A new offering! This monthly column is written by my daughter Kelly Benson, who is an excellent astrologer.

She does personal readings by Zoom and phone. For more information click here.

Introduction

As the Sun journeys through transformative Scorpio, we're called to get honest with ourselves and cleanse the cobwebs from our souls. This is a season of remembrance -- a time to honour our parents, grandparents, and ancestors, to acknowledge the cycle of life, death, and rebirth, and embrace the mystery of existence. We're reminded of the vital life force that lives within us, and we're invited to channel that strength in new directions. The more real we get with ourselves, the easier it will be to align with our true values and create experiences that give us meaning. As much as it's a time of endings, it's also about making space for new life, prosperity, and growth.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

As the Sun moves through your Eighth House, issues related to trust, power, intimacy, and shared resources can bubble to the surface now. You're invited to look inward, tune into your deeper self, and get honest about your real needs and desires. The New Moon on November 1st offers a potent opportunity for a fresh start, encouraging you to let go of what no longer serves you and set intentions for transformative change. This is a powerful time to break old habits, release built-up resentments, and embrace a renewed perspective. If you've been carrying any grief or past hurts, now is the time to shed those old layers and free up your energy for the fresh chapters ahead. On November 15th, the Full Moon highlights your need for comfort and security, urging you to reflect on what that truly means to you. The more you align with your core values and focus on what brings you fulfillment, the more new pathways will open up leading to greater prosperity and growth.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

As the Sun illuminates your Seventh House of partnerships, Taurus, this season, you're encouraged to reflect on your relationships and the dynamics at play. You may find yourself reevaluating how you connect with others and what truly brings you joy. The New Moon on November 1st serves as a catalyst for fresh beginnings, inviting you to set intentions around love, collaboration, and commitment. Embrace opportunities for deeper connections, whether romantic or platonic, as these bonds hold the potential for growth and support. However, watch for the Mars-Pluto opposition on November 3rd, which may stir up intense emotions or power struggles within partnerships. It's important to approach any tensions with patience and an open heart, prioritizing dialogue over discord. The Full Moon on November 15th will highlight your First House of self, prompting you to consider your personal needs and desires in the context of your relationships. By striking a balance between your needs and those of others, you can foster a sense of harmony and fulfillment that enriches your connections.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

With the Sun energizing your Sixth House of work and health this month, Gemini, you're invited to assess your daily routines and how they serve your overall well-being. The New Moon on November 1st presents an auspicious time for insights, allowing you to set intentions regarding your craft and practical goals, while adjusting day-to-day practices that enhance productivity and positive change. It's less about achieving perfection and more about consistency and your ability to produce. As the Mars-Pluto opposition occurs on November 3rd, be mindful of potential conflicts at work or with people in your daily environment. Tensions may arise, but if you strive to navigate disagreements with grace, you're likely to gain more support and cooperation. The Full Moon on November 15th highlights your Twelfth House of introspection, encouraging you to reflect on your emotional health and spiritual needs while clearing away mental clutter. By embracing this reflective phase, you can identify areas needing healing, empowering you to move forward with clarity and renewed energy.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

The Sun is moving through your Fifth House of creativity and recreation, Cancer, encouraging you to embrace your natural talents and express yourself. This playful energy will help you to connect with your inner child and share what's in your heart. New romantic relationships are possible now; and long-term relationships can experience a rekindling boost as well! On November 1st, the New Moon ushers in a time of fresh starts and new beginnings. Embrace activities that get your creative juices flowing, whether it's cooking, painting, music, or writing in a journal. Heads-up: Mars and Pluto face off on November 3rd, which could stir up intense feelings in your close relationships. Instead of withdrawing into your shell, try being honest and upfront about what's bothering you because it's time to move past old wounds that have kept you stuck in old scripts. Opportunities to reunite with old friends present themselves near the Full Moon phase on November 15th. Celebrate the trusted connections in your life and enjoy learning about new perspectives and ideas.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

The Sun's journey through your Fourth House of home and family shines a light on home and family matters and deeper emotional themes at work in your life, Leo. A potent New Moon on November 1st invites you to rethink what "home" means and what changes you can make to create more comfort and warmth for yourself. Small adjustments, like rearranging a room or reconnecting with family traditions, can have a surprising impact. When Mars opposes Pluto on November 3rd, be mindful of power dynamics within your household or with family members. Avoid letting pride lead to unnecessary standoffs, and focus on finding common ground instead. The Full Moon on November 15th illuminates your Tenth House of career and ambitions. Reflect on your past accomplishments (public and private) and remind yourself of what you're capable of. Now is the time to acknowledge your efforts and consider your next move. Balance your drive for achievement with a touch of self-compassion.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

There's a focus on communication and connections, with the Sun moving through your Third House, Virgo. You'll find yourself attracted to stimulating conversations, interesting communities, and events or occasions where you can scratch that itch to learn and grow. The New Moon on November 1st invites you to reach out to those you've lost touch with or make a bold move in a fresh relationship. (Why not?) This is a great time to speak your truth or explore new ideas because your mind is sharper than ever! Creative endeavours, research projects, and important planning discussions with others will go well. However, look out for the Mars-Pluto opposition on November 3rd; tensions can arise, and everyone has a strong opinion. Try to approach relationships with patience and a willingness to listen, even if you disagree. Personal insights can come to light during the Full Moon phase on November 15th. You can benefit from some private time that will allow you to reflect on what you've outgrown, and what you're growing toward.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

