By Bernadette Evans
Hello and welcome to January and a new year! There’s a New Moon on January 2nd at 12 degrees of Capricorn. It’s a great time to envision the year ahead! Write your goals in a notebook. What does your life look like in a month, three months, six months, and a year? Save these goals so you can go back next year and see what you’ve accomplished!
The Full Moon is on January 17th at 27 degrees of Cancer. This is the time in the month where you see how far you’ve come since the new moon. The sign of Cancer is sensitive and loves home and family; taking pleasure in nurturing oneself and others. Cancer’s polar opposite is the sign of Capricorn — who is concerned about work, status, duty, and responsibility. During this full moon, try to blend the sensitive and responsible aspects together.
You may remember, Venus stationed retrograde in Capricorn on December 19th. She’ll be retrograde until January 29th and in Capricorn until March 6th. During this time, you may be re-evaluating your relationships and finances. What’s been working for you and what has not? Do you need to make some changes? Capricorn can be serious, organized, and business-minded. You may be trying to get a business off the ground, and/or connecting with someone you admire — maybe a person who’ll mentor you.
Mercury stations retrograde on January 14th at 10 degrees of Aquarius. It will be retrograde back to 24 degrees Capricorn and station direct on February 3rd. Mercury retrogrades 3 times a year — if you’ve been reading this column, or other astrology columns, you know that it is not an ideal time to sign legal documents. Of course everyone has to continue with life plans and not all of your plans will follow the planets and their retrogrades…imagine that! There is the possibility your computer could crash and you lose documents. Your phone may suddenly die, or your emails and texts will be lost in cyber-space. Depending on how it impacts your chart, you may or may not be impacted by the retrograde. The gift all retrogrades bring, is the chance to re-assess your life. Mercury (the planet of communication) is giving you the opportunity to gauge how well you communicate with friends, colleagues, and partners. Take this time to slow down and re-evaluate different aspects of your life and make the necessary changes.
The Moon takes about 28 days to complete its orbit through the twelve signs, staying approximately two and a half days in each sign. When we say the Moon is Void of Course (VoC), it means the moon makes no more major aspects to other planets before it leaves the sign it’s in. At these times, it can be difficult to get focused and accomplish a task. You may want to relax, meditate, or do something where your focus is turned inward. Don’t try and get a new project off the ground when the moon is void. If you want to find out more about the Void of Course moon, check out moontracks.com. The times below are listed in Central Savings Time.
Saturday, January 1
The Sun trine Uranus is a great way to start the year. An unexpected opportunity could fall in your lap. Maybe you’re about to set off on a road trip. The potentials are endless. Enjoy and give thanks for the surprising bounty coming your way. Moon VoC at 2:16 a.m. until 5:02 p.m. when it enters the sign of Capricorn.
Sunday, January 2
There’s a New Moon at 12 degrees of Capricorn 12:33 p.m. Get out your notebook or phone because this is a perfect time to make your plans for the coming year. Think about what excites you. When you actually write your goals down, you become more focused on them. Be passionate about your future — and yes, it’s okay to be ambitious. Mercury enters the sign of Aquarius at 1:10 a.m. New Moon at 12:33 p.m.
Monday, January 3
The Moon will be conjunct Venus and Pluto before it goes void. Duty and reliability may be your aphrodisiac when these players get together. You have fun building a secure foundation that supports you. Nothing gets your blood pumping more than getting things done! Who knew reliability could look so attractive! Moon VoC at 10:21 a.m. until 4:44 p.m. when it enters the sign of Aquarius.
Tuesday, January 4
You may be feeling alone, sad, or isolated when the Moon conjuncts Saturn. Take some time to connect with the wounded part of you and talk with it. What does it need to feel loved and nurtured? Replenish your reserves, whether you go for a walk in nature, take a bath, meditate, or sleep. Do what feels right for you. Moon VoC at 6:45 p.m.
