During early December as the Sun approaches the Solstice, it’s nearly midwinter for us in the northern hemisphere and a perfect opportunity to view the pre-dawn sky, particularly if you’re not a naturally early riser! The late sunrise and clear cold skies will give a chance to see the waning crescent Moon drop a little further each day, past the bright planets, Jupiter, then Mars and finally Venus before it joins with the Sun at the New Moon phase. Saturn, rising just ahead of the Sun is so close now it’s not visible. Taking some quiet time to star gaze can really help to put things into perspective. This is especially so when there’s such demand for our attention now with the short days, busy pre Christmas preparations and world news broadcasts creating fear and stress as we imagine the worst.
With the current astrological “weather” it is even more important to keep a check on what we focus on. Become aware of how much mental and emotional energy is given to worry, anxiety, fear and a sense of helplessness. Take advantage of the astrological climate to change those thoughts into something more positive and empowering now. The challenging aspect between Saturn and Neptune began to make its self known in mid November and will continue in the background throughout the next year. The shifts and changes seem to be intensified and there can be a growing sense of unreality. Bombarded with too much information, the world around us can seem quite surreal. Keeping a grip on reality is the personal challenge.
It will become increasingly apparent that so much in our world is actually no more than a creation of imagination or ideas that are believed to be true, or just something that everyone agrees with and never paused to question. Taking “time to stand and stare” or pause and reflect quietly has become a lost art for many, but it is an essential practice during the coming weeks and months. The New Moon on the 11th is in Sagittarius and in a natural placement to begin a sincere quest for truth.
Over the whole New Moon phase and into the next weeks the effect of Mars in opposition to Uranus will be apparent. There may be struggles or argument as the forceful will of Mars is in direct conflict with the unpredictable nature of Uranus. This is certainly a time when a sudden change of direction or purpose is likely. It can have a very positive effect, once things have settled. When two high energy planets clash like this it can be disruptive and seem to happen beyond any individual control. It may create chaos as the old goal or objective is blown out, in favour of new, more liberal ideals. Self-centred or self serving desires of an individual or group can be overridden by a “live and let live” attitude but there is likely to be some shocking news, incident or revelation that forces a change in perspective first.
Also on the same day, we have Venus in Scorpio in a supportive trine aspect with Neptune in Pisces. This highlights the things that are important, going deeply into things, what we value in life and what higher ideals we have. It supports compassion, inclusion and love regardless of differences and despite social taboo. Start looking out beyond what’s immediately apparent and seek new dreams, ideas or beliefs. Read uplifting words. Research new facts rather than automatically accept what is simply repetition. Think up your next question instead of responding with the ready answer. These options are ways to antidote some of the more challenging aspects involving Mars and Uranus and to ensure the balance is tipped towards a positive experience for the Solstice and Full Moon Midwinter festivities.
The December New Moon is at 20° Sagittarius on the 11th at 10:31am. The Full Moon is at 4° Cancer on the 25th at 11:11am. (UT)
Watch out for the 2016 forecast coming soon.
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Happy Solstice Season!