to help you find the most effective way of doing things. It brings practicality, attention to detail, a love of quality and precision but it can cause you to get lost in the details.

When the moon is in Virgo, it’s the perfect time for review and adjustments.

Do you like what you’ve been creating in your life lately?

You’re not in control of creating everything you experience in your life but of the things you do have control over, which situations and experiences that you’ve been creating do you enjoy and which situations and experiences have you not been enjoying?

If you don’t like what you’re creating, what adjustments can you make?

In your art journal, draw, paint or collage an image that represents an adjustment you’d like to make in your life.

Thursday

Happy new moon in Virgo.

Enriched by its ruling planet, Mercury, Virgo prompts us to articulate our feelings and experiences with clarity. Virgo’s energy is also both nocturnal and deeply rooted in the earth, giving it a grounded, calm presence. Its mutable nature helps you adapt to circumstances with grace and pragmatism. One of Virgo’s most profound gifts is its drive for efficiency and organization. It pushes you to seek out the most effective methods, weaving a tapestry of practicality, attention to detail, and an unyielding love for quality. Yet, with its magnifying precision, it’s easy to become enmeshed in minute details, sometimes at the risk of losing sight of the broader picture.

The moon in Virgo is a time to pause and reflect: Are you content with what you’ve been manifesting in your life? Not every event or experience in our lives stems directly from our thoughts or actions but some do. For those experiences you have molded and shaped, which ones bring joy? Which ones perhaps weigh heavy on your spirit? This Virgo new moon nudges you to discern, evaluate, and, if needed, recalibrate.

As a highly sensitive person, you are uniquely attuned to your environment and internal landscape. Art journaling during this new moon in Virgo will help you translate your thoughts and feelings onto paper, blending colors, shapes, and words, allows you to visually navigate your emotions. Through your art journal, you can work with the Virgo moon’s energy, taking stock of what is working in your life and what might need a gentle shift.

If there are aspects of your life you’re not entirely content with, what adjustments can you make? How can you align more authentically with your heart’s desires?

To personalize this moon even further, let’s get specific and see the area of YOUR life that this moon energy is focused on.

To figure out what area of your life this moon wants you to focus on, you simply need to know your rising sign.

If you don’t know your rising sign (it’s different than your sun or moon sign), then you can read more about it here and you can calculate what it is here. I also show you how to calculate your birth chart using the whole sign house system here. When you create your birth chart in this way, you will see your rising sign is the zodiac sign that occupies the first house in your birth chart.

If your rising sign is Aries, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with daily routines and work tasks, your relationship with pets or your health and vitality. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “How can I improve my morning routine?” “What steps can I take today to improve my health and vitality, and how will I stay committed to these changes over time?” “Am I satisfied with the balance between work, leisure, and self-care in my daily life?” “What daily habits or routines would I like to create or strengthen to help me reach my goals?” “What changes in my daily routines would enhance my relationships with loved ones?” “Am I mindful of the media and information I consume daily, and is it aligned with my values and goals?”

If your rising sign is Taurus, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with your children, your sex life, your hobbies, pleasures, or creativity. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “How would I describe the current state of my relationship with my children?” “What aspects of my parenting style am I proud of, and what areas do I feel could use improvement?” “How can I ensure that I’m taking care of my own well-being so that I can be a more present and patient parent?” “What are my creative passions, and which of them do I want to nurture during this lunar cycle?” “What are my long-term creative aspirations, and how can I take small steps toward achieving them?” “Am I currently communicating openly and honestly with my partner(s) about my needs and desires?” “What aspects of my sexual experiences bring me the most joy and connection?” “Am I giving myself permission to prioritize pleasure and joy in my daily life?” “What are my long-term aspirations when it comes to experiencing more pleasure and joy in my life?”

If your rising sign is Gemini, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with your parents, your ancestors or your home and living situation. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “Are there any unresolved issues or conflicts in my relationship with my parents or the people that raised me that I want to address or heal?” “How do I express my gratitude and appreciation for the care and support I received from my parents or caregivers?” “Do I have an overall vision for the kind of relationship I want to have with my parents or caregivers, and how can I work toward that vision?” “Are there any home-related goals, such as homeownership or renovations, that I want to work toward?” “What is my overarching intention for my home during this lunar cycle?” “Are there any rituals or routines I can establish to maintain a clean and energetically clear home?”