Wednesday, January 5
The Moon is void in Aquarius until 6:17 p.m. Then it enters the sign of Pisces. While its void, you could get together with a friend you haven’t seen for ages. Be open to connecting and having heartfelt conversations. Then, when the Moon moves into Pisces, it will conjoin Jupiter. This energy can feel dreamy, buoyant, abundant, extravagant, and go overboard. Have fun and enjoy in moderation. The Venus-Neptune sextile may have you re-evaluating some of your connections and relationships. Were the blinders on while Neptune was retrograde? Is everything what it seems? It may be that everything is exactly as it appears, and you’re happy with the status quo. If so, fantastic. If not, what needs to change? You have choices and free-will, and the possibilities are endless.
Thursday, January 6
You may feel restless and want to escape your usual routine when the Moon sextiles Uranus. Your friends could come through and provide the perfect diversion to do just that! You could even meet someone new in your travels. New opportunities could fall in your lap, so keep your eyes and ears open. You never know what could happen when Uranus is involved. Be open to the possibilities.
Friday, January 7
The Moon is busy making the majority of its aspects in the early morning hours. The last aspect it makes before it goes void is a sextile to Pluto. When these two get together you may be called to explore something related to psychology or another area that is meaningful to you. Intense emotions could bubble up in your relationships. Take this opportunity to discuss any underlying issues you’re having with your partner or friend. See if you can understand each other’s perspectives. Moon VoC at 4:23 p.m. until 11:26 p.m. when it enters the sign of Aries.
Saturday, January 8
Today, Venus will conjoin the Sun, and she is retrograde. This aspect generally is a feel-good transit, complete with socializing, shopping, treating yourself, and indulging. It might be a good idea to think twice before you get that credit card out or have that second piece of cake. When you get away from all the noise, you may find yourself re-examining what you value and how you got here. Looking inward, you’re reassessing everything from your finances to your relationships. What’s really important to you right now? Don’t make any sudden moves or do anything drastic, but weigh your options. Sit with them for a while and see what resonates. You’ll know because your inner compass will point you in the right direction.
Sunday, January 9
You exude confidence when the Moon trine Mars. Expressing yourself is easier when you’re passionate about your projects and beliefs. Speaking to others and being a leader will come naturally to you. Trust your intuition. Then, when the Moon squares the Sun, some unspoken or unresolved matters may come to light. Your partner may be unhappy, and you’ll need to address it. Try not to be defensive when your partner (or anyone else) raises an issue about something with which they are not happy.
Monday, January 10
Fantasies may be manifested in the here and now with the Sun-Neptune sextile. You could have plucked your idea out of the ethers and now you need to find a way to bring it into form. It takes a plan, determination to see it through, and a belief in yourself. Stick with it! You’re grateful for all you have and are fortunate enough to share with others. It doesn’t have to be financial help; you can just be there to listen to a friend who’s going through a difficult time. When the Sun sextiles Neptune, your sensitivity and empathy are heightened, and you’ll help wherever you’re needed. It could be donating time to an organization that is close to your heart. Moon VoC at 1:23 a.m. until 8:47 a.m. when it enters the sign of Taurus.
Tuesday, January 11
You could experience low energy levels when Mars squares Neptune. Be careful of trying to do too much and getting run down. Rest and relax if you need it. This transit may bring up doubts about yourself and what you’ve been trying to accomplish. Once negative thoughts take root, it’s easy to throw in the towel. Keep your eye on the prize. Also, be careful of sharing your dreams with others — sometimes other people may dash your hopes. They may think they’re being helpful, but listen to your inner voice. One caution, make sure everything you do is above board. Honesty really is the way to go.
Wednesday, January 12
How do you want to harness the power of the Moon-Pluto trine? This combination can be passionate. Like all aspects, there are gifts and challenges. You can use this energy to create something or destroy it. I’m going with creation…positivity and passion. What fills you? Practice what brings you excitement, joy, and fulfillment. Follow your soul’s compass and watch your life transform. Moon VoC at 1:39 p.m. until 9:08 p.m. when it enters the sign of Gemini.
Thursday, January 13
Ideas and inspiration may flow when the Moon trines Mercury. Be open to receive the messages from the Universe. You have a unique voice and perspective that needs to expressed. Don’t play small, speak up! This is also a great time to tell the people you love just how much they mean to you. You’ll find it easy to open up and be real.
