#saturn cycle

[adapembroke]

36 Years of Saturn: When the Planet of Maturity Finally Grows Up

I am a western astrologer, but, lately, I've been enjoying learning from Indian astrologers. One of the ideas has really captured my imagination is the idea that the planets mature at certain ages. This isn't a concept that shows up in western astrology, as such, but you can intuit the truth of it. You weren't born with a fully developed brain. Why would you be born with a fully developed Mercury? The last planet to come online is Saturn.* It makes sense for Saturn to come last. Saturn is the old man.

One of the things that a fully developed Saturn understands is the realities of aging, but Saturn also represents authority and discipline, and one would expect those themes to come up during Saturn times, as well.

Why Does Saturn Grow Up at 36?

I had my 36th birthday a couple of months ago, and it felt like a revolution for my Saturn. In truth, this is a big Saturn year for everyone. The Uranus/Saturn square is this year's Big Transit, and Saturn's contact with Uranus is revolutionizing Saturn for everyone. But Indian astrologers say that 36 is the peak year in Saturn’s maturation phase. For most people, this is the time when Saturn happens to be in a sign that is square their natal Saturn. Modern western astrologers say this is a time when we're starting to really process the results of our Saturn returns.

First Saturn Square: Big Changes, Grand Designs

For me, this transit has brought big changes in my career. For the better part of the last decade, I have been working full-time as a writer, with my work as an astrologer slowly taking up more of my time. Recently, I've had the opportunity to take on design work at a startup. A group of us wanted to create apps for astrologers and Tarot readers, and I was the only one who was willing to touch design. In the process, I've learned that I love talking with people about their dream apps and helping developers create products users love. I've decided to study UX design and explore making it my day job. Changing careers is hard. It requires a lot of faith and perseverance to make the change, especially when you've done what you're doing for a long time.

Saturn: Before and After

Hard work has never been a problem for me. When my Saturn has been dysfunctional it has tended to express itself as a refusal to accept my own limits. One of the reasons for this is because a lot of my energy for my career comes from my Aries midheaven. Aries is a natural sprinter. It is really good at putting an intense amount of energy into beginning a task, but it needs help from other signs to sustain that effort after that initial burst of effort is over. Making a career change like this can't happen in the way my Aries midheaven would prefer. Normally, this would be a disaster--or, at least, a source of panic. I would have struggled to accomplish six months of change in six weeks and gotten sick or depressed if I failed. Instead, I've been finding that all of the advice I've heard over the years for how to tackle a big project like this makes a lot more sense to me. I've started keeping a bullet journal. It is full of lists of books to read and things I want to accomplish. I've always thought that techniques like that were about staying organized, and I'm pretty good at keeping order in my head. I've discovered that planning does help me to keep track of what I have to do, but its most important function is helping me to see how far I've come and keep how far I have to go in perspective. I still work with that Aries-friendly burst of speed, but I'm channeling that energy into accomplishing a single task without worrying about the mountain of material I still have to accomplish. When I do find myself falling into old habits of overwork, then I look at the mountain of tasks left to accomplish, and I can use the overwhelm to help me put the brakes on and keep perspective. What has made the difference? Why am I able to change the way I approach work this way? I don't know. I can't point to an event or epiphany that changed the way I think of things. I can only guess the Indian astrologers were right. It was time. *Technically, Rahu and Ketu come online after this, but Saturn is the last planet that is recognized as a planet by both western astrology and Indian astrology.

[astrox-style22]

SATURN RETROGRADE:  PAY ATTENTION!

Planet:  Saturn Sign:  Capricorn Cycle:  Retrograde Date:  April 29th - September 18th

Saturn retrograde in its sign, Capricorn is a double dose of restrictions, limitations, obstacles and delays, if effort is made to move forward.   Of all the retrograde planets, Saturn is the “teacher”, showing each and every person where responsibility needs to be taken and to pay attention.  Commitment, structure, perseverance, persistence, all come under Saturn.    When the Saturn retrograde is not being used correctly obstacles, fear, insecurity and doubt etc., will be evident, a signal from the Universe to stop and see what has gone wrong.

Now, is when everything accomplished up to this point should be reviewed for weaknesses, that maybe hidden and not obvious, that in the long-term would bring failure.   Saturn represents time, sending a “message” that time discernment and deliberation need to be applied to wherever Capricorn is in a person’s birth chart.  

