Solar Phases
This December, the
Sun will remain in the sign of Sagittarius until the
winter solstice which takes place this year on the 21st
of December at 17h47 when it will enter
serious and sage-like Capricorn. The
winter solstice held great significance for our ancestors as
it signalled the turning point between the cycle
of darkness and the return of the life-giving light
of the sun – essential to the survival of all life on
earth. Many historians and archaeologists think that the
pagan cultures of Britain and northern Europe built their
stone monuments, such as Stonehenge and Newgrange, to mark
this important day because it had important associations
with death and rebirth. According to Graham Miller,
author of
The Busy
Pagan, a similar festival related to
midwinter called Yalda was celebrated around the 25th
of December in ancient Persia - the region considered
to be the birthplace of astrology. Miller remarks that it
“'contains many aspects of modern Christmas and Winter
Solstice' and suggests that 'many scholars believe that this
festival is where the actual date of Christmas came from.'
It is therefore also worth celebrating astrologically, as
the rebirth of the earth's yearly cycle also begins now, and
in the northern hemisphere, the sun will begin to climb
higher and higher in the sky each day until midsummer.
Miller associates this moment with the image of the seed
because, although small and self-contained, it 'contains all
the material necessary to create a new being, whether it is
a tree or a person' As such, he describes the midwinter
solstice metaphorically as being about the 'seed lying
dormant underground. There is enormous potential
there, but at the moment it is all just that - potential. It
is the period of lying dormant and waiting for the
Spring time, when it can burst forth.' It is very much like
the Dark Moon, which occurs every month before the first
crescent appears. Perhaps we could think of the midwinter
solstice as the annual solar equivalent of this stage of the
monthly lunar cycle?
22 November - 21
December
SUN IN SAGITTARIUS
The themes of
mourning so strong last month now give way to
celebrations and thanksgiving - an affirmation
of the living. As a result, this phase of the solar
cycle is nearly always a jolly one, marked by festivals and
parties of all kinds. In keeping with ancient traditions, we
still appear to sense this and mark it with all sorts of
rituals, including office Christmas parties, special drinks
such as eggnog, and of course family get-togethers and
present-giving. Sagittarius is an optimistic,
enthusiastic and gregarious sign, and the Sun
seems to truly thrive here, given its own positive and
life-affirming orientation. Sagittarius is not a sign
known for moderation, and together with its ruler,
Jupiter, which tends to expand whatever it
touches, you could find your waistline bulging if you're
not careful, so take it easy with the Yule log and mince
pies! It is also a restless sign, eager to explore
new horizons and encounter novel and interesting people
and cultures, all of which could be themes now. Perhaps you
are due to host relatives visiting from far-off shores over
the festive period or perhaps keen to visit one of the many
fabulous Christmas markets in various European destinations.
On the other hand, sunnier climes may beckon as you jet off
in a bid to banish winter blues. Publishing projects
as well as anything related to education, sports, animals
or cars are also favoured now.
Lunar Phases
This
month we are set to experience TWO Full moons, the
first on the 2nd of December at
07h30 in Gemini; and the second, on the
31st of December at 19h13, which will
also result in a partial lunar eclipse. Not only is this
eclipse significant because of the date on which it occurs –
the last day of 2009 – but it will also take place in the
sign of Cancer, the Moon’s natural domicile,
making it especially potent. Be particularly careful when
making New Year’s resolutions because they are likely to
carry extra power and reach. Themes around food, diet,
nurturing, parenthood, travel and the home are
all likely to have resonance now.
2 December
The first Full
Moon of the month occurs on the 2nd of December 2009
at 07h30 in curious, light-hearted and chatty
Gemini. Taking place one day after Uranus
turns direct, making things exciting, erratic, lively
and unpredictable. As with any Full Moon, emotions
are likely to be running high. Use the airy and versatile
Gemini energy at this time to express how you feel and
release any pent-up tension you may have, since in recent
months, with Uranus retrograde, you may have begun to feel a
little frustrated at not being able to express any original
ideas. This is one of those rare times when heart and head
can work together, so make the most of it by being sincere
and kind as well as articulate. At this time, the Moon will
be making a positive sextile aspect to Mars, perfect for
energising any last-minute touches to a project that is due
to be delivered soon. Try to avoid being too much of a
motor-mouth though, as Mars can have a bit of a loosening
effect on the inhibitions. Great in the passion department,
though!
