Why Does the World Feel So Crazy While I Feel Fine? An Astrological Perspective

A deeper look at fixed stars, Pluto, Neptune, and Uranus, and why 2025 and 2026 may shake the world but open doors in your personal journey.

Sometimes, taking a broad view of the world can be helpful. There’s a lot of noise out there about the fate of countries and the Earth itself, and it can feel heavy and overwhelming. My goal here is to help make sense of what’s happening through an astrological lens in a way that’s easy to digest. When we take a step back and look at the big picture, the details become part of the whole instead of generating fear and chaos on their own.

Please know, I’m not downplaying the details, many of which are tragic and heartbreaking. But widening our perspective can help us understand the energy behind the current dynamics in the world.

The first thing I want to clarify is the difference between mundane astrology and your personal astrology. While “mundane” can imply something dull, in astrology, it refers to the world, and right now, the world is anything but dull. Mundane astrology is the branch that focuses on countries, governments, and society at large. It reflects the overarching energy around us. Personal astrology, on the other hand, is much more individualized and may feel very different from what’s happening on a global scale.

Let’s face it, the world has always been a little crazy. Think about it. Earth once had giant reptilian beings dominating its surface. If that’s not out there, I don’t know what is. Earth has always been a wild place. From the age of dinosaurs until now, we’ve gone through dramatic climate shifts, we’re hit with around 17 meteorites a day, and we’ve endured countless wars and conflicts. And yet, we’re still here, celebrating birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, and all kinds of shared moments. Even during the worst of times in our brief recorded history, people still fell in love, helped their neighbors, built communities, and had children. Life keeps moving forward, even in harsh conditions.

On a personal level, your birth chart is a microcosm of all of astrology. It’s unique to you. Transits that impact the world can affect you very differently than they would a nation. For example, if you have a tight conjunction in your natal chart to one of the fixed stars such as Capulus, Aldebaran, or Algol, your life will reflect that energy in ways that differ greatly from how it shows up in a country’s chart.

Let’s explore these stars a little deeper.

With fixed stars, we usually work with an orb of 1.5 degrees or less, and we typically only consider conjunctions because of the stars’ great distance and how they’re projected onto the flat wheel of an astrological chart. If you don’t have a tight conjunction to a planet or angle, that fixed star energy generally doesn’t activate in your chart. Fixed star conjunctions are rare. I have a few in my own chart, but none to the ones mentioned here.

Capulus in a natal chart can offer clarity and focused action. It may also bring quick temper or rash decisions. However, with maturity, this energy can support effective, purposeful outcomes.

Aldebaran challenges integrity. It brings moral dilemmas and the temptation to compromise one’s position. If someone lacks integrity and goes against their better judgment, the consequences can be harsh.

Algol, especially in a woman’s chart, can grant powerful passion and productive intensity. But for some, it may manifest as obsession or vengeance, which can lead to personal downfall.

Why focus on these three stars? Because two nations that have been in conflict since their inception, Israel and Iran, each have major placements involving them.

Capulus is conjunct with Israel's Sun in Taurus. This adds a raw, martial intensity to the nation’s identity and fuels a primal drive for survival. It makes sense that about 50% of Israeli citizens have served in the military in some capacity, compared to just 6% in the United States.

Israel also has Aldebaran conjunct its Mercury. Like Capulus, Aldebaran is a Mars-related energetic force, reinforcing a chart signature of conflict, defense, and moral conviction. Mercury governs communication, and Aldebaran infuses that communication with themes of survival, cultural defense, and ancestral rights.

Together, these placements suggest a nation whose identity is shaped by both force and principle, where vigilance is vital and communication revolves around the right to exist.

Now let’s look at the Republic of Iran. Iran also has Capulus in its chart, conjunct the Midheaven, or MC, which represents public image and global reputation. Alongside that is Algol, which has the nature of both Mars and Saturn. This makes the projection colder, more austere, and tied to themes of punishment, extremism, and relentless force. Algol is also associated with literal and symbolic beheadings, making it one of the most feared stars in mundane astrology.

While Israel’s Aldebaran-Mercury combination fuels persuasive and defensive messaging, Iran’s Capulus-Algol MC gives it a more defiant, revolutionary, and martyr-based presence on the world stage.

