Dear NightFall Astrology readers,
As we step into the festive week of Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the celestial landscape offers a rich tapestry of astrological events that mirror the season’s spirit. This period is marked by a blend of deep emotional currents and transformative energies, as well as opportunities for reflection and growth. The heavens invite us to embrace the nuances of our relationships, to delve into the depths of our values, and to align our ambitions with our inner truths.
This week, as families gather and celebrations unfold, the stars align in a way that encourages us to explore the intricate balance between our personal connections and our aspirations. It’s a time of festive joy, but also of profound introspection and renewal.
As you navigate the holiday season, let the stars guide your journey. I invite you to delve deeper into the details of this week’s transits and discover what the stars have in store for you!
I. Venus’ Voyage: Depths, Transformations, & New Horizons
As the celestial dance continues, the latter part of December 2023 presents a unique astrological tableau, with Venus playing a pivotal role in the unfolding narrative. From December 23rd until December 27th, Venus in Scorpio forms a trine with Neptune in Pisces, an aspect reaching its exactitude on Christmas Day. This configuration signals a period where emotional undercurrents and intuitive insights are more readily accessible. The trine, traditionally seen as a harmonious aspect, allows for a smoother flow of these deep, often unspoken feelings and insights.
Venus in Scorpio’s alignment with Neptune suggests a time when the boundaries between the tangible and the intangible might blur, creating a landscape ripe for emotional and spiritual exploration. The depth of Scorpio, known for its intense emotional exploration, finds a resonant echo in the empathetic and transcendent Pisces, ruled by Neptune. This period may show an increased capacity for empathy and understanding in relationships, as well as a heightened sensitivity to the undercurrents of our interactions.
However, this aspect also carries a note of caution, as the combination of Scorpio’s depth with Neptune’s ethereal nature can sometimes lead to a loss of boundaries or a tendency towards escapism. The challenge during this period is to navigate these deep waters without losing sight of reality, to harness this emotional and spiritual depth in a way that enhances, rather than obscures, our understanding of the world and our connections within it.
As December progresses, Venus’ celestial path brings it into a sextile with Pluto in Capricorn from December 27th to December 30th, peaking on the 29th. This aspect suggests a time of potential transformation and empowerment in the areas governed by Venus – relationships, values, and finances. The sextile to Pluto indicates an opportunity for deeper understanding and growth in these areas, though this might come through facing truths that are not always comfortable.
Pluto’s influence in Capricorn, a sign known for its structure and discipline, can signal a period where the foundations of our relationships and values are tested, revealing what is truly important and what may need to be transformed or released. This aspect reflects a potential for significant but manageable changes, for the kind of growth that comes from confronting and integrating deeper truths.
On December 29th, Venus makes a notable shift as it enters Sagittarius, where it will remain until January 23rd, 2024. This transition indicates a change in the tone of Venusian matters. Sagittarius, a sign known for its love of freedom, exploration, and higher learning, suggests a period where our approach to relationships and values might become more expansive, optimistic, and oriented towards growth and exploration.
Venus in Sagittarius reflects a time when we may feel more inclined to explore new horizons in our relationships, to learn from our connections, and to embrace a more philosophical or adventurous approach to what we value. It is a period that encourages openness to new experiences and a willingness to learn from the diverse tapestry of life.
In summary, the end of December 2023 is marked by significant astrological movements centering around Venus. The trine with Neptune in Pisces suggests a period rich in emotional and spiritual depth, while the sextile with Pluto in Capricorn signals a time of transformative growth. As Venus enters Sagittarius, the focus shifts towards exploration and expansion in the realms of love, relationships, and values. Each of these aspects reflects a different facet of our journey through life, offering opportunities for deepening, transformation, and exploration.
The Venus/Neptune trine will be most favourable for Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces placements.
The Venus/Pluto sextile will be most supportive of Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo, Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces placements.
II. Cancer Full Moon: Nurturing Growth Amidst Challenges
The upcoming Full Moon in Cancer on December 26th/27th, 2023, depending on your time zone (it’ll be happening on the 27th at 1:33 AM (CET) here in France), represents a significant celestial event, particularly as it coincides with the Holiday season. This lunar phase is not just an ordinary occurrence; it heralds a culmination of efforts (that have started around the last New Moon in Cancer on July 17th, 2023), particularly in personal relationships or collaborative endeavours. This Full Moon, positioned at four degrees in both Cancer and Capricorn, invites a reflective and celebratory mood, ideal for the holiday season.
In astrological terms, the Full Moon occurs when the Sun and Moon are in direct opposition, leading to a peak in lunar illumination. This event typically reveals hidden aspects or brings ongoing processes to fruition.
