September 2019 Forecast

Mars, Venus and Mercury in Combustion
With all these planets in combustion in September, more heat can lead to more explosive situations. You can personally use the heated situations to purify your life, of course. Mars' combustion in particular is very strong for that. Mercury is sharp as a tact and moving very fast through Leo. Mercury is combust more than any planet and used to it, leading to further clarity. However, Venus is not so happy being so close to Mars while in combustion, and then moving into debilitation in Virgo by September 9. Many of us will feel this as a burnout after a stressful summer.

Mars and the Sun are very strong at the very center of sidereal Leo, which is also the Leo division, showing a powerful surge of energy that will be more obvious in our leaders and governments - for better or worse. Fire doesn't just heat, it illuminates, and helps us to see truth from falsehood, to remove weaknesses and cut through problems. However, Mars is also opposite Neptune, exact by September 14​, which shows a certain amount of ambiguity around humanitarian and government issues, despite all the indications of heat purifying our perceptions. 

Clarity is possible during this period, if only we are clear about what is no longer clear! 
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Pluto re-enters Pūrvāṣāḍhā Sep 8 to Oct 26
As Pluto returns to the lunar mansion ruled by the goddess of water, it joins Saturn and the south node's tight conjunction in a sign that is all about going with the flow, clearing a path, and, sometimes, going overboard. All the maritime analogies can be used for this exuberant and uplifting sign.

So, how does Pluto, Saturn and the south node influence a sign that is all about going overboard with optimism? Have you noticed the last number of years being a little 'doom and gloom'? These planets are known as tamasic in Vedic thought, which means they resist change, are dark, decaying and sometimes troublesome. Although there are many benefits to their combined transit, such as seeing where we are stuck, they mostly create challenges to the natural flow of life. 

​Water-related issues are obvious expressions of these transits, either a lack of, or damage from, water. There are too many examples of note, but just recently the dam threatening to burst in England was one of the most symbolic in relation to these transits. The south node (Ketu) would blow it up, but Saturn holds things back. There is a sense of a dam about to burst. Do you feel it?!

All that begins in earnest from the end of the year and into the beginning of 2020. For now, we have more outworn beliefs to remove, beliefs that are in the way of progress in the long run. Sagittarius is all about being clear, hopeful and expansive, and we must remind ourselves of this in 2019, and trust that clarity and optimism, even if only an attentive one, returns once the excavation has been completed.

Venus enters Virgo Sep 9
After Venus' blowout in Leo; after the passion and grand gestures, the highs and lows, it moves into its sign of debilitation in September and we feel a sense of lack to some degree. Things may feel a little dry this month. Thankfully, as Venus enters Virgo, Mercury joins it and cancels its debilitation. This is good news and a better situation, overall. However, we still have to be mindful of overdoing it, especially those who are Taurus or Libra rising, or anyone in a Venus cycle or sub-cycle.

Venus is opposite Neptune before it moves into Virgo, bringing a sense of vagueness around relationships and finances, two of the key significations of the planet. As I write this, there is much turbulence in the economy because of Venus' combustion. As Venus enters it's sign of debilitation it is also still in combustion (close to the Sun). Venus is combust until September 19. When the planet of love and compromise, money and the economy, is weak by combustion, we feel this in our lives as a sense of lack of the good things that make life comfortable and enjoyable. An example of this would overdoing the indulgences and not feeling too good about it. Or feeling like there are no enjoyments in life at all, or you are not being appreciated. As I mentioned, Mercury is cancelling this debilitation, so its not all bad. 

It's not that there are no pleasures to experience with Venus in Virgo, it's just that we may not appreciate them as much, or more importantly, we may not appreciate others as much. Venus in Virgo starts picking holes and criticizing. Be aware, that everyone is experiencing this transit, so be mindful of seeking validation for something you already are, i.e. loved.Life is precious. You are precious. It's just sometimes we feel the need to be reminded of this more. Give others a smile and comfort those who feel 'less than' in any way. If you observe yourself or others acting in ways that seeks validation, remind yourself of this need at this time, without self-criticism or judgement. 

Mercury's concurrent transit is helping out a great deal, making it easier to say what needs to be said and plan our lives more effectively. Just make sure to include others in your plans. 