If your rising sign is Cancer, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with learning, teaching, communication, siblings, peers, neighbors, the goddess or earth-based rituals. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “Are there any communication challenges or patterns of miscommunication that I would like to address or improve?” “How do I typically express my thoughts and emotions? Do I feel that my current communication style aligns with my authentic self?” “Are there specific relationships in my life where I want to improve communication, and if so, what steps can I take to do so?” “What specific skills, knowledge, or subjects am I interested in learning or improving?” “Am I satisfied with my current learning habits and routines, or do I feel there is room for improvement?” “Are there any obstacles or limiting beliefs that have been holding me back from pursuing my desired areas of learning?” “Do I have a specific goddess or aspect of nature that I feel particularly drawn to or connected with for this lunar cycle?” “What rituals or ceremonies do I want to practice more of to honor the moon, goddess, or nature?” “Are there any elements of my nature spirituality that I would like to deepen or explore further?”

If your rising sign is Leo, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with money, income, assets, possessions or livelihood. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “What are my financial goals, both short-term and long-term?” “Am I satisfied with my current financial situation, or do I feel there is room for improvement?” “What spending habits do I want to change or improve upon to meet my financial goals?” “What is my overarching intention for my financial well-being and goals during this lunar cycle?” “Does the way I earn money align with my passions, values, and life purpose?” “Are there any limiting beliefs or self-doubts that have been holding me back from earning more money, and how can I overcome them?” “What are my financial goals and aspirations in terms of accumulating or managing assets?” “Are my possessions and assets protected in the way I want them to be and if they are not what can I do during the lunar cycle to ensure their protection?”

If your rising sign is Virgo, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with your identity, body, appearance or your spirit. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “Am I satisfied with my current self-care routines and practices, or do I feel there is room for improvement?” “How can I show my body love during this lunar cycle?” “Are there any negative self-perceptions or beliefs about my body that I want to release or change?” “How do I prioritize self-care and self-love in my daily or weekly routine?” “What practices or activities make me feel most connected and in tune with my body?” “What guidance or wisdom would I like to receive from my higher self this lunar cycle?” “How do I want to grow or deepen my relationship with my higher self?” “Am I satisfied with my current sense of self, or do I feel there is room for growth and evolution?” “What roles and labels do I currently identify with, and how do they impact my sense of self?” “Are there roles and labels I identified with in the past that no longer suit me?” “Do I embrace and celebrate my individuality, including my quirks and imperfections?”

If your rising sign is Libra, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with your subconscious mind or deep inner shadow work. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “What specific aspects of myself or my past do I feel are in the shadows, waiting to be explored and integrated?” “What emotional patterns, triggers, or reactions do I notice in myself that may indicate areas of inner work?” “How does my inner dialogue and self-talk influence my self-perception and behavior?” “What self-care practices can I implement to support myself as I engage in shadow work and inner work?” “What is my overarching intention for my shadow work and inner work during this lunar cycle?”

If your rising sign is Scorpio, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with friendships, groups, community and your hopes and wishes. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “Am I satisfied with the depth and quality of my social relationships, or do I feel there is room for improvement?” “What boundaries do I have in place to protect my well-being in my friendships?” “What is my vision for the kind of friendships I want to cultivate in my life?” “What is my overarching intention for my friendships and social connections during this lunar cycle?” “What communities or groups do I currently belong to, and why are they important to me?” “Am I satisfied with my current level of community engagement, or do I feel there is room for improvement or expansion?” “Are there any local issues or causes that I am passionate about and want to support?” “What are my most cherished hopes and wishes for my life right now?” “Are there any fears or doubts that I need to confront and overcome to pursue my hopes and wishes wholeheartedly?”

If your rising sign is Sagittarius, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with your career, reputation or ideas of success. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “What are my long-term career goals and aspirations?” “Do I have a clear plan or strategy for reaching my career goals, both short-term and long-term?” “What does a balanced and fulfilling career look like to me, and how can I work toward it?” “Are there any limiting beliefs or fears related to my career goals that I want to address and overcome?” “What qualities and values do I want my reputation to reflect?” “What are some key accomplishments or qualities that I want to be known for?” “Do I consistently align my actions and decisions with the reputation I want to cultivate?”

If your rising sign is Capricorn, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with faith, spirituality, spiritual practices, publishing, long-distance travel or future success. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “What aspects of my faith or spirituality bring me the most comfort, connection, and inspiration?” “Do I have a regular spiritual practice or routine, and how does it support my connection to the divine or the spiritual realm?” “What steps can I take to further deepen my faith or spirituality and align it with my life’s purpose and values?” “What are my long-distance travel goals and destinations that I want to explore?” “Have I created a travel bucket list of destinations or experiences that I want to fulfill?”