This Full Moon will most affect
those with air or fire Sun or Moons, including Gemini,
Libra, Aquarius, Aries, Leo and Sagittarius.
16 December
The New Moon
will occur at 12h02
on the 16th of December in Sagittarius
and, according to the
Moonwise Calendar, is ruled by the Birch
tree. In ancient folklore, the Birch Moon
contains the moment of northern winter solstice. In an
excerpt from his book on
the folklore of trees, author,
Graham Varner
states that in Norse legends, the Birch was considered to
have fertility-boosting and cleansing properties,
which is possibly why Birch branches were thought to be able
to ward off evil. In relation to fertility, it is
interesting to see a similar theme emerging to that of
Graham Miller's seed metaphor related to the winter
solstice. Varner goes on to relay that in the mythology of
the Siberian Yakut people, the birch
represents the Cosmic Tree of Life.
He further explains
that every Yakut shaman is thought to be spiritually
connected with a sacred birch and that his life force is
considered to be dependent on that tree. Graham
Miller also associates the Holly Tree with
midwinter, so perhaps this could be seen as the solar
arboreal equivalent and partner to the lunar Birch tree? For
Sagittarians, this is considered to be a sort of a
lunar 'new year' - an annual event that provides a
great opportunity to start fresh in the emotional
and bodily sense. So for those Archers who want
to begin a new exercise, personal hygiene or
dietary regimen, this is an excellent time to do so.
However, you had better be quick - the Moon changes signs
at 22h32, leaving you a small window in which to
mentally prepare yourself or make plans.
31 December
The second Full
Moon of the month is due to take place on the 31st of
December 2009 at 19h13. This moon phase will also
join with the sun in forming a lunar eclipse, the last for
2009, in nurturing and mysterious Cancer.
Astrologically, this event is likely to be very powerful,
given Cancer's natural rulership of the Moon, as well
as its phase, which means metaphorically speaking
a triple dose of lunar energy at once! Interestingly,
Graham Miller suggests that around this time, 'the triple
Goddess (i.e. the Moon) is firmly in her Crone Phase'
and is best imagined 'in the Underworld, stirring her
cauldron and talking with the Maiden,' the youthful aspect
of the Moon associated with Spring. Miller explains:
'Because the Maiden is trapped underground with the Crone,
Winter rules above ground.' During this chthonic encounter,
the wise old Crone can pass on her knowledge and wisdom
gained from age and experience onto the Maiden, who can
carry it forward into the next seasonal cycle of the
coming year -not a bad way to consider the power of the
eclipse! My advice: use the culminating energy of the
Full Moon to conclude any business from 2009 that
should be left behind with the Old Year, absorb and
consolidate any skills or knowledge acquired
or lessons learnt during the course of year, and then
resolve to marry these with the hidden
potential and new energy embodied by the Maiden
to propel you forward into the New Year. A good way
to ritually enact this would be to make realistic New Year's
resolutions that revolve around what you want to let go of,
what you want to retain and carry forward, and finally, what
new goals you have for yourself for 2010. These should
naturally evolve out of the first part of the process.
Themes that will be especially strong now are: motherhood,
fertility, nutrition, childhood, emotions, intuition,
imagination, family, the home, lifestyle, safety and
protection. The element strong now will be water.
Look out for
further information about this eclipse, together with
its solar cohort, in my January Eclipse predictions,
which will be published next month. In the meantime, an
overview is available to read in my
Eclipse Chronology section.
