Sun in Sagittarius
The Season of Mutable Fire
Hey friends,
Every year in October/November, I watch the Rocky Horror Picture Show, and this year, the musical narrative felt a little extra on-point. The film, essentially about liberating yourself and showing your originality, felt like a call to action in these strange times, and the main song rang like a mantra for the longest Scorpio Season of all time.
Let’s do the time warp agaiiiin…
The depths of the scorpion have been dug, and we’ve risen with new cellular structures, more able to accept that everything feels different now. On November 19, Pluto, the Lord of the Underworld, moved on from 16 years in Capricorn and began a new journey, chomping at the bit to excavate buried wealth in the airy realm of Aquarius for the next 20 years.
Scorpio’s rulers, Mars and Pluto, continue to face off in opposition across the sky, calling us to act out our desires and uncover our shadows. Their conversation reminds us that the process of active transformation is not over, even as the Sun leaves Scorpio season behind for this year and enters the adventurous domain of the Centaur Archer.
Sagittarius season begins with a last quarter moon in Virgo on November 22, followed by the New Moon in Sagittarius on December 1. The trajectory of the Archer’s arrow will be significantly slowed down with Mercury retrograde from November 25 to December 15 AND Mars stationing retrograde on December 6 (staying retrograde until February 23, 2025). At least Neptune will be stationing direct on December 7th! On December 15, Mercury will station direct again under a bright Full Moon in Gemini. Sag season wraps up and welcomes in the Sea Goat’s rule on December 21 for the winter solstice.
November through December and into January is always a time warp for me, as it probably is for many of us, especially here in the U.S., with the holidays of Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year filling our calendars through the end of the year with little time for reflection. As much as this time of year feels like it should be slower, the rapid movement actually resonates with the Sagittarius archetype and symbolism.
Sagittarius is a mutable fire sign that transitions us from fall to winter. Ecologically, I think about this being related to the controlled burns that many indigenous ancestors around the globe do in the chilly weather of late fall. Mutable fire changes things from one state to enough, and these controlled burns help break down the leaves and plant matter into soil and help certain types of hard seed pods open so they can sow their potential into the wintry ground.
Let the season’s fire begin! We will need it to power us, with fiery Mars going retrograde in early December. As usual, let’s look to the correspondences of Sagittarius within our own bodies and the human life cycle for insights into this beautiful time of late fall!
Sagittarius in the Body
Sagittarius, symbolized by the Centaur Archer, is known for its association with freedom, adventure, and an innate desire for knowledge. Each zodiac sign is thought to have a unique relationship with different areas of the body, reflecting both physical and symbolic attributes. Sagittarius rules over the hips, thighs, legs, sacrum, and liver, which each carry unique metaphorical and physiological meanings connected to the traits and qualities of this fiery sign. By examining these body parts, we gain insight into the spirit of Sagittarius and the ways in which this sign embodies qualities of movement, vitality, and endurance.
Sagittarius and the Hips, Thighs, and Legs
The body parts most famously associated with Sagittarius—the hips, thighs, and legs—are essential for physical mobility, which mirrors the Sagittarian love for movement and exploration. Sagittarius, ruled by Jupiter, is the most restless and expansive of the fire signs, often characterized by a quest for adventure, travel, and philosophical understanding. Just as the hips and legs are necessary for walking, running, and exploring new terrains, Sagittarius thrives on the freedom to explore life in all its forms, whether through physical travel or intellectual pursuits. This connection highlights the Sagittarian desire for independence and personal growth, much like how the legs propel us forward and support movement toward new horizons. Think of the traditional symbol of the Centaur Archer as an example of extremely powerful horse legs that can help you swiftly gallop to the point where you shot your arrow!
The hips and thighs are central to maintaining balance, endurance, and strength in physical activities. In a symbolic sense, Sagittarius often demonstrates a natural ability to adapt and find stability, even when life becomes chaotic or uncertain. The Archer’s need for balance between freedom and purpose is akin to the function of the hips, which provide support and flexibility for the entire body. In times of physical and metaphorical “journeys,” Sagittarians may find that their love for exploration and need for stability align closely with the purpose of these body parts, emphasizing the delicate balance required to remain both grounded and free.
The Sacrum and Spirituality
Another body part connected to Sagittarius is the sacrum, the triangular bone at the base of the spine. The sacrum is often viewed as a bridge between the physical and the spiritual, as it lies at the intersection of the body’s core and lower limbs. This symbolism aligns closely with the Sagittarian tendency to pursue higher understanding and spiritual growth. Sagittarians are frequently drawn to philosophical questions and quests for meaning that transcends everyday life, much as the sacrum represents a bridge between physical mobility and spiritual grounding into the earth. This relationship reflects the Sagittarian propensity to seek a sense of purpose and higher truth, as they often feel a strong need to align their physical actions with a greater spiritual journey.
Moreover, the sacrum is associated with the sacral chakra in various spiritual traditions, representing stability, grounding, and our connection to the physical world. While Sagittarius is an adventurous and free-spirited sign, this root connection through the sacrum also suggests an anchoring quality that allows them to return to their center despite their wanderlust. Just as the sacrum supports the spine, Sagittarius needs a foundation of beliefs or ideals that stabilize and nourish them on their travels.