If your rising sign is Aquarius, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have to do with my relationship with death, debt, shared money or taxes. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “Are there any emotional or psychological factors related to debt that I want to address through self-reflection or therapy?” “Am I actively tracking my income and expenses to understand my financial situation better?” “What expenses or spending habits can I cut or modify to allocate more funds toward debt repayment?” “Am I comfortable discussing and contemplating the topic of death, or does it evoke fear or discomfort?” “How do I cope with grief and loss, and are there strategies or resources I can employ to support my grieving process?” “Are there any fears or anxieties related to death that I want to confront or work through?” “What legacy or impact do I want to leave behind for future generations?”

If your rising sign is Pisces, the new moon is inviting you to set intentions in the areas of your life that have do with your close, intimate relationships, marriage or partnerships. Consider what adjustments you can make in order to experience more of what you want in these areas of your life. For example, ask yourself, “What are the strengths and qualities of the relationship that I value the most?” “What are my long-term goals and aspirations for this relationship?” “How do I want to express love, affection, and appreciation to my partner in the future, and how do I want my partner to express them to me?” “What boundaries and expectations do I have in my partnership, and are they effectively communicated and respected?” “Are there any past unresolved issues or resentments that we need to address and work through together?” “What is my overarching intention for nurturing and deepening my close intimate partnership during this lunar cycle?”

In your art journal, draw, paint or collage an image that represents your new moon intentions.

Friday

Today, the moon moves into the sign of Libra later in the day. This brings to light dynamics in our relationships, our experience with balance, and inner harmony. And for the highly sensitive, it offers a gentle reminder to find balance between nurturing our own souls and cherishing our connections with others.

With Libra being ruled by the planet Venus, the moon reflects a little of this planet’s energy as well. Imagine the moon, tinged with Venus’s soft and beautiful aura, inviting us into a space of art and grace.

When the moon is in Libra, it can be a time to have fun with friends, gather and enjoy group activities. Libra encourages us to find acceptance and understanding in our interactions. However, it’s worth noting the delicate dance that Libra plays – while it nudges us towards sociability and connection, it can also lead us to focus too much on others. And there is the challenge: the quest for balance. Especially for the empathic or the highly sensitive, it’s essential to remember to honor your own feelings and needs even as you immerse yourself in the world of others.

In your art journal, draw, paint or collage an image that represents a hope or wish you’d like to make for a certain relationship in your life.

Saturday

The moon is in a harmonious relationship with the beautiful planet Venus today.

Venus is associated with fertility and growth and represents beauty, grace, softness and gentleness. It brings love, friendship, harmony, passion, sensuality, pleasure and is concerned with our relationships and our relationship with pleasure and joy.

The moon and Venus both have receptive qualities. In the spiritual realm, Venus and the moon work well with intuitive natures to encourage you to live in flow. They provide you with the energy that helps you open, surrender and trust.

In the physical realm, the moon represents the body so bringing that gentle energy of Venus to your body by focusing on doing things that make you feel happy, nurtured and cared for today is helpful.

In the emotional realm, allow the full spectrum of your emotions the respect they deserve today and try to express how you feel in ways that bring harmony and gentleness to your relationships.

In your art journal, draw, paint or collage an image that represents the kind of joy you want to invite more of in your life.

Sunday

The moon is in a tense relationship with Pluto today.

The moon is the queen of the night. She wants to illuminate the darkness, bring about change, be a mirror to reflect us back to ourselves and awaken our receptive and intuitive powers. She represents your body and emotions and reminds you that life is an ever-changing cycle of birth, death, decay and rebirth. She wants to bring kindness, nurturing, novelty and adaptability.

Pluto wants to illuminate what is hidden in your subconscious realm to help you transform. It can bring endings, new beginnings, deep spiritual growth and rebirth. With Pluto’s energy influencing us, its helpful to face your shadows and your inner darkness – and hopefully you can do that with compassion.

In this tense kind of relationship the moon and Pluto are having today, challenging emotions can surface and affect how you speak or act. It can stir up difficult issues to process or unresolved issues that still need to be tended to. It’s like facing dark truths that ultimately set you free.

Personally, I see this as an opportunity to address those exiled parts within our psyche. The ones we’ve hidden away because of shame, fear or the worry that we won’t be loved or accepted. Those parts get activated in this kind of moon energy and yes, it can cause challenges in your life and relationships but its hard to tend to those deeply hidden inner parts without them being activated so there is a blessing to this kind of tense moon energy. It supports our emotional and spiritual growth by giving us the opportunity to meet the emotional or spiritual needs of our hidden parts.

Think of an inner child part of you that you have hidden away. Why did you hide them away at the time? Is there something they needed at the time? How can you offer that part of you what it didn’t receive in the past?

In your art journal, create an image that represents an inner child part of you that needs your care and attention today.

Have fun with your art journal and the moon this week.

with love,

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