Last Week in Astrology

December 25 to 31, 2016

A NEW MOON occurs on Thursday, December 29th, 2016, at 1:53 AM EST. Early Thursday, a New Moon occurs when the Sun and Moon align in the sign of Capricorn. This lunation symbolizes a new beginning in the cardinal earth sign of Capricorn. It’s a time during which we can focus on some of the constructive traits of the sign of the Goat–tenacious, resourceful, disciplined, wise, ambitious, prudent, constant–and consider how to positively incorporate these qualities into our lives. Now, we can focus on practical and attainable long-term goals, work on developing maturity and common sense, prepare for the future, make commitments and recognize responsibilities, and nurture our dreams in a realistic manner.

With this potent Capricorn energy, we have the chance to create some serious order in our lives. It’s time to make some solid plans and to set the stage for reaping the rewards from our new beginnings, as little or big as they may be, in approximately two weeks’ time after the Full Moon occurs.

One of Capricorn’s “lessons” is acceptance of the concept that reasonable boundaries and rules actually do offer us freedom–freedom from worry and chaos, for example. Setting goals for ourselves allows us to focus on what really matters.

With retrograde Mercury conjunct the New Moon, we should watch for fuzzy or wishful thinking. Intuition is heightened, particularly with the lunation’s sextile to Mars and Neptune in Pisces, but the details of our plans now may be hidden, overlooked, or unclear. We may be looking back before we begin anew. With Mars with Neptune conjunct the South Node, we should stay on alert for falling back on addictions or behaviors that no longer serve us well. However, if we channel this well, we may be able to draw upon our intuition and wisdom and apply it to our work now.

New Moon Chart – December 29, 2016, New Moon in Capricorn

This phase of the Moon occurs at 7 degrees and 59 minutes of Capricorn, affecting people born with personal planets and points at approximately 4 to 12 degrees of the Cardinal signs most significantly (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn).

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

Dec 29, 2016 1:53 AM Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)
Jan 5, 2017 2:47 PM Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Jan 12, 2017 6:34 AM Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
Jan 19, 2017 5:13 PM Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
Jan 27, 2017 7:07 PM Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

The Sun is in Capricorn; Mercury is in Capricorn; Venus is in Aquarius; Mars is in Pisces.

The Sun is in Capricorn from December 21-January 19. We are motivated by feelings of responsibility, ambition, and respect for law and order. Capricorn derives much satisfaction in completion and accomplishment. Standards, structures, and an appreciation for order are Capricorn themes. Capricorn wants tangible results, knows what is feasible and what is not, and is most comfortable working within an established framework and known boundaries or limits. Working towards a long-term goal is most satisfying with this influence.

Mercury is in Capricorn from December 2-January 4. When Mercury is in Capricorn, our thinking is methodical and our focus is sober and practical. It is easier to concentrate on the task at hand under this influence. Our conversations may be quite realistic or focused on business/practical matters. Our thought patterns and communication styles become more logical, orderly, and organized. We are more able to sort out what is relevant and essential. Realism enters the picture, our speech is no-nonsense, and precision becomes important to us. We need to be wary of becoming too rigid in our thinking. We may come across as cold or harsh. For some, there is a fine line between realism and pessimism.

Venus is in Aquarius from December 7-January 3. We move towards unconventionality, independence, and freedom as themes in our social relationships under this influence. Aquarius can be just as faithful as Capricorn, but it has to be on his own terms! Experimental relationships are more intriguing now. Being friends as well as lovers is important to us during this cycle. Allowing one another freedom of expression, and treating others fairly, unselfishly, and impartially, are themes now.

Mars is in Pisces from December 19-January 28. We tend to feel less motivated to go after traditional goals, and more motivated to pursue spiritual or emotional drives during this cycle. We dislike confrontation during this trend. Our output is variable rather than straightforward, and our energy is similarly up and down. We may put others’ needs ahead of our own, and our more idealistic side comes to the fore. During this cycle, going after what we want becomes less straightforward and more complicated!

Saturn transits Sagittarius from December 23, 2014, to June 14, 2015, and then from September 17, 2015, to December 20, 2017. Read about Saturn’s transit through Sagittarius here.

Jupiter entered Libra on September 9th and will transit Libra until October 10, 2017. Read about Jupiter in Libra here.

Uranus entered Aries on March 11th, 2011. The urge to start fresh, to break free from restrictive attitudes or circumstances, to totally redesign an area of our lives (or even our personalities), and to gain freedom through independence is strong with Uranus in Aries.