With both nations carrying these intense fixed star signatures, it’s no surprise that conflict often arises when activating transits occur, such as the recent Mars square Uranus.

No Kings Protests during the Mars - Uranus Square

As we’ve seen, these stars operate differently in national charts versus personal ones. And while these two countries may continue to clash off and on, you, as an individual, still have the ability to lean into the more evolved expressions of these same energies.

With that in mind, let’s turn our attention to the outer planets and their broader impact on the collective.

The cycles of these planets vary greatly from one to the next.

Uranus tends to stay in each zodiac sign for about seven years, while Neptune spends around thirteen to fourteen years per sign. But the big wildcard is Pluto. Its orbit is elliptical, which means it varies widely by sign. Uranus completes all twelve signs in approximately 84 years, Neptune takes about 165 years, and Pluto, being much farther from the Sun, takes roughly 248 years to make a full circle.

Depending on its position in the sky, Pluto can remain in one sign anywhere from 12 to 30 years, as follows:

Pluto in Aries lasts approximately 30 years
Pluto in Taurus lasts approximately 30 years
Pluto in Gemini lasts approximately 30 years
Pluto in Cancer lasts approximately 25 years
Pluto in Leo lasts approximately 18 years
Pluto in Virgo lasts approximately 15 years
Pluto in Libra lasts approximately 12 years
Pluto in Scorpio lasts approximately 12 years
Pluto in Sagittarius lasts approximately 13 years
Pluto in Capricorn lasts approximately 15 years
Pluto in Aquarius lasts approximately 20 years
Pluto in Pisces lasts approximately 25 years

With such variance, it’s rare for all three outer planets to change signs within a short time frame. However, that is exactly what we are experiencing now, which is one of the reasons why the world feels so unsettled.

Pluto settled into the sign of Aquarius on November 19, 2024, although it had already been moving back and forth between Capricorn and Aquarius since March 23, 2023. Pluto spent about sixteen years in Capricorn, a sign associated with traditional structures and long-term goals related to power and authority.

A few years after Pluto entered Capricorn, Neptune moved into Pisces on February 3, 2012. Neptune and Pisces naturally resonate with one another, but for many, this was a period of confusion and disillusionment. It often felt like we were drifting in a fog, unsure of what was real. When Neptune had entered Aries on March 30, 2025, some people began to feel as though the fog had finally lifted.

Uranus has been in Taurus since March 6, 2019. Uranus brings innovation, while Taurus prefers stability and comfort. During this time, technologies like Zoom and AI expanded rapidly, supporting new ways of working and living. Pluto’s time in Capricorn helped reinforce those structures, giving them staying power. On July 7, 2025, Uranus will move into Gemini, another shift of energy in a relatively short time period.

We are leaving behind a period defined by introspective, receptive, and traditional energy. Pluto in Capricorn, Neptune in Pisces, and Uranus in Taurus emphasized home, structure, finances, and the desire for security. This doesn't mean everyone personally resonated with that energy, but it did shape the collective tone.

Now, within less than a year, these three outer planets are shifting into signs that emphasize action, extroversion, and individualism: Pluto in Aquarius, Neptune in Aries, and Uranus in Gemini. It feels as if something primal has awakened. The world is becoming louder, more restless, and more reactive. There’s a noticeable shift from passivity and conformity to boldness, rebellion, and even aggression. When the outer planets move into extroverted and masculine signs, tensions often rise and conflict can erupt more easily.

We are already seeing signs of this transition: protests, international tensions, and shifting alliances. The summer of 2025 will likely be active, but this doesn’t mean it will all be negative. These three outer planets are forming a minor grand trine, which creates supportive flow between them. While the energy can still be jarring, it also offers momentum and cooperation for those able to work with it.

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ve probably heard me say that the whole world could be on fire, but your life could still be just fine. I know that may sound strange. If you are in a place experiencing active conflict or facing serious disruptions to your life or social status, of course things won’t feel fine. But not all battles are visible or global. Some people will experience loss and hardship. Others may feel more energized, inspired, and ready to grow.

