Today, I would like to discuss Saturn and explain the influence of this planet, as well as the energy it emits and I will discuss Saturn Return, traditionally seen as a challenging period, can bring positive transformations.
In Greek mythology, Saturn is known as Chronos, the God of Time. I personally like to compare or symbolise Saturn with a sand timer. Just envision our existence in this life as the sand within a timer. It initiates when we take our very first breath, and as we grow older, more sand accumulates at the bottom. Our life comes to an end the moment the very last grain of sand descends to the lower part. We remain deceased until, perhaps, the next journey when someone flips the timer to begin a new cycle. In the realm of Astrology, Saturn is linked to time, as well as structure, commitment, authority, and discipline.
Saturn symbolises mastery and precision, and one cannot achieve perfection without rules and conditions. Hence, Saturn is also associated with limitations. On a negative level, Saturn represents separation, repression, rigidity, boundaries, as well as fear, sadness, ageing, and loneliness. Ultimately, maturity and wisdom serve as significant aspects of Saturn.
Please note that wisdom comes at the end of this list. It is earned only after we have fully mastered the lessons Saturn intends to teach us. When the ancient philosophers mentioned our wisdom teeth (the ones we receive later in life), they implied that we don't learn anything valuable without experiencing some degree of pain. Saturn indeed inflicts its fair share of suffering. As Saturn travels around the zodiac, we learn, make mistakes, fail, stand up, and redo until we finally master the lessons.
So, what is Saturn Return?
Before we discuss the concept of Saturn Return, let's consider what it means for Saturn to return to what? If we capture an image of the sky and determine the exact degree and sign of the Zodiac that Saturn occupied at the moment of our birth (commonly referred to as the birth chart), it will take approximately 29.5 years for Saturn to return to that precise degree. The first occurrence of Saturn's return to its natal position is known as our first Saturn return. Given that Saturn traverses the 12 signs of the zodiac in an average span of 30 years, most individuals experience 2 to 3 Saturn returns throughout their lifetime. Only those who live up to the age of 120 will encounter a fourth one. The initial return typically takes place between the ages of 27 to 30, followed by the second return around the late 50s, and the final return occurring around the age of 90. The reason for an interval and the return spanning a few years is due to the elliptical nature of the orbits, as described by Kepler's First Law.
By the way... did I mention earlier that Saturn represents "Separation"? Is the very first time you took a breath of air considered a separation from the womb, and isn't this a traumatic experience? You arrive on this planet and have to figure out how to breathe and adjust to an environment that is completely unfamiliar to you. You may feel that the situation is beyond your control, feeling blocked or frustrated. You must adapt to harsh lights, noise, and may even be subjected to bathing and medication. Often, you are placed in a nursery, alone... What is your best defence? Crying alone until your lungs are empty. I believe you are starting to understand the nature of Saturn. Saturn has a tendency to put us in uncomfortable environments where we have to deal with the situation and find a solution to keep going. As adults, we can learn from Saturn. Instead of being doomed, we can learn new ways... That is why we associate Saturn with being the Great Teacher. When Saturn is supported, we learn, grow, and establish strong foundations. And when Saturn is afflicted, we experience challenges, limitations, and separation.
SATURN CYCLES - Saturn Completes Its Full Revolution Around The Sun In 29.46 Years, Spending 2.5 Years Per Sign.
Saturn compels individuals to confront multiple unresolved issues in their lives. I mentioned three significant cycles: the three instances of Saturn returns occurring approximately at the ages of 30, 60, and 90.
First Cycle: 0 - 30 years old: This is the process by which individuals free themselves from their family environment.
Second Cycle: 30 - 60 years old: This is the process of emancipation of the individual in relation to their cultural and social context, and it is the most productive period professionally.
Third Cycle: 60 - 90 years old: This is the period of retirement and reflection.
However, prior to each Saturn Returns, we encounter three primary transits that assess our potential, pushing us beyond the constraints of our own fears and self-imposed limitations to discover who we truly are.
Waxing Square
Opposition
Waning Square
1. The first Opening Saturn Square Saturn or First Waxing (age 7 : Age of reason)
Age seven signifies a period of Separation from home when a child starts attending school. This is the initial phase of growing up and experiencing the world independently. Along with play, children now start developing skills through work as well, and this notion is accompanied by the anticipation of achieving something. In addition, authority figures such as parents and teachers embody Saturn, particularly those who take on a disciplinarian role. We learn new rules at this stage, like having to raise our hands to speak and adapting to a non-domestic environment. This is also when we become aware of social responsibilities. It is possible that your mother had another child and as a result, you started receiving less attention. Maybe you were assigned additional responsibilities to care for your siblings. Did your parents enrol you in any additional extracurricular activities such as sports, music, religious activities, or language courses? If so, did you feel overwhelmed with the extra workload, even though you didn't ask for it? Did you suddenly feel the pressure to comply with these new responsibilities?