Planetary Events, Stellar Phases & Energy Shifts
This December, those of us based in the northern hemisphere
can expect to see several important constellations rising in
the south just before dawn. These include the constellation
of Sagittarius and Delphinus, the Dolphin. It is
thought that in ancient times, the rising of Delphinus
may have been astrologically significant to the Greeks, as
its heliacal rising coincided with the departure of the sun
god, Apollo, from his oracle at Delphi, to journey
northwards to the mythical land of the Hyperboreans. During
the three months that he was absent, Dionysos, god of
bacchic festivals, took his place, presiding over the site
of the Oracle for the duration of the winter months.
Archaeoastronomers think that constellation of Delphinus may
have been especially important to the Greeks because of the
oracle’s origin myth, preserved in the Homeric Hymn to
Apollo, in which the god Apollo leads Delphi’s founders
to the site he has selected for the famous temple in the
form of a dolphin. Delphinus usually rises around the time
of the winter solstice, and so may somehow be tied into this
ancient and important solar festival. According to the
ancient astronomer and geographer Ptolemy, the stars in this
constellation have the nature of Saturn and Mars. (Tetrabiblos
VII)
1
December
URANUS TURNS DIRECT IN PISCES
After nearly six months of back-tracking, the planet Uranus
now turns direct. Since the end of June, you’ve had a chance
to think about how to live a more authentic life or make
some contribution to humanity. Now you may experience a
series of synchronistic events that help you to implement
your plans or make the necessary changes. Put them off and
you may be in for a short, sharp shock – Uranus may find a
way to use circumstances or people to force the issue! This
is a time when you’re likely to want more independence or
express yourself in a unique or unusual way. It’s also
excellent energy for making alternative lifestyle choices,
detaching a little in order to see things from a different
perspective or getting yourself out of a rut. You may also
encounter unusual or exciting people now or move into a
social crowd that better reflects who you are as a person.
Surprises and changes of plans are the order of the day, so
prepare yourself for the unexpected. On the same day, Uranus
will be almost exactly 30 degrees away from Neptune in
Aquarius. As these two planets are in mutual reception -
that is, occupying signs ruled by the other planet, an
exchange of attributes is likely. Thus, Uranus, associated
with abruptness and sometimes shocking behaviour, should be
softened a little by Neptune's sensitive and imaginative
energy; whilst the somewhat languid and occasionally
apathetic Neptune could get a welcome charge of electricity
from Uranus that could spur dreamy, creative types to
action. However, the 30 degree angle, known as a semi-sextile
aspect in astrology, can also bring with it an underlying
sense of tension or a nagging feeling that something isn't
quite right, which can bit a bit irritating. Some
astrologers also interpret this aspect as having a fated
quality to it - a sense that there is some sort of lesson to
be learned. Usually this is assumed to be directed from the
planet in the 'older' zodiac sign - in this case, Uranus in
Pisces - to the planet situated in the 'younger' sign - in
this case, Neptune in Aquarius. On a global scale, this may
relate to the need to remain responsible and compassionate
in relation to technological advances, the web or the media,
as well as how we treat friends and other groups or
societies. I think the main message is not to cast aside
environmental concerns in the face of global recession. Just
because we have less money, doesn't mean that we are
absolved of ethical responsibility to society or indeed, the
planet to be responsible and caring citizens.
This energy is especially applicable for anyone who has a
planet or sensitive point in their chart
near 23° Pisces, Gemini, Virgo or
Sagittarius.
VENUS INGRESS into SAGITTARIUS
Venus is due to join Mercury and the Sun in Sagittarius on
the 1st of December. The presence of three
planets in the sign ruled by Jupiter is sure to lighten
moods, and temporarily restore an open and optimistic
atmosphere to people’s mindsets. As a result, the 2009
festive season is still likely to be a jolly one, despite
the news that many firms are thinking of cancelling their
office Christmas parties. I suspect many workers may decide
to hold their own private shindigs with colleagues instead –
not a bad idea, considering how often people end up
embarrassing themselves in front of the boss after a few too
many eggnogs when the company is paying!...Make an effort to
socialise now, as others will now feel equally gregarious
and up for a bit of a laugh. A bit of light romance may also
be on offer now. Just try not to overdo it on the alcohol
front - jovial Sagittarius does tend to push people to
excess but is also rather accident-prone, so be sure not to
drive after drinking, and that includes the next morning,
when your blood alcohol level may still be surprisingly
high.
