Bracing for the Storm: October’s Turbulent Astrological Energy
A Guide to Managing the Intense Energies of October 2024
Can you believe we are already into fall? Depending on your locale, you might be looking out your window and seeing the changing seasons, with gold, amber, orange, and red leaves painting the landscape in autumn hues. The air is cooler, and our lives step into the routine of the season. So, let’s look at what October has in store for us astrologically.
On October 1st, we have the Moon in Virgo making a grand trine with Pluto in Capricorn and Uranus in Taurus. The Moon in Capricorn is deep and introspective, but rarely shows its cards—it’s the master poker player. To me, this trine is a reminder that during October, it’s important not to let our emotions get the best of us as we navigate the U.S. election season. Pluto, still retrograde in Capricorn, continues to expose weaknesses. Take this as a sign that shifts in power are happening, and surprises could be ahead.
We also start the month with a Mercury-Sun cazimi in Libra, squared to Mars in Cancer. While Mercury in Libra strives for balanced communication, Mars in Cancer is a bit emotional. Do I think communication will be erratic at the start of October? Of course. But I also believe the other energies at play will help balance things out. We kick off the month with another grand trine—this time between Venus in Scorpio, Mars in Cancer, and Saturn in Pisces.
These grand trines set the tone for the month. Emotionally, many of us are just tired of the discord. The constant lies, gaslighting, and misdirection have weighed heavily on us. Throughout October, I expect there will be a collective understanding that the toxicity of the past decade needs to end. Regardless of political beliefs or lifestyle, there is a craving to find common ground and heal. Our nature is to love and connect. Beginning the month with a grand water trine between Venus and Mars symbolizes a dance between the masculine and feminine energies, merging with the divine.
On October 2nd, we dive into a solar eclipse in Libra, signaling a new cycle. Since April 19th, 2023, we’ve been in the Aries-Libra eclipse cycle. This is the fourth eclipse in this series, all of which are solar eclipses. When we think of Aries, we think of the ram, but perhaps it’s time to use "ewe" instead. As I type this, I chuckle, remembering cards I used to get from a past love that featured artwork of sheep and phrases like “loving ewe.” Silly, yes, but a reminder of our humanity and the small gestures that bring us joy. If there’s anything the world needs now, it’s love and joy.
On a personal level, Solar Eclipses are like a supercharged new moon. The Libra Solar Eclipse on October 2nd, 2024, will influence different areas of life depending on which house Libra occupies in your birth chart. Solar eclipses signify new beginnings, shifts, and potential turning points. Locating the house in your natal chart where Libra resides can give you some clarity on the area of life that can impact you. Here’s how this eclipse could affect each house:
Libra in the 1st House: This eclipse brings personal transformation. You may feel a strong urge to redefine yourself, change your appearance, or shift your personal goals. It’s a time for fresh starts, self-discovery, and increased confidence as you step into a new version of yourself.
Libra in the 2nd House: Financial matters come into focus. You could experience shifts related to income, possessions, or personal values. This eclipse may inspire new ways to increase financial security or prompt you to re-evaluate your values and make changes accordingly.
Libra in the 3rd House: Expect developments in communication, learning, and your immediate environment. New ideas, projects, or connections with siblings or neighbors may surface. It’s a great time for short trips, learning new skills, or changing how you communicate with others.
Libra in the 4th House: Home, family, and emotional foundations may undergo significant changes. You may feel inspired to move, redecorate, or re-establish your connection with family. Emotional healing is possible, and new roots can align with your needs.
Libra in the 5th House: Creative projects, children, and romance come into the spotlight. You may feel an influx of inspiration to pursue hobbies or artistic endeavors. New beginnings in love or changes in how you express joy and creativity are also likely.
Libra in the 6th House: This eclipse could prompt changes in your daily routines, health, or work life. You may decide to adopt healthier habits, shift jobs, or reorganize your schedule to better balance work-life responsibilities.
Libra in the 7th House: Partnerships and close relationships are highlighted. This eclipse might bring new beginnings in romantic or business partnerships or prompt you to reassess the dynamics in your current relationships. Balance and fairness will be essential.
