Last Week: October 23-29, 2016 | Cafe Astrology .com

Last Week in Astrology

October 23 to 29, 2016

The Last Quarter Moon phase points to some sort of crisis of consciousness. After basking in the awareness symbolized by the full light of the Moon at the time of last week’s Full Moon, we disperse our knowledge and come to a point when we need to sort out what works for us–and what doesn’t–in preparation for next week’s New Moon, when something new is born once again. This is not the best time to start a major project, as the decreasing light of the Moon symbolizes a descent into unconsciousness. It’s time to begin finishing up the details of that which was conceived at the last New Moon. What revelations did you have last week? What did they mean for you? What can be done now?

This phase of the Moon occurred at 29 degrees and 49 minutes of Cancer forming a square with the Sun at 29 degrees and 49 minutes of Libra, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 28 to 30 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) and 0 to 2 degrees of the Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) and most significantly.

A NEW MOON will occur on Sunday, October 30th, 2016, at 1:38 PM EDT. A new cycle begins with a New Moon in Scorpio. This cycle presents a good time to commit to personal goals that express the positive energies of the sign of the Scorpion.

This lunation stimulates a new beginning in the fixed water sign of Scorpio. It’s a time when we can focus on some of the constructive traits of the sign of the Scorpion–passionate, resourceful, focused, probing, deep, and perceptive–and consider how to positively incorporate these qualities into our lives. Scorpio New Moons are generally good for working on our self-mastery skills. We may want to pinpoint the things in our lives that make us feel out of control, such as addictions and debts, and work on freeing ourselves of these emotional burdens. This New Moon cycle is also an opportune one in which to explore what is missing in our lives that leads us to engage in these self-destructive behaviors. This cycle represents an opportunity to rid ourselves of the “junk” in our lives–material and spiritual. With this potent Scorpio energy, we have the chance to make important changes in our lives.

One of Scorpio’s “lessons” involve learning to dig deeper into the mysteries around us instead of always being content with status quo. Taking the time to understand others’ motives can enrich our feelings of intimacy, forgiveness, and sense of meaning. Scorpio also teaches us that dedication to one meaningful relationship or undertaking can be significantly more satisfying than spreading ourselves around. Here, “quality over quantity” applies. We might want to use this cycle to work on focusing on and developing one special project or relationship in order to help add purposefulness and depth to our lives.

New Moon in Scorpio – October 30th, 2016

This phase of the Moon will occur at 7 degrees and 44 minutes of Scorpio forming a conjunction with the Sun at 7 degrees and 44 minutes of Scorpio, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 4 to 12 degrees of the Fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) most significantly.

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

Sep 30, 2016 8:11 PM Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)
Oct 9, 2016 12:33 AM Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Oct 16, 2016 12:23 AM Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
Oct 22, 2016 3:14 PM Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
Oct 30, 2016 1:38 PM Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

The Sun is in Scorpio; Mercury is in Libra until the 24th, when it enters Scorpio; Venus is in Sagittarius; Mars is in Capricorn.

The Sun is in Scorpio from October 22-November 21. The guiding principle of Scorpio is “I desire”. Scorpio is the sign of depth, intimacy, and extremes of feeling. Superficiality simply will not do with the Sun in Scorpio. We have the desire to get to the bottom of matters. Mediocrity does not satisfy either. All that is hidden, taboo, secret, or suppressed interests us. In Libra, we strived towards equality and fairness. Scorpio, however, instinctively believes that life simply isn’t fair. Scorpio’s energy is provocative, usually in a quiet way, as well as passionate, strong-willed, and intense. It can be an immensely healing and transformative energy. Jealousy, vindictiveness, beating a dead horse, and manipulative are some of the more negative expressions of Scorpio.

Mercury is in Libra from October 7-24. When Mercury is in Libra, we are diplomatic and friendly. During this cycle, we are able to bring a more rational approach to one-to-one relationships. It’s a good time to think about ways of improving our negotiation skills. In an attempt to see both sides of any given situation, Mercury in Libra can be a vacillating energy. It can be more challenging than usual to make quick decisions, as we can sit “on the fence”. We may too easily accommodate others’ opinions in order to keep the peace. In our negotiations, we don’t want to assert ourselves in such a way as to appear to be the “bad guy”. However, this is a good period for considering others’ points of view. We are more inclined to arrive at fair conclusions.