Romantically and financially, we are all being given a bit
of a breather and should enjoy relaxing, having fun,
shopping for Christmas presents and spending time with
friends before the family obligations that come with
Christmas descend. Of course, it isn't worth running wild
with the credit card when Christmas shopping, as the
'go-all-out' energy of Sagittarius may tempt you to do,
because, come January, Venus will be in a more sober sign
and reminding you of your financial responsibilities and
current debts. A financial hangover is worth avoiding.
Instead, consider ways to have some cheap or even free fun
over the festive season. Try making gifts instead of buying
them, and focus on the emotional, rather than the material
aspect of giving or receiving.
6 December
MERCURY INGRESS into CAPRICORN
6 Dec 2009 - 10 Feb 2010
Mercury is the first to change signs this month, leading the
way, ahead of the Sun and Venus, into earthy and serious
Capricorn. Your mind may now turn to financial or family
matters - and given the cash-strapped situation of many
people this Christmas, this wouldn't be unsurprising. You
may want to draw up a budget or set limits on how much
family members spend on Christmas presents this year, as
well as consider all the ways in which you could cut back or
save money moving forward into the New Year, given that
energy and credit card bills all tend to rise at this time
of year. Try to focus on strategies that are practical and
achievable rather than mentally beating yourself up over
what you SHOULD do - this is just a recipe for depression
and inaction and won't actually help in any way.
Alternatively, you may also be musing over the best way to
go about getting a promotion or raise in the new year, or
even possibly taking up a public office - all of which could
mean extra responsibilities but also potentially added
recognition and financial gain. If you do decide to put out
a few feelers or organise any power meetings, do so before
the 26th when Mercury is due to retrograde for a few weeks.
Between now and the 26th is an excellent time to get things
done or get your point across if you wish to be taken more
seriously by work colleagues or the general public. Just
keep messages brief and to-the-point and avoid any flash
gimmicks or tacky publicity stunts, and others are sure to
sit up and notice.
20 December
MARS RETROGRADE in LEO
21 Dec 2009 - 29 Feb 2010
In mid-October 2009, Mars entered the fiery and dramatic
sign of Leo, and since then, the focus of your actions may
well have become self-expression, personal promotion and
developing leadership abilities. Fire signs in particular
may have also noticed an increase in their levels of
physical vitality and overall sense of well-being, as well
as a welcome boost in confidence levels. Now, however, Mars
is due to change direction for several months, during which
time you may temporarily lose momentum or start to feel a
bit less sure of yourself than you did a month back.
Progress in work projects may begin to lessen and future
plans may stall temporarily. Try not to strain too hard,
force issues or push against the flow because this will just
lead to pent-up frustration, emotional outbursts,
unnecessary conflicts and possibly even accidents. Pace
yourself and use this time to review plans and conserve
energy. Your ‘mojo’ will return in February when other
planets will be in more of a position to help, so fret not.
Take care of your health, especially if you suffer from
circulatory or heart problems. And take time out to enjoy
yourself a little - all work and no play makes for a
stressed-out little bunny, so chill a little while you have
the opportunity and most of the world is not that concerned
about work or business affairs.
