The astrology of December brings us full circle; we end the year with Mars going retrograde (until January 12, 2023) and Mercury stationing retrograde on December 29. Up to that point, we are looking both backward (thanks to the retrograde planets) and forward with a renewed energy for growth and change (thanks to Jupiter in Aries on December 20).

We feel hopeful after the whirlwind we’ve lived through the past few months because we understand our limits and what possibilities exist just beyond those limitations.

The Gemini Full Moon on December 7 adds a punctuation mark to the end of 2022. The Moon will conjoin Mars retrograde, firing us up. We feel motivated and driven but more impatient with anyone or anything in our way.

We’re more aware of our personal needs and more courageous in asking for support in meeting those needs. We are willing to step out of unhealthy relationship dynamics, which could mean asserting our power or saying no to others who challenge our boundaries.

Mercury enters Capricorn on December 6, filling our minds with practicalities. We want to check off our to-do list, but we must remember to take a break, especially when Venus, the pleasure planet, enters industrious Capricorn on December 9. When Venus moves through Capricorn, we are more focused on honoring commitments, and therefore, we may say yes out of obligation. Still, Jupiter has other ideas after December 20 when it enters Aries, the pioneer sign.

With travel delays, viruses, flu bugs, and other complications, the best self-care may be staying home for the holidays. If that doesn’t work for you, plan your travel before December 29. This Mercury retrograde will help everything come to a pause, but that could mean unforeseen delays.

The winter solstice happens on December 21 when the Sun enters Capricorn. The Sun is square to Jupiter, the planet of generosity and abundance, but this aspect tightens our purse strings, and economic fear may restrict some of our spendings.

We feel restless, wired, and ready for a new season…. Or a new beginning. The Capricorn New Moon on December 23 allows us to break free from fears that hold us back. We want to leap forward into our future. As Chiron stations direct that day, we’re discovering more about what activities and events fill us with a sense of purpose – what aligns with how we contribute to the world.

ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 19):

2022 is coming to a close, but it's just the beginning for you as Jupiter enters your sign on December 20. I'd imagine you feel like you are on the verge of something good, and you are! Jupiter is the planet of faith; when we believe in goodness, we see how to draw it into our lives. Plan mini-adventures all month, dream big, and end the year in celebration. 

Work is a primary focus once Venus enters Capricorn on December 9, and you'll have to be mindful not to make all your holiday parties into networking events. On a different note, Capricorn can be a serious sign, and Venus is the planet of love. You could be more committed to making relationships work. If you're single, stay confident in your ability to have the love you desire and make the most of your relationship with yourself. 

Your ruling planet, Mars, is going retrograde this month, and we’re all moving a little slower because retrograde cycles are periods of introspection. They give us a chance to rethink past movements in our lives. With Mars in Gemini, you'll be wise to keep a flexible mindset when traveling and find comic relief wherever you can. Mercury stations retrograde on December 29, and here's a friendly reminder to back up your computer. Minor squabbles will pass in time. Try not to let others' mistakes or misunderstandings spur anxiety.

The New Moon in Capricorn on December 23 is a time to plant seeds in your professional pursuits. Others see you as a leader; it is also time to view yourself through that lens.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20):

With the holidays coming, your sentimental side might be more active than usual, thanks to Mercury stationing retrograde on December 29. Commercials tug at your heartstrings, and holiday movies rekindle mushy feelings from the past. So, call an old friend just for a chat or to mend a divide. It is a time for healing. Any effort you put forth for that purpose will be well-received and beneficial in the long run.

If you feel discouraged by delays or miscommunication, think of the sacredness of the spiral. Organic life grows in spiral formations, and we evolve that way, too. We are always coming full circle but moving forward toward our purpose in life simultaneously.

From December 1-21, the Sun shines in the sector of your chart related to psychological well-being and healing. As a result, you may encounter past relationship stuff to unpack. By the end of the month, you could experience love without bounds or resolve past circumstances with grace and gratitude.

The New Moon on December 23 invites romantic possibilities that prepare you for an adventure in love. If you have ever been inclined to see a healer, therapist, astrologer, or spiritual teacher, it is helpful now to set goals for 2023. 

Finances are another priority, with Mars moving retrograde in Gemini until January 12. The Full Moon on December 7 could bring awareness about a financial opportunity or even a new job. It is a great time to establish professional relationships, especially if you want to work with an agent or representative. The right person could come into your life at just the right time. Trust synchronicities.