The Sun's transit through your Second House puts a spotlight on your basic needs, creature comforts, financial resources, and self-worth, Libra. You're invited to reflect on your value system against the backdrop of your current situation. The New Moon on November 1st is an auspicious time to make adjustments, take a brave step, and align yourself with what you value most. Whether it's refining a budget or prioritizing self-care, small changes now can lead to greater stability and a grounded sense of well-being. When Mars opposes Pluto on November 3rd, tensions with others might arise. Avoid getting pulled into power struggles, and instead look for solutions that are mutually beneficial. The Full Moon on the 15th highlights your Eighth House, encouraging you to go deeper into matters of intimacy, trust, and reciprocity. Address underlying issues with kindness and consider revising jointly-held aspirations and goals. By focusing on building strong emotional and financial foundations, you can create a sense of security that carries you forward.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

With the Sun in your sign, it's all about you, baby! Your First House of self is powered up, making this an excellent time to revise your goals and ambitions for the future. Take advantage of the New Moon in your sign on November 1st and use this lunar energy to reset your spirit and embrace fresh starts. Relationships with others and the sacred relationship you have with yourself are in the spotlight now. Mars opposes Pluto on November 3rd, and intense conversations or (yikes!) power struggles can arise. Take a breath, listen to what others have to say, and consider your response carefully. Remember, the relationship itself might be more important than the point of tension. It's not worth forcing an issue if that means losing a friend. The Full Moon on the 15th sits opposite your sign, lighting up your Seventh House of partnerships. You have the patience and awareness to resolve long-standing issues with partners and coworkers. Allow yourself to be both strong and vulnerable -- it's not either/or.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

As we get closer to your birthday season, it's a natural time for introspection as the Sun moves through your Twelfth House of rest, healing, and spiritual insights. The New Moon on the 1st invites you to reflect on your inner well-being and your ability to retreat and recharge, Sagittarius. Embrace opportunities for solitude and quiet moments to consider what you need to release before your personal New Year begins on your birthday. Don't feel pressured to be "on" all the time -- rest is essential now. It's also a good time to review your financial affairs. Mars opposes Pluto on the 3rd, and this brings to light matters related to personal wealth, self-worth, intimate relationships, and the people or organizations you invest in. Address issues with awareness and be sure you have all the information needed before making long-lasting decisions. The Full Moon on the 15th shines in your Sixth House of health and routines, urging you to find balance in the rhythms of your daily life. Reassess habits, declutter your space, or create a schedule that supports your well-being.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

With the Sun highlighting your Eleventh House of community and aspirations, this month emphasizes collaboration with others and your long-term goals. The New Moon on the 1st is an auspicious time to make friends, connect with like-minded individuals, and reignite your passion for a cause or project that's important to you. It's a great time to network or join a new group, Capricorn. Key relationships can become powerful resources now. However, when Mars opposes Pluto on the 3rd, you might feel a tug-of-war between personal desires and shared responsibilities. Be mindful of any urge to control or dominate situations, and lean toward diplomacy and team building instead. The Full Moon on the 15th highlights your Fifth House of creativity and romance, encouraging you to reconnect with your creative nature and playful side. Take a break from your usual routine and indulge in something artistic or festive. Don't forget to celebrate your accomplishments, personal and professional, and remind yourself of the strength you possess.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

The Sun's transit through your Tenth House of career and public life puts your ambitions front and center at this time, Aquarius. The New Moon on the 1st offers you a fresh start in your professional sphere, encouraging you to set new goals or rethink your approach to success. This is a good time to redefine what achievement means to you personally and bravely aim for those aspirations. When Mars opposes Pluto early in the month, underlying tensions between work and your personal life may come to the surface. It's important to avoid letting external pressures dictate your choices. Instead, think carefully about where your energy is best directed. The Full Moon on the 15th highlights your Fourth House of home and family, suggesting a need to balance responsibilities. Use this time to reconnect with your roots, take care of your home, or address family matters with understanding and patience. Trust in the strength of your foundations as you rise to new heights.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

The Sun is lighting up your Ninth House of travel, higher learning, and spiritual pursuits this month, Pisces. The New Moon on the 1st invites you to expand your horizons and embrace new experiences. If you've been yearning for an adventure, a fresh intellectual pursuit, or an opportunity to broaden your worldview, this is the perfect time to take action. Mars opposes Pluto on the 3rd, and this could create tension in group settings, or reveal conflicts of interest in a community project. Try to approach the situation with patience and a focus on common ground. Around the Full Moon on the 15th, you're likely to experience a surge of self-worth and feel a sense of pride in how far you've come. Reflect on what you've learned and trust in the path you're on. With both Saturn and Neptune in your sign, you're learning a lot about your capacity for patience, dedication, and compassion -- and your insight is invaluable now.