Mercury is Retrograde from December 19th, 2016, to January 8th, 2017 in Capricorn and Sagittarius.

Mercury Retrograde December 19, 2016-January 8, 2017

01 Dec 2016 08:18 pm 28 Sagittarius 51′ Mercury Enters Rx Zone

19 Dec 2016 05:49 am 15 Capricorn 08Rx Mercury Stationary Retrograde

08 Jan 2017 04:40 am 28 Sagittarius 51′ Mercury Stationary Direct

27 Jan 2017 12:30 pm 15 Capricorn 08′ Mercury Leaves Rx Zone

Times are Eastern

Details: Mercury is retrograde from December 19th to January 8th.

Mercury is retrograde from December 19, 2016, to January 8th, 2017. Mercury’s shadow period begins December 1st and ends January 27th, 2017. Note that the shadow period begins before Mercury turns retrograde, when Mercury first passes over the degree that Mercury later returns to in retrograde motion.

The shadow period ends when Mercury again passes over the degree at which it first turned retrograde. The shadow period is different than Mercury’s storm period in astrology, which refers to the period when Mercury is moving especially slowly.

As the planet of communication, Mercury retrograde tends to breed a certain level of confusion. Mercury rules our “lower” mind–how we perceive and interpret information that we receive from our environment, and how we relay that information to others. Mercury has rulership over such things as speaking, negotiating, buying and selling, listening, formal contracts, documents, travel, the mail and shipping, and so forth. All of these areas of life are affected when Mercury is functioning in a sluggish state. Decision-making is challenged during Mercury retrograde. Needless to say, it is not advised to sign contracts, engage in important decision-making, or launch a new business. Delays and challenges are more probable with Mercury retrograde. It’s a time when being careless with money, our personal information, or paperwork can be costly.

There is absolutely a positive side to Mercury Retrograde. This period is best used for re-organizing and reflecting. We look at the world a little differently–through different filters–and can come up with some very important inner revelations. It may be difficult to communicate them under this influence, but not everything needs to be rationalized. Mercury retrograde periods can be times of heightened inner awareness, when meditation, benefiting from keeping a journal, reworking old plans, and reviewing past work are favored. Minor breaks in the mechanical aspects of communication can actually re-connect us to other means of communication, such as when there is an unexpected power outage and we’re forced off the computer and television, finding different and often satisfying ways to entertain ourselves.

It is important to note that there is absolutely no reason to suspend projects or anything of the sort during the Mercury Retrograde cycle. It’s not an ideal time to start new ones or to sign contracts, simply because a change of mind is very possible once Mercury turns direct. However, it’s a fabulous time to do some “outside of the box” thinking. Acting on our ideas, however, might be best left for a Mercury Direct period.

Pay close attention to what you say and communicate in general, particularly around the days of Mercury’s stations (December 19th and January 8th), as well as around retrograde Mercury’s conjunction to the Sun on December 28th (midway between the start and end of the retro period). If you are itching to make a point with someone, especially, or if you are planning on “signing on the dotted line”, try to hold off. It is likely that you will have a change of mind once the station passes, and you can do some damage in the meantime. When a planet stations, its energies are very strong in our lives. When Mercury stations, communications have more impact, so that negative ones could have long-term implications at this time. However, if you are very clear within yourself and about what you are communicating, this can be a positive thing. Read more about Mercury retrograde.

Romance & Relationships

Venus is in Aquarius from December 7-January 3. While Venus was in Capricorn, we valued enduring connections, reliability, and faithfulness. We took expressing our feelings seriously, and we also took our sweet time warming up to others! Generally, we kept our “cool” in relationships. With Venus now in Aquarius, we still keep our “cool” in relationships, but in a detached and impersonal sort of way, however. Unconventional set-ups become more appealing. Bringing the spirit of friendship into romantic relationships is a positive use of Venus in Aquarius energy. Relationships that fairly scream “alternative” appeal to us now. It’s all about being open-minded and somewhat detached with Aquarius energy dominating the love arena. With Venus in Aquarius, it’s best to go into dates with new people casually, with no expectations and no strings. Melodrama and emotionalism simply won’t work. We may also find ourselves attracted to, or attracting, people who are not our “type”.