Gemini (May 20 – June 20):

Well, it's happening again; your ruling planet is gearing up for its final retrograde journey of the year. Plus, Mars, the warrior planet, is retrograde in your sign. Get ready for tests in agility and flexibility. Mercury loves to remind you to lighten up and not take things too seriously. Yes, it may offer these reminders in the form of lost keys or email glitches, but Mercury always has good intentions. 

Despite these retrograde planets, you have hope; you are learning to balance work and play. As Jupiter enters Aries on December 20, you remember what it means to have a fun social life. 

You have everything you need to reach your goals. Move through setbacks, and realize the gifts in even the most trying circumstances. The Sun, Mercury, and Venus start the month in Sagittarius, your opposite sign. You may have more intrigue in personal relationships while welcoming the possibility of partnering with someone on a shared goal. Remember, Mars is still retrograde in your sign, so be careful not to burn out.

The Full Moon in your sign on December 7 highlights love. You're learning the difference between supportive and unsatisfying patterns in relationships. As a result, you may be more introspective at this time. Don't worry; your gift of gab returns in January as Mercury stations direct on January 18. 

Capricorn season starts on December 21, and the New Moon on December 23 can be a good time to plant the seeds for a collaborative project or to deepen your commitment to healing.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22):

If you read any sun-sign description for Cancer, you will invariably see the words home and family. Astrologers (and most Cancers) know that doesn't mean you have everything figured out in those areas of your life, but you're masterful at creating family-like connections and defining the meaning of home on your terms. Your creative energy shines in these spaces. You might return to where you grew up or visit relatives this holiday season, reminding you how sweet those connections can be, even if they're not perfect. 

December's astrology invites you to be rooted in love and stay focused on gratitude, especially on December 23, when the Capricorn New Moon helps initiate healing conversations. 

In early December, you can see new career destinations and feel movement, even if it's slower than you'd like. We can thank Mars retrograde for delaying plans or projects long enough to ensure we're on track. 

On December 20, Jupiter enters Aries and portends a holiday miracle – a solution for a personal challenge could appear out of the blue. From December 24 - 29, give your inner skeptic a break and believe in magic. 

Relationships will be a focal point for the solstice on December 21, and nostalgic emotions will lead you into the new year. Mercury reminds us of how our thoughts about our loved ones shape our experiences of those relationships— I recommend compliments over complaints! Mercury stations retrograde on December 29, which would be a good time to subscribe to the Hallmark channel. Let the season tug at your heartstrings, and surround yourself with love.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

It's gonna be a bright (bright)

Bright (bright) sunshiny day

Are you singing "I Can See Clearly Now" by Jimmy Cliff in your head yet? I encourage you to move into December with heartfelt joy and hopeful thoughts. The Sun shines in Sagittarius until December 21, expanding your frame of reference and allowing you to see a broader spectrum of possibilities. Your inner vision sets the stage for action steps you'll take after Jupiter re-enters Aries on December 20. Any missed opportunities could cycle back around between now and May. 

As the Sun moves through Sagittarius, it warms your heart and kindles feelings of love. The Gemini Full Moon on December 7 meets up with Mars, the planet of passion. Be gentle with your words and lead with kindness. 

Mars is retrograde all month. So, remember, everything has its time. Stalled plans mean more time for creative input. Cancellations give more time for relaxation, which you'll appreciate when Mercury goes retrograde on December 29. After the Capricorn New Moon on December 23, remember to carve out time for rest. 

Mars is our planet of action and motivation, and when it's moving backward, we don't feel as driven by external forces like wealth or recognition. We're more attuned to our hearts, which is why we feel courageous in declaring our intentions. Shout them from the rooftops! Offer them up in a solstice ritual on December 21, a sacred day celebrating the return of the light. In the Northern Hemisphere, the days grow longer as we enter a new season.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22):

We live on a planet full of wondrous beauty, and sometimes, it takes your breath away. As someone born under an earth sign, you appreciate our physical reality more than most. Some theologians theorize that the beauty and pleasure we experience through our five physical senses makes us aware of the presence of the divine. I offer you this reflection as Venus enters Capricorn on December 9 and awakens your senses. Your goal for this month? Enjoy life as much and often as you can. 

