Your Guide to the Astrological Weather for October 2014…

Prepare yourself for a month of expansion, excitement, progress and adventure. Thanks to plenty of planetary action involving lucky Jupiter, coupled with several powerful aspects occurring during this month’s lunar eclipse in Aries, October is set to be an excellent time for pursuing your passions and engaging in fresh activities that are meaningful and fulfilling, both personally and professionally. For my tips on which dates to do what, read on!

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SOLI-LUNAR PHASES

Over the course of a year, the solstices and equinoxes of the Sun mark out the changing seasons, which affect not only the beginning of different natural cycles, but our moods and choice of activities; whilst on a smaller scale, the Moon’s phases make up the time-span of a month. In fact, the etymology of the word month, comes from the Indo-European word, ‘me(n)ses’, meaning “moon.” ¹

During this period, the Moon also moves through the zodiac, with every progressive full or new moon cycle occurring in the sign more or less following that of the previous month.

Lunar Phases

NEW MOON IN LIBRA – 23 September 2014

No sooner does the Sun ingress into Libra, than it moves to join the Moon in a cosy conjunction, resulting in a New Moon in the very same sign. This double dose of Libra, the sign most strongly associated with symmetry, fairness and peace, signals a month in which many of us will strive for personal harmony and emotional balance, especially within relationships and domestic settings.

Being a New Moon and therefore setting in motion a fresh lunar cycle, it is also a good time to initiate legal action or take steps to set up new agreements with business partners, as well as iron out differences in political deals or peace treaty negotiations. From a creative point of view, pairs, dual aspects, and balanced repeat patterns may work better than individual or single items and images. If you have any kind of emotional dilemma, share it with another person – you’ll feel so much better for it. Partnering up to complete a work project may also prove to be a canny move over the next four weeks or so.

FULL MOON IN ARIES – 08 October 2014

With a Full Moon in fiery Aries set for the first week of October, don’t be surprised if you instinctively find yourself somewhat busier than usual early on this month. Personal matters could come to a head now, catching you off-guard, so keep on top of developments and make sure you are prepared to act quickly to protect your interests. Emotionally, this may be a time when you feel you need to assert yourself more strongly than usual – not necessarily a bad thing if you usually defer to those more pushy or bossy than yourself.

This Full Moon also happens to be a lunar eclipse, which is likely to make you aware of a growing internal need to be more self-sufficient personally and professionally. Don’t be surprised if you decide to move out of home or choose to begin making decisions more autonomously, without interference or advice from others. You could also find that certain solo initiatives or private matters that began in March 2014 could come to a climax/conclusion around this time. You may want to cast your mind back to establish whether what takes place now has its roots in last April’s Aries lunation – the answers could hold clues as to what to expect now.

The good news is that this particular Full Moon eclipse will form part of a stunning diamond aspect pattern, one that includes expansive Jupiter in Leo, the confident Sun in cuddly Libra and Mars in happy-go-lucky Sagittarius. This is likely to mean that any six-month old initiatives and projects end with something of a bang, now, but in a good way! You could well find yourself propelled into the limelight, or find your horizons widening in the near future as a result of current developments Think golden handshakes, career high notes and emotional fireworks. Clearly, although a potentially very busy time, there is also likely to be cause to celebrate.

SOLAR ECLIPSE IN SCORPIO – 23 October 2014

Just as one door closes, a new one opens…. Around the time of the New Moon, we have a solar eclipse in Scorpio to look forward to. This ushers in a fresh half year cycle in which new enterprises, plans or schemes involving antiques, recycling, research, psychotherapy or crime fighting are likely to be well-starred.

Venus in Scorpio and Mercury in Libra also form part of the mix, which suggests that sex, intimacy and relationships could also somehow be involved in what unfolds between now and next April. If you’re single, you could run into, or hear from, an old flame. Couples could find themselves dealing with brand new issues around passion, temptation and how to keep the spark alive.

Inheritances, loans and shared resources are other areas where you could see fresh developments. If you are keen to become more financially self-sufficient, or acquire a property, perhaps to renovate or restore, then get ready to get the ball rolling.

The only downer is Uranus, which will be opposing the North Node at the New Moon. This could add an even more unpredictable, possibly even impulsive air to proceedings than usual, so take care to avoid accidents and don’t be too rash when it comes to acting on your desires or impulses. Selfish deed could come back to haunt you or others further down the line.

For more details about what to expect from the October eclipses, look out for my mundane eclipse forecast.

Solar Phases

SUN INTO SCORPIO – 23 October 2014

The Sun glides into enigmatic and passionate Scorpio on October the 23rd, which is sure to add an air of depth and mystery to personal matters. Secrets, taboo subjects, puzzles and unsolved problems are all likely to become a source of interest or focus during the next month.

