Guest article By Dorene Carrel @ AstroConnections

January is highlighted by a strong communication theme, as both lunations align with Mercury. Several planets in Capricorn bring needed structure and grounding to our goals and projects.  Therefore it is a good month for making new resolutions. Later in the month there is forward momentum and a renewed sense of expansion when Jupiter aspects the Sun and turns stationary direct.

We begin the month still under the December New Moon in Sagittarius, with the themes of optimism, freedom and truth-seeking.  Uranus turned direct on this same day, giving us more confidence to pursue our ideals, but has also led to more unexpected changes, events and erratic weather.

The month begins on an expansive note with a grand air trine on January 4, between the Moon, Mars and Jupiter.  There is a feeling of confidence and buoyancy, so it is a good day to initiate social events or other projects involving communication.  As Mercury also squares Uranus at this time, we may receive flashes of intuition. However, beware of verbal blunders and accidents due to overextending oneself. Mercury aligns with both Pluto and Saturn on January 6, which brings depth and stability to our thinking and actions. 

On January 7, Mars in Aquarius forms a challenging square to Saturn in Scorpio. This aspect can result in delays or other frustrating circumstances.  This energy can be described as trying to drive (Mars) with the brakes on (Saturn). It is best to avoid important new beginnings over the next few days.  

The New Moon occurs on January 11 at 22 Capricorn.  The focus will be on being more conscientious, responsible and organized. This lunation aligns with Mercury, which favors mental pursuits such as writing, education, analysis and contemplation. Examination of one’s perceptions and beliefs is also favored.  A quincunx aspect to Ceres reminds us to honor the feminine aspects of caretaking and nurturing for ourselves and others. The Sabian symbol for this degree, “By accepting defeat gracefully, a general reveals nobility of character,” reminds us of the learning value from all of life’s experiences. 

On January 18-19, Mercury enters Aquarius and aligns with the Sun. On January 22-24, both make favorable aspects to Uranus.  This is a good period for beginning projects that require creative thinking and original, innovative ideas.

Where in our lives can we break free from old patterns and perceptions? On January 25, a Mercury-Saturn aspect can lead to being overly critical, but also provides a chance for reviewing and refining one’s ideas. The Sun in trine to Jupiter later on this same day brings a fresh, expansive outlook that can lead to new prosperity.

On January 26, the Full Moon occurs at 7 Leo 24. This lunation is again aligned with Mercury and in a challenging aspect to Saturn.  This brings more of a cautious, serious overtone to the more risk-taking, lighter Leo qualities. During this period it is favorable to examine and release any beliefs in the way of becoming more creative, confident and having higher self-esteem.  The Sabian symbols for these degrees, “A Communist activist spreading his revolutionary ideals,” and “Beautifully gowned wax figures on display,” suggest becoming more open to new ideas and what unique forms they might take. 

On January 30, Jupiter turns stationary direct at 6 Gemini. The horizons seem brighter now and we can confidently move forward with our visionary ideas. Jupiter is aligned with the asteroid Vesta until April 2013.  Vesta calls for us to get in touch with where we feel the most passion and devotion, and then take the steps to bring it about.    

Late February will bring us another Mercury retrograde period. This month is the time for accomplishment until the shadow period begins in mid-February that will signal a decrease of activity.  Joy and blessings to all!

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Dorene Carrel is a professional astrologer with over thirty years of experience, offering birth chart, transits/progressions and relocation astrology readings.  She is certified in Astrocartography.  For more information, contact Dorene at dorenea5@yahoo.com.  Paypal accepted.  Donations also appreciated.  Thank you for your support this past year!

All references to Sabian symbols are from An Astrological Mandala: The Cycle of Transformation and Its 360 Symbolic Phases, by Dane Rudhyar.

Check out my astrology blog at www.astroconnections.blogspot.com for ongoing astrological observations on current events, people, trends, etc.  I also post astrology highlights on Twitter @Starflower55.