We feel more optimistic this month as Jupiter shifts into Aries on December 20. It could signify good news regarding a mortgage, loan, or other financial decision. Bring everything to a close and enjoy the holidays before Mercury goes retrograde on December 29. The same message applies to business. It’s a busy time of year, and you may be waiting in line or stuck in traffic. Sing along to your favorite tunes and stay upbeat by focusing your attention on the aspects of situations that work for you. 

The Gemini Full Moon on December 7 meets with Mars, and it could be time to clear a misunderstanding or settle a dispute. See the details of those circumstances from an expanded viewpoint, and in any argument, ask: What am I protecting? What are they protecting? Mars moves us to reinforce our boundaries and fight, if necessary, to defend what we hold dear. 

Relationships take on a playful tone at the end of the month, especially at the Capricorn New Moon on December 23. As Venus shines in stable Capricorn, you could feel more secure in love. This subtle shift frees you to let down your guard and be yourself in social situations. 

Libra (September 22 – October 22):

This season gives plenty of cause for celebration! You’ve lived through a year of unfathomable growth. Saturn, the planet of responsibility, has supported you in accomplishing seemingly impossible feats. You’ve been tested, and you’ve triumphed. As the Sun moves through generous Sagittarius, remember to practice gratitude and focus on all the gifts you received in 2022. 

On December 7, the Gemini Full Moon meets up with Mars in a stunning lunation that lets you wrangle your power back from any person, place, or thing that has overwhelmed you. Mars will be going retrograde all month, and this transit can be frustrating for busy people who have places to go. Move at a steady pace, and think of any delays as mindfulness exercises, especially around December 29 when Mercury stations retrograde.

If partnership is among your 2023 intentions, you might be pleased to read beneficent Jupiter enters your relationship sector on December 20, shining a bright light on this area of life until May16 2023. Your desire for love and connection might feel overwhelming until December 9 as Venus moves through Sagittarius, and the sentiments of the season add to the emotion. After December 21, you could be more focused on holiday celebrations and travel. 

This month, new chapters could open. So, be willing to make changes and move if you feel called; the solstice on December 21 marks your decision point. Will you stay in a stalemate for fear of disappointing others, or will you choose inner peace, your guiding light? The grounding Capricorn New Moon on December 23 helps you recalibrate toward your center. Find moments of solitude and stillness to hear your inner voice. 

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21):

The past year has been a wild ride, hasn’t it? Stern Saturn in Aquarius wanted you to maintain the status quo, while change-agent Uranus in Taurus inspired a restless desire for freedom from stale circumstances. So, the “wild ride” of 2022 had a few stops and starts. Count the unexpected twists and turns among your life blessings, as each surprise opened up a spectrum of possibilities. This month, you have a chance to slow things down and strike an equilibrium, thanks to Mars retrograde.

The Gemini Full Moon on December 7 re-awakens dormant memories, allowing you to see things from a new perspective. Old resentments could creep up, and if so, talk things through to heal the hurt that won’t let go. Often, resentment arises from self-denial, when we live by an internalized set of rules and expectations. Imagine the freedom when you choose yourself! Make this your priority on December 21 as the Sun enters Capricorn.

Mercury goes retrograde on December 29, making this a more nostalgic holiday season. This three-week period lets you revisit a past hobby or educational pursuit. It’s never too late to follow a path you might have taken. Release and declutter to create space before setting any 2023 intentions. 

Jupiter enters Aries on December 20, and you could revisit missed opportunities from earlier in the year or perhaps, discover a new career path to explore. The New Moon on December 23 helps adjust your mindset to clear any obstacles. You’re only limited by your willingness to enter into unchartered territories and embrace change.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21):

Can we take a moment to celebrate you? Look at who you are and the life you’ve lived! As a Sagittarius, you’re inclined to deflect attention, which is natural for someone who can see from a more expanded point of view. Jupiter moves into Aries on December 20, blessing you with abundant opportunities and connections, but can you allow yourself to be witnessed as the wonder you are? I invite you to let the Sagittarius Sun shine on you like a spotlight until the solstice on December 21. 

Venus delights your sign until December 9, in time to finish holiday shopping and decorating. Venus makes everything more fun, especially gift-giving. Generosity is the general vibe this month. 

After December 10, finances are more of a focal point. Mercury goes retrograde on December 29, opening you to realizations about the dynamic relationship between money and love. Deepen your sense of deservedness by being open to receiving. Your worth is inherent. 

