“Lifeline” painting by Sue Cedarholm
Overview
We have a powerhouse of a planetary line-up to begin our last SolLunar Cycle of 2021 as the Sun, Moon and Mercury meet up in sidereal Scorpio in the vicinity of the South Lunar Node, making this a Solar Eclipse viewable from the southernmost parts of Earth such as Antarctica. We can still experience the effects of this celestial event in our inner worlds and in actions happening in our outer world. New Moons bring new beginnings but the South Lunar Node reverberates back to the past so expect to be swirled between layers of nostalgia and release while simultaneously feeling energetically propelled forward to where your future self is calling you in 2022. This Cycle will continue to help us be swept clean of unwanted influences we have mostly shed during the cathartic years of 2020-2021 and assist us to live more fully, authentically and in radiant health within the field of our emerging possibilities.
To add even more rigor to the mix, the Sun, Moon and Mercury are aligned with Antares, the red heart of the Scorpion. Antares is associated with the wisdom of the elders in its most evolved expression—those who have seen it all, done it all and still retain their sense of humor. But Antares is also associated with diabolical despots and dictators in its lowest incarnation. Antares can help you claim your real creative power, no holding back anymore!
Another important event during the upcoming four weeks involves a rare opposition of Mars/South Lunar Node in Scorpio and Ceres/North Lunar Node in Taurus. This continues the theme of being freed from the past, including a readiness to finally leave abusive or outworn situations and take a new path thus making it an excellent time to leave a job or relationship and strike out on your own. This aspect can help you finish projects or make a move.
Lastly during this entire SolLunar Cycle and through early March 2022, the upcoming Venus retrograde/Pluto conjunction will mirror and amplify the already intense events unfolding. Focus on staying grounded in your daily routines. Joyful Winter Solstice and a Happy New Year to you!
Thank you friend and grizzly bear sister, Sue Cedarholm, for sharing your new abstracts for this post. Please check out Sue’s dynamic and diverse fine art at Watercolor Diary.
Sidereal Astrology Mentoring and Readings
My posts are based on the true astronomical alignments of the planets with the constellations, also referred to as the sidereal zodiac. I use the phases of the Moon as a scaffold for my posts because the Moon functions like an energetic portal mediating between the heavens and our wondrous Earth. My entries are based on the aspects occurring each week as they crescendo, crest and dissipate over the course of their influence. As you work with and within the natural flow of time and the supportive cosmic energies that each unique SolLunar Cycle brings, life can flow with more ease, grace and understanding.
I delight in mentoring students—individually, with families or groups, and via workshops and conferences—who want to learn more about how to use sidereal astrology as a helpful tool for insight, practical wisdom, evolutionary awakening. Consider a sidereal mini-reading with me for $44 or $88, the numbers of living your Mastery on Earth. In these short readings, I discuss key personal transits that are happening for you in 2022 and beyond. Send me an email if you are interested in those options, or a full Natal Map or Update, Relationship Map or Child Map. Thank you!
@2021-2022 Lyn Dalebout ~ EarthWordSkyWord.com ~ All Rights Reserved
New SolLunar Cycle/Solar Eclipse in sidereal Scorpio
At the New Moon, you are sprouting like a seed with new creative inspiration. Receive your unique insights by sitting in mediation or just be open to new possibilities arising within you from the sea of infinite creation.
New Moon Solar Eclipse in sidereal Scorpio: Sat December 4 12:43 am MT
We have a powerhouse of a planetary line-up to begin our last SolLunar Cycle of 2021 as the Sun, Moon and Mercury meet up in sidereal Scorpio in the vicinity of the South Lunar Node, making this a Solar Eclipse viewable from the southernmost parts of Earth such as Antarctica. We can still experience the effects of this celestial event in our inner worlds and in actions happening in our outer world. New Moons bring new beginnings but the South Lunar Node reverberates back to the past so expect to be swirled between layers of nostalgia and release while simultaneously feeling energetically propelled forward to where your future self is calling you in 2022. This Cycle will continue to help us be swept clean of unwanted influences we have mostly shed during the cathartic years of 2020-2021 and assist us to live more fully, authentically and in radiant health within the field of our emerging possibilities.
