Double macchiato or lavender-infused chamomile tea? During this oddball month, Sagittarius, you may just find yourself ordering both the pick-me-up AND the wind-me-down. You're a curious mix of both wired and tired, thanks to planets traversing Libra (your outgoing eleventh house) and Scorpio (your restful twelfth). Good thing you understand the concept of "cognitive dissonance," because October for you is a study in paradoxes, as you're filled with a lightness and heaviness at once. When these poles get to be too much, remember that as in photography, contrasts in life create a fuller, more honest portrait of existence. So, while you may not "enjoy" them, do your best to appreciate the richness of the veritable Ansel Adams 'scape that your life will soon become.
On the brighter side, for the first three weeks of the month, the energizing Sun is in Libra, your eleventh house of groups, friends and social networking. Rally your peeps! Now is the time to get out and mingle with wild abandon. Accept all invites to weddings, happy hours, last-minute housewarming fetes. The eleventh house also rules technology, so if you've had vague notions of, say, starting a blog or launching an online retail shop, set your mad genius plans in motion...and click away!
Adding some pep to your step, go-getter Mars is in Sagittarius from October 6 until November 16. Your self-confidence is on fire, making you more assertive than usual (not that you needed any help in that department). Renegotiate work terms, get fired up over an unjust situation and make it right, pitch your passion project to prospective backers. Love matters get a boost, too, so if you've been hesitating to let your romantic intentions be known, quit stalling. Sexy Mars gives you a head-turning edge. Coupled Sags could enjoy a resurgence of romance now, too.
But (insert sound of screeching brakes): Just as you're charging ahead, the cosmically-induced schizophrenia kicks in on October 4, when Jupiter goes retrograde (backward) in Gemini, your seventh house of partnerships. Between now and January 30, this slowdown offers you the chance to review just how much your generous-hearted sign gives to others. Recalibrate partnerships of all kinds, so that there's a more equal balance between giving and receiving. As fellow Sag Winston Churchill once famously said, "You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give." Now is your moment to be conscious of your providing patterns, so that they best reflect your true intentions-and help you create a life you want. Your immoderate sign is about to get a lesson in balance.
On October 6, maturity-planet Saturn leaves your eleventh house of friendships, groups and teamwork, where it's been since October 2009. The lessons proffered by Saturn here haven't been all that painful, as Saturn's been set at an easy angle to your Sun. Perhaps you tightened your inner circle, letting go of faux "friendships" that offered more glamour than generosity. You might have made some serious new business connections, planting seeds for long-term collaborations. Networking became an important part of your career growth-fortunately, something most Sagittarians do with ease. As a result, your calendar got busier, leaving you with less time in your schedule for casual friendships (bonus: no more obligatory coffee dates with the local energy vampire). Perhaps you aimed to mix business and pleasure more than you have in years past, or evolved into a new group of friends whose values aligned with yours. These might even have been people you'd once have labeled "boring," but wise Saturn made you appreciate their character, integrity and maturity in new ways.