Mercury enters Virgo Sep 10
Mercury is opposite Neptune on September 7, so be mindful of what you're being told at this time. Mercury remains in combustion until September 21, but unlike other planets, Mercury is used to being combust. Mercury moves into its sign of exaltation, cancelling Venus' debilitation somewhat, although Venus brings down Mercury somewhat too. 

Mercury and Venus come into exact conjunction on September 13. This also means Mercury is less effective at doing what it does best in Virgo, i.e. scheduling and organizing, but it's a small price to pay in order to keep the peace with everyone and leave aside some of our more detailed planning.

September is best spent doing at least some planning, while paying attention to an important part of scheduling in the first place: that is, enjoying it! 

This time of year is great for planning our routines at the change of season, getting a balance between the more detailed aspects of life, while learning to let go a little and let things play out as they will. Taking up a new area of study, or furthering skills, is promoted during Mercury's exaltation, as are any kind of health improvements and daily routine tweaking. 
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North Node (Rāhu) enters Ārdrā Sep 12
The Moon's north mean node moves into Ārdrā on September 12, while the true node enters this lunar mansion on September 27. Either way, September sees the beginning of a period of more extreme events around the world and more adjustments on our part in relation to these unsettling events. 

Ārdrā is symbolized by a teardrop and the word Ārdrā itself means 'moist'. This can relate to clearing the air, as storms do, or the ability to clear the air with a good cry. I've often seen when the Moon transits Ārdrā someone around me has a good cry, or I feel the need to clear something from my life. This sign also represents renovation, for example. From tears, comes a sense of renewed clarity which is what the symbols of the sign: a teardrop and a jewel, are all about. 

Rāhu is said to rule this lunar mansion, as it is associated with this sign in terms of the planetary cycles. This brings more awareness to the north node and its elusive and sometimes chaotic influence in the center of Gemini for the next few months. By the time Rāhu has left this lunar mansion in May 2020, the world will not be the same. That's a big statement, I know, and this will play out in politics and world events, as well as travel and everyday business dealings, including changes to the internet, I imagine. 

Ārdrā is a sharp lunar mansion where we see the bright star Betelgeuse. Some astronomers beliefs this star went supernova many years ago, but the light hasn't caught up with us yet. I think this is apt considering the role of the evasive and shadowy nature of Rāhu. While this lunar mansion can bring a great deal of critical thinking, it usually comes after a period of confusion. It's as if we must make more of an effort when challenged by extreme emotions or events, as the sign is said to bring courage and purpose in overcoming challenges. 

A head's up for what's coming down the line: the last time Rāhu transited through the sign was 18 years ago, when we experienced one of the biggest shifts in the world when the trade powers were bombed, fueling a sense of fear and shock (Rāhu), while instilling in us fearful responses that have changed the way we travel (Gemini) for ever more. Expect some big changes in how we trade, travel and communicate in the next year. This can also include innovations in any of the above, of course. 

By the time Mars reaches opposition to Rāhu in the New Year, in February in particular, we are likely to see some big events that change the conversation. Rāhu in Ārdrā shows extremes in violence as it is ruled by Rudra, a fierce form of Śiva, while Mars is the incendiary device when placed with Rāhu's counterpart, Ketu, which will be transiting the equally devastating Mūla. Many tears are shed because of Ārdrā and Mūla, but from tears comes purpose, from fear comes the courage to make changes - big changes. This is further emphasized because, just as in 2001, Saturn and Pluto are coming into contact again as Mars joins the nodes. 

In 2001, Saturn and Pluto were nearly exactly opposite by degree, in Taurus and Scorpio. These signs represent hidden aspects and financial concerns that underpinned the attacks. In 2020, Saturn and Pluto are conjunct by exact degree, from January 12, 2020, creating a need for reform, one that we have not seen in many a decade. As they come together in the sign of righteousness (Sagittarius) and the establishment (Capricorn), we can expect to see some big shake ups in the world order. We're seeing this already in 2019 as Saturn and Pluto are in the same sign (Sagittarius), coming within 3 degrees of each other. When they opposed each other in 2001, there was more of an opposition to structures, and when they conjoin there is a change to make that can not longer be ignored. 