Scorpio is not a relaxed or easy sign. It is more about being driven and passionate, diving deep. You may not be joyfully enthusiastic when you wake up each morning under so much Scorpio energy this time of year, but you can feel a seriousness and determination to plough through your epic responsibilities, obligations, and take targeted steps toward your goals. To add even more rigor to the mix, the Sun, Moon and Mercury are aligned with Antares, the red heart of the Scorpion. Antares is associated with the wisdom of the elders in its most evolved expression—those who have seen it all, done it all and still retain their sense of humor. But Antares is also associated with diabolical despots and dictators in its lowest incarnation. Antares can help you claim your real creative power, no holding back anymore! Antares is always aware of power dynamics at play in the body politic. When humans come together, it is always political in some way, meaning vying for one’s place or influence in society or regarding power and control in groups, businesses and organizations. Antares governs the Senate so during this Cycle we will surely watch some showdowns and showoffs on display in those chambers of power.
This birth begins Fri December 3, is exact on Sat December 4 at 12:43 am MT, dissipates by Sun December 5.
Mars in Scorpio sextile Pluto in Capricorn square Jupiter in Aquarius: Tue December 7
This decisive, action-packed dynamic brings endurance and a desire to succeed. Much can be organized or accomplished in your world today. It can lead to cooperation or showdowns in our politics as we step toward a more inclusive way of doing business, given the influence of Jupiter re-entering Aquarius. Battles can erupt between those who cling to power and those who want to share power equitably.
This crescendos on Sun December 5, crests on Tue December 7 and dissipates by Fri December 10.
Mercury in Scorpio square Neptune in Aquarius: Tue December 7
Confusion can arise in communications today or people may take things the wrong way, hearing something that wasn’t actually said given the mysterious influence of Neptune. For some there can be a desire to hide from the truth by believing an un-truth. The doors to your imagination are wide open. Harness the infinite power of your thoughts in focused intentions or working on a creative project. Be careful when signing contracts.
This begins on Mon December 6, crests Tue December 7 and dissipates by Thu December 9.
LUNAR HIGHLIGHTS
Moon/Venus/Pluto conjunction in Sagittarius: Mon December 6
This trio brings extraordinary motivation to our Monday activities. It is enthusiastic, driven, athletic and visionary. And it is visually stunning to behold at dusk so get out there to experience its wonder and magic.
Moon/Saturn conjunction in Capricorn: Tue December 7
Linked to other celestial aspects happening today, this stern pairing has a melancholic tone but also helps us to commit, to focus and finish things.
Moon/Jupiter conjunction in Aquarius: Wed December 8
This enthusiastic aspect brings confidence and good vibes. As it climaxes over midnight tonight, you may stay awake later, feeling friendly and energized.
First Quarter Moon
At the First Quarter Moon, you are called to action. The need to move forward with your recent insights can come via making a conscious choice or by challenging circumstances that require you make a move.
First Quarter Moon: Sun in Scorpio square Moon/Neptune in Aquarius: Fri December 10
It’s a good day for a planning meeting for any group but people can veer off into various thought channels. Tangents are okay, call it a brainstorming session. There may be a small glitch or some stress involved in an activity you had planned for today. Take the detour and discover why you were re-routed.
This builds on Thu December 9, is exact on Fri December 10 and completes by Sat December 11.
Venus/Pluto conjunction in sidereal Capricorn: Sat December 11
This marks the first of three passes Venus will make over Pluto as part of the upcoming Venus retrograde cycle taking place from December 19 through January 29 2022. Pay astute attention to your inner nudges or outer events occurring today especially regarding the realms of relationship, finances, creative pursuits. Venus governs the heart chakra and Pluto pressures us to get to the bottom of things, to uncover what we truly desire to live an authentic life. What an exceptional gift this Venus retrograde cycle will bring to each of us as we close out 2021 and enter a new year. Read more about Venus turning retrograde below!
This crescendos Thu December 9, crests on Sat December 11. This aspect will occur two more times on December 25 and on March 3 2022, casting a different spell with each pass.
Mercury in Sagittarius sextile Jupiter in Aquarius: Sat December 11
This fleeting aspect stimulates the mind with optimism, never-ending ideas, and a solid glimpse into the future. It is an excellent time to adventure with friends, take a road trip and share your favorite books with others.
This crescendos on Fri December 10, crests Saturday December 11, completes Sun December 12.
