Autumnal Equinox September 23rd, 2023
How to Use This Blog
I create horoscopes for you to use as a tool for introspection and reflection. When observing the outside world from a general perspective, I recognize that we need more encouragement to work on developing and understanding our inner world. You can use the information in this blog to prompt guided introspection.
Background Information
When using Astrology as a tool for healing and introspection (within the realm of Natal Astrology), the planets represent energies that correlate with the different manifestations of our nature. They show us that many parts make a whole. The zodiac signs represent atmospheres or energy signatures through which the other parts of our nature (the planets) express themselves. Lastly, astrological houses represent the various life areas of our lives. From this viewpoint, interpreting horoscopes can be easier to digest and more practical for immediate implementation.
The study of Astrology is from the perspective of the Earth looking out towards the cosmos. In other words, Astrology is an Earth-based natural science. Having this piece of context at the back of the mind can be a helpful best practice when discussing anything related to the study of Astrology.
Full Moon and New Moon 101
Full Moons are always in the opposite sign of the Sun. For example, on May 16, 2022, there was a total lunar eclipse in the sign Scorpio, and the Sun was in Taurus. Scorpio and Taurus are opposite signs. On the other hand, New Moons always occur within the same sign, the Sun. For example, On October 25, 2022, there was a partial solar eclipse in the sign Scorpio, and the Sun, along with the new Moon, was in the sign Scorpio.
What you came for
This blog post was intended to discuss the new Moon in Virgo but will also include the Autumnal Equinox. I want to broaden what these blog posts cover to have more than just the New and Full Moons. I will leave the comment section open so you can respond on whether you would like that. Let us begin!
On Thursday, September 14, 2023, there was a New Moon in the Earth sign Virgo. This New Moon was notable because it formed a Trine, a harmonious configuration with Uranus in Taurus. The impact of this aspect was more evident than other aspects during that week because Uranus has been in its fall since it officially moved into Taurus in 2019.
The Essential Dignities is a subtopic within Astrology, which groups the planets and signs into four categories: domicile, detriment, exaltation and fall. These categories indicate the planets' ability while in specific signs.
Domicile refers to the sign(s) the planet rules. This is a favourable position for any planet because, figuratively speaking, the planet is familiar with that atmosphere. The planet is at home- hence the name domicile.
Detriment refers to the sign opposite of its domicile. This is a debilitating position for any planet because the atmosphere is unfamiliar and contrary to where the planet is more familiar.
Exaltation refers to the most favourable position for any planet. This atmosphere is similar to its domicile but different. Here, the planet can better express underplayed parts of its energy in a generally well-received way.
Fall refers to the most debilitating position for a planet. This atmosphere is the opposite sign of its exaltation. Here, the energy planet is often considered a nuisance.
The Sun will be in its fall, in the air sign Libra, as we welcome in the Autumnal Equinox on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 2:50 a.m. EST.
Individually, the Sun represents our personality, vitality, creativity, and inner authority. Collectively, the Sun represents our collective authority, attention and energy. The atmosphere of Libra is the opposite of Aries, where the Sun is exalted. Libra is ruled by Venus, which promotes unity and coexistence, while the Sun promotes independence and space to shine. During this time, we can expect to experience struggles with how we see ourselves and those around us. We may also experience a higher propensity to overly consider the opinions of others on matters that would be best deliberated with ourselves. Solitude, introspection and nourishing the spirit can fall by the wayside if we are not vigilant. Prioritizing moments of mindfulness and gratitude will help combat signs of seasonal depression.
Autumnal Equinox
The Autumnal Equinox indicates the cosmic shift from the collective from planting to harvesting what you have nurtured over the last year. Now is an opportune time to marvel at the fruits of your labour. Despite wanting more, taking a moment to see what you have created will assist you in knowing how and what to make for the coming new year during the Vernal (Spring) Equinox.
The days will become shorter during this season, as Equinox means equal day and night, so preparing yourself for the coming darkness accompanying Winter is necessary for those who struggle during the Winter. The Equinox seasons tend to be viewed solely as transition seasons to Summer and Winter. However, recognizing that they do more than that can also assist us with finding meaning during transitionary periods in our lives.
Journal Prompts
What is this season of your life here to teach you?
What do you want to learn during this season of your life?
How can you equip yourself so you can ENJOY this season?
How can you be of service to assist others with seeing the beauty of this season?
Trines 101
As mentioned, Uranus is presently in its fall in the sign Taurus and has been since 2019.
Modernly, aspects are generally grouped by impact. Major and minor, harmonious and disharmonious, are the common distinctions used to describe the likely ways they manifest in someone’s life. The Trine is considered a major aspect, meaning its impacts can be felt more strongly and directly than a minor aspect like a semi-sextile. It is also regarded as harmonious due to the ease it promotes.
A Trine occurs when two or more planets are 120° apart with an orb, a duffer, of 5-10 degrees. Typically, Trines form with signs of the same element. The recent New Moon in Virgo and Uranus in Taurus formed a 120° angle, and both Virgo and Taurus are Earth signs. Intercepted charts are an exception to the same element rule because they add a layer of complexity to aspects. They generally form uncommon configurations.
The shared element in a typical Trine configuration promotes the experience of “sameness,” which commonly results in ease. From my experience, this ease is widely desired when reading charts for clients. The assumption is the ease from a Trine will always be welcomed; however, that is not always the case. Similar to Jupiter and Venus transits, we can learn that having too much of a “good” thing is possible. More importantly, it reveals that “good” is subjective, and what we deem good can manifest as the opposite. Friction creates growth. Living without conflict can stunt our capacity. Ironically, Trines represent no conflict, which can develop issues over time because the individual is not being challenged to grow beyond their comfort zone.
It is important to remember that life ebbs AND flows. Both are necessary for movement in this dimension because the principle of duality makes up the third dimension. When you want life to be “easy” or convenient, let this post remind you that you are also asking to remain in your comfort zone where nothing grows.
Takeaway
We have entered the void where the concepts and realities regarding authority, attention and energy will be distorted, and your effort will be necessary to combat this. Protecting and prioritizing moments of solitude, introspection and nourishing the spirit will keep you unscathed during this season. This season is often considered a transition to Winter for those living in the Northern Hemisphere; however, Autumn is a season. Exploring your limitations that reduce the enjoyment of this time can also assist you in seeing the beauty in all things you experience—even the things that feel inconvenient or challenging! Life ebbs and flows, and accepting this fixed function of life will allow you to move through it with more confidence and gratitude.