Mercury is in Scorpio from October 24-November 12. When Mercury is in Scorpio, our thoughts and communications are more probing and intense. While Mercury in Libra urged us to find balance and to arrive at fair solutions, Mercury in Scorpio instinctively knows that life simply isn’t fair. Mercury in Scorpio seeks truths in all that is hidden and undercover. We tend to probe, observe, and focus our thoughts under this influence. Looking for motivations–the more deeply buried the better–satisfies an intellectual need now. Our thoughts are profound. We throw away superficial manners of communicating in favor of deep conversations. Scorpio is extremely sharp, profound, and analytical. Thinking is inclined to be one-track minded, focused, and even obsessive.

Venus is in Sagittarius from October 18-November 11. Moving from Scorpio to Sagittarius, romantic energy shifts from intense to buoyant. Sagittarius, of course, has its intense moments, considering it is a fire sign. However, its energy is considerably less focused; and, while Scorpio is most concerned with intimacy with a specific person, Sagittarius’ love is of a more universal kind. Romantic adventures, as well as a straightforward–even blunt–approach to love, are on the agenda. Gone are the intricacy and complexity of Venus in Scorpio. Truth and higher meaning are things that take priority with Sagittarius.

Mars is in Capricorn from September 27-November 9. Mars in Capricorn is deliberate, persistent energy. We consider the future and the consequences before taking action during this cycle. Our energy is reliable and faithful. We are slow to anger, but can be quite cold if we are frustrated. The shadow side of Mars in Capricorn is rigidity.

Saturn transits Sagittarius from December 23, 2014, to June 14, 2015, and then from September 17, 2015, to December 20, 2017. Read about Saturn’s transit through Sagittarius here.

Jupiter enters Libra on September 9th and will transit Libra until October 10, 2017. Read about Jupiter in Libra here.

Uranus entered Aries on March 11th, 2011. The urge to start fresh, to break free from restrictive attitudes or circumstances, to totally redesign an area of our lives (or even our personalities), and to gain freedom through independence is strong with Uranus in Aries.

Romance & Relationships

Venus is in Sagittarius from October 18-November 11. Moving from Scorpio to Sagittarius, romantic energy changes from intense to buoyant. Sagittarius, of course, has its intense moments, considering it is a fire sign. However, its energy is considerably less focused; and, while Scorpio is most concerned with intimacy with a specific person, Sagittarius’ love is of a more universal kind. Romantic adventures, as well as a straightforward–even blunt–approach to love, are on the agenda. Gone are the intricacy and complexity of Venus in Scorpio. Truth and higher meaning are focal points for Sagittarius. Venus in Sagittarius is forward-looking, not very specific, outgoing, and energetic. Freedom is most important in our love relationships now. We take a happy and enthusiastic approach to love, and we might find too much intensity or seriousness depressing. We have a taste for the exotic as well as for adventure with Venus in Sagittarius. The shadow side of this position is restlessness, the inability to “settle down”, and endlessly searching for something bigger and “better”.

This week: We can be wrestling with our expectations on Tuesday when Venus forms a square with Neptune. This is a time when wishful thinking interferes with our perceptions and feelings. However, healthier optimism is with us on Wednesday, when we are ready to enjoy ourselves and give others the benefit of the doubt. Passions rise and we can become quite competitive in a friendly way as the day advances and into Thursday. It can be an exciting time for enjoying ourselves and others. We’re more willing to act on our feelings and pursue our desires. The yearly alignment of Venus and Saturn occurs on Saturday. This is a time for getting serious about love, affections, and relationships.

Venus, the Goddess of Love: Highlights in the Coming Week:

Venus in Sagittarius A yearning for adventure and far horizons stirs in you now. To roam, to wander and wonder, to seek freedom and go where no one has gone before – these things are deep and powerful longings. A time of romantic crusades, a universal love that might not be too particular.

Venus sesquiquadrate Uranus October 23. Uncertainty about the desire to be close to someone. Freedom versus closeness. A desire to experiment in the romance department may be fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying or frustrating.