This is a time when substance, rather than style, is likely to predominate, so be sure to do your homework before going into any important meeting or discussion – otherwise you may be caught out by someone in dogged pursuit of the truth. On the plus side, this positioning is likely to make your concentration good, and your powers of perception, razor sharp – excellent for research and detective work!

Still, it isn’t great if you have something to hide – Scorpio seems to have a knack for sniffing out people with secrets or hidden skeletons and usually who won’t settle for anything less than whole story. The only way to avoid gossip and scandal is to be scrupulously open and admit upfront to any potential conflicts of interest or indiscretions, especially in business dealings, before anyone else can catch you out. Honesty really is the best policy now.

Planetary Events & Energy Shifts throughout October 2014

RETROGRADES, STATIONS etc.

Mercury Retrograde: 5-26 October

During October, Mercury will be retrograde for most of the month, which may mean that matters related to recycling, antiques, restoration and research are delayed or need reviewing due to unexpected hitches or obstacles of one sort or another. This reversal in direction also means that Mercury will re-enter the sign of Libra on the 10th, which could result in certain relationship issues coming back to haunt you. Legal proceedings may also slow down or completely grind to a halt for a few weeks. Power cuts and energy shortages are also possibilities now. However, all is not doom and gloom: this is a great time to revise existing projects, perhaps by updating them with more thorough, in-depth information, or just finishing things them off properly – no bad thing! Too often in life, everyday distractions prevent us from looking into things as deeply as we’d like, and this retrograde provides you with the perfect opportunity to do just that.

PLANETARY INGRESSES

Mercury into Scorpio: 27 Sep – 9 Oct

Thoughts deepen and words are more carefully chosen as Mercury ingresses into passionate and brooding Scorpio on September the 27th. This more serious but sensitive atmosphere is likely to pervade the two weeks straddling the end of September and beginning of October, making it a perfect time for quiet reflection, in-depth research and intense chats with those you feel you can be yourself with. Discretion and trust are likely to be two very important qualities, especially in business, while the planet of communication, learning and self-expression is in Scorpio…If certain parties are being secretive, though, don’t worry – the truth will come out, especially once Mercury retrogrades on the 5th.

Mercury back into Libra: 10 Oct – 9 Nov

No sooner does Mercury switch signs, than it begins to slow down and finally station as October opens. This means, that just two weeks into its tour of Scorpio, Mercury will retrace its steps into Libra, where it will remain for the rest of the month. As a result, you can expect a resurgence of legal issues, relationship niggles and equality debates, especially any unfinished business left over from September. Be prepared to pick up where you left off.

For a recap of what Mercury in Libra is all about, revisit my September Astro-Insights column.

Venus into Libra: 13 Sep – 25 Oct

In late September, Venus will ingress into its own sign – peace-loving and relationship-oriented Libra. Harmony and the balancing of opposite qualities or points of view is what Libra strives for, whilst Venus loves to socialise and surround herself with beauty. As such, you can expect the period surrounding this ingress to really amplify the Libran need to collaborate and seek equilibrium, especially when it comes to one-to-one interactions. Consider this the ideal time to get personal. Around now, you may also find yourself seeking out pleasure, admiring beautiful objects or people with exceptionally good looks, and getting creative. Venus in Libra should also help to amplify those attributes needed for successful relationships: charm, diplomacy, compromise, fairness and equality. Artistically, this is a period when symmetrical lines, matching pairs and dual colours or motifs are likely to feature quite strongly.

KEY DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

This month, we have a slew of cosmic power days to look forward to. Below are some astrological highlights to take note of during October.

Power struggles, personal choices, relationship challenges 
Sun, Venus square Pluto – 4, 8 October
After making some much-needed lifestyle changes last month, you may now be challenged to make a few adjustments so that plans or arrangements flow more smoothly. If others have secretly felt threatened by your recent personal choices, they may now give voice to this. Depending on their personality, they could try to undermine your decisions using underhanded tactics; or if they are more confident, blatantly challenge your authority, perhaps by calling your judgement or choices into question. The key is to understand the fears that may lie behind their actions and then take steps to either reassure them or win them over to your way of thinking. Of course, they may have a point or two, in which case, don’t be too proud to listen. If they are simply being control freaks, be prepared to stand your ground and possibly risk social disapproval in the short term.

Bold changes, inspired action, living your truth
Mars trine Uranus – 5 October
Coming in the wake of last month’s Jupiter-Uranus trine, which may have seen you come up with some inspired ideas or inventions, a Mars-Uranus trine in the first week of October invites you to take action and put those ideas or beliefs into practice. This is your chance to live more authentically and independently, so if you feel stuck or trapped, this is your opportunity to break out of old patterns or ruts. During the days surrounding this aspect, you’ll have a lot more energy, confidence and enthusiasm, which should help you to overcome obstacles and in many cases, make some surprising progress. You could discover a shortcut to fitness/good health or encounter a technical breakthrough which significantly improves how you do things going forward. Mustering up the courage to take inspired action will be much easier than usual, so don’t be afraid to act on your intuition now.