The nodes return to the position they were placed in 2001, during the attacks, in April 2020, but because there is a solar eclipse at this same degree, on December 26, 2019, we can expect the end of the year and into the New Year to see some big upheavals around the world. As I mentioned, this may be due to attacks involving travel, business and the internet. I would hope that this is just a cyber attack, but it would have to be a pretty big event to disrupt the world in order to appease the planets and express what they asking for. It's likely to be more extreme than a cyber attack, I'm afraid.

By April, as Rāhu returns to the first section of Ārdrā, which is the Sagittarius section, Ketu will return to the position it held in 2001, in the Gemini section of Sagittarius. In other words, although Rāhu is placed in Gemini and Ketu in Sagittarius, once they move into a particular division (9th division of the sign) they are placed in the opposite sign in this important divisional chart. Which means they are swapping signs and ideologies. These are challenging placements for the nodes, some say debilitated positions, which bring out their less savoury notes. But on another level they are both exalted, so we can see the dragon rear its head in some big ways. This exchange of signs was another reason, among many others, that we saw the attacks on 9/11. 

This is another reason why I can be quite certain an event on a large scale will occur in 2020. 

Look to your own chart to see where events challenge you to make the necessary adjustments. Count from your rising sign to Gemini and Sagittarius, to see the areas of your life impacted, while counting from your Moon sign to see how you feel about these changes. 

And get on board now, as Rāhu enters Ārdrā in September 2019, giving you a sense of what is coming down the line. 
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Full Moon in Aquarius (Pūrvā Bhādrapadā) Sep 14
​The Moon is opposite the Sun at 05.32 GMT +1 on September 14. Neptune is very close by, which means it is opposite the Sun and Mars (see chart) on this day, showing a confused full Moon phase in many respects.

The lunar mansions involved are both fierce, one ruled by a form of Rudra and symbolized by a sword, as well as a coffin, the other by a bed for pleasure. While these signs are all about a passionate search, either for pleasure or ultimate release, ultimately the full Moon points us to the truth of who we really are, beyond all the trappings of this world. 

The Moon's sign shows some violence because of a certain idealism, as we take a stance against all that is false. But because it is conjunct Neptune, we are unclear as to what we're fighting for or who we are fighting. Issues of humanitarian concern are reaching a climatic point for this full Moon, it seems. 
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Sun enters Virgo Sep 17
After a period of the Sun's strength in its own sign, the Sun moves into Virgo where we must lay out a plan for all those big wishes. As the saying goes, 'pride comes before a fall'. Leo naturally leaves way for Virgo in the scheme of things. In other words, we must take all of those grand ideas and apply them in the real world. Some dreams will not stand the test of Virgo, while others are simply put to the test, especially as Saturn aspects the Sun and all the planets placed therein. 

The Sun in Virgo is harvest season, as we gather forth and take stock of our lives. Some things need our careful attention and a calculated approach. As long as we don't overdo this tendency, we can make the most of this period to plan and manage effectively, while forgoing the need to micro-manage, which leaves us feeling bogged down in red tape. Remember, Venus is with Mercury in Virgo at this time, and less than impressed with all the work load!

Take some time to simply enjoy your organizing, and with those you would like to spend time with; those who have similar interests as you. This will make it easier to get things done.
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Saturn stations Direct Sep 18
Saturn being stationary all month gives the sense of things grinding to a halt, especially as it aspects all the planets lining up in Virgo. This can add a sense of pressure to our everyday schedule and planning, as well as in world events which feel the pressure. As it does so, it is exactly conjunct the south node, Ketu which increases fears around these big issues.

As I have written many times in the previous months, the Saturn-south node conjunction is not an easy one. On the one hand, it points to things which have come up to be dealt with now, however, on the other hand, it shows a lack of ability to do what is right (Sagittarius). And as Saturn stations direct, the pressure is further increased, despite our fears around doing the right thing.

Generally, Saturn's station increases tension in our lives and unless you have an outlet and are making the necessary adjustments, it can force the issue in ways I'm sure you would prefer to avoid. Thankfully, once Saturn moves direct in the coming weeks, it will finally part from the south node, releasing us from this back and forth.

