The Sun’s proximity to Pluto at the outset of January is great for an intense, no-excuses commitment to goals—perfect mojo for resolutions. Empowerment definitely involves an element of self-initiated change with this duo also contacting Uranus. Don’t self-sabotage by resisting the shifts that will help you live a richer, more fulfilling life in 2016. Embrace transformation and think of it as an evolution.

Between January 5-11, Venus connects with Saturn and realism in financial matters is favored along with curbing excess expenditures. As Venus will approach Uranus, there is also the capacity to revolutionize in a fiscal sense; not only can budgets be trimmed in a beneficial way, but financial planning can also free us and save time. This is especially true if we automate certain transactions like bill payments or deductions from our paycheck to go to a savings or retirement account.

Mercury retrogrades from January 5-25; renegotiating the terms of our verbal or written commitments is in the air for the sake of being liberated from any undue burdens. Contractual obligations that restrict freedom can be reworked; there is even the chance to back out and break a promise if it functions more like a set of handcuffs, especially near the date of January 25.

A Capricorn New Moon on January 9 is perfect for setting intentions to banish or purge negative influences of any stripe thanks to its close proximity to Pluto. Jupiter in Virgo says keep all aspects of health in mind; Uranus says break any old habits that “die hard”. If you’re not sure what needs to go, tap the intuitive wisdom of Chiron in Pisces by praying or meditating on it. Around or after this date, Mars in Scorpio connects to Neptune for more than two weeks. Acting on intuitive hunches in any respect is favored. You can also merge physical activity with the spiritual to augment your aura now—try something like yoga or qi gong if you are inclined.

Echoing last month’s advice, extra verbal self-control is advised between January 17 and February 3 as Mercury once again brushes with Pluto and Uranus. Things suppressed or left unsaid may come flying out in a surprising or even upsetting way throughout this period—think Freudian slips and such. Do avoid any conversation loaded with power or control dynamics—especially with authority figures or adolescents—and don’t be baited into losing your cool. Be cautious of what is said to “allies” as well at the end of January and the beginning of February; there is a possibility of “double agents”.

Matters concerning children are highlighted by the Leo Full Moon on January 23 and the polarity of the Aquarius Sun ruling it could mean the kids might be feeling a little rebellious. That aside, there’s a lot of creativity in this Moon that may be expressed in an unconventional way, such as through a digital medium, for example—feed your creative side around this time and be experimental.

A fusion of Jupiter in Virgo with the North Node at month’s end is an ideal time to take a macro-focus on wellness matters. There may be something chronic that’s either not seen or willingly ignored/denied with asteroid Chiron on the South Node opposite Jupiter. Especially if it involves escapism in one form or another, and it could be subtle. Addictive tendencies need healing now; while this is easier to see with things like alcohol or substances, it may be blurry if it involves taking something “healthy” to excess, such as diet or exercise.

A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-917-6312, [email protected] or EmpoweredDestiny.com.