Libra in the 8th House: Shared resources, intimacy, and transformation are the themes of this eclipse. You may experience changes in financial partnerships, investments, or deep emotional bonds. It’s also a time for inner transformation, pushing you to confront fears and embrace new perspectives.
Libra in the 9th House: Expect shifts in travel, education, or philosophical beliefs. You may feel inspired to expand your horizons through travel, higher learning, or exploring different cultures. Reflecting on your personal beliefs and how they shape your life path is also key.
Libra in the 10th House: Career, public image, and long-term goals are in the spotlight. This eclipse may signal a shift in your career trajectory, recognition for your efforts, or a desire to change how you’re seen by the world. It’s a powerful time to set new career goals and redefine success.
Libra in the 11th House: Your social network, friendships, and long-term aspirations are activated. You might be drawn to new groups, causes, or technology that aligns with your future vision. Fresh connections could emerge, helping you find a community that supports your goals.
Libra in the 12th House: This is a time for introspection, healing, and spiritual growth. The eclipse may bring hidden matters to the surface, encouraging you to let go of past patterns or engage in more self-care. It’s an excellent period for solitude, meditation, and releasing what no longer serves you.
Each house’s influence during the Libra Solar Eclipse will depend on the aspects it makes to other planets in your chart. Overall, expect new chapters to begin in these life areas!
On October 5th, the Moon will be in Scorpio, conjunct Venus. Scorpio is all about emotional depth, and with Venus in Scorpio, you may find yourself reflecting on your closest relationships. With a trine to Saturn in Pisces and Mars in Cancer, you may feel nostalgic about the past. Former relationships could re-enter your realm. With distance and time, we often gain clarity on the purpose of those who were once in our lives. What did they teach us about ourselves? How have we grown since then?
As we progress through the month, the Moon will have significant moments of impact. On October 10th, the Capricorn Moon will oppose Mars in Cancer. Mars remains square to the Libra Sun, square to Chiron in Aries, and trine to Venus. There's a misconception that Capricorn Moons are emotionless, but the truth is quite the opposite. Under Capricorn’s influence, feelings are intense and determined. Ruled by Saturn, Capricorn is stoic, and a Capricorn Moon expresses emotions behind closed doors, quietly handling life’s details. When opposed to Mars, this energy may push you to show your emotions—whether through acts of service, a thoughtful gift, or expressing appreciation for loved ones. A little vulnerability can deepen your connection with your significant other. It's okay to reveal the softer side of yourself.
Besides the Moon, which changes signs every two and a quarter days, Mercury will ingress into Scorpio on the afternoon of October 13th. With Mercury and Venus both in Scorpio, communication will be charged with passion and conviction. As the election approaches, candidates will likely communicate in a visceral, emotionally resonant way. Venus, trine Neptune and Mars, and opposite Uranus, suggests that these messages will deeply reflect the candidates' core values.
Now, let’s talk about an October surprise. The term “October surprise” was coined during Ronald Reagan's 1980 presidential campaign by his campaign manager, William Casey. These surprises, whether intentional or spontaneous, tend to have a big impact on elections because there’s little time for candidates to recover. They’ve been documented since 1840. Do they have anything to do with astrology? Perhaps. Most of October, the Sun is in Libra, balancing the scales between two sides, and it's natural for one side to try to disrupt the other.
Could this be the time for an October surprise? I would say yes. Whatever comes to light will likely relate to women and core values. One candidate faces significant health issues and has a legacy of mistreating small businesses, minorities, the marginalized, and women. Because this person tends to ramble and go off on unpredictable tangents, I can't predict what exactly they will say, but I expect that something from their campaign will make headlines and hit hard at our core values. Will this lower their chances of winning? Yes, but not necessarily because of what is revealed or said. Behind the scenes, the campaign is gradually unraveling. Supporters are starting to question their values. Some will become disillusioned and may decide not to vote, write in another candidate, or, in fewer cases, vote for Harris.