This week: Venus plays into a wonderful configuration involving Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus on Sunday, suggesting that we can find a great balance between independence, enjoyment, togetherness, and commitment in our relationships. We’re giving people space without alienating them, and we’re showing our reliability without crowding one another. On Tuesday, there can be hypersensitivity to words expressed. Communications between lovers may feel superficial or unsatisfying, and perhaps awkward.

Venus, the Goddess of Love: Highlights in the Coming Week:

Venus in Aquarius A love for the unusual, a distaste for stodgy old rules and conventions, a feeling that you’re above the petty bourgeois stuff and nonsense: that’s what a new cycle brings into your life now. (“I love humanity; it’s people I can’t stand!”) Unconventional romantic and social connections are likely at a time like this.

Venus trine Jupiter December 24-25. Harmony and good will reign under this influence. Expansive feelings in love, and a feeling that anything is possible if we set our sights high enough, are experienced now. We are friendly, big-hearted, sociable, and optimistic. It is easy to make social contacts under this influence. Cheerfulness, trust, and confidence in love and social matters.

Venus sextile Uranus December 24-25. We lose our fear of taking risks at this time, and we happily embrace all that is new, unusual, and out-of-the-ordinary with regards to romantic involvements. We are ready to experiment, but not necessarily ready to commit.

Venus sextile Saturn December 25. Relationships are stabilized and steady, although feelings are expressed reservedly, formally, or sparingly. A new sense of realism in existing partnerships. Relationships begun under this influence possess a distinctly practical theme, almost as if the partnership is a business endeavor.

Venus semi-square Mercury December 27. Communications between lovers may feel superficial or unsatisfying, and perhaps awkward. We may be especially sensitive to what’s being communicated now.

Venus sextile Mercury January 2-3. Favors playfulness in love and enhanced communication between partners. Romantic overtures, expressions of love and affection, making new social contacts. This is a time when promises, pledges, and clarifications (usually very positive!) are made in love relationships.

The Void of Course Moon is the period of time after the Moon has made its last aspect in one sign until the Moon enters a new sign. During Void of Course Moon periods, it is generally wise to stick to routine rather than to begin new projects. The last aspect the Moon makes before changing signs is indicated here and is indicative of the “outcome” of the matter (whether that is a new project begun before the void period or the answer to a question in Horary Astrology). Void of Course in Horary Astrology: If you were asking a question and making a chart for the answer, as you do in Horary astrology, it is said that since the Moon is not looking forward to any more aspects in this sign, you would have to say that the answer is not forthcoming; any questions asked at this time would not come to pass. The Moon being Void is one of the Strictures against Judgment in Horary Astrology.

The Void-of-Course Moon this Week:

Void-of-course Moon on Sunday, December 25th, from 2:23 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Venus), until the Moon enters Sagittarius at 10:20 PM EST.

VOC Moon on Tuesday, December 27th, from 8:46 PM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Venus), until the Moon enters Capricorn the next day, Wednesday, December 28th, at 10:13 AM EST.

VOC Moon on Friday, December 30th, from 3:08 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Jupiter), until the Moon enters Aquarius at 8:30 PM EST.

Void of Course Moon – December 2016

Void of Course Moon Table - December 2016

Void of Course Tables – December 2016

Timing with the Moon – Better Periods this Week for Electing New Initiatives

The Moon is waning this week until the New Moon on December 29th — a period that is generally considered unfavorable for new beginnings, with exceptions. (See Best Time to Start a Business for more details). The Moon is waxing this week after the New Moon on December 29th — a period that is generally considered favorable for new beginnings, with exceptions.

According to principles of timing with the Moon, a window of opportunity occurs this week from Friday, December 30th, 2016, to Monday, January 2nd, 2017, at approximately 2:55 AM EST, while the Moon is in Aquarius.

Planetary Stations & Sign Ingresses:

