An eclipse cycle and Mercury moving retrograde affect this month’s energetic patterns. Take out your pen during Mercury retrograde, as one of the gifts of this is facility in writing and editing. The theme of the lunar eclipse is to connect with forgiveness and emotional transformation through surrender. The solar eclipse late in the month may illuminate issues around relationships. End the month in service to encourage balance.
October 2
Feelings of hope and determination are noticeable with the Moon in Sagittarius aspected by Saturn. Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of hope. Yet Saturn’s determined nature pressures us to commit to that which inspires us, not to just feel hopeful about it. Get real about your inspirations and manifest something tangible from them.
October 4 – 25
Miscommunications and disorganization are possible as Mercury turns retrograde on October 4. Mercury retrograde cycles illuminates those areas of life where we are overwhelmed by details and not making the correct adjustments. The key to Mercury energy is “neutrality.” Our ability to hear others’ words with openness (rather than need or bias) and respond to all situations in kind, will be revealed. This is a great time for writing and editing, or you may be spending the same energy cleaning up messes.
October 5 – 8
Be on the lookout for great lessons relative to anger, hostility, and courage as Jupiter in Cancer aspects Mars in Scorpio. You may meet important teachers at this time, or finally have a breakthrough in understanding and personal discipline. This potential is increased because Jupiter is exalted and Mars is in a zone sign at this time. In particular, developing emotional courage is heightened.
October 8
Connection to metaphysics, spirituality, and trusting in universal order will be important on the lunar eclipse / Full Moon in Pisces. This lunar eclipse joins the South Node, showing a need to let go of emotional wounds and connect to divine forgiveness. This eclipse in Pisces holds great promise for emotional transformation through surrender, and connecting to the part of us not of this Earth or lifetime. Assisting us in this goal is Jupiter, the ruler of Pisces, which is exalted and aspecting from Cancer. Divine Mother energy is especially important now.
This eclipse happens in the Nakshatra of Revati, ruled by the God Pushan, the shepherd and protector of animals. This is a great time to love and nurture animals or adopt a pet.
October 10 – 12
We may feel on guard psychologically with the Moon opposite both Saturn and Mars. Relationships with all people could feel aggravating and polarized. On October 10, the Moon is opposite Saturn where control/boundary issues prevail. On October 11 and 12, the Moon is opposite Mars, where our own individual needs and desires take priority.
October 16 – 17
A deep feeling of love and connection is possible with the Moon joined exalted Jupiter in Cancer, the Moon’s sign. This reaffirms the theme and promise of this lunar eclipse, mentioned earlier. A profound heart connection where we merge with metaphysical truth, is possible now. Pure teachings, such as those from your gurus, lead to amazing insights and transformation.
October 19 – November 11
Relationship insight and general happiness should be flowing with much more ease when Venus enters Libra, where she will be until November 11. This Venus transit compels us to evaluate the price we are willing to pay for our happiness, and how much we are able to yield to others’ needs equal to our own. These are skills that not only bring better romantic relationships, but make for better friendships and a happier life.
We must also remember that the highest pleasure of the soul is in being “happy for no reason,” finding happiness in all things, situations, and people.
Expect this “happiness principle” to be tested on October 23 with the New Moon / partial solar eclipse in Libra with Moon, Venus, and Saturn. This is the last solar eclipse in Libra for approximately nine years. For the last couple of years, relationship happiness and the pressure we exert ourselves and others to get it, have been major themes, with our subconscious fears and strategies illuminated by the eclipses. Now is no different. This eclipse shows the Sun and Moon joined Venus (happiness) and Saturn (pressure).
This eclipse happens in Chitra Nakshatra, ruled by the celestial architect, Vishwa Karma. It is important to channel this intensity toward something beautiful and creative, not just self-motivated.
October 26 – 27
Be careful of post-eclipse drama with the Moon debilitated in Scorpio. These are good days for introspection and service to others.
Sam Geppi is an internationally-respected Vedic astrology teacher. For free Vedic astrology DVDs and courses for students at all levels, visit: samgeppi.com
Sam Geppi (Sadasiva) is the author of Yoga and Vedic Astrology and The Ascendant—108 Planets of Vedic Astrology. He is the founder of the American Academy of Vedic Art and Science which offers three levels of certification programs in Vedic Astrology. Currently the Academy has more than 120 students enrolled. Visit Sam’s website at: vedicartandscience.com.