But there’s also a competing energy at this time. About a month ago, I looked at the former president’s chart for this week and, for a long time, I’ve sensed an issue related to his head. When I tap into his energy (which I don’t particularly enjoy doing), I see two deep internal spots in the brain—one is a clot, and the other is a bleed. This is common in certain types of dementia. I won’t go into too much detail, but since last October, there have been several transits that suggest the possibility of what I’m seeing (the last one was right before the RNC, during the attempted assassination). Can I say with certainty that he will have a health event? No, I can’t, but the transits are there, especially around the 17th of the month. Keep in mind, this is a transit specific to him, not part of the overarching energy. It’s nothing for others to worry about, even if they have a similar chart.
We have a full moon in Aries on October 17th. This moon is squared to Mars and Pluto. Let’s just say this is a transit that can bring agitation, disruptions, and a shake-up of sorts. Emotions will run high. For example, on the night of the 17th, all homeowners in my community are required to attend the annual HOA meeting. I expect this to be an all-out complaining fest with the energy in play. In my community, there are two distinct groups: those who own and live here and those who invested and rent out their units. The division is close to 50-50. Yes, my little HOA mirrors what’s going on in the United States. Now, you may be wondering why I didn’t contact the HOA as soon as I saw the date. Actually, I didn’t check the transits a few months ago when I was first alerted to the event, but even if I had, I wouldn’t have said anything. The reason for this is that discord has a purpose. It creates change and teaches us to look at situations from different perspectives. More importantly, it can remind us of what we have in common.
Also on the 17th, Venus leaves Scorpio and enters Sagittarius in the afternoon, making a sextile to Pluto in Capricorn. For many, this will evoke an emotional sense of belonging—whether to a group or, on a higher level, to each other. This energy has the potential to polarize, but it also has the power to unite, especially with Venus opposing Uranus. With the full moon completing a cycle, Venus might remind us that at our core, within our deepest roots, we can create a fresh start by looking at the bigger picture.
After this period of upheaval, healing energy arrives on October 22nd. The Moon will be in its domicile of Cancer, while Mars in Cancer forms a trine with Neptune, helping us take concerted action toward our dreams. Venus in Sagittarius also trines the North Node in Aries, and a beautiful grand water trine forms between Mercury in Scorpio, Saturn in Pisces, and the Moon in Cancer. Whatever surprises we faced the previous week, we will now be in a place where we can communicate with discernment while addressing our emotional needs. There will be a catharsis. With Mars squaring Chiron in Aries, we may feel the need to take action to move forward in a gentler, more respectful, and loving manner.
I know some are concerned about Mars being in Cancer throughout October due to the duplicity of the energy. Mars is about action, and it can be quick, impulsive, and at times, aggressive. Meanwhile, Cancer unbound is raw, deep emotion. On the 23rd, the Moon will conjunct Mars, amplifying erratic feelings. With Mars opposing Pluto in Capricorn, there is the potential for violence—I don’t want to downplay this. Some people may feel uncomfortable with unfolding events and may lash out. However, others will take this time to look inward, and for them, it can be emotionally healing. Those in power who act selfishly or without ethics will not fare well during this period. It’s important to lean into the beauty of Cancer energy, which is unconditional love. Yes, it sounds cliché, but sometimes we just need a little light to lead us out of darkness.
As we move closer to election day, we encounter a dichotomy of energy—emotional turbulence and introspective responsibility. Responsibility comes from Venus in Sagittarius square to Saturn in Pisces, showing us how to proceed forward amid disarray. But on the 28th, Venus opposes Jupiter, bringing a sense of optimism and community. The grand water trine mentioned earlier shifts from Saturn to Neptune, focusing on our hopes and dreams. To move forward, we must recognize that it takes all of us to create positive change and that we can’t allow distractions or fear to derail the conversation. Yes, the second part of the month is tempestuous—it will be stormy and full of heightened emotions.
Please understand, this article is about the overarching energy of the month, with a focus on the United States. In your personal life, things may flow more smoothly. For example, Mars in Cancer is transiting my first house. Over the years, I’ve learned to let my emotions flow like a river, rather than exploding like a volcano. I lean into Mars’ energy to help me get things done, using it to write and handle business matters. I play relaxing music, take walks with my dog, and stay active as much as possible. Knowing that Mars thrives on action and movement helps me balance the emotional bottleneck that can arise with this transit.
