The Effect of the Planets on Holiday Shopping

Some of you have your holiday shopping completed, right? I don't. I always have someone left to check off my shopping list a few days before Christmas. Astrology offers a few suggestions to make your shopping easier and more economical, based on the planets.

Saturn
If you simply must have a particular item, shop early. Don't wait for a sale. With Saturn in the sign of Cancer now, people will shop more in an emotional basis than usual. This means that shoppers will pay full retail to get perfect gifts. The news indicates that retailers are counting on this attitude among shoppers.

According to Anne D'Innocenzio, an AP business writer, "Merchants are more hopeful this year that consumers will keep buying throughout the season, not only when the merchandise is 50 percent off. Some retailers—particularly department stores and apparel merchants—plan to be stingier with markdowns than in the past. They're counting on consumers to be so pleased with new services and exclusive merchandise that they'll be willing to pay full price."

Pluto
Shop early. But you already know this rule. It's easier to get what you need, wrap it, and mail it early. You'll be less compulsive and pressured, so you can enjoy the process more.

Mercury
If you are planning electronic purchases, get them handled before December 17. That's when Mercury turns retrograde (appears to go backward in the sky). Astrologers know that Mercury retrograde equipment purchases often mean returns or repairs because of malfunctions.

Jupiter
Make that list and check it twice. Jupiter is in Virgo, the sign of details. Without a list, you may buy three things for one person and nothing for someone else. With a list, you can predetermine the amount of money you are willing to spend, the kind of gift you need for each person, and the stores you have to visit to complete your shopping. With the holiday rush, a little planning can make the entire process much more enjoyable.

Neptune
Don't be afraid to diverge from your oh-so-carefully-prepared list if you see something unique. With Neptune in Aquarius, you may find major bargains on unusual items that are calculated to fulfill the heart's desire for someone on your list.

Mars
Expect your attitude to shift as Mars enters Aries on December 16. You will feel more energized then, but also more driven to get everything done. This shift, timed to coincide with Mercury turning retrograde, will break the holiday shopping season into two distinct segments. Your more thoughtful efforts will occur before this date, while after the 17th you will be hurried and perhaps less discriminating.

Venus
Enjoy your holiday activities. Plan unusual social events closer to Christmas. Invite different people into your home, or accept an invitation from someone you would like to get to know better. Try foods from different cultures. Venus in Aquarius makes the period between Christmas and the New Year great for creating events that will be remembered for years to come.

Uranus
As often happens around the holidays, you may feel a bit compulsive about life in general, and holiday demands in particular. Remember the natural rhythm of the season. The days are short, but will begin to get longer by Christmas. If you pay attention, you can feel this shift toward the light, and you can embody it in your personal and social activities. Keep an eye open for a person who needs a hug or a smile. Treat sales people with respect—their jobs are really hectic right now. Bring a bit of light into the lives of everyone you encounter, and you will automatically lift your own spirits.