Brace yourself, because sober Saturn's next stop (beginning October 6) in penetrating Scorpio, your twelfth house of closure and rest, will bring a much different energy. The last time Saturn was here was from 1983-85, which means that, you're rounding out a nearly 30-year life cycle. Can you even remember back to those days of feathered hair and Rubik's Cubes, Sag? (For us, it was the awkward thick of puberty, and we won't welcome a rerun of THAT with open arms-although Ophira's stepdaughter did just turn 13 this August. Flashback coming soon?)
Saturn will be in Scorpio until December 2014 then it will enter Sagittarius, making a brief three-month dip back into Scorpio June 2015. As a result the last 30 years of your life-if you've even lived that long-are up for your review now. What will you take into the next three decades, and what will you leave behind? Now there's something for your philosophical sign to ponder. Fortunately, you'll have a couple years to mull it over!
Consider the next two and a half years the last (and perhaps most critical) part of this three-decade Saturnine voyage. Saturn is serious by nature, and so don't expect this time to be about kicking up your heels and jetting across the world in your trademark wanderlust fashion. Not that you'll be grounded in a physical sense, but you'll naturally be turning your attention to any unfinished business that's been darkening your doorstep. You'll tie up all sorts of emotional and spiritual loose ends in preparation for a massive self-styling, if not a complete reinvention, when Saturn moves into Sagittarius.
For this next stretch, consider yourself on a long retreat, an extended period of delving deep into your own soul and psyche. You'll need solitude and space. In fact, you may seek more physical space, too...retreating to the calming effect of water, possibly even relocating to be closer to an ocean, lake or river. During this time, your spirituality may bloom, and latent psychic gifts may even make an appearance. Though you've always had keen intuition, you may find yourself more open to channelers, mediums, or just trusting your intuition as a reliable GPS. Issues of codependence, addictive tendencies and boundaries may come to the fore. You could suddenly see all the invisible threads that bind you to your loved ones, and, if they aren't healthy, you'll figure out a way cut them, to make way for more open, loving ties. If you're ever the caretaker-always insisting you don't have needs-well, that's gonna change. Prepare to start asking for the help you need rather than attempting to go it alone.
To cope with all these changes, perhaps you'll join a support group or find a mentor, likely a "fairy godmother" type whose wise words can settle errant anxieties. You may even find yourself caring for a sick or elderly person...or supporting a friend through a tough transition. Since Saturn favors structure, find ways to pencil in restorative activities, including yoga, meditation and sleep…there's nothing wrong with scheduling naps, Sag. Since the twelfth house rules rest and the subconscious, your dream time could be especially important, as you'll get stronger messages than ever during your REM.
On October 22, the Sun also moves into Scorpio, heightening your relaxation instincts. For the last week of the month, luxuriate in rest, letting the hours unfurl in front of you (as much as you can, while still keeping your status as an employed person). Move in accordance with the mystical energy surrounding you. Go for hammock-time, instead of hurrying and scurrying.
On October 29, a full moon in sturdy Taurus, lights up your sixth house of health and fitness, making this a perfect time to streamline your wellness routines. If you've been searching for ways to become more efficient, this full moon will give you the added motivation to hire the right support team, solve logistical, time-stealing issues and implement health-boosting measures (like chugging fresh juices and nixing refined sugars). A helpful new person (likely a woman) could come into your midst, someone who makes your like easier and more streamlined with her amazing organizational skills. How did you ever do it without her?