Enthusiasm, self-confidence, expansive efforts, good energy & physical vitality
Mars trine Jupiter sextile the Sun – 8-10 October
Close to the time of the Full Moon, we have a formation known as a minor grand trine forming in the sky between go-getting Mars, expansive Jupiter and the self-confident Sun. This aspect pattern favours positive assertion and enthusiastic self-expression within existing relationships, as well as providing you with plenty of opportunities to form fortunate new alliances with important people. With the Nodes also involved, it’s likely that destiny may well intervene now to help you throw off any debilitating inhibitions and truly be yourself, with the help and co-operation of others. Between the 8th and 10th of October, you may find events or circumstances enable you to discover what you’re really made of, and enable you to express yourself to your fullest potential. The people that come into your life now may act as catalysts, helping to turbo boost your capacity to realise a personal ambition or gain recognition for your efforts. Seize the day, as they say! An excellent time for sportsmen, teachers and those in the spotlight.

Luck in love, favourable legal rulings, social prominence
Venus sextile Jupiter – 14 October
Prepare to be inspired and motivated, even captivated today as charming Venus once again sextiles fortunate Jupiter. A repeat of their earlier meeting in June 2014, though this time in air/fire signs, you’re likely to feel very optimistic about the future and feel revved up about making things work in your favour. Around this time, you could meet someone charismatic, beguiling or simply fascinating, and for once, they may not turn out to be too good to be true. Singles, this is one of those windows when the phrase ‘lucky in love’ could apply to you, so get out there and mingle!

Creatively, this is likely to be a golden period during which you could come up with a headline concept that proves to be a big hit. Socially, it’s possible you could find yourself rising to prominence. You could be introduced to a VIP who could open doors for you. Pleasure, hedonism and luxury are also key themes now, so revel in the moment and enjoy what life has to offer.

Self-assertion, confident self-expression, integrity & poise
Sun, Mercury sextile Mars – 15-17 October
Prepare for a dynamic period when your words and actions sync perfectly with your sense of identity and integrity. As October unfolds, a stellium of planets will form in the fair and just sign of Libra, including the Sun and Mercury, from where they will continue to make positive contacts to Mars and Jupiter for most of the month. This makes an auspicious time for expanding your mind, horizons and moving beyond your comfort zone.

For the next few days, you could attract people and situations to you that enable you to act from a centered and balanced place, and express yourself with complete confidence and poise. By definition, integrity is about demonstrating a high level of consistency between your thoughts, principles and values on one hand, and your words and deeds, on the other. This aspect will provide you with the conditions and support necessary to express yourself from just such an authentic and honourable place. Show others what you’re truly made of now! Let the Libran principles of fairness, balance, moderation and peace be your guide.

Big ideas, philosophical outlook, infectious enthusiasm, gentle persuasion
Mercury sextile Jupiter, Venus sextile Mars – 20 October
Today, two planets in the Libra stellium make separate but simultaneous sextile aspects to Mars and Jupiter, located in the fire signs of Leo and Sagittarius. The combination of Libra (charm, fairness and sympathy) with the creativity, dynamism and enthusiasm of Leo and Sagittarius make this a day for taking risks and acting on big plans. This is a great time to approach those in authority for favours, whether this be getting the right backing for a dream project or winning over key supporters to a cause close to your heart. You can communicate your ideas and principles clearly and persuasively now, whilst also being able to turn on the charm and still have enough confidence and dynamism to motivate people to act. It is therefore a great day for making important speeches, doing a big sales presentation or launching a new product, especially in the beauty, fitness or automotive fields

Creative self-expression, intuitive guidance, profound perceptions
Sun conjunct Venus trine Neptune – 25-28 October
As we near the end of the month, Venus and the Sun finally catch up to each other, forming a conjunction in passionate Scorpio on the 25th. A few days later, both planets simultaneously reach out to Neptune in compassionate and sensitive Pisces, forming a flowing trine in the triplicity of water. This configuration is likely to emphasise intuition and emotion over intellect, encouraging you to follow your heart and listen to your inner voice because it may well have some very wise and inspiring guidance for you now. Your creative antenna will also be finely-tuned. In fact, with the Sun and Venus involved, self-expression is highly favoured. Not only will you have a deep sense of self-possession, but you will also be highly aware of the existence of beauty and mystery in the world and in a subtle enough state to be able to capture the ephemeral nature of such phenomena. An excellent few days for healing, meditation, spiritual and artistic pursuits.

Any new relationships or romances formed now will also have a magical quality about them. You could find yourself experiencing an almost telepathic connection with somebody now, possibly even a complete stranger. Don’t second-guess yourself too much now – just surrender to the weirdness of life and go with it if it happens. With such good aspects around, the outcome is unlikely to be bad.

For more details of what to expect day by day, be sure to check out my daily astro-insights on Facebook, or follow me on Twitter.

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