Thursday, December 21st: Winter Solstice

The term solstice comes from the Latin word solstitium, meaning 'the Sun stands still'. This is because on this day, the Sun reaches its southern-most position as seen from the Earth. The Sun seems to stand still at the Tropic of Capricorn and then reverses its direction. It's also common to call it the day the Sun turns around.

The Solstice occurs Thursday morning at 16:28 UTC / 11:28 a.m Eastern time and 8:28 a.m. Pacific time and is the shortest daylight of the year in the Western Hemisphere.  This is a time of going within and connecting with Bear energy in American Indian tradition marking a time for introspection and inner attunement.  Bear animal totem represents the Pineal Gland - the intuitive and telepathic source of biological energy in the brain.

Later in the day at 4:08 p.m. EASTERN time the Sun conjuncts newly arrived Saturn in Capricorn.  This is a focus point and may feel contracted and serious over the next 48 hours.  Feelings of fear can arise as you may temporarily feel a blocking of the life force.  You need time to adjust to the potent energy of Saturn's transit of Capricorn.  Life feels more consequential, serious and far reaching. 

Saturn is the molder, and architect of time and space.  Saturn asks you to assume personal responsibility for your actions and life force.  Saturn represents initiations and passing various tests of personal responsibility to prove yourself capable of handling the energies of a more evolved state. 

Venus is simultaneously in trine to Uranus and square to Chiron.  As you feel sensitivities arise there is also a blending of the interpersonal with the intrapersonal.  Wisdom walks alongside the vulnerable and you understand that your vulnerability is not your weakness but rather your strength. Venus will ingress Capricorn on Monday the 25th and conjunct Saturn illuminating themes of commitment in relating and with resources.

Mercury stations direct on Friday the 22nd at 8:51 p.m. EASTERN at 13 degrees of Sagittarius symbolizing your desire for security and predictable continuity.  Let the mind and decisions rest knowing you will connect with more external clarity and clear planning on Sunday and beyond.