Va-va-voom! With sexy Mars careening through Sagittarius, your love life spices up big time. All month, you're in full, fiery glory-and you might even want to dress to express it. Add some edge to your look, donning angular cuts, bold statement jewelry-whatever makes you feel a little more powerful. (We like this hot leather skirt from Chloe: http://www.elle.com/fashion/trend-reports/fall-2012-fashion-trends?cid=obinsite#slide-15).
This assertive vibe blends nicely with the part of you that longs to be partnered. Despite your sign's commitment-averse rep, there's a part of you that aches for the security of coupledom (so long as your sweetie understands-and can work with-your refusal to answer to anyone but yourself). All month, magnetic Venus is in Virgo, your tenth house of long-term goals, so you'll enjoy making plans for the future. If you've been dreaming of cohabitating or making a more serious commitment, now is the time to reveal your hand. Single Sags could meet a special someone through work, perhaps an industry event. You could also find yourself taken with a potential partner who is older, more established or just possesses a certain seriousness.
Either way, don't rush into a full-fledged commitment just yet-at least, not until you consider every angle. On October 4, your ruling planet Jupiter goes retrograde (backward) in Gemini, your seventh house of partnerships, until late January. So look before you leap...even if you're certain you got the real thing. Proceed with thoughtful, careful action-and take a step back if need be. Make sure you're not making unnecessary compromises, like, say, curtailing certain friendships you fear your partner won't approve of instead of discussing it openly. You need a "free to be you and me" atmosphere for any relationship to flourish.
Of course, that doesn't mean you should be selfish or demand it all on your terms. Perhaps you're refusing to compromise where a little wiggle room could go a long way. Jupiter retrograde is a great opportunity to get clear on how you've been behaving in relationships and to recalibrate your long-term love goals. If you're moving ahead too quickly, your best bet is to slow down and savor the present a little more. Since retrogrades can also bring back people from your past, don't be surprised if a long-gone ex or two contacts you-perhaps even to announce that s/he's coincidentally moving to your town. Um...hey, neighbor?
Slowing down to reflect is especially favored after mature Saturn moves into Scorpio, your twelfth house of closure and healing, on October 6. If trust issues have been thwarting your true happiness, it's time to dig deeper. For the next two and a half years, you'll untangle any issues of codependence and even reckon with the karmic results of your past choices. Everyone makes mistakes, Sag, so don't get too down on yourself. In fact, if you're able to finally see the unhealthy dynamics of certain relationships, rejoice...because now you have the power to change them. Don't get caught up in self-pity or start seeing yourself as the victim. Whatever awareness you experience now is helping you to connect the dots.
If you're gun-shy about intimacy, do some deeper healing and get to the root of your issues. Since Sags are known to crave excitement, deal with any uncomfortable emptiness that arises when there's just no action to be found. The gift of stillness may feel like a curse at first, but the result of cultivating patience is actually pretty exciting: you get to be your amazing, charismatic self anywhere, not only in adrenaline-fueled situations and circumstances. Get used to this uneasy feeling, Sag, and in time, it won't feel so strange. You'll soon really be a citizen of the world, able to make the ordinary feel magical-even its most remote or (gasp) suburban places.
Codependent no more? That could be your new, Saturn-inspired mantra. Perhaps you've held a long-standing attraction to unhealthy or needy people, "adult babies" and birds you keep in your nest until they heal their broken wings. These types flock to you, because you're so independent that it looks like you don't really "need" anyone. Well, that's an unfair dynamic, Sag-and now would be the time to transform those ties. How, you ask? First you'll need to get real with how much you need to be needed. Don't fool yourself into believing you're just being a good, selfless friend or partner. These uneven exchanges hold a kind of currency, one that allows you to keep the upper hand (e.g., "I paid the mortgage, so you don't get to tell me what to do."). But why not create a partnership that's rooted in mutuality and honesty, instead of these manipulative transactions? You may feel a lot more vulnerable that way, but it will feel much more rewarding-and less one-sided.