21 December
JUPITER CONJUNCT NEPTUNE AND CHIRON in AQUARIUS SEXTILE
VENUS in SAGITTARIUS
21 Dec 08.50 GMT
On this, the day of
the winter solstice, Jupiter, ruler of Sagittarius and
Pisces, will conjunct both Neptune and Chiron in the sign of
Aquarius at around 08h50 GMT. This will be the third and
final alignment of these important outer planetary bodies
for 2009, which were also in close proximity during May and
July of this year. It seems that this is a good time to
consider in what way you may be afraid of success or
personal or professional growth, as well as what
spirituality and healing mean to you. Between 04h30 and
05h30 on the same day, Venus will be making a positive
60-degree sextile aspect to both Jupiter and Neptune,
bringing a harmonious, loving and creative energy to the
mix. This looks set to be a very powerful day for the
planet, as well as all kinds of relationships! The forces of
love, expansion, compassion, healing and light are being
emphasised at this time, so you may want to book a healing
session, meditate or try to make peace with loved ones if
you have been at odds with them.
24 December
SUN CONJUNCT PLUTO in CAPRICORN
This rather intense meeting between the Sun and Pluto in the
afternoon, around 17h30 GMT on Christmas Eve, is worth
noting, given the family-oriented emphasis of this day, and
the fact that most people will be heading home from work for
a few days off around this time. Both the Sun and Pluto tend
to increase wilfulness and the tendency to want to assert
one's ideas and viewpoints on others, so the combination
could result in battles of will, stand-offs and arguments,
as well as possible accidents as people lose all perspective
and insist on getting their own way. Try not to be too
obnoxious when driving in traffic or doing any last-minute
Christmas shopping, as minor incidents could turn into nasty
scenes if allowed to get out of hand. Instead, use the
powerful energy of both planets to concentrate on getting
anything important out of the way at work before the end of
play, or to solve any tricky last-minute problems related to
logistics or catering for Christmas.
26 December
VENUS INGRESS into CAPRICORN
26 Dec 2009 - 19 Jan 2010
Matters related to love or money turn serious now as Venus
leaves the frivolity and flirtatiousness of Sagittarius
behind in favour of more weighty and mature approaches. This
is a time to show your sophisticated side in love. If you're
single, opt for more sedate and cultured activities rather
than boozy nights down the pub. The company of more mature,
genteel individuals who value the finer things in life will
now seem more appealing, as will weighty conversation over a
good whisky or brandy next to a crackling fire. The sign of
Capricorn also resonates with taking a conservative approach
to both money and romance. This is a time of practicality
and realism; of consolidation and contraction, rather than
expansion, when it comes to investments or matters of the
heart. Any new romances could stall temporarily as you find
yourself reassessing whether you are truly compatible - the
sobering-up period during which you examine your options in
the cold light of day. Alternatively, this somewhat steadier
energy could also see a relationship become more serious -
Capricorn favours commitment, so who knows? Perhaps some of
you may be in for a marriage proposal and a stylish diamond
ring for Christmas, if you play your cards right! On a
positive note, this is also a good time for down-to-earth
get-togethers, outdoor walks and family reunions. Come
January, you are also likely to get a lot done on the
financial and work front. Artists or artisans who work with
stone are likely to be particularly productive now.
MERCURY RETROGRADE in CAPRICORN
6 Dec 2009 - 16 Jan 2010
Mercury throws a spanner in the works communication-wise
when it decides to change direction on this day.
Fortunately, at this time of the year, it is likely to cause
less of a problem as most businesses close for the holidays
and people travel less. For those planning to go on a trip
around New Year, leave plenty of time to get to your
destination and have a Plan B for any unforeseen hitches
that could crop up at the last minute, as they are likely to
do so now. Misunderstandings are also common during Mercury
retrograde periods, so be extra careful about what you say
to others around about now, especially to authority figures,
or you could land in hot water. Computer hiccups are another
symptom of this time, so try not to attempt anything too
ambitious with your new laptop or computer program or you
could run into problems or just end up feeling annoyed. More
positively, you could find yourself getting in touch with
old friends or people you haven't spoken to in a while.
Trips down memory lane are also possible expressions of this
astrological phenomenon, as are reviews of existing plans,
or discussions that cover previous ground - excellent for
trouble-shooting, reviewing or fine-tuning projects. Editing
and proofreading are examples of constructive ways to make
use of this time.
