This month begins with Venus, the planet that governs relationships, galloping into Sagittarius on the first day of December. The fiery sign of the centaur is intent on finding the truth, so expect some direct conversations with those close to you.

Mercury goes retrograde on December 3 and will continue moving backward until December 22. For the majority of the month, our communications may be affected by the retrograde. During this time, be sure to double check all details and clarify messages from others. Miscommunication is common during Mercury retrogrades.

This month’s Full Moon arrives on December 3 in the mutable sign of Gemini. This energy is curious, intelligent and adaptable. Use the light of the full moon to illuminate an area of life that could use a dose of imagination. 

The New Moon in adventurous Sagittarius occurs on December 18 and may activate Venus, also in Sagittarius. This New Moon energy may encourage us to set intentions around relationships, and do so in a way that is spontaneous, optimistic and expansive. 

We get a “double whammy” of Capricorn energy at the end of the month as the slow-moving Saturn enters Capricorn on December 19 and then the Sun follows suit on December 21. This earthy energy is often associated with the goat that is hard-working and determined to climb to the highest bluff. This ambitious energy could be used in areas of career and lends itself toward traditional methods of advancement. Saturn will spend two and half years in Capricorn, whereas the Sun is only in this sign for 30 days. You can use the Sun in Capricorn energy to set short-term goals and use the Saturn in Capricorn energy to make long-term changes associated with limits and boundaries. 

As we head into the holidays, it is a good time to pause and reflect on December 21 to acknowledge the Winter Solstice. This day marks the shortest period of daylight and the longest night of the year. Consider a Winter Solstice ritual by meditating in darkness and then welcome the rebirth of the sun by lighting white candles. Honor the new solar year with a celebration of light. 

Michele Leigh is an astrologer, author and podcaster. A practitioner of ancient astrology and planetary magic, she is an active member of OPA, the Organization for Professional Astrology. Connect at DarkMoonAstrology.com.