In the first decan of Capricorn, where the Sun is positioned during this period, the influence of Jupiter is prominent. Jupiter is considered the greater benefic, often associated with expansion, prosperity, and success. Its rulership over this decan suggests a time of growth and potential advancements in one’s career or life path. Such a position could herald significant opportunities like a job promotion or a pivotal shift in one’s professional journey, symbolising a positive change that comes with recognition and achievement.
On the other side, the Moon in the first decan of Cancer, ruled by Venus, signifies a different but complementary energy. Venus, known as the lesser benefic, brings qualities of harmony, beauty, and connection. This placement emphasises the nurturing and emotional aspects of relationships, suggesting a period where bonds are strengthened, and emotional understanding deepens. This can be a time when the joy and lightness in personal connections are highlighted, reflecting the early, blissful stages of a relationship where companionship and affection are at the forefront.
The confluence of these celestial influences during the Full Moon signifies a harmonious balance between professional growth and personal relationships. The Jupiterian energy in Capricorn emphasises expansion and success in material endeavours, while the Venusian influence in Cancer focuses on the nurturing and deepening of emotional bonds. This dynamic indicates a period where achievements in the external world are likely to be mirrored by fulfilling developments in one’s personal life.
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Astrologically, this Full Moon appears particularly auspicious. The Moon’s placement in its domicile, Cancer, ensures a strong and positive lunar influence. Additionally, the Sun’s trine with Jupiter retrograde in Taurus and the Moon’s subsequent sextile with Jupiter within a one-degree orb fosters an atmosphere of gratitude, abundance, and enthusiastic energy. Moreover, the Moon’s trine to Saturn in Pisces and the Sun’s sextile to Saturn, both within approximately 2 degrees, infuse the period with a sense of maturity, stability, and a well-grounded approach, steering clear of chaos.
However, this auspicious celestial event comes with a notable caveat. The conjunction of Mercury and Mars in Sagittarius casts a shadow of potential discord over this otherwise harmonious time. Mercury, the planet of communication, when aligned with Mars, the planet of aggression and conflict, often heralds a period where words may become sharp weapons. This alignment in the forthright and sometimes tactless sign of Sagittarius can amplify tendencies towards blunt or even hurtful speech.
This potent combination is further complicated by a square to Neptune in Pisces, the planet associated with illusion and ambiguity. Neptune’s influence can distort clarity, leading to a veil of misunderstanding or misrepresentation. This could manifest as unintentional deceit, where messages are not conveyed or received as intended. Alternatively, it might encourage outright dishonesty, where the truth becomes obscured or altered, intentionally or not.
In familial settings, where dynamics are often complex and layered with history, these astrological influences may exacerbate existing tensions. Conversations might take on a confrontational tone, with the Mars influence driving aggressive expressions, while Mercury struggles to maintain clarity and truth. Neptune’s square adds an additional layer of confusion, making it challenging to discern intentions or the reality of situations.
The risk of misunderstandings or confrontations is heightened during this time. The fiery nature of Sagittarius can fuel impulsive remarks, and Neptune’s nebulous presence may cloud judgment or perception. It’s a time when caution in communication is advised, encouraging individuals to think carefully before speaking and to strive for understanding and empathy, especially in emotionally charged family gatherings.
Navigating this period requires a heightened awareness of the power of words and the potential for miscommunication. It calls for patience, active listening, and a concerted effort to seek clarity and maintain honesty in all interactions. By being mindful of these celestial omens, one can work to mitigate their challenging aspects and foster a more harmonious environment, even in the midst of potential astrological turmoil.
Furthermore, Venus’s loose opposition to Uranus hints at potential disruptions or unforeseen developments in relationships.
In conclusion, while this Full Moon in Cancer brings with it a sense of emotional release and may induce heightened sensitivity or tears of joy, the astrological aspects advise caution in communication. It may be wise to practice restraint and thoughtfulness in conversations to maintain harmony.
As this Full Moon approaches, I invite reflections on its impact. Are there any family gatherings or events aligned with this lunar phase that you anticipate? How do you envisage this Full Moon influencing your festive celebrations?
This Full Moon will be felt most intensely by Cancer, Capricorn, Aries, and Libra, particularly if you have planets and/or important chart points around 4 degrees of these signs (give or take 1-5 degrees).
III. Jupiter’s Resurgence in Taurus: A Shift Towards Steadfast Growth
As the year draws to a close, a significant celestial shift occurs on December 30th/31st, depending on the time zone: Jupiter, the planet of expansion and opportunity, stations direct in Taurus, concluding its retrograde that began on September 4th. Spanning nearly four months, this retrograde period has been a time for reevaluation and internal growth, particularly in areas governed by Taurus: material security, values, and the physical senses.