The Capricorn New Moon on December 23 helps you get organized. Your mind is ablaze with ideas, but Mars retrograde slows the rest of the world down. At the December 7 Full Moon, try this ritual. List all the synonyms you can think of for the word patience. Then, apply them to any frustrations in your life. Standing in a check-out line? Endurance. Stuck in traffic? Persistence. Frustrated by indecision? Diligence. A simple reframe can make all the difference for those times when you can’t change the circumstances.

Your social life could keep you quite busy this month. December 28 brings healing to relationships and a delightful experience of love.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) 

With Jupiter moving through Pisces until December 20, we will likely have more rain, ice, and snow in our weather forecasts. Likewise, we might expect a few more waterworks as we head into the holidays – sentimental tears and tugs to your heartstrings. Mercury enters your sign on December 6 and then stations retrograde on December 29. Throughout the month, you’ll be rekindling childhood memories and possibly visiting friends from the past. Let emotions flow and sweetly surrender. 

Venus enters your sign on December 9, making this month feel like a pre-birthday celebration. With the season’s festivities, accept invitations as a way of expanding your social circle. Venus is the planet of magnetic attraction, and her light shines in a way that inspires confidence and grace. You could be turning heads, making it an excellent time for romance. 

If you’re in a relationship, keep clear communication. Mars is going retrograde all month, and you may be more irritated by small annoyances, especially around the Gemini Full Moon on December 7. 

The Sun enters your sign on December 21, and you may feel more decisive about plans, projects, and logistics. With so much light shining in your sign, you can see a path to success. Don’t be afraid to take steps (or leaps) in new directions. The Capricorn New Moon on December 23 helps you clarify your 2023 intentions and goals. 

Jupiter enters fiery Aries on December 20, energizing your roots so you can grow and branch out. At the end of the month, prioritize creature comforts, like cuddling up in soft blankets in front of a cozy fire. Allow yourself to feel pleasure without guilt and love without conditions. Open and receive. 

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18):

We’re entering the last month in an epic year. You’ve had daring adventures, close calls, and a few miracles. Through it all, you’ve grown stronger and wiser. This month, you’re probably ready to take a break and rest, now that things feel more balanced. We’re not just talking about a day or two away from the routine, but rather, a spiritual reset when you unplug from the outside world and bring yourself into a state of stillness. When the Sun enters Capricorn at the solstice on December 21, take the break you need. 

Before that, we have a busy and social month. The invigorating Gemini Full Moon on December 7 lights up your sector of creativity and play, while the Sun shines in Sagittarius, brightening your spirits and inspiring generosity. 

If you have been looking to make a fresh start professionally, you might have some luck after Jupiter enters Aries on December 20. Until then, maximize your networking potential. Ambitious Mars is retrograde. This month, give your ego a break and let your heart take the lead, but wait out any creative blocks. 

Saturn in your sign asks you to make commitments. You can have a balanced partnership– one with give and take instead of push/pull dynamics. The past two months have taught you to be gracious with your partner, allowing them the space to grow and change. Now, turn that compassion to yourself. The New Moon on December 23 brings your attention inward, attuning you to your emotional landscape. Explore aspects of your past through memories. When Mercury stations retrograde on December 29, it washes away pain and brings hope for healing.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20):

Holiday movies are one of my December guilty pleasures. There’s always that moment in the early part of the film when one of the characters looks into the distance and says, “We need a Christmas miracle.” What’s your miracle request? Write it on wish paper and set your intentions for 2023. Miracles abound as Jupiter makes its way through the last degree of your sign until entering Aries on December 20. Anything could happen.

The Gemini Full Moon on December 7 could set you on a fast track in your personal life, especially if you’re in the process of making a move. You’re solidifying commitments, even if you’re not entirely sure you’re making the right move. Protector-planet Mars is going retrograde all month, and we’re all a little unsteady on our paths because this cycle offers us a chance to pause and reassess our plans and purpose. 

In business, focus on completing tasks rather than dreaming up new ideas. Mercury stations retrograde on December 29. Lead with your intuition, which means if something feels tense in your body, rethink things.

On December 9, Venus, the planet of self-worth, moves into Capricorn. Under this influence, you can adopt a more practical approach to relationships, while holding onto your dreams and ideals. If you have been chasing someone who’s unavailable or unresponsive, walk away.  If you're in a relationship, have a more minimalist holiday season and prioritize time together over tangible gifts. 

The Sun enters Capricorn on December 21, making the end of the month quite social. Relax and have fun as the year draws to a close. Celebrate the milestones you reached this year; there were many of them!