October 8th takes us into the month of the Earth Dog. Autumn may have just begun in the Northern Hemisphere, but we’re already in the last month of fall in the Chinese solar calendar. In the Feng Shui Flying Star chart, the monthly stars mirror the annual stars, doubling the influences of the annual star 6 in the center.
The Dog, as one of the four Earth signs in Chinese Astrology, helps us transition from fall to winter. Associated with Saturn, Earth is the element that keeps us centered and anchored. With double Yang Earth (hard Earth) in the month’s heavenly frequency and the earthly stem, this is a month to remind yourself to remain calm and steady as a mountain, even in the most stressful situations, for hidden inside the Dog is unpredictable Yin Fire element. Take a deep breath before you react. Yang Earth can also represent blockages – look for creative solutions or change your direction to get around a blockage instead of letting it stop you in your path.
Signs that have affinities with the Dog are secret friend the Rabbit and allies the Tiger and the Horse. Those with these signs in their chart can generally expect a collaborative month ahead, with support from their personal and professional networks.
If you were born on a Wood element day, this month’s strong Earth influence brings financial opportunities as Earth is your money element. Identify those opportunities and take action to maximize your gains. Those born on a Water element day may feel overwhelmed at work as Earth represents the powers that be in their charts. If you were born on a Fire day, this is a busy, productive month for you as Earth is your output element. If Earth is your element, you may find yourself widening your networks and socializing more than usual. Those born on a Metal day may be on a quest to deepen their skills and learn more.
Keep a low profile and protect your boundaries if your chart contains a Dragon, the sign opposite the Dog, or the Sheep (the Goat) as the Ox, the Dog, and the Sheep form an “Earth penalty.” Since we’re in the year of the Ox, take it easy on days of the Sheep, which fall on October 14th and October 26th. Avoid launching major projects or executing important tasks on these days, and keep a high awareness of your surroundings.