Astrological Alchemy
The Sun enters Capricorn on December 21, the shortest day and longest night of the year, and marks the beginning of winter. In the coming months, the Sun will be low on the horizon, its light and heat diminished, and its movement in relationship to Earth will have deeper spiritual implications manifesting as the cosmic play of light and shadow.
The winter season embodies the principle of death. In a relative sense, nature goes to sleep. The animals nest or hibernate. The plants pull the life force of sap down into their roots and retreat from their outward growth. We humans should feel an inner pull to withdraw and go within. It is an appropriate time for rest, meditation and contemplation.
Winter creates a pause to reflect and regenerate ourselves for the rebirth of spring. Just as we need a good night’s sleep for this purpose, winter provides the opportunity on a seasonal level. Aligning ourselves with the cycles and rhythms of nature can bring a profound harmony and well-being to our lives. Get outdoors and enjoy the peacefulness and silence of the forest and mountains. Ski, snowshoe, skate and hike, but also take the time to meditate and contemplate the deeper meaning of your life.
This is the most spiritual time of the year. It is the traditional time to celebrate the holidays, or holy days. Connect with the sacredness of life now, both within you and without. Happy Holidays!
Aries (March 21 – Apr. 19): Relationship issues can arise this month. There is a need for you to change your ways and think in terms of the significant people in your life. Open up and see things from their perspective. It requires an attitude adjustment on your part, but you can do it. There is support for you to be graceful about it as well.
Taurus (Apr. 20 – May 20): Your attention should be on family finances now. Some sudden changes of a negative nature can be challenging. Look towards reducing your debt load and getting on top of the situation. It is time for action — no more procrastinating. There are multiple sources of support to help you, but ultimately it is up to you.
Gemini (May 21 – June 21): This is an excellent time for you to take a break and get some rest. There is an emphasis on spiritual growth that can be its own reward. There is a seriousness about this opportunity; don’t miss it. Get organized and disciplined, and set up a regular program of mediation or spiritual practice.
Cancer (June 22 – July 22): It is now time to focus on yourself. There are beautiful influences of spirituality and wisdom that permeate your soul now. Allow yourself to relax and let go. There are some fears that want to be released, and doing so will result in a genuine feeling of freedom and liberation. Friends also play a positive role at this time.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22): You can reconnect with a renewed feeling of growth and a drive to improve your life. It is time to take action and change some old negative patterns. There is a beauty, harmony and gracefulness about you now that supports the needed changes. A new sense of self can emerge from this process.
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22): Your natural, practical focus needs to include the spiritual now. There is a deep inner pull to connect with soul and spirit. Set aside some time for contemplation and meditation. You are looking for a deeper purpose in your life and now is the time to find it.
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 23): Your relationship with friends and your social life want to take front and center stage. Group and community events and activities are supported. You can shine now and be the center of attention. This can be good and deserved self-validation. Love relationships can also blossom now.
Scorpio (Oct. 24 – Nov. 21): Career and profession are emphasized now. Your drive to grow and get ahead is supported, especially if you work in a partnership. There are social opportunities that should be taken advantage of that will support your success and fulfillment.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21): There is a beautiful, wise and soulful quality that surrounds you now. Your optimism and self-confidence is renewed. It is time to shed some old, self-limiting patterns that have held you back. Let them go. Your social life is bright, and getting together with friends is positively emphasized.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19): This is your month to shine. Let go of the heaviness of your responsibilities and lighten up. Friends and social activities want to be at the forefront of your holiday agenda. There could be some financial situations that you need to deal with, but you can handle it.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18): There is a sense of new beginnings and rebirth for you now. Your soul is enlivened with a new appreciation for the sacred. Wisdom and spirituality are more present in your awareness. You experience a feeling of uniqueness and individuality that is a reminder of the need to be true to yourself.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20): Money and finances need to be addressed now. There could be an unsettling event that should be handled. You can do it. Aside from this, there is a special feeling of contentment and well-being. This feeling is accentuated when you are in social situations.
~ Robert Ayres is a Truckee resident and internationally known astrologer with 40 years of experience. This month’s horoscope is cast specifically for the Truckee/Tahoe area. Contact Robert for personal consultations at 530-550-1118 or astrologicalalchemy.com.