Who needs sleep? Well, that's a tricky question for you, this month. With motivator Mars in Sagittarius October 6-November 16, you're on fire all month long. Put down the Red Bull, Sag-there's no need to overtax your already active system. If you have an excess of energy, find constructive activities to put your stamina to the test. Go for a power walk. Begin training for a marathon. Take up capoeira. Use this buzzing energy to your health's advantage, instead of fueling it to adrenal-fatiguing extremes by downing triple espressos.
 
We understand, though. While Mars makes you wired, another planet makes you tired. On October 6, structured Saturn moves into intense Scorpio, your twelfth house of rest, for the next three years. It's time to get serious about your downtime, Sag-something your driven sign may not even register yet (you tend to work AND play hard). The twelfth house also rules spirituality and psychic connections, making this a perfect time to dive into your inner world. Between now and September 2015, you're more open than usual to exploring the transcendent threads that tie you to other beings on the planet.
 
If you can find a spiritual group that suits your particular belief system (evolving as it may be), don't hesitate to join, making set times in your schedule to address this mystical facet of life. If you've always been interested in shamanism, healing or nutrition, sign up for some classes, staying open while respecting the great mystery of life. Now more than ever, you could find yourself drawn to the mind-body-soul connection. To further feed your soul, check out this classic tome by self-help guru Louise Hay, You Can Heal Your Life, which lays out a great foundation for dismantling limiting and toxic beliefs, especially as they relate to your health: http://www.amazon.com/You-Can-Heal-Your-Life/dp/0937611018. You might also be interested in Abdi Assadi's Shadows on the Path, in which he describes physical symptoms as a cry for help from our soul: http://abdiassadi.com/book
 
Fortunately, Saturn's tour through your twelfth house begins with sweet, healing vibes, as it trines dreamy Neptune in spiritual Pisces, your fourth house of home and family. Lasting all month, this influence creates the space for major healing within your family system. If you've been a nomadic Sag, now is the time to establish a lovely sense of roots. When you're traveling, find that "home away from home." When you return to your abode, treat your own space as the sanctuary it is, adding loving touches, such as family photos, sentimental keepsakes, and objects that carry meaning (perhaps from your travels). You might even want to set up an altar or a meditation space-decorating with Balinese treasures from one of our favorite new sites, Brilliant Imports (www.brilliantimports.com). You'll love the clever spirtual-meets-practical ideas from their blog, such as turning a carved-wooden altar into a catch-all for your keys, magazines and other everyday objects (which happen to be sacred to YOU, Sag).
 
If you've been struggling with authority-a theme that perhaps dates back to unconscious parental complexes-use this time to get to the root of such issues. This is also the perfect time to grow up in your relationship with your parents. Invite them for some solo time, making efforts to see them as the lovable, flawed humans they are. As much as we like to think we know our parents, the reality is that people are exceedingly complex (as astrology so eloquently conveys). Ask the questions you need to ask, and then listen carefully, setting your relationship on a whole new foundation.
 
By month's end, you'll reap the rewards of any fitness efforts that you've begun six months ago. On October 29, the full moon in Taurus spotlights your sixth house of wellness and health. Maybe you turned over a new leaf at the Taurus new moon in April, vowing to consume more leafy greens or incorporate weight training into your routine. Whatever the intention, you will now see the benefits, both physically and emotionally. If you've kicked a nasty habit to the curb, celebrate your victory on the full moon. And if you're still struggling with self-care, consider eliminating some larger stressors from your life. While that may seem daunting, if not impossible, allow the powerful full moon to support you. You're never a victim of circumstance, Sag, so remember: there's always another option if you're willing to be open to it!
Love Days: 31, 6
Money Days: 13, 22
Luck Days: 11, 20
Off Days: 3, 9, 18

Add "professional schmoozer" to your resume, Sag. For the first three weeks of October, the energizing Sun moves through Libra, your eleventh house of collaborations and networking. This is an excellent time to join forces with like-minded people, or to boost group morale and ignite some team spirit ("trust fall," anyone?). The eleventh house also rules technology, so you could be launching a website, brushing up your social media skills, or blasting out some 140-character pearls. Get out and mingle, too! As autumn's events get into full swing, you could be a fixture on the industry party scene, charming new connections with your effervescent, fun-loving ways. A contact you meet while scoping out passed hors d'ouevres could morph into a trusted ally or a fast friend.
 
With ambitious Mars in Sagittarius from October 6-November 16, don't be shy. Gravitate to the folks who can help make your dreams happen. The October 15 Libra new moon is an especially auspicious day for joining forces. If you've felt uninspired by your current circle, make a wish to be surrounded by kindred spirits, folks who will lift you higher, instead of bringing you to the depths of dull despair. Since the eleventh house rules technology, maybe even go online to set that intention, expressing your wish in a venue like this one: http://www.sealedwithlove.com/index.php/love/make_a_wish/
 
Adding to the business-meets-pleasure vibe, harmonious Venus spends the month in Virgo, your career house. You may choose to beautify your office space, splurging on calla lilies for your desk or switching up your artwork (even your screensaver!). Acknowledge your colleagues generously-and genuinely-for their strengths, and go the extra mile to create win-win scenarios for all. You might also revamp your work wardrobe, donating those stodgy suits to a place like Dress for Success (www.dressforsuccess.org) and updating to a stylish, current look that's softer and expresses your personality.
 