Jupiter’s direct motion in Taurus signals a shift in the collective consciousness, moving from introspection to outward expansion in these areas. During the retrograde period, there might have been a sense of stagnation or a need to revisit and reassess our approach to finances, possessions, and what we truly value. This reflective phase was not a pause without purpose, but rather a necessary reorientation to align more authentically with our true values and resources.
Now, as Jupiter resumes direct motion, the themes of growth, abundance, and opportunity in these areas become more pronounced. This shift suggests a time where the lessons learned during the retrograde can be applied to foster more sustainable and authentic growth in our material and financial worlds. The direct motion in Taurus, a sign known for its steadfastness and affinity for the tangible, indicates a potential for turning our aspirations and redefined values into tangible results.
Jupiter’s influence in Taurus reflects a time to build and expand upon solid foundations. It’s a period that encourages a grounded approach to growth, favouring long-term investments and endeavours that promise lasting value. This may manifest in various ways, from financial decisions that yield long-term benefits to investing in relationships and projects that align with our true values.
Moreover, this period may show an increased appreciation for the simpler, more tangible aspects of life. Taurus, a sign that delights in the sensory world, combined with Jupiter’s expansive nature, suggests a time to enjoy and find abundance in the physical world, whether through nature, art, or the pleasures of the senses.
The direct motion of Jupiter in Taurus also signals a broader collective shift. In a world often focused on quick gains and rapid change, this transit reflects a return to principles of steadiness, reliability, and the value of gradual, sustainable growth. It’s a reminder of the importance of patience and the rewards that come from investing time and effort into what truly matters.
In summary, Jupiter’s stationing direct in Taurus marks the end of a period of internal reassessment and the beginning of a phase where the insights gained can be put into practical use. It’s a time to focus on building and expanding in a way that is both sustainable and aligned with our true values. This period encourages a celebration of the physical world, an appreciation of the senses, and a grounded approach to growth and expansion. As we move forward, the lessons learned during the retrograde period can now be applied to create a more secure, enjoyable, and value-aligned reality.
Taurus, Sagittarius and Pisces placements will have an easier time now that Jupiter is direct.
IV. Chiron’s Forward March & Mercury’s Luminous Rise:
As the calendar marks the transition towards the end of December, the celestial landscape brings forth two significant events. On December 26th/27th, depending on the time zone, Chiron, often referred to as the “Wounded Healer,” stations direct in Aries, culminating its retrograde journey that began on July 23rd. This period, spanning over five months, has been one of introspective healing and revisiting past wounds, especially those related to identity and personal initiatives, as signified by Aries.
Chiron’s direct motion in Aries suggests a shift from internal reflection to more outward-focused healing and growth. The previous months have likely been a time for many to confront and work through personal challenges and vulnerabilities. Now, as Chiron resumes its direct path, there is a potential to apply the insights and understanding gained during the retrograde to move forward with greater wisdom and resilience. This period may reflect a time where the lessons learned from past hurts can be transformed into strengths, particularly in areas related to self-assertion and individuality.
The significance of Chiron’s movement is further enhanced as we approach December 31st, a day marked by Mercury’s emergence as a Morning Star at 22 degrees of Sagittarius, within the bound ruled by Saturn. The visibility of Mercury as a Morning Star is often likened to the emergence of Apollo, the Greek God of light and art. This analogy is apt, as Mercury’s appearance in the morning sky signals a time of enlightenment, clarity, and the illumination of ideas and communication.
Mercury in Sagittarius, a sign known for its quest for knowledge and understanding, suggests a period where thoughts and communications are aimed towards higher ideals and broader perspectives. The placement at 22 degrees within Saturn’s bound adds a layer of seriousness and structure to Mercury’s expression. This combination indicates a time when thoughts and ideas are not only expansive but also grounded in reality and practical application.
The emergence of Mercury as a Morning Star reflects a time of new beginnings in the realms of communication, learning, and intellectual pursuits. It signals a period to express ideas with clarity and purpose, and to seek knowledge that is both enlightening and pragmatic. This is a time when the pursuit of truth and wisdom can be both an artistic and a disciplined endeavour.
Together, Chiron’s stationing direct in Aries and Mercury’s rise as a Morning Star in Sagittarius weave a narrative of healing and enlightenment. Chiron’s journey suggests a collective shift towards applying the lessons learned from personal struggles, using our experiences to strengthen our sense of self and purpose. Meanwhile, Mercury’s appearance in the morning sky invites a renewed focus on communication and learning, encouraging the pursuit of knowledge that is both expansive and grounded.
In essence, as December draws to a close, the celestial movements remind us of the continuous cycle of healing and growth. They signal a time to embrace the wisdom gained from past experiences and to communicate our truths with clarity and conviction, paving the way for a more enlightened and resilient path forward.
Thank you for reading.
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Your Astrologer – Theodora NightFall ~
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