Sep 26, 2016 11:02 AM   Pluto
Direct
Sep 27, 2016 4:07 AM Mars enters Capricorn
Oct 7, 2016 3:55 AM   Mercury enters Libra
Oct 18, 2016 3:01 AM   Venus enters Sagittarius
Oct 22, 2016 7:45 PM   Sun enters Scorpio
Oct 24, 2016 4:46 PM   Mercury enters Scorpio
*** Daylight Saving Time ends ***
Nov 9, 2016 12:51 AM   Mars enters Aquarius
Nov 11, 2016 11:54 PM   Venus enters Capricorn
Nov 12, 2016 9:39 AM   Mercury enters Sagittarius
Nov 19, 2016 11:38 PM   Neptune Direct
Nov 21, 2016 4:22 PM   Sun enters Sagittarius
Dec 1, 2016 4:53 AM   Chiron Direct
Dec 2, 2016 4:18 PM   Mercury enters Capricorn
Dec 7, 2016 9:51 AM   Venus enters Aquarius
Dec 19, 2016 4:23 AM   Mars enters Pisces
Dec 19, 2016 5:55 AM   Mercury Retrograde
Dec 21, 2016 5:44 AM   Sun enters Capricorn
Dec 29, 2016 4:29 AM   Uranus Direct
Jan 3, 2017 2:46 AM   Venus enters Pisces
Jan 4, 2017 9:17 AM   Mercury Rx enters Sagittarius
Jan 8, 2017 4:42 AM   Mercury Direct
Jan 12, 2017 9:03 AM   Mercury enters Capricorn

See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day.
See also: The Astrology of 2016 – Overview and The Astrology of 2017 – Overview.

Note: Times given Eastern Time (ET).

This Week’s Calendar

This Week's Astrology Calendar - December 25 to 31, 2016

This Week’s Astrology Calendar – December 18 to 24, 2016

This Week’s Aspects

Venus trine Jupiter. Friendliness and optimism characterize this transit. We are big-hearted and our feelings are expansive. The outlook is cheerful and hopeful and the atmosphere is cooperative. This is a sociable, perhaps lazy and self-indulgent, time. We easily find meaning in our social connections. We are more open and trusting of friends and lovers. Integrity and loyalty are favored. A favorable influence for winning people’s trust. Speculation, advertising, publishing, and travel are favored.

Venus sextile Uranus. This is a favorable influence for social meetings and events, and for situations that call for treating others with equality and respect. We lose our fear of taking risks at this time, and we happily embrace all that is new, unusual, and out-of-the-ordinary with regards to romantic involvements as well as financial undertakings. We are ready to experiment, but not necessarily ready to commit. A good time for financial undertakings involving electronics, technology, the internet, metaphysics, and the arts, as well as group activities. A taste for the offbeat is in order.

Venus sextile Saturn. Affections stabilize and mature. Relationships are stabilized and steady, although feelings are expressed reservedly, formally, or sparingly. A new sense of realism in existing partnerships comes now. Small advances can be made in business and in partnerships. Support from older people or authority figures may come by way of solid advice or tangible help. Renewed ties to old friends are possible, or a new sense of responsibility in existing friendships.

Mars sesquiquadrate Jupiter. Although we may have much enthusiasm for life and for new projects, over-confidence and over-estimation of what we can do is likely. We are ready and willing to fight for our beliefs. We may be excitable and competitive. Jumping ahead without considering the consequences can be costly.

Mars semi-square Uranus. A tendency to take risks, to feel restless, to act on sudden impulses without considering consequences. There may be changes in work schedules, or life’s circumstances could challenge us in such a way that we need to change our goals or actions.

Mercury sextile Neptune. Intuition runs high; we are more sensitive artistically; imagination is stirred, and we have an increased appreciation for subtleties. We are inspired and we are able to inspire others with our words.

Sun sextile Mars. We are able to creatively solve problems and to instinctively take action when necessary under this influence. Stress is eased as we feel confident about our abilities and our judgment. We are more able to assert ourselves without rubbing people the wrong way.

Mercury semi-square Venus. Difficulties in social or romantic communication are possible today. On the other hand, we may make more efforts to be polite and to communicate. Hypersensitivity, and lack of mental discipline. Our minds wander.

Mercury conjunct Sun. We are especially sharp, communicative, and open at this time, as our wants are aligned with our thoughts. It’s a favorable time for solving problems. What we say or write now has impact, for better or for worse!

Saturn square Chiron. There can be fears now of not being competent or effective enough to meet our responsibilities, or we could find it hard to strike out on a unique path, again due to fears or insecurities. The desire to break from the status quo is strong, but we may not have the necessary confidence to do so.

Mercury sextile Mars. Mental alertness, enthusiasm, and energetic communications figure now. Quick decisions can be made. We are productive and take “busy-ness” in stride. We are alert and aware, and can easily turn ideas into workable projects.

