Don’t be surprised if you feel frayed around the edges or need more
than a “moment” to pull yourself together. Nervous systems, individual
and collective, already strained from the planetary push/pull of the
Saturn/Uranus opposition, are at maximum capacity this week. And to add
insult to injury, Mercury Retrograde, an astral condition infamous for
frustration, exacerbates existing tensions. But that’s not all. Pluto
also throws its weight around when it goes Direct on September 11. When
the heavens bustle with activity, the daily hustle of life here on
Earth is often overwhelming. Especially if you already have too much to
do and everything takes longer than it should to get done. Emotional
bodies tend to fry when the other systems — physical, mental, or
spiritual — are overloaded, a condition that translates into
trauma or tantrums. So as always, err on the side of compassion and be
as kind as possible to yourself and others.
The third exact contact of the Saturn/Uranus opposition occurs on
September 15. As most readers already know, this configuration
symbolizes the dissolution of the status quo, and as part of that
process, unrest and upset, personal or cultural. The September 15
opposition includes the Sun, as it conjuncts Saturn, in Virgo. The
Sun’s presence puts the emphasis on tests of strength, particularly
feats of physical endurance. Suit up for the marathon, but don’t push
yourself too hard. Uranus has a peculiar relationship to the pulse, and
when it’s in an opposition to a Sun/Saturn conjunction, hearts can
follow eccentric rhythms.
Some of the upheaval could have a brutal edge, born not only from
the tension of Saturn/Uranus, but also because Pluto throws its hat
into the ring when it goes Direct on September 11 — not a great
day to feel the presence of the mythological king of the underworld. By
the end of the week, on September 17, Pluto moves into a square with
the Sun, stimulating a desire for power and a proclivity toward
ruthless behavior as a way of consolidating influence. Resist
temptation to exercise your inner or outer despot by making a
commitment to stay in your spiritual integrity.
Mercury is retrograde until September 29. Most of you know the
drill, but for those that don’t, here’s the skinny: Mercury Retrograde
is all about reviewing the details of what’s already in motion with a
fine-toothed comb. It’s not a good time to install new software or buy
a printer or computer. Because Mercury Retrograde is also about travel
delays and detours, give yourself plenty of time to get wherever you
need to go. Mercury Retrograde is always about slowing down the pace of
life and making time for what may have been overlooked.
This week, as this confluence of celestial activity stirs what is
already roused, figure out healthy ways to self soothe. Even if it
seems like an impossible task, try to make time for quiet
contemplation. And when you can, attune to the spirit of cooperation
and offer a calm word or peaceful gesture to your fellow travelers.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon sign, read that,
too.
ARIES Even though some of what needs to be done is boring,
most of what you have to take care of is necessary. So rather than
resent your situation, roll up your sleeves and get to work.
TAURUS If you can “step away from the vehicle” you’ll gain a
better perspective about what needs to shift. And once you have that
broader view, your innate creativity will find positive solutions.
GEMINI Rest and relaxation are the best cure for what ails,
so give yourself permission to spend as much time as you need in the
comfort of your home, replenishing your reserves.
CANCER While conversation is important and communicating your
feelings is essential, sometimes actions speak louder than words. Being
precise and deliberate will demonstrate your intentions.
LEO Just be true to yourself and allow your innate generosity
of spirit to guide your actions. Sure, some will think you are naive,
but making positive choices and believing the best about others is
never a mistake.
VIRGO Rather than polarize with partners, figure out how you
can find the fertile ground of compromise. I’m not suggesting you give
up control. I’m simply advising you to find a win-win solution.
LIBRA You can call it indecision, or you can allow yourself
enough time to examine the situation from as many angles as necessary.
Sounds like a no-brainer, but your time frame may not satisfy the needs
of others.
SCORPIO You may think life is about all work and no play, but
that might not be completely accurate. Stay focused on career goals but
also figure out how a playful attitude might enhance your success.
SAGITTARIUS Conversation — your favorite pastime
— stimulates creative inspiration as well as the determination to
turn those musings into action. Be bold as you move forward and you’ll
be pleased with the results.
CAPRICORN The only way to change your circumstances is to
change your attitude. If you see failure, you’ll create it, so why not
envision success instead. Remember, you can’t bring into being what you
can’t imagine.
AQUARIUS Yes, what you’re dealing with demands a lot of hard
work. But you are up to the challenge, especially if you can find a
comfortable pace that allows you to push just enough, without pushing
yourself to exhaustion.
PISCES While it may be easier to think negatively about
oppositional forces, it doesn’t really serve you to assume the victim
position. Figure out how to step out of that role and your spirit will
soar.