Venus square Neptune October 25. Relationship ups and downs characterize this transit–a time when romantic mirages are more than likely. We see what we hope to see, rather than what really is. The “highs” of a relationship begun under this energy may be thrilling, but the accompanying “lows” are bound to set in, and they can be extremely draining. Be careful not to set yourself up for disappointment.

Venus sextile Jupiter October 25-26. This aspect generates a happy, friendly, and optimistic attitude. People are a little more outgoing and sociable. Favors travel, education, and culture. Romantic opportunities. Harmony and good will.

Venus parallel Mars October 26-27. Favors romantic and sexual relationships. Intense passions.

Venus conjunct Saturn October 29. Affections stabilize and mature. Relationships are stabilized and steady, although feelings are expressed reservedly, formally, or sparingly. An air of formality is brought to personal and social relationships. A new sense of realism in existing partnerships comes now. A sense of duty may lead us to sacrifice a personal pleasure for a cause or for a loved one; thus we may have to abstain from personal gratification for the time being. Problems in personal relationships that have been swept under the carpet may surface now, and we are ready to face them. Dissatisfaction with loved ones becomes more glaring. Renewed ties to old friends or lovers are possible, or a new sense of responsibility in existing relationships.

The Void of Course Moon is the period of time after the Moon has made its last aspect in one sign until the Moon enters a new sign. During Void of Course Moon periods, it is generally wise to stick to routine rather than to begin new projects. The last aspect the Moon makes before changing signs is indicated here and is indicative of the “outcome” of the matter (whether that is a new project begun before the void period or the answer to a question in Horary Astrology). Void of Course in Horary Astrology: If you were asking a question and making a chart for the answer, as you do in Horary astrology, it is said that since the Moon is not looking forward to any more aspects in this sign, you would have to say that the answer is not forthcoming; any questions asked at this time would not come to pass. The Moon being Void is one of the Strictures against Judgment in Horary Astrology.

The Void-of-Course Moon this Week:

Void-of-course Moon on Monday, October 24th, from 8:22 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Uranus), until the Moon enters Virgo at 11:17 PM EDT.

VOC Moon on Wednesday, October 26th, from 2:34 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Mars), until the Moon enters Libra the next day, Thursday, October 27th, at 9:52 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Saturday, October 29th, from 6:10 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Mars), until the Moon enters Scorpio at 10:01 PM EDT.

Void of Course Moon – October 2016

Void of Course Moon Tables for October 2016

Timing with the Moon – Better Periods this Week for Electing New Initiatives

The Moon is waning this week — a period that is generally considered unfavorable for new beginnings, with exceptions. (See Best Time to Start a Business for more details).

According to principles of timing with the Moon, a window of opportunity occurs from Saturday, October 22nd, at approximately 3:40 PM, until Monday, October 24th, at approximately 8:20 AM EDT, while the Moon is in Leo. Another window occurs from Saturday, October 29th, at approximately 10:05 PM EDT, until Monday, October 31st, at approximately 10:40 PM EDT, while the Moon is in Scorpio.

Planetary Stations & Sign Ingresses:

Sep 9, 2016 7:18 AM   Jupiter enters
Libra
Sep 22, 2016 1:30 AM   Mercury Direct
Sep 22, 2016 10:21 AM   Sun enters Libra
Sep 23, 2016 10:51 AM   Venus enters Scorpio
Sep 26, 2016 11:02 AM   Pluto Direct
Sep 27, 2016 4:07 AM Mars enters Capricorn
Oct 7, 2016 3:55 AM   Mercury enters Libra
Oct 18, 2016 3:01 AM   Venus enters Sagittarius
Oct 22, 2016 7:45 PM   Sun enters Scorpio
Oct 24, 2016 4:46 PM   Mercury enters Scorpio
*** Daylight Saving Time ends ***
Nov 9, 2016 12:51 AM   Mars enters Aquarius
Nov 11, 2016 11:54 PM   Venus enters Capricorn
Nov 12, 2016 9:39 AM   Mercury enters Sagittarius
Nov 19, 2016 11:38 PM   Neptune Direct
Nov 21, 2016 4:22 PM   Sun enters Sagittarius
Dec 1, 2016 4:53 AM   Chiron Direct
Dec 2, 2016 4:18 PM   Mercury enters Capricorn

See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day.
See also: The Astrology of 2016 – Overview.

