> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.astrologywithdenise.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Oct 2023 mid-month - URL: https://www.astrologywithdenise.com/oct-2023-mid-month/ - Published: 2023-10-16T16:38:00.000Z - Updated: 2026-08-06T19:56:39.000Z - Description: Tips for self-care and holiday planning - Author: Denise Hancock, PhD, RN - Tags: Eclipse, Well-Being, Updates & Announcements Saturday’s **New Moon in Libra** was a dramatic Solar eclipse, visible across much of North America. *Did you see it?* I had a partial view from Treasure Island beach in Florida, and it was amazing to watch. It looked as though the Moon was taking a bite from the Sun. The **Full Moon** / Lunar eclipse is Saturday, **October 28**, with the Sun in Scorpio and the Moon in Taurus (5 degrees). Meanwhile this week has celestial drama continuing the themes of the Solar eclipse. The Sun and Mercury cross the South Node, come together, and square Pluto before crossing into Scorpio territory next week. This combination often brings attention to the dark side of life - conflicts, power struggles, oppressors and victims, corruption and death. ### Self-Care Tips It may be a tough time for your mental health, or others in your circle. Here are some activities I find helpful: 1) **REST.** Listen to your body and its cues. You may need more rest than usual this month. 2) **HYDRATE.** Drink extra water, and beverages that are non-stimulating and non-alcoholic. I enjoy herbal teas, juices, lemonade or kombucha. 3) **MEDITATE.** This month is a particularly good time to use a meditation technique called “loving kindness” or *metta. Click* [*HERE*](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/mental-health-and-wellbeing/loving-kindness-meditation-infographic?ref=astrologywithdenise.com) *for a wonderful resource from the American Heart Association.* There are also great guided meditations on apps, websites, and YouTube if you want verbal instruction. I like Insight Timer and Calm, but many others have similar high quality content. 4) **CLEANSE.** I love a warm bath with Epsom & sea salts, herbs or a drop of essential oils. Maybe you prefer showers. As I run the water, and enter the tub, I pray that I may be cleansed and purified, and that all the emotions and conflicts that don’t belong to me may be washed away. For me, this is especially helpful near bedtime. We are living in tumultuous times, and October is one of the more dramatic months of 2023\. I hope you will be kind to yourself and others as we navigate together. November and December are less eventful, in terms of astrological weather. ### Planning for the Holidays? I glanced at the charts for Thanksgiving and Christmas to check the general mood, as I know many of you are making travel arrangements and planning with friends or family. **Thanksgiving Day** in the USlooks rough, my friends. Mars is at the last degree of Scorpio and facing off with Saturn, it's a transit of frustration and conflict. The Moon, Sun and Mercury are in fire signs, so people may be enthusiastic OR hot-tempered and reactionary. I suppose it's great for football and competitive games! Otherwise, take care not to start something you don't want to escalate. **Christmas Day** looks smoother. I rather like the Venus-Neptune trine, and the Moon in sociable Gemini. Your group might thrive with beloved traditions (old or new)or a group service activity. Think about how you could offer aid or comfort to others in need. Activities like singing carols, playing games, or watching your favorite old movies together can also bring a sense of joyful connection. Two notes of caution to consider in your late December planning. 1 - Mercury will be retrograde so travel, shipping and communications could be wonky. Give yourself plenty of time to get where you're going and maybe have a Plan B. I recommend finishing any shopping and shipping before December 13. 2 - As Mars squares Neptune, there can be physical vulnerability, so take precautions to avoid getting or spreading illness. Immune support would be wise if you're going to mingle. If you want more personalized guidance, I'm available for consultations, and I also offer Timing Guidance so can help you choose best dates/times for travel, or other things. ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/0e/4e/0e4e46f8-bae4-4376-bff3-f7cf14459eb9/content/images/2026/08/Wooden-zodiac.jpg) ### Florida Event **I'll be at** [**Spirit Fest**](https://www.spiritfestusa.com/event-details/spirit-fest-largo-metaphysical-holistic-crystal-expo?ref=astrologywithdenise.com) **in Largo, FL on Nov 4-5\.** Come by if you’re in the area! I am a featured speaker and will be available all weekend for in-person astrology readings. See your chart and transits on a physical plane, with gemstones to represent the planets. ### Let’s work together. Schedule a virtual consultation at . *Hosting an event?* Mini-readings are a great way to entertain and inspire guests. Book your fall and winter parties now, and please share my info with organizational hosts.