If repeated mistakes and problems keep coming to the forefront, it’s a sign that a “lesson” is not being learned or observed.   Time is a great healer and time resolves problems, therefore, use Saturn retrograde to resolve, restructure  what needs to be fixed and heal outstanding Karma.

[illegalastrology111]

SATURN IN CAPRICORN DIRECT - SEPTEMBER 18TH: BREAKTHROUGHS

Planet:  Saturn Sign:  Capricorn Cycle:  Direct Motion Date:  September 18th

Saturn now moving forward after being retrograde since April 29th, indicates obstacles, difficulties and delays will start to fall away, especially connected to career, goals, ambitions and certain structures.   People in authority/power will also be more responsive and wiling to help and support where needed.

The most important things to remember are the “lessons”/karma brought in to focus during the retrograde transit.  If these “lessons”/karmas are ignored they will only continue to occur and make progress difficult.   Once Saturn has changed direction, it will be obvious, what, if anything has improved or seems to be getting worse.   The key is to avoid stagnation, comfort zones or being “chained” by one’s own inhibitions, wrong-doing, fear, insecurity or doubt.  In other words being your own worst enemy isn’t an ingredient for any positive or successful outcome.

Saturn is the “teacher” of the zodiac and  also rules time.  Saturn “rewards” work well done and “lessons” learned, but timing is everything, not to be wasted or taken for granted.   That is why there are retrogrades in Astrology, to show there is a time to rest and a time for action.   Therefore, have the courage to now untie restrictive knots, in order to learn, grow and prosper and make BREAKTHROUGHS happen. This is the message of Saturn  moving forward.

[illegalastrology111]

SEPTEMBER FORECAST

Planet:  Moon Sign: Pisces Cycle: Harvest Full Moon Date:  September 14th

The Harvest Full Moon in Pisces marks the end/completion of goals initiated up to this point.  Whether or not the culmination of these goals will be positive or negative depends on actions taken around the New Moon in Pisces, and since that time, March 6th.   Good things can still come from this aspect either way, because lessons learned usually prove to be beneficial later. none way or another.  

The Full Moon is a time to “reap what has been sown”, so to speak, in preparation for the New Moon in Libra at the end of the month.   Therefore, the Harvest Moon is a sure sign that the “fruits of one’s labors” have the potential to produce a bountiful “harvest” in the months ahead.

Planet:  Saturn Sign:  Capricorn Cycle:  Direct Motion Date:  September 18th

Saturn now moving forward after being retrograde since April 29th indicates obstacles, difficulties and delays will start to fall away, especially connected to career, goals, ambitions and certain structures.   People in authority/power will also be more responsive and wiling to help and support where needed.

The most important things to remember are the “lessons”/karma brought in to focus during the retrograde transit.  If these “lessons”/karmas are ignored they will only continue to occur and make progress difficult.   Once Saturn has changed direction, it will be obvious, what, if anything has improved or seems to be getting worse.   The key is to avoid stagnation, comfort zones or being “chained” by one’s own inhibitions, wrong-doing, fear, insecurity or doubt.  In other words being your own worst enemy isn’t an ingredient for any positive or successful outcome.

Saturn is the “teacher” of the zodiac and  also rules time.  Saturn “rewards” work well done and “lessons” learned, but timing is everything, not to be wasted or taken for granted.   That is why there are retrogrades in Astrology, to show there is a time to rest and a time for action.   Therefore, have the courage to now untie restrictive knots, in order to learn, grow and prosper.  This is the message of Saturn  moving forward.

[illegalastrology111]

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RETROGRADES: PART 2

THE “OUTSIDERS”

When the planets beyond Saturn are retrograde, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto, there is a degree of subtle sabotage, undermining, deceit, deception and things hidden, all of which, often don’t reveal themselves until the planet has moved forward.  In all retrograde cycles there is less power and potential for outward success.  Inward motivations are more beneficial. Retrograde planets can also indicate the withholding or suppression of information.