Sun in Scorpio square Neptune in Aquarius: Sun December 12
This annual square can bring confusion or cloudiness to the mind but opens the door to daydreaming and wild imaginings, so go there today. In your forgetfulness, keys may go missing or things disappear entirely. You can round a bend regarding a creative project or relationship you have been pursuing.
This begins Fri December 10, is exact Sun December 12 and dissipates by Mon December 13.
Ceres/North Lunar Node conjunction in Taurus: Sun December 12
As Ceres rules the realms of the environment, the health of our food supply, the caregiving of community in all its forms, this long-range aspect sets in motion new trends and futuristic projects—the North Node. It helps you stabilize physically in knowing where you stand on an issue or speaking up for the causes you care about. Find your next home or figure out where you want to move. Take charge of your own food supply no matter where you live with so many innovative options to grow your own food both indoors and outdoors or sign up for a delivery service. Time to leave working for someone else and strike out on your own. You are ready!
This begins Mon December 6, crests on Sun December 12, dissipates by Thu December 16.
Mars/South Lunar Node in Scorpio: Wed December 15
This rare pairing—once every two years—brings a sharp, dramatic severing from the past. You are ready to move forward and the drive and tenacity of Mars in Scorpio has your back. Battles are lost or won today depending on the circumstances.
This takes shape Sun December 12, crests on Wed December 15, dissipates by Fri December 17.
Juno in Sagittarius trine Uranus in Aries: Wed December 15
This collaborative trine brings new partners, creative opportunities and breakthroughs as you experiment and push beyond your comfort zone—Uranus’s gift. The fire signs of Aries and Sagittarius encourage leadership and adventure. Find a life coach or teammate of some sort to assist you in your goals or be that for others.
This crescendos Sun December 12, crests Thu December 16 and dissipates by Sat December 18.
LUNAR HIGHLIGHTS
Moon/Chiron conjunction in Pisces square Juno in Sagittarius: Sun December 12
We are more open and vulnerable when Chiron is involved, that’s a good thing! This aspect can trigger emotional outbursts within you or with a key partner of some kind.
Moon/Uranus conjunction in Aries square Saturn in Capricorn: Tue December 14
You might have a sudden change of plans later in the day due to an obligation or responsibility that must be dealt with. Experiment with a new approach if facing an impasse.
Moon/Ceres/North Node conjunction opposite Mars/South Node: Thu December 16
Seek out some kind of nurturing bodywork—Taurus—to clear building tension—Mars. This pairing helps you simplify your life by releasing old stuff or attitudes, like resentment, jealousy, the need to control others. Stand your ground in the face of someone trying to boss you around.
Full Moon in sidereal Gemini/Sagittarius
The Full Moon is the birth point of the current SolLunar Cycle. This can be a time of celebration or crisis, depending on your life circumstance. Feel the joy and relax into new discoveries and directions.
Full Moon in sidereal Gemini/ Sagittarius Sat December 18 9:35 pm MT
This promises to be an optimistic and upbeat Full Moon as the Sun is aligned with the Gate of Divinity in early sidereal Sagittarius and the Moon is conjunct the Gate of Humanity in Gemini, both galactic points of inspiration and action that greatly affect events on Earth. This axis taps us into visionary guidance and simultaneously helps us ground that wisdom into actions, like starting a business based on your values or committing to a daily practice you’ve been spiritually guided to pursue. Honor the week of Winter Solstice early with celebrations, meditations, solo or in communion and shared joy with others.
This crescendos Fri December 17, crests on Sat December 18 at 9:35 pm MT and dissipates by Mon December 20.
Mercury in Sagittarius square Chiron in Pisces: Sat December 18
Your mind or conversations may veer in surprising directions or quirky tangents as you investigate, inquire or research ideas and options. Mercury rules the mind and Chiron demands we pay attention to our own health while also helping others. Take a mental health wellness day if need be by seeing a therapist, meditating, or spending quiet time to reboot your nervous system. Reflect on life. Consider improvements you want to make.
This aspect starts on Fri December 17, crests on Sat December 18 and completes by Sun December 19.