Sun sextile Neptune. We’re at the right place at the right time, probably because our hunches are more likely to be correct and we are “tuned in”. We are inspired, and charitable acts now will serve to lift our spirits like no drug can. A good time for self-improvement programs or efforts. Instinctual judgment is enhanced under this influence. We are able to see matters, and people, from a different perspective–one that allows for, and even finds beauty in, differences.

Jupiter quincunx Chiron. There can be a questioning of our goals, or possibly our beliefs and faith, as doubt and uncertainty are likely now. We may feel a little lost and susceptible to influence. If we are not self-aware, we might push impractical ideas and projects ahead, only to face obstacles. Circumstances are such that we need to make adjustments to our plans and goals. We may need to tame expectations of ourselves and of others if they are unreasonably high.

Last Week

This Week

Next Week

Note: Times given in the table/calendar above are Eastern Time (ET).

Daily Trends Calendar

See below for day-by-day forecasts and planets in signs. See also Transit to Transit aspects.

See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day – Astrology Cafe.

What’s In Store By the Stars – Daily Astrology Trends

(as featured on our site’s main page and in our Daily Trends Calendar)

DECEMBER 25

Saturn and Uranus came together in a trine yesterday, and Jupiter will oppose Uranus tomorrow. Venus harmonizes with this configuration today, forming a trine with Jupiter and sextiles with both Uranus and Saturn. We’re friendly and considerate, generous and cooperative without going overboard. We give one another space, yet we’re also showing our commitment. It’s easy to find the right balance between security and excitement in our relationships. Integrity and loyalty are favored. This is a good time to connect with others and to build trust. Our business sense is robust and balanced as well, and this can be an excellent time for creative design. The Moon is in Scorpio most of the day – until 10:20 PM EST when the Moon moves into Sagittarius.

A void of course Moon occurs from 2:23 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Venus), until the Moon enters Sagittarius at 10:20 PM EST.

DECEMBER 26

Jupiter opposes Uranus today – an aspect that will perfect two more times, in March and September 2017. This is a transit that cries out for freedom, particularly regarding our close relationships. We seek out partnership but we are also holding on tightly to our individuality. We are looking for release or freedom from pressures, strains, and areas of life where we feel limited, restricted, and constrained. Events occurring now can bring surprises and sudden changes of hearts or paths. The desire to grow and progress is very strong now, and we can entertain new possibilities and find inspiration from unusual sources, but we can also be rebellious and impulsive under this influence. While this influence can give us just the right motivation to try something new or break free from a limiting situation, we should watch for glorifying all that is new and fresh to the point that we forget what’s truly important to us. Mars challenges this opposition today, adding even more impulsiveness or impatience to the mix. Tonight, Mercury forms a sextile with Neptune, however, and we rely more on our imagination or intuition when making judgments and drawing conclusions. We are inspired, and we might inspire others with our words. The Sun and Mars move towards a sextile aspect, and we’re creatively solving problems, having more faith and confidence in ourselves and our decisions and judgment.

DECEMBER 27

The Sun and Mars form a sextile very early today, and stress eases as we feel confident about our abilities and our judgment. We are more able to assert ourselves without rubbing people the wrong way. The Moon continues to transit adventurous, spontaneous Sagittarius all day. We can be particularly productive this afternoon with the Moon’s alignment with Saturn and harmonious aspects with Jupiter and Uranus. However, a Mercury-Venus semi-square tonight points to difficulties getting the right message across. Challenges in social or romantic communication are possible now. We can have a hard time concentrating as social distractions or emotional challenges can interfere with our focus. We don’t want to rock the boat and may make extra effort to please, but some insincerity and lack of clarity may result.

A void of course Moon occurs from 8:46 PM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Venus), until the Moon enters Capricorn the next day, Wednesday, December 28th, at 10:13 AM EST.

DECEMBER 28

The Moon is Balsamic today with a New Moon occurring very early tomorrow, making it a better time for tying up loose ends and reflection rather than new action. The Moon continues its transit of Sagittarius until 10:13 AM EST when it enters Capricorn. The Sun’s conjunction with retrograde Mercury today suggests we may need to take a hard look at the past before taking forward steps. This aspect brings illumination to our thoughts and ideas. It’s a favorable time for processing recent events and ideas, and for beginning to look at problems or issues from a new perspective and with a new understanding. What we say or write now has impact, for better or for worse! Mercury favorably aspects Mars, and we can be especially alert and observant, as well as extremely resourceful. Even so, this is a better time for going over the past than for making solid plans for the future. A longer term influence comes into aspect today: Saturn square Chiron. This is the first in a set of three (the aspect will perfect again in April and November 2017), and there can be fears not being competent or capable enough to meet our responsibilities. We may have a hard time striking out on a unique path, again due to fears or insecurities. The desire to break from the status quo is strong, but we may not have the necessary confidence to do so. This is a time of taking a hard look at our vulnerabilities.