When the three planets beyond Saturn, sometimes known as the “outsiders”. subtle subversion is usually at play.  Often what is subverted, or will be subverted, is only revealed when the planet concerned turns direct.   These planets are retrograde for long periods of time and there is debate in Astrology as to whether, because of the lengthy retrograde duration, usually 4 - 5 months,  deceit, undermining and hidden agendas are gong on.   Personal experience will show each individual whether this is the case or not.  For the most part, from personal observation, it would seem the answer, unfortunately is yes.

Outlined below is a brief description of the “Outsiders” at work.

URANUS: Uranus was discovered in 1781 and has a nature similar to Mercury, with its nervous mental impact.  However it’s much more powerful violent, disruptive, unexpected and fanatical, if the energies are not tempered and balanced.     In retrograde motion the desire to free Self from restrictions will be strong and to make drastic changes in life, with extreme possibly erratic behavior.  To erase old habits and make way for new behavior patterns will be at the forefront.   However this must be done with balanced, orderly thinking (Saturn), in order to avoid causing hurt and harm to Self, ones life and others.

Awakening latent talents and unique abilities that set one apart from others is a good place to start, depending on the sign of the Uranus retrograde. Plans to rebel, disrupt, experiment and detach will all be brewing during this cycle, to be released later.    The key is to not to go in a direction that is :explosive” and destructive.  Exploring, inventing and developing stronger intuitive senses that are for the good of others too is the best way to use this retrograde cycle.   Uranus rules the sign of Aquarius, highlighting groups, friends, hopes, wishes and ideals.  Altruism is the highest vibration of Uranus, strongest when it is retrograde.  However, only those who are self-aware enough to sense and feel this energy during the retrograde cycle and able to develop a unique persona, empowering enough to be of help to others, will benefit from Uranus retrograde the most.

Anyone new that enters a person’s life during Uranus retrograde is likely to be a disruptive force, under the guise of friendship.   The same applies to joining groups with an idealistic focus.  Just know, retrogrades can be  deadly!

NEPTUNE:  Neptune is often considered the higher vibration of Venus, it is symbolic of receptivity, passivity, impressionability and nebulousness.   Neptune in retrograde will bring either tremendous spiritual strength, spiritual growth, escapist tendencies - seeking the path of least resistance and avoid all responsibility.   Being deceitful to Self and others, careless and scattered are other traits of this retrograde planet.  

The key to getting the best out of this transit is to focus on spiritual growth, creativity that inspires others, frequent meditation to clear the mind and absolute discernment, in order to avoid people and situations that are likely to bring sorrow and self-undoing. Escapism using alcohol, drugs, medication or anything that shuts one off from reality are a big NO!  The outcome of indulgence during this retrograde would be extremely negative.  Keeping things secret are another trait  of Neptune retrograde depending on what it is that is being hidden.   The only problem with keeping things hidden, is that once the retrograde is over, the secret will be revealed.

Neptune represents the “veil”, illusion and delusion and ultimately the veil is lifted in direction motion.    Therefore, this particular retrograde is one to really develop a greater understanding of the spiritual Self and creative Self, in order to be more self-expressive and a greater force for good in the world. Caution and care should be taken while getting involved in spiritual pursuits. It would be wise to go with referrals that are tried and tested, instead of taking a chance with someone unknown.    There are also some spiritual activities that should be left alone.   Neptune rules spiritual protection.  Therefore make sure that this is top of the list of things to learn and be aware of before “opening” oneself up to any spiritual energies.  Individuals that enter one’s life during the retrograde period are very likely to be delusional, deceitful liars with a hidden agenda and secrets.

PLUTO:  Pluto can e considered the higher octave of Mars, named after the God of Hades.  It was discovered in 1930.    

Pluto represents transformation and regeneration bringing endings and rebirth. Pluto rules the sign of Scorpio with the planet Mars.  In retrograde motion, Pluto of all the planets can be the most destructive influencing a person to be self-destructive, vengeful, jealous, obsessive, addictive, resentful, stubborn and undermining. During this cycle it’s very important to be extremely wary of joint financial partnerships with new people.   Anyone new that promises they can make a situation or life better in some way, will probably cause devastating harm in a person’ life, that isn’t obvious until after Pluto has gone forward.

The best way to make use of this cycle is to work on inner transformation, rejuvenation, getting rid of fear and insecurity, “ending” situations and getting rid of people that  are not “healthy” to be around etc. A time to make Self and life better, to “clean house”.