2. First Saturn–Saturn Opposition (age 14–15 : Teenagers)
What is an opposition if not a duel between two opponents? This opposition represents the first true crisis for an individual. During our teenage years, we find ourselves in opposition to our elders. This is a period of transition from childhood to adulthood, where we strive to establish our own identity. In this phase, we often experience a profound sense of insecurity. It is also a time when we, as young individuals, must navigate dealing with authority figures such as parents, teachers, and potentially our first employer, and face the repercussions of their decisions. We may learn how to manage our finances, start to save money for purchases, and come to the realisation that life can be difficult, requiring hard work to attain our desires.
3. Closing Saturn Square Saturn or First Waning Square (age 21–22 : Legal majority in some country)
This marks another significant milestone.
During this time, we as individuals complete our college education, marking the end of our formal education journey and the beginning of a new chapter. This new journey can take different forms, such as moving away from home to start university, going overseas to explore the world, joining the army, getting a job, moving in with a group of friends, or even getting married and starting a family, all of which contribute to our development of a sense of independence. Turning 21 is often a milestone where we as young adults start living independently for the first time, experiencing a separation from parental authority even if we choose to live with them. This period is also associated with a level of anxiety about making the right decisions and effectively managing our time and finances. However, through this process, we also learn and grow, acquiring essential skills and gaining valuable experiences along the way.
4. First Saturn Return (age 28–30 : Set up our goals / start Adulthood).
The ongoing development of the prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and risk assessment, as supported by neuroscience studies, sheds light on why some individuals may struggle with risk assessment during their early adult years and prompts curiosity about judgment maturation. This development aligns with the concept of the first Saturn return, a period that occurs between the ages of 28 and 30 and is associated with personal growth, change, and increased maturity. The first Saturn return symbolises a time of profound transformation and serves as an opportunity for individuals to further develop their cognitive abilities and enhance their decision-making skills. This transition into adulthood brings with it the pressure to evaluate risk, to mature and take on more responsibilities. It's a time of personal development and self-realisation, where we come to understand that we can no longer blame our parents for our problems. It's during this phase that additional obligations and commitments become part of our lives, distinguishing us from our previous roles as children. Saturn return can impact our relationships, leading to marriage, parenthood, or even breakups due to unstable foundations or unrealistic expectations. It may also spark a desire to establish a career, taking on more responsibilities at work or exploring new opportunities. Financial commitments, such as repaying loans or mortgages, often emerge. Indisputably, a Saturn return can be a time of loss and loneliness. These examples are just a few possibilities, and to fully understand the implications of Saturn return, it is necessary to analyse our individual birth charts. The specific sign and house where Saturn is positioned in our natal charts, as well as the aspects it forms, provide insight into why we encounter limitations and lessons in sector of our lives. Nothing happens randomly. Saturn is the break and it is there because we must slow down, open our eyes, learn from these challenges to grow and master our karmic lessons.
In summary, Saturn return is a period of personal growth and maturity that compels us to confront unresolved issues in our lives. It comes with a gift: entering adulthood and the opportunity to define ourselves for ourselves. It entails taking responsibility, cleaning up past mistakes, and committing to different aspects of life, such as home, work, or health. We are in control and can fully accept accountability for our choices. People who do not embrace Saturn's first return may continue to blame Saturn for their problems. Rather than taking responsibility for their actions, they point the finger at their parents, other people, or society as a whole.
Saturn’s second cycle - between (age 28-30 to age 56-60 : Adulthood )
During this Saturn Return phase, we experience a natural development in growth and maturation. It is Saturn second orbit around our astrological charts, occurring between the ages of 28 to 30 and 56 to 60. At this stage, we invest our lives in terms of worldly, material, and familial potential. It is a time when we start families, establish homes, establish our career and obtain social status, and aspire to find fulfillment from these accomplishments.
5. Second Waxing Square (age 36–37)
This transition represents our journey towards a midlife crisis. During the first Saturn square, we experienced a separation from home and a period of learning and discipline from authority figures, such as parents and teachers. The second Opening Square or waxing square is less disruptive. It represents a phase of self-reflection, where we reassess our progress towards our goals and determine our position in relation to them. During this time, there may be friction with our parents, bosses, governmental, or legal authorities. This period is intended to inspire rigorous self-examination and personal growth. It is a time when we may re-evaluate our life choices, career path, relationships, and overall sense of purpose.
