Conscious Choice Seattle: Embracing Our Shadow Selves

October 2005 | Starwatch

Embracing Our Shadow Selves

By James Jarvis, M.A.

As we approach Halloween, known as “Samhain” or the “festival of the dead,” we have an opportunity to embrace the shadow aspects of our nature. This is a great month to take a look at how comfortable you are with your shadow—or even discovering that you have one.

Carl Jung once said: “whatever we resist persists.” As we bring our shadow qualities into the light without resistance, we free up massive amounts of creative energy to be directed elsewhere.

When Mars, at 23 degrees Taurus goes retrograde on Oct. 1-Dec. 9, it sweeps closer to Earth than usual. With Mars in retrograde motion we get to look at how consciously we use our energy and personal will. Look to see if you are holding on to patterns that are holding you back from what you really want in life.

With Venus in Sagittarius Oct. 8-Nov. 5, the focus is on sharing your joy and enthusiasm with others. The root word of enthusiasm is “en theo” or “in God.” It is this attribute of divine inspiration represented by the sign of Sagittarius that wants to flow from our hearts at this time of year.

Mercury travels through the sign of Scorpio Oct. 8-30 helping us learn to tell the microscopic truth. Mercury in Scorpio is like the surgeon’s knife; cutting to the core of a problem and excising it. Sometimes just the simple act of telling the truth can help release suppressed energy.

The Sun moves into Scorpio on Oct. 23. Our job in Scorpio is to be role models for others in the highest use of passion and power.

With Jupiter moving through the sign of Scorpio from Oct. 25-Nov. 24 , the focus is on expanding consciousness (Jupiter) through the acceptance of the personal and collective shadow (Scorpio). As we learn to accept the so-called “negative” parts of our personalities—anger, hate, greed, lust, control, etc.—we let go of resistance. It is the resistance and suppression of the shadow that causes suffering. Once we allow these shadow areas to just be, without judging them or projecting them on others, then a new freedom and expansion is brought forth personally and collectively.

For Sun, Moon and Rising Signs

Scorpio Oct. 22-Nov. 21 You have an opportunity to uncover core beliefs this month. Notice if you hear any negative beliefs coming up that don’t serve you. The beliefs may be about being overly responsible vs. having fun.

Sagittarius Nov. 22-Dec. 20 New creative projects may be initiated this month. It’s time to put your passion into action! You are being asked to show up as a leader, particularly in group projects that require a lot of initiative to get going.

Capricorn Dec. 21-Jan. 20 You are on a quest for deeper meaning and for a way to serve. Your compassion for others is heightened now. Use this heart information as clues to what issues are important and where you might serve.

Aquarius Jan. 21-Feb. 18 This may be the perfect time to catch up on all the “deferred maintenance” at home. Putting the energy into making things ship-shape will free up lots of energy that you can then direct towards your career.

Pisces Feb. 19-March 20 You have an opportunity to create balance in your financial affairs. Stepping back and getting clear on where you stand financially will be very beneficial now. As you get clarity you will create an opening for more abundance to come in.

Aries March 21-April 20 You have a strong desire for making money this month. Opportunities for cooperative or joint ventures with others may appear. It’s also an excellent period for contractual agreements of any kind.

Taurus April 21-May 21 A new relationship may enter your life this month, bringing more passion into your life. This may be a new friend you can do fun things with or perhaps a new lover that literally sweeps you off your feet!

Gemini May 22-June 20 Your thinking is very expansive and you are able to see the big picture. It’s the perfect time to take a retreat so you can tune into your next steps. Pay attention as your intuitive abilities are heightened.

Cancer June 21-July 20 Feeling anxious right now? If so, it’s because you are receiving a lot of intuitive information from your higher mind. Take some time to download all of your thoughts and ideas on paper and that will create calm.

Leo July 21-Aug. 22 Communicating with others is easier this month as you are committed to win-win situations. Your ability to tune in to what others are thinking and feeling is strong now. Trust what your intuition is telling you.

Virgo Aug. 23-Sept. 22 Your relationship needs may seem a little contradictory. You have a strong need for both independence and merging. Being truthful about both needs allows you to be more present and authentic.

Libra Sept. 23-Oct. 22 Detachment helps you gain a better perspective on relationship issues. It’s OK to put what you need first for a change. When you clearly and dispassionately state your needs, others will stand and applaud!

James Jarvis, M.A . is a master astrologer, transpersonal counselor and professional life coach. To contact James, call toll-free (866) 454-8199, e-mail: [click to e-mail] or visit www.lifeqwest.com.

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