Note: Times given Eastern Time (ET).

This Week’s Calendar

This Week in Astrology Calendar – October 23-29, 2016

This Week’s Aspects

Jupiter quincunx Neptune. There can be difficulties with limits and boundaries now. We may feel disorganized and it can be difficult to stick to a routine, or to find satisfaction in our current pursuits. There can be a strong desire or need to help others now, but we may not know how to do so and feel guilty for escapist tendencies or for not being as effective as we’d like. There is a tendency to take the easy way out, but consequences are likely to be faced by doing so. We may be misled by wishful thinking now or invest in impractical ideas and plans.

Mercury semi-square Saturn. Red tape, re-doing tasks we thought we had finished, problems getting from point A to point B, delays in communication, negative thinking, hyper-sensitivity, and criticism–these are all potentials now. The energy is best used for focusing on fixing errors rather than harping on how irritating they are!

Venus sesquiquadrate Uranus. Unusual attractions (to people and things) can have us acting on a whim. We may deal with freedom versus closeness issues in our relationships. Relationships or finances can be unpredictable. Changes now can create fresh opportunities, however, that can add to our sense of joy and freedom.

Venus square Neptune. Relationship ups and downs characterize this transit – a time when romantic mirages are more than likely. We see what we hope to see, rather than what really is. The “highs” of a relationship begun under this energy may be thrilling, but the accompanying “lows” are bound to set in, and they can be extremely draining. Be careful not to set yourself up for disappointment. The same goes for finances – what appears to be a great buy is likely to turn out to be a financial drain or money pit. Lines can blur when it comes to pursuit of pleasure, as we can convince ourselves to believe what we want to believe.

Venus sextile Jupiter. Cooperation, consideration for others, cheerfulness, positive attitude towards relationships, romantic opportunities, harmony. Favors financial endeavors. Optimistic spiritual energy is brought to relationships. We tend to connect to a higher purpose regarding our personal relationships and our values, attaching meaning to them. We may enjoy a feeling of well-being now. Ease is experienced in social situations. We are freer with our affections (and our money). This is also a favorable transit for entertaining and socializing.

Mercury conjunct Sun. We are especially sharp, communicative, and open at this time, as our wants are aligned with our thoughts. It’s a favorable time for solving problems. What we say or write now has impact, for better or for worse!

Mars sextile Chiron. We may have the opportunity to take the lead, or to take action, regarding matters that lead to healing, cleansing, or teaching now. We can feel a sense of mission. There is likely to be a feeling of fearlessness when it comes to addressing problem areas, and self-confidence as well. There is a drive to take positive action, usually to defend or help others (or ourselves). It’s a strong period for cooperation and purposeful activity.

Mercury sesquiquadrate Chiron. Communications may be careless, hurtful or perceived as hurtful under this influence. It can be hard to read the intention behind the words used to communicate now. There may be impatience with rules, worry or guilty feelings, and conflicting viewpoints now.

Mars square Uranus. We have a tendency to take risks, to feel restless, and to act on sudden impulses without considering consequences. We assert our wills and individuality powerfully, and we are willing to fight for freedom. We might feel rebellious in the face of rules and regulations, particularly those we might feel are outdated, or anything that requires us to conform. There may be changes in work schedules, or life’s circumstances could challenge us in such a way that we need to change our goals or actions. Energy is stop and go, and it can be hard to focus on only one activity.

Sun sesquiquadrate Chiron. The desire to learn and grow through experiences and through others is strong, but may be hampered by a lack of confidence or a fear of being different.