6. Second Saturn Opposition (age 43–44) is the midlife crisis :
During the first Saturn opposition, we experienced a period of questioning our identity. We were opposed to the authority of our elders, so it makes sense that the second Saturn opposition also revolves around our identity. However, this time, the opposition stems from within ourselves rather than an external source. When we look in the mirror, we ask ourselves how we are progressing towards our goals and fulfilling the promises we made 15 years ago. We assess where we are today and consider the limitations we had to accept to reach this point. The question arises: are we proud of our achievements? We ponder what comes next and whether this is truly what we desire. It becomes crucial for us to determine what we are willing to tolerate and what we no longer want in our lives. Will we make radical changes and truly live, or will we succumb to procrastination and simply pretend to exist? The second Saturn return is a challenging and overwhelming time. This opposition represents the midlife impulse we collectively feel to make significant changes and break free from old patterns, staying true to who we are. It involves a symbolic rebirth and continuous self-reflection. It is common during this period to realise that we are in relationships demanding unrealistic expectations, prompting us to end marriages or change careers.
7. The Second Closing Square or Second Waning Square (age 53)
At the age of 21, we were starting our adult lives, and now, at 53, we are realising that our young adulthood is coming to an end. During this transitional period, we have noticed a number of significant changes: Firstly, we observe noticeable physical changes such as wrinkles, gray hair, and changes in metabolism. These physical changes serve as visible reminders of the ageing process we are experiencing. Secondly, our responsibilities have evolved. We have taken on roles as parents, grandparents, or caregivers for elderly parents, highlighting how adulthood has changed for us. These roles come with significant demands and obligations that we must fulfill. Moreover, our careers have had both advancements and setbacks. While our experience and knowledge can lead to positive outcomes like promotions and recognition, it can also mean that we might be passed over for opportunities in favor of younger colleagues. Additionally, our children are progressing in their own lives. They might be moving away, getting married, or even starting families of their own. This brings a sense of change and causes us to reflect on the passing of time. Furthermore, our priorities tend to shift as we get older. We focus less on personal goals and aspirations and more on broader concerns like family, health, and financial stability. We become more attuned to these important aspects of life as we age. Also, we may notice a decline in our physical abilities, such as decreased energy levels, longer recovery periods after physical activities, and the need for more frequent medical check-ups. These are signs of our bodies naturally ageing. With the arrival of the Second Waning Square, we find ourselves mentally preparing for the next phase of life: the "elder years." It is a time for reflection, self-examination, and readiness for the unique challenges and rewards that lie ahead for us as a group.
8. Second Saturn Return (age 58–59) : Re-evaluate our goals because now it's time for you to be free and true to yourself!
Saturn returns to the same position it was in at the time of birth, which marks the Second Saturn Return. This represents the transition from adulthood to retirement. For individuals who strongly identify with their profession, retiring can be challenging because they may feel that they will no longer be important. Similarly, if someone decides to retire due to intolerable working conditions but lacks other life projects, they may also struggle with this transition. If you look at obituaries, you'll notice how many people die in their late 20s and 50s. It seems that in their late 20s, their soul recognises that their current personality cannot meet the necessary growth, and in their late 50s, death becomes the ultimate punishment for not fulfilling one's true potential. The Second Saturn Return is a phase that allows individuals to imagine a life without the obligation to work, focusing solely on themselves. Though there are still responsibilities, the level of pressure should be reduced. It's a period for reassessing goals and accomplishments and defining our own version of success. Additionally, it's a time to share the wisdom we've gained and serve as mentors. As grandparents, we often have more time to spend with our grandchildren. This period is known as a time of relaxation or winding down. Family responsibilities have been fulfilled, and we've learned the essential lessons of life – experiencing joy and sorrow, gaining and losing. Psychologically, this stage is characterised by a sense of release, acceptance, wisdom, and the realisation of our mortality. These years are considered the elder, wise teacher and grandparent years, where we can pass on the knowledge and wisdom gained from life experiences to as many people as possible. By examining Saturn's Natal Sign and House, we can determine what these life accomplishments will be. While most astrological books suggest focusing on the later years of life, it's important to note that many individuals in their mid-70s still maintain a youthful spirit and remain actively engaged.
