Capricorn, Lord of the Solstice
The zodiac’s tenth sign, Capricorn, commences precisely with the Winter Solstice. This year, these simultaneous celestial events occur on December 21st at precisely 7:03 am Pacific Time. Worldwide, ancient peoples constructed immense and mysterious stone structures precisely positioned to funnel the first rays of the solstice’s sunlight upon a willing initiate. There must be something remarkably potent about Capricorn’s first light to cause our ancestors to go to all that trouble! However, this year’s solstice is notable because the red planet Mars has entered Capricorn’s gates just days prior, on December 14th. This Mars “ingress” event is notable because Mars is traditionally “exalted” in Capricorn, and thus a considerably positive asset to this sign. Envision Capricorn as “Lord of the Solstice”, and Mars as his powerful and respected minister.
Capricorn, a Saturn “ruled” sign, is soon to temporarily host lusty Mars. What can this mean, medically? Capricorn, Saturn, and Mars all share one quality in common - dryness. Capricorn and Saturn are hyper astringent, being both cold and dry - Saturn tightens tissue while pushing out moisture (think of granite!). Mars heats from without, parching the earth (think of hard clay). Capricorn is one tough sign, famous for its proverbial muscular strength! Curiously, two of the greatest heavyweight boxers that ever lived were Capricorn natives - Muhammad Ali and George Foreman.
Mars & The Sun in Capricorn
From December 14th through January 23rd, the dual presence of Mars and the Sun in Capricorn promotes astringency, dryness and friction within the bodily regions traditionally influenced by this sign, but is also strengthening (if positive).
Capricorn specifically governs the knees, while strongly influencing the skin, gallbladder, joints, bones, internal strength and stamina, and the dentin. With the doctor’s consent, those already suffering dry skin or nail issues, dry stomach, poor digestion, liver disease, dehydration, inflamed joints, or other rheumatic complaints may require demulcent, softening, and hydrating herbal support. Luckily, there are excellent allies in nature’s cosmic cabinet!
There is also a welcome side to Mars’ “solstice sojourn” through his favorite sign! Traditionally, Mars governs muscle, whereas Saturn rules bones. Together, they influence ligaments, tendons, and signify physical strength! And, there is a good reason why Mars is “exalted” in Saturn’s house! Mars “rules” phosphorus, iron, and testosterone: all three being necessary for building bone density. Conversely, Saturn’s established rulership of calcium and Vitamin C contributes to strengthening Mars-ruled muscle. One marvels at the wisdom of the ancient astrologers who made these assignments. We will learn more about the human body systems and their astrological correlations in my upcoming 7-class series, Human Anatomy 101 – starting in Capricorn season!
Capricorn’s time signals the yearly descent of vital force to both a tree’s roots and a human’s bones. Therefore, the solstice season marks the perfect time for deep tonification and bone nourishment! Learn more about basic astro-physical influences in my long-awaited upcoming class, “Medical Astrology for Health Practitioners”!
Those who aspire towards improved stamina, disease resistance, muscular strength, and bone integrity can take good advantage of Mars’ extra celestial enhancement of Capricorn’s strength building energy throughout this special solstice season.
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.
