Guest article by Dorne Carrel of AstroConnections.

November has an active and dynamic theme, with powerful planetary alignments that can bring transformational changes.  These changes contain the possibility for challenges and disruption, as well as positive personal growth and increased strength.  The planetary stations of Neptune and Chiron highlight our connection with the inner/spiritual realms. The month begins under the October Scorpio new moon cycle, also a solar eclipse, with a focus on the use of power and cultivating a deeper awareness.

On November 6 the Full Moon occurs at 14 Taurus. It is aligned with Venus, Pluto, Mars and Chiron.  This lunation is the third in a row to feature a close alignment with Venus (ruler of Taurus), which brings focus to values, resources, and issues of equality.  Power and control issues in relationships can also come up at this time. We may discover strength and courage from standing up for our values and the rights of others.  The Sabian symbol keynotes for these degrees, “Early steps in the development of a mind seeking to be attuned to the higher level of human evolution,” and “The courage needed to meet the crises precipitated by social ambition,” suggest that opportunities and resources for growth in consciousness are now abundant.

November 6-12 is likely the most potent and volatile period of the month. Be prepared for possible earth changes. Mars aligns with Pluto in Capricorn on November 10, which can bring power struggles and important shifts. There is an opportunity to develop deeper insight, personal power and self-mastery.  The theme of dynamic change continues on November 12 when Mars in Capricorn squares Uranus in Aries, leading to either breakdowns or breakthroughs.  Also on this day, Venus aligns with Saturn in Scorpio, which helps us find constructive outlets for this energy. It brings a serious, sober quality to our relationships, but also allows us to stay focused and achieve more clarity about our true commitments.

Neptune turns direct on November 15 at 5 Pisces. This period is favorable for work involving releasing the old to allow for new positive change.  Now we can bring our ideals and creative, healing impulses into outer reality.  The alignment of the Sun and Saturn in Scorpio on November 18 should help provide needed focus and structure.

The New Moon occurs on November 22 at 0 Sagittarius. It aligns with Venus, Saturn, Ceres and Neptune. Significant shifts occur this month that can attune us to a higher, more evolutionary perspective.  The alignment with Saturn helps us to stay grounded and be able to effectively channel our resources. The presence of Ceres suggests that we pay attention to our own health and dietary needs, while also giving and receiving healing support. Neptune can bring increased compassion, but the challenging square suggests being aware of possible confusion, misunderstandings and deceptive situations.  The Sabian symbol for this degree, “Retired army veterans gather to reawaken old memories; the will to reaffirm the value of the struggle upon which civilization and group achievements are founded,” suggests building upon the values of the past to achieve a higher evolutionary purpose.

On November 23, Chiron in Pisces turns direct.  Now we are better able to release past wounds and have more healing energy available for new life directions.  The alignment of Mercury with Saturn in Scorpio on November 25 is favorable for discerning the steps we need to take to manifest new goals.

On November 27, there is a difficult alignment of Saturn and Pluto that can lead to set-backs from unresolved situations.  It challenges us to eliminate elements from the past that do not favor our greater growth.  However, Mercury entering Sagittarius on this same day brings a more expansive, positive perspective.

In December, Saturn enters Sagittarius and Uranus turns direct.  Blessings to all for peace and prosperity.

 

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Dorene Carrel is a professional astrologer with over thirty years of experience, offering birth chart and transit/progression readings.  Donations to support this column are always appreciated. For more information, contact Dorene at dorenea5@yahoo.com.

All references to Sabian symbols are from An Astrological Mandala: The Cycle of Transformation and Its 360 Symbolic Phases, by Dane Rudhyar.

Check out my astrology blog at www.astroconnections.blogspot.com for ongoing astrological observations on current events, people, trends, etc.