Tomorrow we enter the Balsamic phase, the last phase in the lunar cycle before the New Moon. The Moon disappears in this phase, becoming visible again after the exact Sun–Moon conjunction.
It’s time to prepare for the New Moon of October 14, an annual solar eclipse in Libra. We think of Libra as harmonious and beautiful. This eclipse, though, features Pluto, Mercury, and Chiron in prominent positions, making this an intense as well as unpredictable time.
We enter the Balsamic phase with the Moon at 02º06’ Libra, conjunct Venus at 01º24’ Libra, and both opposite Saturn at 01º01’. These are very close aspects.
The Moon and Venus are excellent companions, yet neither is at home in Virgo. Our emotional and physical selves (Moon) and our creativity and passions (Venus) turn toward practical details.
Saturn is likewise not at their best in Pisces, where things are too diffuse and unfocused for Saturn’s preference.
What can we expect from this pattern?
The Moon and Venus will be sensitive to the vast, undefined cosmos Saturn is connected with. Saturn brings a somber mood that might trigger anxieties in the Virgo planets.
There’s a storm brewing. We can feel the energies looming on the horizon. Depending on how this week’s transits interact with your birth chart, you may feel the storm has already begun.
The Moon and Venus in Virgo have the capacity to channel anxiety into practical preparations.
What do you need to feel secure and stable when waves start crashing and the winds pick up? What does your body need? Exercise? Comfort food? Breathwork? Whatever will help you feel good, plan ahead for that.
What creative outlets will support you through a time of change? Line up some favorite music, films, books–or art projects, writing, or dance. Prepare your favorites to watch, listen to, read, or create.
As we enter the Balsamic phase, the Sun in Libra is opposes Chiron in Aries. We’re revisiting any patterns of wounding we have across the Aries–Libra axis. How are you doing in balancing independence and community?
During these days before the New Moon eclipse, Pluto stations direct, Mars enters Scorpio, and Mars trines Saturn. All three are intense.
Pluto stations 9 hours after we enter the Balsamic phase. They’re turning back toward Aquarius, but Pluto’s been sitting at 27º Capricorn for weeks now and won’t be moving any time soon. This station reminds us we’re experiencing a deep and powerful Pluto.
Mars enters Scorpio October 12, where he is much stronger and more effective.
The trine to Saturn falls on October 13. Mars in Scorpio loves to explore deep places and has no fear of the dark. Connected to Saturn in Pisces, we could find ourselves examining the outer reaches of what we know, or plumbing new depths.
If anxieties emerge during these next days, channel Virgo energy to figure out what remedies will support you the best.