9. Third Waxing Square (age 66–67 : Retirement)
At 36 years old, the challenges of adult life is very present and Saturn urges us to take various levels of responsibility in our personal and professional lives . At 66 years old, Saturn encourages us to take care of ourselves, to move forward in our lives, perhaps at a slower pace, but increasingly in tune with ourselves. We may experience an acute existential crisis, which can be defined as a state of profound questioning of existence and the meaning of life. This is often characterised by feelings of despair, doubt, and confusion, where a person radically questions their identity, values, beliefs, and purpose in life. Individuals facing an acute existential crisis may feel a strong sense of anxiety and discomfort, as well as an intense quest for meaning and understanding. Those affected by this crisis may seek answers through philosophy, spirituality, astrology, or even psychotherapy in an attempt to find balance and overcome this difficult period. It is a time when it is important to explore new hobbies, interests, or pastimes, and to invest time in what you are passionate about, and above all, to focus on the positive aspects of life. And if you are really struggling, take the time to talk about your feelings with trusted loved ones or professionals who can help you manage this crisis
10. Third Saturn Opposition (age 73–74)
This phase represents a period of true detachment from our "social role." If a person "forces" themselves to work or engage in physically demanding activities, they may experience events that force them to stop. Otherwise, they willingly choose to let go and find more suitable activities.
11. Third Wanning Square (age 80–81)
When a person reaches the age of 80, they must find their own pace and respect it.
12. Third Saturn Return (age 89-90)
At this stage of life, it could symbolize a moment of reflection, wisdom, and a deeper understanding of the lessons and experiences gained throughout your existence.
Post–Second Saturn Return. The old Astrology vs Modern Time.
If we refer to most books, the second Saturn Return is considered a phase where we enter a period of relaxation and slowing down. Our family responsibilities have been fulfilled, and we have gained essential life lessons through both joyful and challenging experiences. Psychologically, this stage is characterised by a sense of liberation, acceptance, wisdom, and an increased awareness of our mortality. These years are considered the time of the wise teacher and grandparents, allowing us to share the knowledge and wisdom we have accumulated with as many people as possible. By exploring Saturn's Natal Sign and House, we can better understand the specific achievements we will focus on during this stage of life.
So for those approaching their second Saturn square or second Saturn Return, I would like to tell them that at 60 years old, people are still young and in good shape. They are still mentally alert, wanting to travel, go out, love, and feel loved. While astrology books often emphasise Saturn's cycles as a difficult period because they approach the later years of their lives, it is important to emphasise that many people retain a youthful spirit and remain actively engaged in life. My father, at 63 years old, remarried, and today he is 78. With his wife, they purchased a vineyard property in the south of France and are still active. They make their own wine, enjoy traveling, and love adventure and sports. Yes, life has posed significant challenges and moments of difficult decision-making. My father drives, lives a completely normal life, and still goes skiing. Certainly, he has good genes, and I hope to inherit them. On the other hand, my mother met her future husband at the age of 68. They traveled the world, and at the age of 70, she remarried. Today, at 77 years old, she never misses an opportunity to party, she does many things, and she is always on the go.
By comparing my parents to my grandparents, I highlight the contrast in their lifestyles. Both of my parents lead more active lives than mine, placing great importance on their physical and mental well-being. They engage in new experiences and maintain a fulfilling social life. In contrast, my grandparents, those who were still alive at my parents' age today, were more dependent and in need of assistance. They didn't possess the energy and vitality that my parents exhibit.
I could add more individuals to this list of active seniors who defy traditional stereotypes of aging and continue to lead vibrant, active lives. However, my point is that today, I believe the second Saturn Return is an opportunity for individuals to reassess their goals and enjoy life with a sense of self-focus. "I couldn't pursue what I truly wanted before because of limitations, but now it's my time to savor life before it's too late. I don't care about the consequences anymore because at my age, I can do whatever I desire." I also believe that the second Saturn Return manifests later in individuals because medical advancements allow people to live longer and in better health. These medical advancements contribute to their well-being and may delay the impact of aging during the second Saturn Return.
Conclusion
Saturn's cycles are significant periods in life where limitations can serve a purpose. Saturn's message is to take the time to learn and master what life has in store for you. Through Saturn, we gain wisdom and understanding of our mortality, enabling us to share our knowledge and experiences with others. It's important to emphasise that individuals of all ages can actively engage in life, and Saturn returns are not solely focused on hardships. There is also a positive and rewarding aspect to the experience. The obstacles we've encountered and the joys of success that mark our journey allow us to develop resilience, courage, and perseverance. It is this inner strength and ability to adapt to challenges that we must pass on.
To fully understand the mission of our life, it is crucial to recognise that astrology studies planetary cycles and their relationship to our natal chart. Simply studying the cycle of one planet may not provide a complete understanding. Therefore, it is necessary to consider other cycles such as Jupiter's return, Uranus opposition, Neptune square, and Pluto transit. Integrating these cycles into our analysis gives us a more comprehensive understanding of the various stages and challenges we may encounter throughout our lives. By exploring these cycles and their relationships with our natal chart, we gain insights into our strengths, opportunities, and mission. This understanding allows us to embrace the mission of our life and make the most of the transformative energies present in each cycle. So, have you taken the time to analyse your natal chart? It can be a fascinating journey of self-discovery and understanding.
Written by René Pennino
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