Venus conjunct Saturn. Affections stabilize and mature. Relationships are stabilized and steady, although feelings are expressed reservedly, formally, or sparingly. An air of formality is brought to personal and social relationships. A new sense of realism in existing partnerships comes now. A sense of duty may lead us to sacrifice a personal pleasure for a cause or for a loved one; or we may have to abstain from personal gratification for the time being. Financial discipline, realism, and maturity are possible now. We are more likely to be conservative when it comes to spending. Sound judgment may be exercised. Problems in personal relationships that have been swept under the carpet may surface now, and we are ready to face them. Dissatisfaction with loved ones becomes more glaring. Support from older people or authority figures may come by way of solid advice or tangible help. Renewed ties to old friends are possible, or a new sense of responsibility in existing friendships.

Last Week

This Week

Next Week

Note: Times given in the table/calendar above are Eastern Time (ET).

Daily Trends Calendar

See below for day-by-day forecasts and planets in signs. See also Transit to Transit aspects.

New! See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day. This is my new feature on Astrology Cafe.

What’s In Store By the Stars – Daily Astrology Trends

(as featured on our site’s main page and in our Daily Trends Calendar)

OCTOBER 23

Jupiter forms a quincunx with Neptune this morning – the first of a set of three exact connections (this aspect will perfect again in May and July 2017). There can be difficulties with limits and boundaries under the influence of this longer-term transit. We may feel disorganized, and it can be difficult to stick to a routine or to find satisfaction in our current pursuits. There can be a strong desire or need to help others now, but we may not know how to go about doing so and could feel guilty for escapist tendencies or for not being as effective as we’d like. There is a tendency to take the easy way out, but consequences are likely to be faced by doing so. We should watch for being misled by wishful thinking now or investing in impractical ideas and plans. Tonight, a Mercury-Saturn semi-square points to challenging decision-making and fears influencing our thoughts and conversations. This is a time for making small adjustments and edits.

OCTOBER 24

The Moon is in Leo virtually all day – until 11:17 PM EDT. We tune into our playful and creative side with this influence. Venus forms a dynamic aspect to Uranus shortly into the day, and we may feel restless – a symptom that we may need to change up our usual patterns in relationships or regarding the pursuit of pleasure. Changes now can create fresh opportunities that can add to our sense of joy and freedom, but they should be made mindfully, not randomly. Mercury enters Scorpio today, where it will transit until November 12th. While Mercury in Libra urged us to find balance and to arrive at fair solutions, Mercury in Scorpio instinctively knows that life simply isn’t fair. Mercury in Scorpio seeks truths in all that is hidden and undercover. We tend to probe, observe, and focus our thoughts under this influence. Looking for motivations–the more deeply buried the better–satisfies an intellectual need now. We pass over superficial manners of communicating for deep conversations. Scorpio is extremely sharp, profound, and analytical. Thinking is inclined to be one-track minded, focused, and even obsessive. The Moon enters practical, helpful Virgo tonight at 11:17 PM.

A void of course Moon occurs from 8:22 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Uranus), until the Moon enters Virgo at 11:17 PM EDT.

OCTOBER 25

The Moon is in practical Virgo all day. As productive as we’d like to be under the influence of an organized Virgo Moon, its square to Saturn and opposition to Neptune can point to distractions, some of which are coming from within. If we don’t know where we’re headed or what to expect, we can struggle with putting our hearts into our chores today. As well, a Venus-Neptune square occurs tonight, casting a veil over our needs, wants, and perceptions. We may be dreaming up the ideal, which can clash with reality, and we can be lacking discrimination particularly when it comes to people we care about, our relationships, and material things. We should make an effort to separate fact from fiction so that we don’t set ourselves up for disappointment. What appears to be a great buy or something we really need may very well turn out to be useless to us, or worse, a financial drain or money pit. Lines can blur when it comes to the pursuit of pleasure, as we can convince ourselves to believe what we want to believe.

OCTOBER 26

The Moon continues its transit of Virgo today, connecting comfortably with Pluto and Mars, and boosting our sense of accomplishment and purpose. A pleasing aspect between the two benefics, Venus and Jupiter, occurs today, and cooperation, consideration for others, and cheerfulness are themes. We’re happy to share our ideas and collaborate with others. We have a positive attitude towards relationships and a stronger desire to harmonize. Romantic opportunities can emerge now. There can be lucky finds, pleasing purchases, and a hopeful financial outlook or prospects. Optimistic spiritual energy is brought to relationships. We connect to a higher purpose regarding our personal relationships and our values, attaching meaning to them. We are freer with our affections (and our money). This is also a favorable transit for entertaining and socializing.