The Liver: Symbol of Expansion and Vitality
The liver, another organ associated with Sagittarius, has significant roles in detoxification, metabolism, and growth—all essential for sustaining physical vitality. The influence of Jupiter, the ruling planet of Sagittarius, mirrors the liver’s expansive and growth-oriented functions. Jupiter is known as the planet of abundance and growth, and it encourages Sagittarians to think big, seek out new opportunities, and constantly expand their understanding of the world.
The liver’s role in detoxifying the body also relates to the Sagittarian tendency to filter out negativity and keep an optimistic perspective. Sagittarians are known for their boundless optimism, resilience, and ability to bounce back from setbacks, similar to how the liver helps cleanse the body and promote healing. This sign often possesses a lighthearted nature and a tendency to focus on the positive aspects of life. In a way, this optimistic and resilient attitude serves as a kind of emotional detox, helping Sagittarius maintain a healthy, open outlook and enabling them to keep moving forward.
The liver’s central role in metabolism also aligns with the Sagittarian energy of dynamism and activity. Sagittarians are often physically active and require a great deal of energy to fuel their adventurous lifestyles, which is aligned with the liver's function of providing energy by regulating nutrients in the body. This strong association with vitality and the body’s ability to process and energize reflects the Sagittarian essence of being continually fueled by a desire for growth and adventure.
The Sagittarius connection to the hips, thighs, legs, sacrum, and liver underscores the sign's themes of movement, vitality, resilience, and exploration. Just as the legs propel the body forward, Sagittarians are compelled by an insatiable drive for new experiences and deeper understanding. The sacrum anchors the spine and represents a bridge between physical and spiritual realms, symbolizing the Sagittarian quest for meaning beyond the physical world. The liver, with its roles in detoxification and metabolism, reflects the Sagittarian traits of resilience, positivity, and a continuous quest for expansion. Together, these body parts encapsulate the vibrant, energetic, and freedom-loving nature of Sagittarius, highlighting how this sign embodies the balance between grounding stability and an endless yearning for adventure and knowledge.
Sagittarius in the Life Cycle: The Wanderlust of our Late 50s and Early 60’s
Using the U.N.’s current average of 73.5 as the total life cycle, Sagittarius corresponds with the wanderlust and quest for new horizons brought on by our late 50s and early 60s. (Disclaimer: of course, many of us live much longer than this (and many of us quite a bit shorter due to various circumstances), so these are a basic guideline for breaking the wheel of life up into the 12 signs of the Zodiac.)
Here’s my breakdown:
Aries: Birth & Infancy (0-2)
Taurus: The Sensory World of Toddlerhood (2-4)
Gemini: Chatty Childhood (5-11)
Cancer: Adolescence in the Shell (12-18)
Leo: Our Roaring 20’s (19-27)
Virgo: Saturn Return and It’s Aftermath (28-35)
Libra: Mid-Life Crisis Years (late 30s-early 40s)
Scorpio: The Intimate Depths (late 40s- early 50s)
Sagittarius: Empty Nester/Wanderluster (late 50s-early 60s)
Capricorn: The Peak of the Career/Impact Mountain (Late 60s)
Aquarius: The Eccentric Old Cat Lady (jk, jk…:) (70s & up)
Pisces: End of Life/the Liminal Space After Death and Before Rebirth
While commonly associated with youthful curiosity and adventure, Sagittarius also resonates profoundly with the period of life that many experience in their late 50s and early 60s—often referred to as the “wanderlust years.” In this phase, people frequently rediscover a thirst for exploration and a new sense of freedom after decades of career-building, raising families, and fulfilling responsibilities. This period of renewed freedom, travel, and purpose-seeking aligns with the Sagittarian spirit of adventure, discovery, and a quest for greater meaning.
As people reach their late 50s and early 60s, a period often marked by introspection and an interest in life’s more significant questions, they start looking inward, questioning, and exploring the meaning of life beyond achievements and roles. Much like Sagittarius, who is drawn to understanding the philosophical underpinnings of life, individuals in this stage seek to deepen their sense of purpose. They reflect on what truly matters, reconnecting with core beliefs and values. This quest for inner clarity and alignment mirrors Sagittarius’s journey toward truth and wisdom. With a newfound sense of independence (after perhaps raising a family or being enmeshed in their career growth for many years), at this later stage of life, people can prioritize inner growth, exploring spiritual practices, meditation, or other interests that encourage self-discovery.
For many in this stage, travel and exploration become central themes, embodying the free-spirited nature of Sagittarius. After years of daily routines and structured responsibilities, people often find themselves with both the time and the means to travel more freely, exploring new cultures, countries, and ideas. This aspect of the “wanderlust years” resonates deeply with Sagittarius, a sign known for its love of distant places and foreign lands. The curiosity and open-mindedness that characterize this life stage reflect the Sagittarian drive for novelty, growth, and a broad perspective. Whether traveling the world, embarking on road trips, or exploring new hobbies, people in their 60s embrace discovery with an openness and eagerness that is quintessentially Sagittarian.
