Welcome to the Jungle

Astrology by David Weatherly

October/November 2005

The United States suffered through another devastation this summer with the powerful Hurricane Katrina that struck New Orleans and the South. In the course of the long recovery, it will continue to be clear that the response by our nation's leaders has left something to be desired. One of the dominant influences during the fall months of October and November will be the placement of Saturn in the sign of Leo the lion. Planetary changes continue to affect our country. It may appear that we are in the wilds of the jungle wondering what rules apply and, more importantly, which ones are just. There is a continued air of restriction mixed with a growing wave of spiritual change in both the United States and the world.

The lion is the ruler of the jungle and, as a symbol, represents rulers, leaders and kings. More than ever, leaders are placed in the spotlight at this time. In a negative expression, this planetary aspect brings out the pride of those in power and the desire for more control. Saturn is in its "detriment" in Leo, a position of weakness. Questions will continue to arise. Where is the compassion and support of our leaders? Saturn has a tendency to shake the foundations so we can expect to see a continued shift in the way this country views its leaders. While we can hope that they will respond with openness and concern, Saturn indicates they we will see further restrictions and controls.

Venus will move through the signs of Scorpio, Sagittarius and Capricorn during the fall months. This is a rather reserved period for relationships. Avoid getting deeply involved with new partners in the month of October. Social gatherings are better towards the end of the month. There is an underlying feeling of suspicion in relating to people so be cautious and aware. By early November, relationships take on a business-like air. Of course this does not serve the emotional self so pay attention to the direction that things are taking in your personal life.

Actual business partnerships are ill advised in this period. The aspects of Jupiter and Saturn also combine with a Mercury retrograde beginning November 14. Avoid travel if possible and delay contracts and business deals until December 4.

Mars is retrograde in the sign of Taurus the bull throughout all of October and November. This produces a note of caution in regard to the stock market and banking, the province of Taurus . Mars is a dynamic fiery energy while Taurus is slow and calculated. This is a difficult combination. Financial plans should be made and executed at a steady, moderate pace. Try to avoid panic in the shifting market and begin to plan accordingly. On a physical level the fall weather will bring out a conflict between an urge to get up and move, and the inclination towards a lazy relaxed attitude. Extra pounds could be added early this holiday season so be aware of the balance between eating and exercise.

Jupiter will finish its sojourn through Libra this October and move into Scorpio on the 27th of the month.

Combined with Saturn in Leo, Jupiter's position in Scorpio does not bode well for the economy going into the holiday season. In general, this is not a good time to place money in the stock market or traditional investment arenas. Some money will be made on bio-stocks and alternative energy around this period, but even the real estate market is likely to begin to dip.

As for personal growth, this is a good period to further your studies in esoteric subjects and alternative healing modalities. Focus more on small workshops and personal training as opposed to large-scale conferences or gatherings.

Uranus and Neptune, the outer planets, have both been retrograde all summer. Both of these planets will turn direct during this two month period. Uranus, currently in Pisces, will turn direct on November 16. Neptune , in the sign of Aquarius makes its turn direct on the 26th of October. These two planets play a major role in the shift of consciousness that is taking place. Psychic abilities receive another new burst of energy. Watch children between the ages of seven and twelve now as they begin to display ever deeper gifts from the psychic realm. Their natural gift of healing will also become evident, and this should be encouraged and cultivated.

Pluto has just over two years left in the sign of Sagittarius. In this final stretch, it certainly adds to the mix of political change that is beginning in the United States . Pluto's years in Sagittarius have brought about many scandals in the world of sports, a Sagittariun area. In the last leg of its journey in Sagittarius, Pluto will bring a greater focus to the leaders of many fields including government, science, sports and entertainment. Pluto is the lord of the underworld and as such this planet pulls forth what is below the surface. This includes suppressed issues, concepts and ideas. Pluto reveals secrets, so pay attention!

The shift of consciousness that many of us have been feeling for some time gets a new burst of energy this fall. Although we may find it difficult at times to navigate through the jungle, it is more important than ever to continue with forward progress. Instead of relying on a distant king or government to serve our needs and care for us, we must focus our attention on family and community. Much of our strength and support comes from those whose understandings are in synch with our own. It is often said that the world is becoming smaller all the time. With the growing sense of our spiritual nature, this is more true than ever. Look closely now at those of like mind for they are your partners on this exciting journey that we have all agreed to.

© David Weatherly, 2005