A void of course Moon occurs from 2:34 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Mars), until the Moon enters Libra tomorrow, Thursday, October 27th, at 9:52 AM EDT.

OCTOBER 27

The Moon continues its transit of Virgo until 9:52 AM EDT when it enters Libra. Approximately midday, Mercury aligns with the Sun in the sign of Scorpio. We are exceptionally sharp, communicative, and open at this time, as our wants are aligned with our thoughts. It’s a favorable time for solving problems. What we say or write now has an impact, for better or for worse! We might have the opportunity to fill in the details for recent ideas. Projects or ideas birthed in September might bear fruit now. There can be new insights into our intimate relationships, personal psychology, or finances. This energy is very much a mental, light-bulb-over-the-head energy. Mars forms a sextile with Chiron tonight, and we tend to latch onto projects and activities that give us a stronger sense of purpose. We may have the opportunity to take the lead or action on matters that lead to healing, cleansing, or teaching now. We may be defending or help others (or ourselves). Venus and Mars form a parallel aspect today, generating a competitive, exciting, and pleasure-seeking energy.

The Moon ends its void period when the Moon enters Libra at 9:52 AM EDT.

OCTOBER 28

The Moon is in affable Libra all day, and balancing our personal desires with those of another comes into focus. As diplomatic as we may strive to be, our communications may not relay in the ways we intend. Words expressed can hit a nerve. There may be impatience with rules, worry or guilty feelings, and conflicting viewpoints stirring up tensions with a Mercury-Chiron minor challenging aspect this morning. We’re also moving towards a Mars-Uranus square, exact shortly after the day ends. Under this influence, we can be tempted to take risks or to act on sudden impulses without considering consequences. There is little patience with feelings of being restricted or limited. We might feel rebellious in the face of rules and regulations, particularly those we might feel are outdated, or anything that requires us to conform. There may be changes in work schedules, or life’s circumstances could challenge us in such a way that we need to redirect our energy or alter our goals. Energy is stop-and-go, and it can be hard to focus on only one activity. Inner tension begs for release now.

OCTOBER 29

The Moon continues its transit of Libra for much of the day – until 10:01 PM EDT, when it enters Scorpio. The day is strongly influenced by this evening’s Venus-Saturn alignment in the sign of Sagittarius. We may be facing reality about our finances, a personal belief, or a love/social matter. This influence can bring a strong sense of responsibility or realism to our lives and our relationships. Problems in a relationship can make themselves known now. A commitment may be made, or there can be a “test” of sorts to an existing commitment. A sense of duty towards someone we care about can be in focus now. We may feel energized and motivated by our sense of loyalty and responsibility. Renewed ties to old friends, ideas, and projects are possible, or a new sense of responsibility towards existing ones can emerge.

A void of course Moon occurs from 6:10 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Mars), until the Moon enters Scorpio at 10:01 PM EDT.

If it’s your birthday today, see our feature, If Today is Your Birthday Forecasts, for a free forecast for the upcoming year.

Moon Signs This Week:

When the Moon is in Leo

The Moon in Leo speaks to our “inner child”. It’s a warm, generous, whole-heartedly loving position. Pride keeps us from pettiness, but it can also prevent us from opening up and revealing how we are truly feeling. We are on stage, our feelings are grand, and we appreciate some drama in our lives. We are easily threatened by anything that seems to be impersonal. This is a time when we seek attention–when we want to stand out for our special qualities. It’s a strong time for romance and any creative activity as well.

The Moon in Leo generally favors the following activities: Creative activities, activities involving children, generous undertakings, undertakings in which personal recognition is desired, and risk-taking.

When the Moon is in Virgo

We instinctually gravitate towards practical activities under the influence of a Virgo Moon. In an urge to set things right, we might easily find ourselves re-organizing and rethinking plans. Emotional satisfaction comes from solving problems, making order out of confusion, and helping others. Health matters might come into focus. We notice the smaller parts that make up the whole, and instead of letting nagging details bother us, we might work on ironing them out so that we can feel more confident moving ahead.