A hallmark of Sagittarius is optimism, resilience, and a focus on life’s positive aspects. Similarly, as individuals reach their later years, they often become attuned to the importance of positivity, cherishing their time, health, and relationships in ways they may not have previously. After a lifetime of experiences, many people naturally develop a perspective that prioritizes joy and the present moment. This renewed appreciation for life’s simpler joys mirrors Sagittarius’s outlook of gratitude and zest for living fully. Finding inner focus and resilience becomes especially relevant in these years, as the inevitable challenges of aging may require flexibility and a positive outlook. Sagittarius, known for its ability to adapt and overcome, embodies a spirit of resilience that many people embrace as they approach the realities of growing older.
Sagittarius is known as the eternal student of the Zodiac, and in our 60s, many of us rediscover a love of learning. This time of life brings a rekindled interest in intellectual pursuits, whether through formal education, hobbies, or self-study. Many people return to school, explore new fields of interest, or take up creative projects they once had to set aside. Like Sagittarius, which values knowledge for self-growth and enrichment, people in their 60s often pursue learning with a newfound passion, motivated not by necessity but by a desire to understand the world and themselves on a deeper level. This intellectual curiosity also extends to emotional and personal growth as people reflect on their past and relationships, aiming to reconcile conflicts and grow from past experiences. In this way, Sagittarius’s pursuit of wisdom is not only academic but personal, a journey toward self-knowledge and emotional clarity.
As people move through this phase, they frequently feel a call to give back, mirroring the Sagittarian connection to Jupiter, the planet of generosity and abundance. After years of accumulating knowledge, skills, and resources, many find fulfillment in sharing their wisdom with others, mentoring younger generations, or contributing to meaningful causes. This time of life often becomes a period of expanding one’s impact on the world and giving in ways that reflect personal values, whether through volunteer work, community involvement, or family support. The Sagittarian quality of generosity finds expression in those who feel called to leave a legacy or create positive change, resonating with the Sagittarian ideal of abundance and service.
The life phase of our late 50s and early 60s captures the essence of Sagittarius’s spirit of exploration, growth, and wisdom. As individuals enter this stage, they experience a renewed drive for discovery and deeper understanding that mirrors Sagittarius’s thirst for meaning and adventure. Whether it’s traveling to new places, engaging in lifelong learning, giving back, or finding a sense of purpose, this chapter in life reflects the Sagittarian quest to expand one’s horizons and embrace life’s mysteries with optimism and enthusiasm. In these wanderlust years, individuals live out the Sagittarian ideals of exploration, personal growth, and freedom, embodying the Archer’s aim for knowledge, adventure, and connection in every journey they undertake.
Self-Care for Sagittarius Season
Move Your Body
Sagittarius is all about movement and exploration, so prioritize physical activities that engage the legs, hips, and thighs. Walking, hiking, dancing, or even trying out new forms of exercise can provide the stimulation Sagittarius craves while strengthening these essential body parts. Hip-opening yoga poses like pigeon or warrior sequences are also great ways to improve flexibility, which aligns with Sagittarius’s love for freedom and flow. These exercises support balance and stability, just as the Archer seeks balance between exploration and groundedness.
Nourish the Liver
The liver, also associated with Sagittarius, is crucial for detoxification and energy, which help sustain the season’s spirited energy. Practicing mindful eating—especially incorporating liver-friendly foods like leafy greens, beets, citrus, and plenty of water—can keep you feeling vibrant and energized. Consider a gentle detox or increase your intake of antioxidant-rich foods to support liver function and cleanse any buildup, enhancing clarity and energy.
Embrace Adventure with Mindfulness
Sagittarius thrives on adventure, so this season is a great time to try new things. Explore different outdoor activities, plan a mini getaway, or indulge in a new hobby. Even taking new routes in your daily routine can satisfy that need for exploration. Since Sagittarius is also about seeking higher meaning, take time to reflect, journal, or meditate on your goals. This helps balance the Sagittarian desire for external adventure with the inner journey, ensuring that you stay grounded.
Embracing self-care that honors the body’s needs and Sagittarius’s expansive nature can make this season both refreshing and transformative, helping you step into the spirit of the Archer with strength, flexibility, and an open heart.
A Guided Meditation for Sagittarius Season
I invite you to this guided meditation to bring attention to the parts of the body associated with Sagittarius—the legs, thighs, hips, sacrum, and liver. Enjoy!
Have a beautiful end of November and early December. I’ll see you here again on the Solstice as we climb the mountain of Capricorn season!
So much love,
Alison
Alison Dale is an artist, ecological astrologer, and somatic guide based in the traditional lands of the Tewa people, known today as Santa Fe, NM. She is also the host of the podcast Cycles of Time (Instagram: @cyclesoftimepodcast). Learn more about her work and current offerings at alisonmariedale.com or on Instagram at @astro.somatics.
Thank you 💜🥰