It is rare for anyone to do what they should do from the outset. We usually wait until we have no choice left. The world is experiencing this on a large scale, of course, such as the environmental issues, but we are all experiencing this in some form or other. Saturn is the consequences of our choices that were not helpful to others at the time, but as long as we accept what we must endure something as a form of pay back, we can do so with grace and humility. 

Saturn turning direct helps us to move on, bringing with it a slow release of pressure all month and into October. Saturn conjunct the south node (true node) on September 28 and into the beginning of October, is the last exact conjunction this year and one which we will all be happy to see move on. 
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Mars enters Virgo Sep 25
​Mars enters Virgo in a combust state on September 25. It will remain in combustion until October 22. While Mars likes it in Leo, it is less enamoured with Virgo, getting stuck in details and red tape. But at least it's coming out of combustion while visiting the sign, reappearing the Night sky in November. The other complication for Mars is that Saturn aspects Virgo, while Mars sends a powerful aspect back to Saturn and the south node conjunction placed in Sagittarius. 

Anytime Mars and Saturn 'face off' like this it creates tensions around the world and frustrations in our lives. It is not coincidence that Brexit occurs with Mars in Virgo. More on this next month. Mars wants to push things forward quickly, while Saturn gets us to look at the big picture and slow down. As long as we are mindful of this combination, we can deal with any perceived delays or setbacks with more grace and humility, using this period of Mars in Virgo, from September 25 until November 10, to be more strategic and considered in our actions. 

Saturn's aspect on Mars, and all the planets in Virgo, creates a sense that something must give. So, tale a step back and you will feel more able to make the adjustments, then if you were trying to force things ahead prematurely. 

The end of September favours everyday tasks we may have been putting off for other, more impressive, activities during the summer. While Leo is extrovert and dynamic, Virgo is calculated and introverted. And while Mars is less able to just do something in Virgo, this period can be used to get your life organized and everything in order. 

New Moon in Virgo (Hasta) Sep 28
​The new Moon in Virgo and the lunar mansion Hasta emphasizes a need for order and efficiency. However, we may feel pressurized into maintaining order because of Saturn's aspect to this new Moon and for the coming lunar month. The Moon is new at 19.26 GMT +1, marking a new start for a month that feels less about fun times and big blow outs, and more like getting down to business. 

Hasta is represented by a hand, and the word literally means hand. It is ruled by the Sun god, especially in relation to the sunrise, where we have a sense of a new dawn and clarity afforded us. This new Moon highlights a need to make some more positive changes in our lives, including better routines and tighter schedules that fit with a healthier and better version of ourselves. 

Mercury enters Libra Sep 29
Mercury leaves its sign of exaltation and moves into Venus' sign ahead of Venus itself. This means Mercury and Venus exchange signs for the next few days, until October 4, when Venus enters its own domain. This exchange is helpful to Venus' debilitation and very much welcomed, especially as it marks the first planet to move out of Saturn's restrictive gaze. 

Libra is all about compromise, of sensitivity to the needs of others and of harmony in our lives. If life were all about our schedule and efficiency, it would be very drab indeed. This marks the beginning of a more favourable period to reach out to others and to hear their points of view, and enjoy their company once again. Once we have scheduled our lives, we are reminded that we share our lives with others, and it's what makes life worth living.
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​Sidereal Transits
Mars exact combustion Sep 1/2
Mars conjunct Mercury Sep 3
Mercury exact combustion Sep 3
Venus opposite Neptune Sep 4
Mercury opposite Neptune Sep 7
Venus enters Virgo Sep 9
Mercury enters Virgo Sep 10
Sun opposite Neptune Sep 10
Rāhu (mean node) enters Ārdrā Sep 12
Mercury conjunct Venus Sep 13
Full Moon in Aquarius (Pūrvā Bhādrapadā) Sep 14
Mars opposite Neptune Sep 14
Sun enters Virgo Sep 17
Saturn stations direct Sep 18
Mars enters Virgo Sep 25
Rāhu (true node) enters Ārdrā​ Sep 27
New Moon in Virgo (Hasta) Sep 28
Saturn conjunct true south node Sep 28
Mercury enters Libra Sep 29

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