The Moon in Virgo generally favors the following activities: Mental pursuits, work activities, services, and routines. Activities that would benefit from tending to details.

When the Moon is in Libra

Creating order is the focus, not necessarily through tidying or organizing as was the case while the Moon was in Virgo, but rather through pleasing interactions with others and aesthetics in our environment. We tend to solve problems through diplomacy, and we are more able to put aside our own emotions in order to achieve the peace we crave. The tendency now is to avoid direct confrontations. Decisions do not come easily. Seeing both sides to any given situation is the main reason for hesitation. Fear of losing others’ approval is another.

The Moon in Libra generally favors the following activities: Relationship and partnership issues, activities involving teamwork and cooperation, activities that involve self-examination, activities related to beauty.

When the Moon is in Scorpio

Intensity is what the Moon in Scorpio is all about. Whether it’s passion, elation, sorrow, or desire, emotions are felt on a deeply personal level. We are motivated by the desire to get to the bottom of things, and we instinctively read between the lines. Superficiality won’t work for us now. The Moon in Scorpio urges us to uncover our own power, and it’s an excellent time to rid ourselves of old fears and limiting habits. It can be an intimate and passionate time. Avoid manipulative tactics, brooding, and suspiciousness.

The Moon in Scorpio generally favors the following activities: Taxes, accounting, intimacy issues, psychological examinations, research, self-examination, getting rid of old things.

This Week’s Planetary Positions By Sign (General Trends)

Sun in Scorpio Who owes what, who owns what, and who decides these things: these are some of the major issues for you at the dawn of the cycle that now begins in your life. The only thing we really own is our consciousness; the only master who is never overthrown is oneself. These are lessons best learned early in this cycle. Master them, and you master everything. Dodge these issues, and the great strength that could be yours will remain just out of reach. Understanding inner motivations, seeing through to the core: that’s your real path of power and enlightenment now.

Mercury in Libra A new cycle begins for you, signaling a greater than usual interest in relationships, social connections, and the arts – on a more intellectual level than in the past, most likely. Seeing both sides of an issue, and figuring out resolutions to opposing views: these things take on more importance in your life.

Mercury in Scorpio A pronounced curiosity about taboos and mysteries plays a greater part in your life now. Your mind is on cutting through the nonessentials and penetrating to the core is where your mind is at now; you want to know who (or what) pulls the strings. Sex, taxes, investments, and others of life’s most compelling phenomena may captivate your interest more than ever before.

Mars in Capricorn With this new cycle taking hold in your life now, taking charge and being in control become more important issues for you. You want to get things organized, and you have the initiative to do it. This is a time of ambition and responsibility, a time to keep your cool and pace yourself. Working hard is smart, but working smart is better.

Jupiter in Libra The ties that bind, the harmonious integration of opposites, the perfect balance: these are the keys to your greatest opportunities now. Marriage and other close personal relationships tend to offer bright prospects, and you have a deep yearning to experience the fulfillment they can bring.

Saturn in Sagittarius The new phase now beginning in your life brings a need to break out of narrow concepts and legalistic philosophical or religious ideas. Remember: “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of small minds.” Opportunities to broaden your mental horizons may not come with ease, but they are essential if you are to avoid a kind of spiritual stagnation.

Uranus in Aries A clean break with the past in some respects is signaled by the cycle you have just begun. What YOU need, YOUR freedom and independence, shattering old molds: these are the things that energize you and take priority in your life. Uniqueness and originality set you apart.

Neptune in Pisces Things spiritual and psychic take the driver’s seat of your imagination as you begin a new cycle. The fine arts and all manner of fantasies assume a larger-than-life importance. Surrendering to fate, karma, and other powers greater than merely mortal may be seen as the ultimate liberation. If all is Maya (illusion), what is the reality that gives rise to the world of appearances?

Pluto in Capricorn As this new phase dawns for you, the pursuit of social/political power and status has a way of seeming necessary and inevitable – and let nothing stand in its way. It starts out small but has bigger consequences than you’d think. Ambition, responsibility, a place for everyone and everyone in their place…

The interpretations in this box are from the Day Watch software.

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Last Week in Astrology – Archive October 23-29, 2016