Welcome to the Lipstick Mystic’s Astro-updates. These are rambling essays on whatever the planets happen to be doing at the moment and how the stars are kicking up energy in our personal, professional, and spiritual lives. You’ll also find readers’ questions about the compatibility of different signs and information about how astrology works. Submit your own comments here: editor@lipstickmystic.com

Or you can click here to skip ahead and read the latest astro-updates.

There’s an old saying among astrologers that “The planets impel, they don’t compel.” “Impel” means to push forward while “compel” means to force something. The planets are always inspiring us to push ahead in our lives, to advance our understanding of what it means to be spirits living in physical bodies. Sometimes, this pushing can be uncomfortable, but growth is always an intense process. It takes a good challenge to get us really moving. Growing pains are usually a sign that we’re doing something right.

The planets don’t “compel” or demand that we do anything. While our nervous systems definitely react to the harmonious or inharmonious movements of the planets, it’s up to us how we choose to handle these influences. The planets don’t control us; we control us.

So remember that the next time a toothless gypsy tries to intimidate you with one of those bogus fortune telling sessions. Don’t let her charge you tons of money to rub a small chicken on your behalf because the moon is void or Saturn is opposing your natal sun. Tell her she’s got it all wrong. And, besides, you’re vegetarian.

In Astro-updates, you’ll find practical tips on how to make the most out of current stellar influences. A lot of the material focuses on energy management, time management, and emotional awareness. These are the keys to mastering what astrology has to teach us. You’ll also find occasional meditations to help you to release the negative aspects of a particular planetary configuration so that you can experience greater flow and feelings of peace.

Pretty soon, you’ll learn how to surf those cosmic waves, however choppy they may seem, while maintaining the perfect hairdo.

If you’re ready for fun, read on here.