Venus turns retrograde conjunct Pluto in Capricorn: Sun December 19 – January 29 2022
Venus turns retrograde every eighteen months and has two phases of expression called the Evening Star and the Morning Star, based on where she is visible. In this retrograde cycle Venus will leave her perch as the Evening Star and become the Morning Star by spring 2022. Something to look forward to! Venus—self-worth, love, finances, creativity—conjunct Pluto—change, transform or die—during this retrograde period makes it an exceptionally important cycle to note.(Consider a mini-reading with me to learn how it is affecting you personally.) This pairing aids us in transitioning from the challenges of the past two years (revisit this post I wrote in 2020 called Raw and Real: Pluto in 2020) and embrace ourselves reborn in positive ways. It is a gift that offers cathartic release of the past, meaning it might not always feel good but the changes made will be ultimately good for your health. Your obsession for others or things may increase as you decide what needs to go and what wants to enter your life now. Pluto is cleanses us to the core so this aspect can trigger purging in all our bodies—physical, mental, emotional, spiritual.
In addition, Venus will primarily be transiting sidereal Sagittarius during this time. Sagittarius is a sign of futuristic vision, the visual arts, politics, education, travel and adventure so you might be considering new possibilities in all those dimensions, like running for political office, planning a long-desired adventure or trip, taking up a new art form, editing a project or manuscript, considering a new way of being a guide or educator given your current interests.
This aspect crescendos on Fri December 17, crests on Sun December 19 and completes by Tue December 21. Venus crosses over Pluto three times: December 11, December 25, March 3 2022.
Sun in Sagittarius sextile Jupiter in Aquarius: Sun December 19
This sunny, cheerful aspect opens doors, brings good news, perks up your attitude about life if things have felt to hard of late.
This crescendos on Sat December 18, crests on Sun December 19 and dissipates by Mon December 20.
Winter Solstice: Tue December 21 8:59 am MT
Today marks the celestial New Year in our Northern Hemisphere as the Sun completes its southernmost journey and begins to travel north again, from the perspective of Earth. May you take a moment to honor the energetic gift of this day, to listen, to behold your life and beloveds with wonder and appreciation, to give thanks for the never-ending mysterious regularity of our shared heavenly and Earthly cycles.
Mercury/Juno conjunction in Sagittarius: Wed December 22
Chances are you will have important conversations with key people and players in your life today. Perhaps you will commit to communicating more often or team up for a future project or adventure or course of study—Sagittarius. Contracts are completed or initiated, weddings and festivities planned.
This takes shape on Mon December 20, crests on Wed December 22 and completes by Fri December 24.
Jupiter in Aquarius square Ceres in Taurus: Sat December 25
Finding a new community more suitable to your life now or need for companionship are part of this longer-range aspect. It also brings together like-minded coalitions for change especially regarding compassionate caring for others, including animals, the health of our planetary environment and food supplies. It is the ideal aspect for starting community projects that may arise out of holiday discussions or growing more ‘good’ in your home land.
This aspect has been building for a while but now it crescendos on Tue December 21, crests on Sat December 25 and dissipates by Wed December 29.
Venus retrograde/Pluto conjunction in Capricorn: Sat December 25
This is the second pass of Venus (now retrograde) paired with Pluto. Your obsession for others or things may increase as you decide what needs to go and what wants to enter your life next. Pluto is always cathartic and so this can trigger cleansing in all our bodies—physical, mental, emotional, spiritual. You may want to clear out your closet, discard old beauty and health products, purge your library.
This builds Thu December 23, crests Sat December 25 and dissipates by Mon December 27.
Mars in Scorpio trine Chiron in Pisces: Sat December 25
People are more prone to help one another under this aspect especially if there is a healing crisis occurring. Actively listen to others and take action to assist them in their needs, or receive the help you need with ease and gratitude.
This builds on Thu December 23, crests Sat December 25 and dissipates by Tue December 28.
LUNAR HIGHLIGHTS
Moon in Gemini opposite Mercury/Juno in Sagittarius: Mon December 20
This aspect is gregarious, curious, and loves to research or investigate. Some seek information about a key personal or business partner to better help them know how to engage.
Moon in Cancer opposite Venus retrograde/Pluto in Capricorn: Tue December 21
This is a good aspect to clean your home or discard or share your belongings. It helps you uncover information or secrets that you may still choose to hold in confidence.
Moon in Leo opposite Jupiter in Aquarius square the Lunar Nodes: Fri December 24
This celebratory aspect brings good cheer and playfulness to gatherings. If you create an intentional ceremony, it profoundly supports the process of releasing the past—South Node—and embracing the future—North Node.