The Moon ends its void period when it enters Capricorn at 10:13 AM EST.

DECEMBER 29

A New Moon occurs at 1:19 AM EST in the sign of Capricorn. This lunation symbolizes a new beginning in the cardinal earth sign of Capricorn – quite fitting for the energy of the New Year. It’s a time during which we can focus on some of the constructive traits of the sign of the Goat–tenacious, resourceful, disciplined, wise, ambitious, prudent, constant–and consider how to incorporate these qualities into our lives in positive ways. We might focus on practical and attainable long-term goals, work on developing maturity and common sense, prepare for the future, make commitments and recognize responsibilities, and nurture our dreams in a realistic manner. With this potent Capricorn energy, we have the chance to create some serious order in our lives. It’s time to make some solid plans and to set the stage for reaping the rewards from our new beginnings, as little or big as they may be, in approximately two weeks’ time after the Full Moon occurs. One of Capricorn’s “lessons” is acceptance of the concept that reasonable boundaries and rules offer us freedom — freedom from worry and chaos, for example. Uranus stations as it turns direct today after months of retrograde motion. Uranus energy hangs heavy in the air, and “all things Uranus” become strong themes. As the planet gains speed in the next few weeks, our urge to express ourselves uniquely, to take some chances or risks, to rebel, to listen to our own instincts, and to stir up change are re-awakened or turned outside of ourselves.

DECEMBER 30

The Sun sextiles Neptune today, and this tends to soften our rough edges. We take things as they come. This influence stimulates our intuition and imagination, as well as a need to attach more meaning to our lives. It sets a great mood for respecting our intuition and relaxing rather than pushing forward. We might find ourselves at the right place at the right time because our hunches are more likely to be correct and we are “tuned in.” We are inspired, and charitable acts now will serve to lift our spirits. Instinctual judgment is enhanced under this influence. We can see matters, and people, from a different perspective–one that allows for, and even finds beauty in, differences. The Moon continues its transit of Capricorn until 8:30 PM EST when it enters Aquarius.

A void of course Moon occurs from 3:08 AM EST, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to Jupiter), until the Moon enters Aquarius at 8:30 PM EST.

DECEMBER 31

Jupiter forms a quincunx with Chiron today. This aspect will perfect again in February and September 2017. There can be a questioning of our goals, or possibly our beliefs and faith, as doubt and uncertainty are likely during this period. We may feel a little lost and susceptible to influence. If we are not self-aware, we might push impractical ideas and projects ahead, only to face obstacles. Circumstances are such that we need to make adjustments to our plans and goals. We may need to tame expectations of ourselves and others if they are unreasonably high. The Moon is in Aquarius all day, and independence, equality, and freedom are vital to feeling emotionally satisfied. Mars moves to a conjunction with Neptune in Pisces, exact early into the day tomorrow. Our impulses and desires may be confusing, peculiar, hard to explain, or difficult to understand now. Not content with our regular routines, we tend to crave more drama, glamor, or meaning. Concentration on practical concerns and affairs may be lacking. We act on our intuition now, fantasies are strong, we strive towards all that is boundless, and our creative impulses are potent. Inspiration can be found now. Either we consciously pull back or energy levels lag. Creative pursuits that involve physical movement are highly favored and could provide excellent outlets for excess, undirected energy. This influence favors dancing, swimming, photography, arts, and entertainment. There can be much building inside of us, but we may not yet know where we want it to take us, or if we do, how to get there. There is a strong need to release pressure and tension. We may actively seek out inspiration.

If it’s your birthday today, see our feature, If Today is Your Birthday Forecasts, for a free forecast for the upcoming year.

Moon Signs This Week:

When the Moon is in Scorpio

Intensity is what the Moon in Scorpio is all about. Whether it’s passion, elation, sorrow, or desire, emotions are felt on a deeply personal level. We are motivated by the desire to get to the bottom of things, and we instinctively read between the lines. Superficiality won’t work for us now. The Moon in Scorpio urges us to uncover our own power, and it’s an excellent time to rid ourselves of old fears and limiting habits. It can be an intimate and passionate time. Avoid manipulative tactics, brooding, and suspiciousness.