Friday, January 14
Your emotions are amplified when the Moon squares Mars, and you may just explode (or get splattered from someone else). Something is brewing inside — if it’s irritation with another person, explain your feelings rather than being impulsive and getting angry. You could even put it aside for another day until you’ve cooled off and then have a more reasonable conversation. Maybe you’re all fired up about a project that’s been in the back of your mind — great, run with it! You could channel this energy into being a champion of a cause or giving someone else a hand. Mercury stations retrograde at 5:41 a.m. Moon VoC at 8:22 p.m.
Saturday, January 15
The Moon eases into the sign of Cancer at 10:11 a.m. You may want to take it slow this morning and quietly savour your cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy a leisurely start to your day. Later in the day, the Moon will trine Jupiter. You may feel optimistic and generous and want to spend quality time with family and friends. You’ll want to nurture your loved ones, which could be cooking a delicious meal (or ordering out if cooking is not your forte) and just enjoy each other’s company.
Sunday, January 16
There’s the potential for intense encounters and transformation when the Sun conjuncts Pluto. It could play out in a variety of ways, but one of them may be someone trying to exert their power over you. You can either stand up to this person or leave the room. Whatever uncomfortable situations you find yourself in, learn the lesson and move forward with your new found wisdom.
Monday, January 17
There’s a Full Moon in Cancer at 27 degrees at 5:48 p.m. Expect this to be a powerful full moon, as Pluto and the nodes are involved. Perhaps there is someone from the past that needs to be released so you can move forward with a clean slate. Nostalgia could be playing a part here, where you see a past relationship through a softer, maybe even a distorted, lens. Are you in a disagreement with someone else over how to run things? Watch for other people using controlling tactics or manipulation to get their way. Make sure everything you do is on the up-and-up, as you don’t want to regret anything you’ve done. Cancer and Capricorn are about finding the balance between family and doing what feels nurturing, and working hard at your career. It can be difficult at times to find the balance, but you’ll feel healthier and happier when you do. What if you had a job that nurtures you? It’s possible. Maybe it begins as a hobby, and you work on it as much as you can until it becomes the job you love. All in all, during this Full Moon, release what isn’t fulfilling you and make room for something better to arrive. Moon VoC at 5:48 p.m. until 10:03 p.m. when it enters the sign of Leo.
Tuesday, January 18
“Did you just say that?” Those could be the words you hear when you tell someone how you feel, considering the Moon Mercury opposition. Your emotions may be running the show when these two come together. Don’t get defensive, instead, take a step back and examine where you’re coming from. Do you need to say everything that you’re feeling and thinking? Take other people’s feelings into account. It could be controversial to some, but you have your own way of seeing things and expressing your opinions, as does everyone. You have a lot of wisdom to share; it will resonate with some and not with others, and that’s okay. Uranus stations direct at 9:27 a.m.
Wednesday, January 19
Happy Birthday to all the Aquarians out there! The Moon and Neptune are quincunx today, and you can feel something stirring inside. It could all come to a head during a conversation with someone else, and you could blow. All because you and another person can’t quite understand each other. Don’t get baited into a disagreement. Breathe, get clarification, and see if you both can come to an understanding. It’s a compromise on both sides, but at least you’ve calmed the waters. Sun enters the sign of Aquarius at 8:39 p.m.
Thursday, January 20
You could have a lot on your mind when the Moon opposes Jupiter. There’s a desire to go here and there and do this and that! You want to do it all. You also want the freedom to come and go as you please. This combination, while being generous and optimistic, can spread itself too thin. Take some time today to slow down and just tune into your body/mind, instead of rushing around. Moon VoC at 2:15 a.m. until 8:02 a.m. when it enters the sign of Virgo.
Friday, January 21
The Moon quincunx Saturn aspect could intensify your feeling of being all alone in the big world. There may be a disconnect in your relationships. Either you or your partner is working a lot, and one of you feels alone. Maybe one of you has a lot of responsibilities and are having a difficult time juggling the work-life balance. Ask for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Tell people at work or your loved ones that you need support. Don’t be a martyr, you don’t want to get rundown.