Here’s how you can manage Mars in Cancer, based on the house it occupies in your chart:
Cancer in the 1st House: For you, it’s important to take action for yourself. Physical movement and activity will help you process emotions before they build up and explode. Engage in activities like walking, dancing, or working out to channel emotional intensity in a healthy way. Prioritize your needs and express yourself to avoid bottling up frustrations.
Cancer in the 2nd House: You may feel motivated to secure your finances or material possessions for emotional safety. To release Mars energy positively, focus on organizing your finances or finding practical ways to increase your income. Sensory experiences, like cooking or crafting, can help you stay grounded while processing deeper emotions.
Cancer in the 3rd House: Communication is key. Mars in Cancer can stir emotional conversations or frustrations in daily interactions. To release this energy, write, journal, or talk to trusted friends about your feelings. Staying active in your community through short trips or engaging hobbies can help prevent emotional overwhelm.
Cancer in the 4th House: Emotions related to family and home may rise to the surface. Home-based activities like redecorating, gardening, or cooking will help you channel emotional energy. Creating a peaceful, nurturing environment at home will help you feel emotionally stable and prevent sudden outbursts.
Cancer in the 5th House: Your creative expression or romantic life may stir emotional reactions. Focus on creative projects that allow you to express what you’re feeling inside. Engaging in playful activities with children or romantic partners can redirect emotions in a joyful, light-hearted way, helping to release tension constructively.
Cancer in the 6th House: Daily routines and work could trigger emotional stress. It’s essential to maintain a structured routine that includes self-care. Physical activity, such as yoga, running, or even cleaning, can help release pent-up emotions. Tending to your health and ensuring space for emotional processing will prevent burnout.
Cancer in the 7th House: Relationships and partnerships may feel emotionally charged under this transit. Address any simmering issues with open communication, but also take time to care for yourself emotionally. Activities like spending time with loved ones or taking solo time to reflect will help release tension from relationships.
Cancer in the 8th House: Deep emotions related to intimacy, shared resources, or transformation may arise. Release these emotions through personal reflection or talking with a trusted confidant. Engaging in emotionally cathartic activities like journaling, therapy, or even financial planning can help release stress related to shared resources or fears.
Cancer in the 9th House: Your beliefs, spirituality, or education could trigger emotional responses. To release Mars energy positively, explore new philosophies, travel, or engage in spiritual practices like meditation or yoga. Expanding your horizons can help you release emotions tied to feeling trapped by old belief systems.
Cancer in the 10th House: Career and public image may become emotionally charged under this transit. To handle Mars energy positively, take proactive steps toward career goals while allowing space for emotional processing. Balancing work life with self-care and boundary setting will help prevent burnout.
Cancer in the 11th House: Friendships, social groups, and long-term goals could trigger emotional reactions. Release this energy by connecting with supportive friends or taking steps toward long-term projects. Engage in group activities or join causes that align with your values to release emotions through social engagement.
Cancer in the 12th House: Subconscious emotions may bubble up, making you feel introspective or withdrawn. Mars here helps you process hidden emotions through rest, solitude, and reflection. Creative or spiritual practices like meditation, dream work, or journaling will allow you to release these emotions in a gentle and healing way.
Working with Mars in Cancer requires finding ways to move and release emotions constructively to avoid the buildup of frustration that might lead to outbursts. Tailor your actions based on where Cancer falls in your chart to use this energy positively. Though Mars in Cancer isn’t the only energy we’ll contend with during October, these tips can help anyone, regardless of placement. As I’ve mentioned, the last few weeks of October will be tense, but we can master this energy on a personal level.
As we enter October, we are greeted by both the change of season and a Solar Eclipse, signaling a fresh start and the possibility of transformation. However, as the month progresses, tensions will build, with disruptions and disagreements surfacing. Despite the turbulence, with the guidance provided in this article and an understanding of the upcoming transits, we can rise above the chaos, knowing these challenging energies will eventually pass. Just like weathering an approaching storm, October’s astrological energy requires us to stay grounded and ready for whatever comes our way. Though the winds may blow and the rain may fall, with the right mindset, we can emerge stronger.
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