The Moon in Scorpio generally favors the following activities: Taxes, accounting, intimacy issues, psychological examinations, research, self-examination, getting rid of old things.

When the Moon is in Sagittarius

The Moon is at her most optimistic and upbeat in Sagittarius. We are motivated by a need to seek the truth, and we are ready to pursue a new vision. We are not interested in details just now. Instead, we focus on the big picture. New experiences and adventures satisfy a deep emotional need. Spontaneity is the key. We may also be inclined toward overdoing and overstating. We don’t want to plan ahead, and prefer to “wing it”.

The Moon in Sagittarius generally favors the following activities: Adventurous activities that involve “winging it”, travel, higher education, starting publishing projects, advertising, sports, physical activity.

When the Moon is in Capricorn

We become aware of the need for structure and planning ahead. We also instinctively are aware of the limitations of time. We are motivated by a desire for success. Achievement and manifestation are most important to us now. We are resourceful and don’t want to waste time, energy, or resources. This can be a very sober influence–even a depressing one. However, it can also be a productive time when we look reality in the eye.

The Moon in Capricorn generally favors the following activities: Long-term activities that yield slow but steady results, practical undertakings, career issues, making a business plan, practical investments.

When the Moon is in Aquarius

Attraction to all that is new and unusual, and an instinctive need for improvement, characterize the Moon in Aquarius. Reactions are more intellectual than emotional, and interactions are more impersonal than personal, under this influence. This is a time that promotes social gatherings, dealing with group ideals and goals for the future, brainstorming, new ideas, and progressive changes. We are open to new methods of doing things and we have our eye on the future. It can be hard to stick to schedules now, as personal freedom is most important to us.

The Moon in Aquarius generally favors the following activities: Unusual or radical undertakings, social pursuits, group projects, trying something new, joining a group.

This Week’s Planetary Positions By Sign (General Trends)

Sun in Capricorn You see what’s wrong and you know what to do now: the time has come to make it real, and it’s a lot bigger than any one person. This means cooperation and organization, authority and discipline, responsibility – and all these things are what it takes to get you where you know you must go. But take care! If your vision is only for yourself, what you create cannot last: it must be for some greater good. Ambition, practicality, and achievement are admirable, but they are means to an end – not ends in themselves.

Mercury in Capricorn Figuring out how to organize projects and people is apt to become a topic of special interest – and a challenge – at a time like this. Opinions are not enough for you now: they must be backed by authority or evidence, and above all they must have practical worth and application. A period of intense study and thought.

Mars in Pisces There’s a martyr complex in the air, now that this new phase has begun in your life. How can you (or anyone) save the world? It’s a question you’ll probably ask yourself as this cycle continues. Defending the weak, undoing injustice, and tilting at windmills can be a big temptation. You might even win a few hands – but you’ll blister a couple if you’re not careful.

Jupiter in Libra The ties that bind, the harmonious integration of opposites, the perfect balance: these are the keys to your greatest opportunities now. Marriage and other close personal relationships tend to offer bright prospects, and you have a deep yearning to experience the fulfillment they can bring.

Saturn in Sagittarius The new phase now beginning in your life brings a need to break out of narrow concepts and legalistic philosophical or religious ideas. Remember: “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of small minds.” Opportunities to broaden your mental horizons may not come with ease, but they are essential if you are to avoid a kind of spiritual stagnation.

Uranus in Aries A clean break with the past in some respects is signaled by the cycle you have just begun. What YOU need, YOUR freedom and independence, shattering old molds: these are the things that energize you and take priority in your life. Uniqueness and originality set you apart.

Neptune in Pisces Things spiritual and psychic take the driver’s seat of your imagination as you begin a new cycle. The fine arts and all manner of fantasies assume a larger-than-life importance. Surrendering to fate, karma, and other powers greater than merely mortal may be seen as the ultimate liberation. If all is Maya (illusion), what is the reality that gives rise to the world of appearances?

Pluto in Capricorn As this new phase dawns for you, the pursuit of social/political power and status has a way of seeming necessary and inevitable – and let nothing stand in its way. It starts out small but has bigger consequences than you’d think. Ambition, responsibility, a place for everyone and everyone in their place…

The interpretations in this box are from the Day Watch software.

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