If you've been entertaining a business partnership offer, you might not want to jump into anything official just yet. On October 4, expansive Jupiter goes retrograde (backward) in Gemini, your seventh house of contracts and partnerships. Between now and January 30, you may discover the need for some extra due diligence before you seal the deal. Sure you're excited about each other, but do you have complementary work styles, or share common big-picture goals? Use this time to sort that out. You'll need to be clear on what you're both bringing to the table, and to discuss your expectations openly. If your partner-to-be is amazing with logistics and profit, but shallow on vision, ask yourself if that's something you can live with in the long-term. Better to wait and get things on solid ground before moving ahead full throttle.
 
The other headline news is heavy-hitter Saturn's exit from Libra, your eleventh house of groups and networking, on October 6. For the past three years, Saturn's been teaching you stern lessons on how to be a team player, which is not always easy for your independent sign. Now, you should enjoy the benefits of all your hard work, deciding who belongs on Team Sag and who doesn't! If you took Saturn's coaching, you should have a better sense of how to manage the troops and delegate in the right proportions. Thanks to Saturn's three-year visit, you've finally realized your own limitations (hopefully) and are a better team player for it.
 
Now turn your attention to taskmaster Saturn's move into Scorpio, your twelfth house of closures and endings, where it will stay for the next few years. Since you're now a master delegator, you have more time to mull over bigger issues, such as what it is you need to let go of entirely. Are there colleagues who don't fully support or "get" you? Now you may need to rely on them less-or cut ties once and for all. If there are situations or people who drain you, you're due for a total release. (This includes past relationships with employers or colleagues for whom you've been harboring resentment or ill will.)
 
Since the twelfth house rules hidden agendas and illusions, don't be shocked if you're given a crash course in dealing with covert bullies, backstabbers or other toxic folks, perhaps even someone whose intentions are outright criminal. Whenever you hire, please do a thorough background check, so that you're not shocked down the line to discover that your hotshot new EVP actually did some white-collar crime time at Club Fed. Someone may ride in a white horse, playing savior just when you're having a weak moment. But don't hand over the keys to your power just yet. This is really a time to screen the people you let into your work life. It's possible that you may be called upon to repay karmic debts where you've cut corners or fudged the system yourself. Whatever the case, once that debt is paid, you're in the clear to move forward with an open conscience.
 
On October 29, a full moon in Taurus lights up your sixth house of systems and efficiency. It's time to get organized! If you haven't been meticulous in your bookkeeping, now is the time to hire a go-getter assistant. You're keen on making your life work for you-and not the other way around. Around this date, you may receive great word of a new, exceedingly talented support staff joining Team Sag-someone you've screened thoroughly, of course. Or, you may get news of a job offer yourself, working for a conscious company that walks its talk, perhaps in the field of health, environmental issues or humanitarian service.
 
 

General Characteristics of Sagittarius

Cheerful Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, the largest planet in the solar system. Jupiter is the "happy" planet, full of energy and confidence. Sagittarians often reflect Jupiter's larger-than-life persona. As the zodiac's traveler, Sagittarius is the ultimate free spirit: optimistic, open-minded and ambitious. You're happiest in wide-open spaces with plenty of adventure and excitement. You juggle a million projects, hobbies and friends. The more, the merrier! Sagittarius is forever pursuing a super-sized goal. Even when you fail, nothing can keep you down. You'll chalk it up as a life lesson and inspire everyone with tales of your experience. As the sign of wisdom and truth, Sagittarius loves to "tell it like it is," especially when it makes people laugh. However, your honesty doesn't always come in the prettiest package. You've been known to bruise feelings with your bluntness. Cultivate patience, and be careful not to come off as a know-it-all. Although Sag loves the thrill of a new project or friendship, you don't always finish what you start. Work on keeping your promises and commitments.

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