nodal opposition vs. nodal return

In astrology, the lunar nodes, the north node and south node, tell the story of our soul’s journey.

The South Node holds the energy of our past lives, old patterns, and comfort zones. The north node points to the lessons, growth, and purpose we’re here to embody in this lifetime.

Two moments on this path are the nodal opposition (around age 27) and the nodal return (around ages 18–19 and 36–37). These transits are like cosmic checkpoints, guiding us back to our destiny.

The nodal opposition

The nodal opposition happens when the transiting nodes are in the opposite signs of your natal nodes. This usually happens around age 27, just before the saturn return. It often feels like a life crossroad: you may feel stuck between an old version of yourself (south node) and the unknown future (north node).

Questioning your direction: “am I on the right path, or just following old patterns?”
Revisiting karmic relationships or situations that test your growth.
A sense of spiritual or existential confusion, like life is asking you to wake up and realign.

The nodal opposition doesn’t mean you’re on the “wrong” path. Instead, it’s like a mirror, showing where you’re still leaning into habits from the south node (your past) rather than stepping into the courage and expansion of your north node.

The nodal return

The nodal return happens every 18.5 years when the transiting nodes return to the same signs and houses as your natal nodes.

The first return happens around 18–19, when you’re just stepping into adulthood.
The second return happens around 36–37, when you’re called to fully own your soul’s path.

This is a powerful period of alignment. Life pushes you to embody your true calling and leave behind anything that isn’t meant for your growth.

A strong feeling of “this is who I really am.”
Letting go of old stories and relationships that no longer fit your purpose.
A pull towards your north node qualities, sometimes through sudden shifts or spiritual awakenings.
Major life changes: career shifts, moving, spiritual breakthroughs, or choosing a life partner.

The opposition at 27 and the return at 36–37 are part of the same cycle.

At the opposition, you’re challenged to see where you’ve strayed from your soul’s purpose, but you’re also given freedom to experiment, explore, and recalibrate.
By the return, the universe is saying: “now it’s time to own it. No more running.”

It’s common for people to feel like their late 20s are a testing ground, while their late 30s bring clarity and commitment.

reflection journal ideas

During the opposition (27-ish):

What old patterns (south node) am I still holding on to?
Where am I being invited to grow, even if it feels uncomfortable?
How can I take small steps toward my north node’s energy?

During the return (36–37):

What have I learned about myself in the past 18 years?
What am I no longer willing to compromise on?
How can I fully embody my purpose now?

Grow and flow

If your nodes are in virgo (north node) and pisces (south node), your nodal opposition is in currently and if your north node is pisces and south node in virgo then it is tour nodal return

Your nodal opposition (like mine now) is about:

Moving from chaos, escapism, or over-sacrifice (pisces)
Into conscious service, healing, and grounded spirituality (virgo).

This is the year the universe says:
“Your dreams need structure. Your magic deserves form.”

Both the nodal opposition and return are opportunities for spiritual growth. They’re checkpoints on your soul’s map, helping you realign with why you came here.Listen closely, trust the signs, and remember: every step you take toward your north node is a step toward your most authentic self.