The Secrets of Sagittarius
The Celestial Centaur’s secret is revealed in the symbology of his image. Sagittarius’s lower body is a horse, while his upper half is depicted as an archer aiming an arrow. Spiritually, this holds great significance, and we will explore that later. Medically, however, his bow symbolizes the spinal column, our great bodily switchboard (the CNS). Sagittarius’ arrow depicts, in part, the vital forces racing through the spinal cord’s mysterious channels. The great twentieth-century physician William Davidson stated that Mars in Sagittarius bequeathed his natives “too much life”. I’ll be discussing this fascinating concept at this month’s ‘Herbalism & Medical Astrology Summit’, where Adriana Ayales will also grace us with a Master Class.
Have you noticed an enlivening “zing” in the aura of Sagittarians? Sagittarius co-governs the spinal cord (with Aquarius); co-rules the coccyx (with Scorpio); the arterial system with Jupiter; and solitarily lords over the hips, thighs, sciatic nerve, and large muscle coordination.
Ah… but there are more secrets to this stimulating sign. The Centaur, or horse-man, symbolizes the two joined forces that comprise our dualistically coordinated being. The instinctual forces are depicted as the galloping horse below, while our existential spiritual quest is symbolized by the archer above. The archer’s aimed arrow signifies one’s evolutionary path as directed by higher aspiration, while simultaneously fueled by life in the physical body.
At this stage of the zodiacal cycle, the body (horse) and mind-spirit (archer) seek knowledge, expansion, and evolution. The horse provides the motorizing zeal, while the individual’s highest ideals take the lead. The arrow’s target must be carefully aimed so as not to lead both horse and human bolting off to their ruin, as aroused horses are so inclined to do!
Medically, Sagittarius is both coordinator and guide of neuromuscular currents. We can best understand Sagittarius’ coordinating role through its opposite sign, Gemini: the Twins. Gemini symbolizes two beings coming from one. Gemini rules all out branching nerves from the central “Sagittarius” cord. The two signs work closely in tandem!
November 4: Mars Enters Sagittarius
November 4th commences almost two months of heightened neuromuscular emphasis as stimulating Mars enters Sagittarius (spinal cord, hips), joining Mercury (the nerves) until Nov 17th-18th - peaking between November 10th-14th. However, November 18th-21st remains potent because retrograde Mercury ingresses back to Scorpio and opposes the electrical planet Uranus, while the Moon joins Mars in lively Sagittarius! The Sun and Mars continue their “horsey” emphasis from Nov 21st through Dec 13th. Sol remains in Sagittarius all the way until December 21st.
Hypothetically, this planetary quartet signals an exceptionally “nervous” influence upon the spinal cord, hips, legs, arteries, and mind too (!) as experienced by predisposed individuals. People and animals may crave and require more exercise. Blood pressure may rise.
The astrological-herbalist is aware of potential hyperstimulus, strain, or inflammation of the sciatic nerve, hips, motor nerves, legs, and spinal cord. Restlessness may interfere with sleep. Those with ADHD, bipolar disorder, or manias may require extra support. Medical practitioners may note increased complaints of sciatica, sharp pain, neuritis, neuralgia, asthma, bronchitis, hyperthyroid, carpal tunnel, strained ligaments or muscles, neuromuscular problems, bursitis, hip issues, and/or eruption of concealed viruses of the nervous system (e.g., herpes). Fortunately, the herbal kingdom offers relief!
True, Scorpio’s intensified influence on the genitourinary tract, uterus, nose, and colon carries over from the stint enjoyed last September - October, as does Saturn’s stagnating influence in the lymphatic channels in Pisces. However, we can only discuss so much in this short article! For more details, see last month’s column, or attend my Monthly Medical Astrology Report.
Life below is as complex as the planetary dance above. Our herbal friends are willing assistants!
Soothing Seasonal Allies
Disclaimer: All astrological information is to be considered "hypothetical" and does not therefore constitute medical opinion, fact, or directive. Please consult your physician if you are experiencing health concerns. Herbs should not be used without your physician’s consent.