Saturday, January 22
The Moon-Mars square could trigger emotional outbursts. Be careful of behaving impulsively and irrationally. You could be focused on all the negative things (at least that’s how you perceive them) and missing all that’s right in your world. Remember this is a moment in time. Change your focus and find something or someone to appreciate. This is the last aspect before the Moon goes void. Moon VoC at 1:46 p.m. until 4:03 p.m. when it enters the sign of Libra.
Sunday, January 23
You could be rushing out the door to meet with friends when the Moon squares Venus. Everyone needs some fun and today could be the day! Open your heart to celebration and joy! Spread that stuff around and discover how the people you see — friends and strangers — light up! Be grateful and embrace all that life has to offer.
Monday, January 24
What are you waiting for?…the Moon-Pluto square encourages you to take this time to go within. Find what you really want and need. What ignites your passion? What connects you to your spiritual roots? It takes courage to face any obstacles that stand in your way. Be fearless. Mars enters the sign of Capricorn at 6:53 a.m. Moon VoC at 4:10 pm until 9:57 p.m. when it enters the sign of Scorpio.
Tuesday, January 25
You may feel restless or on edge when the Moon opposes Uranus. Maybe you want to stir things up, either in your life, in situations, or with others. Be careful of starting something you wish you hadn’t. If you’re attracting it from other people, watch how you respond. Don’t let a minor upset turn into a major drama. Do something constructive with this electric energy. Mercury retrogrades back into Capricorn at 9:05 p.m.
Wednesday, January 26
What are you dreaming of? You could be visualising the perfect partner, in love or business. The Moon-Neptune trine magnifies your intuition, sensitivity, and imagination. You may have a million fantasies swimming in your mind. Can you tap into your higher self and spin them into gold? You’re brimming with life-force, vitality, and can create magic. Moon VoC at 11:28 p.m.
Thursday, January 27
The Moon-Jupiter square highlights expanding your knowledge and beliefs. Have you outgrown old ways of thinking? By stepping into a new way of perceiving the world around you, everything — including yourself — shifts. New pathways emerge. On a practical level, as we do live on the planet — watch out for excessive drinking, eating, or spending too much. Enjoy everything in moderation. Moon enters the sign of Sagittarius at 1:34 a.m.
Friday, January 28
Mercury will conjoin Pluto while it retrogrades. Have the tone of your conversations become serious and intense? Is someone trying to control the narrative? Everyone should be able to express their opinions without criticism or judgement. If you’re curious and open to other concepts, you could learn something from others! You might even have fun! Moon VoC at 1:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 29
“…fun, fun ‘til her daddy takes the t-bird awayyyy!” — your theme song today! You may want to hit the open road when the Moon trines Uranus. Adventure and excitement are just around the bend. Maybe your barometer for thrills doesn’t include a road trip; it could be something more stable and sensible. Do whatever electrifies you…enjoy the day! Venus stations direct at 2:46 a.m. Moon enters the sign of Capricorn at 3:09 a.m.
Sunday, January 30
You may feel a build of tension when the Sun squares Uranus. You’re unsure what it is or why it’s happening — you just want it gone, now. It can be uncomfortable and feel as if you’re being restricted. There may be outbursts from you or someone else. Whenever Uranus is involved, expect the unexpected. If you can, don’t make any sudden moves. Have patience and listen to your intuition, it won’t steer you wrong. Moon VoC at 10:44 p.m.
Monday, January 31
The only major aspect today is the Moon squares Uranus. Sometimes Uranus can be fun — it all depends on how you get to experience it and what you do with it. You may feel a nervous energy coursing through your body, maybe it seems like too much outside noise! When these two meet, be mindful of doing something rash, such as cutting someone out of your life. Think carefully before engaging in any behavior that you’ll regret later. Moon enters the sign of Aquarius at 3:43 a.m.
Bernadette Evans is a counselling astrologer, hypnotherapist, Registered Professional Counsellor, and writer. You can visit her website https://bernadetteevansastrology.com orcontact her at [email protected] to schedule a consultation. You can also follow her on Instagram at @bernadette_evans.astrologer.