December is a fairly active month, highlighted by three planetary stations and a lunar eclipse. Also notable is the final alignment of Jupiter with Neptune and Chiron in Aquarius. As we move from fiery Sagittarius into earthy Capricorn, our inspirations are given tangible form and structure.
A Full Moon occurs on December 1, at 10 Gemini, along with a stationary direct Uranus at 23 Pisces. This is a dynamic full moon, with restless, changeable energies. This lunation period began on a more stable note with the new moon in Scorpio on November 16. New information and revelations coming in now may inspire further action. As Gemini rules the mind and communication, it will be easier to make adjustments or to incorporate new ideas into our plans. Other Gemini qualities include being flexible, versatile, adaptable, articulate and clever. The Sabian symbol for this degree speaks to the power and joy of new beginnings and opportunities for experience.
Now that Uranus has turned direct, we can more easily move forward with new ideas and goals over the next several months. However, it will be best to wait until next March to begin any new long-term projects due to the Mercury and Mars retrograde cycles that begin later this month. Meanwhile, we can use these periods to research, record and journal our new ideas.
Jupiter aligns with Chiron in Aquarius on December 7, giving us the opportunity to heal wounds from the past and gain a new perspective. Now it is best to look beyond our differences to work together for the good of the whole. The Mercury alignment with Pluto and Saturn on this same day gives depth, structure and grounding to our communications. It will be important to stay flexible and not try to control the outcome of situations.
The New Moon occurs on December 16 at 25 Sagittarius. It forms a challenging square with Uranus, while there is a favorable sextile with Jupiter, Neptune and Chiron. It also aligns with the Galactic Center at 27 Sagittarius, which increases the power and impact of this lunation period. Some unexpected changes can lead us to question our basic concepts and beliefs. This is a favorable time to examine how we search for deeper meaning in our lives and what daily habits can support this process. Sagittarius rules philosophy, religion, higher education and travel. Other Sagittarian qualities include optimism, intuition and enthusiasm; being generous, just, idealistic and independent. The Sabian symbol for this degree emphasizes the growth we receive through our use of creative imagination, humor and recreation (all ruled by Sagittarius).
Mars in Leo turns stationary retrograde on December 20 and travels in retrograde until March 10, 2010. Mars rules our physical energy and drive for accomplishment, but when it retrogrades this energy is diverted into less concrete or worldly channels. Any new beginnings may be lacking in clarity and direction, and there is less receptivity to our offering. We can use this time more efficiently to plan, research and re-evaluate new projects. Mars will be in Leo until June 8, 2010. During this time we can look more closely at how we use our creativity, express our individuality, relate to children and our inner child, and seek adventure and recognition.
On December 21, the Winter Solstice arrives and Jupiter aligns with Neptune at 24 Aquarius. There is an expansion of our sense of unity and higher ideals. This energy can bring a heightened clarity to dreams and inner guidance, as well as an experience of grace and a magical synchronicity in daily life. However, since we are more susceptible to illusion and fantasy projection, discernment is critical at this time.
Mercury turns stationary retrograde on December 26, at 22 Capricorn. The messenger planet travels backward to 5 Capricorn before turning direct on January 15. The shadow period begins on December 9, which often initiates the beginning of confusion, computer glitches and other unpredictable events. This cycle reinforces the trend from retrograde Mars of turning inward for re-evaluation and retreat. With Mercury in Capricorn there is a focus on restructuring, reorganizing or redoing things. We may also think of ways we can simplify our lives, become less wasteful and more self-sufficient. A good project for this period would be assembling a preparedness kit for the coming year, as the upcoming planetary aspects may bring some unsettled periods due to earth/weather or other changes.
The second Full Moon occurs on December 31, at 10 Cancer. It is also a partial Lunar Eclipse, which squares Saturn and opposes Venus and Pluto. Cancer qualities include being feeling-oriented, nurturing, warm, protective, sympathetic, moody and dependent. This south node eclipse calls for a release of what is not aligned with our higher growth. Perhaps we have emotional attachments or dependency needs that are not serving us. Saturn in Libra encourages us to grow into greater balance and integrity on both a personal and society level over the next two years. The opposition to Pluto and Venus invites us to align with our true values in the areas of relationships and personal resources. The Sabian symbol for this degree also reminds us of the value of humor in developing mental objectivity and independence.
January features more dynamic planetary aspects, with a solar eclipse in Capricorn, two stationary planets and Jupiter entering Pisces. Blessings for a joyful Christmas and New Year!
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Dorene Carrel is a professional astrologer specializing in natal and relocation astrology consultations. She can be contacted at
dorenea5@yahoo.com. More information and previous columns can be found at
www.alcseattle.com.