Finding your direction during energy shifts

There are two additional planets to consider here: Jupiter and Saturn. Known as the social planets, they reflect how we relate to society, goals, and collective frameworks. Right now, they are in very different conditions.

Saturn is in Aries, a sign where it is considered to be in its fall. Saturn governs structure, responsibility, and limits. Aries is about impulsiveness, independence, and drive. Together, they challenge us to take responsibility for ourselves. This energy can be harsh at times, especially when rules are enforced through authoritarian means. But it can also help us gain clarity and focus. It invites us to see through distractions and direct our energy toward meaningful goals. However, that same push to move forward can also create restlessness if not channeled wisely.

Jupiter, on the other hand, is exalted in Cancer. When Jupiter is in Cancer, there is a deep focus on home, family, connection, and emotional security. This placement is often seen as auspicious and nurturing. But like all energies, it has a polarity. For some, it may heighten sensitivity or the urge to fiercely protect their home environment. It’s important not to view any placement as inherently good or bad, but to understand how it tends to express itself depending on circumstances.

With all that said, there are many people who could have a fantastic summer, even with the world in flux. For example, if you are a Cancer rising, Jupiter is currently transiting your first house while Saturn is transiting your tenth. This creates a focus on self-direction, personal growth, and career goals. You may have lucky encounters or a renewed sense of optimism, even if things don’t go according to plan.

In terms of business or ambition, you may feel ready to take bold steps. You’re more willing to take risks, but you’re doing it with strategy instead of fear. Saturn’s placement can help you stay grounded and practical, while Jupiter’s support helps you see possibilities beyond your current limitations.

For Cancer risings, the three outer planets are also working behind the scenes to support your growth. Uranus is moving through your twelfth house, which can bring sudden insight, especially on spiritual or subconscious levels. Neptune in Aries is helping you reconnect with goals and dreams that feel more actionable. Pluto in Aquarius, moving through your eighth house, is asking you to rethink your relationship with shared resources and how you want your money or influence to impact the world.

It is important to remember that external chaos has always been around. It just may not have been in your backyard. The United States birth chart is having a lot of activity, and due to the past eight decades of the United States' involvement with world affairs, the disruption of the U.S. is reverberating throughout the world. But this doesn’t mean all of the tensions are due to the United States. The shift of energy will impact each country differently, as well as each person.

Please know I am not downplaying anyone’s negative experiences with what is happening now. But at the same time, I think it is important to have perspective. From 1969 through 1973, the outer planets transitioned from introspective and passive energy into the active and initiating fire and air energy. This was the time of the Vietnam War; an energy that polarized the United States and ravaged a beautiful country. Just like then, collectively we will see war, conflict, tension, injustice, displacement, and the harsher side of humanity.

However, individually, we may experience some of the same things that my family experienced back then. My father had significant career growth during this time, which led him to own his own business. My parents’ friend group largely expanded, and as a family, we would attend pool parties and neighborhood get-togethers. Even though the nightly news was filled with frightening images of combat, I learned to dance, lost my baby teeth, and played outside with my friends. Life went on. And so did death, including the passing of my great aunt Sadie, whom I adored, and my uncle Sonny, a one-time professional wrestler.

I’m not telling you to bury your head in the sand. But I also believe that you are here to live your life. Change is hard. Nations fighting, whether with one another or internally, is always heinous. It is important to recognize what you can change and what is out of your control. Not enjoying your life is giving in to the external chaos and the power brokers who don’t want you to be happy.

Instead, I recommend looking at your own chart and understanding how the external influences of the planets will impact you over the next couple of years. Just like in the 1970s, the energy will eventually settle down. Disputes will be resolved. And the 24 hour news will find other subjects to cover.

Lean into the positive side of these energetic shifts. They can help propel you toward your dreams, connect you with others, and open your mind to new perspectives. The world may feel chaotic, but when you tune into your personal astrology and focus on your heart’s desire and path, you may find that this is your time to rise, to lead, to love, to heal, or to begin again.

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If you need help reading your chart or understanding how this energy may be showing up in your life, consider scheduling a reading with someone you trust. If you'd like to work with me, you can book a session at GrandTrineAstrology.com.

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