Last Quarter Moon
With the Last Quarter Moon, you release what has been and simultaneously prepare for what will be as new desires perpetually arise in the next SolLunar Cycle.
Last Quarter Moon: Moon in Virgo square Sun in Sagittarius: Sun December 26
This is a healing Last Quarter Moon and is good for cleaning up—Virgo—homes made messy by celebrations or poignant and honest conversations. Spend healthy time in nature, alone or with others, depending on your need. Some might rally to write thank you notes or journal the departing year’s highlights. Anticipate 2022.
This aspect builds on Sat December 25, crests on Sun December 26 and dissipates on Mon December 27.
Mars in Scorpio sextile Saturn in Capricorn: Wed December 29
This ease-filled aspect helps you get organized in your finances, business details of home and work. You might help someone with a move or project or you become more motivated to move forward.
This aspect crescendos on Mon December 27, crests on Wed December 29 and completes by Fri December 31.
Sun in Sagittarius square Chiron in Pisces: Wed December 29
This tense square pressures us to confront challenges, including a health scare, with an open heart and the intent to heal whatever needs to be healed.
This aspect builds on Mon December 27, crests on Wed December 29 and completes by Fri December 31.
Mercury/Venus retrograde conjunction in Sagittarius: Wed December 29
This fleeting meeting brings important news or sparks focused conversations about what is on your mind or in your heart. Use it to book tickets for a future adventure, study, devour news and books.
This crescendos on Tue December 28, crests on Wed December 29 and dissipates by Thu December 30.
Sun in Sagittarius trine Uranus in Aries: Fri December 31
This is a lovely alignment happening on New Year’s Eve! There is electricity in the air with this stimulating trine that encourages spontaneity or a change of plans for the better. Life can feel scintillating with new possibilities.
This crescendos on Thu December 30, crests on Fri December 31 and dissipates with the New Moon of January 2 2022.
LUNAR HIGHLIGHTS
Moon/South Node in Scorpio opposite Ceres/North Node in Taurus: Thu December 30
For some, this may dredge up past issues that don’t feel good. Remember you are capable of releasing the past if you choose to. Seek the calmer, nurturing energy of mothering Ceres where all is forgiven in truthfulness and love.
Moon/Mars conjunction in Scorpio: Fri December 31
This highly energetic pairing sparks intense encounters or dramatic outbursts between people. FYI, Scorpio loves to wear red or black and exude exotic mystery, in case you are dressing up tonight!
Moon/Vesta conjunction in Sagittarius: Sat January 1 2022
The last day of this SolLunar Cycle coincides with the first day of our new calendar year. Amazing! This pairing, along with the Sun in Sagittarius, brings enthusiasm and focus to this day. Celebrate the wonder of a new year and envision widely, vastly, deeply your future and the future of our blessed Earthly creation.
Happy New Year!
Resources for Personal and Planetary Well-Being
PLANT-BASED DIET
The reality and urgency of our current planetary crises is real, as our youngest citizens know in their bones. Please educate yourself about how plant-based eating is a central component in how you can help personally restore ecological balance as well as create greater health and vitality for you and your beloveds.
The Game Changers: This inspiring movie and storytelling about vegan super-athletes and warriors educates us about the many benefits of a vegan diet and addresses the ‘meat protein myth’.
COWSPIRACY, What the Health and now SEASPIRACY are must-see movies for all humans who care about personal health, animal well-being, social justice, climate change, the health of our Earth. Become educated about the important information shared by these courageous and visionary filmmakers and activists and considering eating mostly plant-based, if not becoming fully vegan in your consumer choices.
30 Day Vegan Challenge by Collen Patrick-Goudreau
JIN SHIN JYUTSU
Health is in your Hands. Here’s a helpful tool to help you maintain health, calm, balance during these stressful but extraordinary times. I am a proponent of Jin Shin Jyutsu and have been a practitioner since 1983. This beautiful, easy-to-use book and card set teaches you the ancient Art of Jin Shin Jyutsu, the Art of Self Healing. JSJ’s premise is that by applying the jumper-cable of your hands to various points on the body, you can clear your own stress on a daily basis, freeing up stuck energy that leads to patterns of dis-ease, while activating the renewed flow of qi and vigor on all levels, physical, mental, emotional, spiritual. Explore JSJ and teach yourself and those you love this simple tool for centering and radiant vitality.
I will be finally expanding this Resource section in 2022!