Pluto is a very powerful force even when retrograde.   If its power is used correctly it can have a healing and empowering affect.

Uranus, Neptune and Pluto, although far away, affect individuals as they do large groups of people.  Paying attention to detail during these cycles is important, because the Universe provides every “tool” necessary for success and happiness.  If a person is attuned to their inner-self and things going on around and in their life, these are the people that will benefit most from retrograde cycles.   Other than that, retrogrades are perceived as negative, stagnating and irritating.    

If you remember that nothing is as it appears on the surface, retrogrades, especially Uranus, Saturn and Pluto,  can be “hidden helpers”.

[illegalastrology111]

SATURN RETROGRADE:   HOW DID I GET HERE? TIME TO GROW UP!

Planet:  Saturn Sign:  Capricorn Cycle:  Retrograde Date:  April 29th - September 18th

Saturn retrograde in its sign, Capricorn is a double dose of restrictions, limitations, obstacles and delays, if effort is made to move forward.   Of all the retrograde planets, Saturn is the “teacher”, showing each and every person where responsibility needs to be taken.  Commitment, structure, perseverance, persistence, all come under Saturn.    When the Saturn retrograde is not being used correctly obstacles, fear, insecurity and doubt etc., will be evident, a signal from the Universe to stop and see what has gone wrong.

Now, is when everything accomplished up to this point should be reviewed for weaknesses, that maybe hidden and not obvious, that in the long-term would bring failure.   Saturn represents time, sending a “message” that time discernment and deliberation need to be applied to wherever Capricorn is in a person’s birth chart.  

If repeated mistakes and problems keep coming to the forefront, it’s a sign that a “lesson” is not being learned or observed.   Time is a great healer and time resolves problems, therefore, use Saturn retrograde to resolve, restructure  what needs to be fixed and heal outstanding Karma.

[illegalastrology111]

FREEDOM: SATURN MOVES FORWARD

Planet:  SATURN Sign: Capricorn Cycle: Direct Motion Date: September 6th

September begins with Saturn moving forward in Capricorn, September 6th.  Saturn is the ruling planet of Capricorn, therefore the impact of this transit will be heavily felt.

Restrictions, limitations and obstacles will start to fall away and it will become easier to make progress with career and goals.  Plus people in power and authority will be more responsive to suggestions and ideas to get things done and do them differently.  Now is the time to lay down new foundations for any project that has been delayed, being sure to get rid of the old to make way for the new.

Taking responsibility for actions past and present will be a major deciding factor in what happens next, because Saturn is the planet of karma.  As a result repeating the same mistakes will definitely slow down achievement/accomplishment because the Universe never forgets.

[astrox-style22]

SATURN RETROGRADE: HEMMED IN BY KARMA

Planet: Saturn Sign: Capricorn Cycle: Retrograde Date: April 17th - September 6th

Saturn  retrograde initiates a cycle of going back to review weak structures that cause instability and potentially affect some aspect of career, goals, ambitions, authority/power.  If weaknesses are not strengthened or reinforced it’ll be hard to maintain smooth progress moving forward.   Saturn, also being the planet of karma, will be a big issue to confront, giving each person the opportunity to put right wrongdoing either from Self or others. Digging deep to understand the “lesson” the Universe is trying to “teach”, by facing up to guilty feelings and having the courage to “stare” Karma in the face.  A time to take responsibility and be a positive Cause for a positive Affect.  

Saturn always “rewards” work well done and karma that’s overcome.  Therefore to turn a “blind eye” to situations will only make things worse, creating restrictions, limitations,  problems, obstacles, delays and difficulties  along the way, a feeling of being “hemmed in”,  and hard to deal with later.    When there is a feeling of restriction or limitation, this is a sign form Saturn that taking a temporary pause to reflect would be a good idea. This emphasis being even stronger with Pluto retrograde in Capricorn April 22nd - September 30th.  

Saturn is the planet that brings order where there is chaos and helps to transform oppression into freedom, whether self-imposed or brought on by others.   Therefore this cycle can be positive for those who are serious about improving Self and Life.   For people who just don’t care, don’t believe in karma or Cause and Affect; remember the Universe never forgets and the same mistakes will be repeated over and over again, with different people and/or situations until the “lesson/s” is earned.