As the days darken leading up to the solstice, the Sagittarius New Moon plunges us deeper into darkness. Things may feel slow, foggy — this new Moon is square Neptune, ruled by Jupiter at near-standstill… while Mercury stations retrograde, headed to retrace its steps into its antithesis, Sagittarius.
You know how the group chat often talks about plans, but most of those plans don’t actually happen? That is what Mercury in Sagittarius is like: speaking of lofty plans without considering the necessary steps to get there. Mercury’s traverse between Capricorn and Sagittarius this Moonth highlights the dichotomy between visions (♐︎) and the practical work required to get there (♑︎).
Mercury backtracking and aligning with Mars in ♐︎ reminds us that “hoping” is not a strategy on its own. While the Neptune square speaks to confronting the illusion that if we talk about/envision something enough it becomes real. You cannot cross a bridge that exists only in your mind. However, you cannot build a bridge without imagining it first either.
This Neptune square also speaks to the challenge of moving forward amidst uncertainty. When we feel like we don’t have a clear vision, we may tend to retreat/escape. Ruler of the upcoming solstice, Saturn, calls us to strengthen our relationship with the subtle Piscean realms – our ideas, dreams, faith in the Unknown. Saturn here reminds us that although it’s not going to be easy, we must tap into the transcendental realm for growth, not escape.
The Benefics rule Pisces by domicile (♃) and exaltation (♀︎), and kicking off this lunation with a waning Benefic opposition calls us to reflect on our indulgences (♀︎) and the effect that they may have on our future (♃) this Moonth. It’s easy to indulge in pleasures (♀︎) such as sweets, alcohol, narcotics, gaming, scrolling, etc. and feel that these things are seemingly having no impact on our life. In the same way, when you take the first steps toward a goal, you’re likely not to see any tangible results right away either.
Jupiter is 6th from this new Moon, in the house of illness + work, reminding us of the impact of daily work (6H) on our future (♃). The impact of our daily routine isn’t always apparent right away. It takes time. It’s wise to ensure that our routines are supportive of our future goals (♃), not hindering them or bringing us sickness (6H). Our daily rituals define us. If your habits are not aligned with your ideal future… then where are you headed? The challenging aspects of the 6th house are often understated. Getting the life you wish for means dealing with whatever’s in your way first.
On a positive note, our ideas (☿), actions (♂︎), and goals (☉) can bring great abundance this Moonth, as the trio traverses early Capricorn, trine Jupiter. So while things may be a bit sluggish, there is still a flow of abundance to tap into if you’re willing.
We will close out this Moonth in mid-January with Mars and Mercury emerging renewed from the beams of the Sun, visible alongside the Balsamic Moon and Venus at dawn. It will be a beautiful sight to see — a strong marker for invigorated forward momentum. ᕦ(ò_ó)ᕤ
