Written by Lisa E Zimmerman
This week culminates in the Winter Solstice on Dec 21, as the Sun enters the aspirational sign of Capricorn at 7:27pm PST initiating a rebirth, as winter officially begins with the Return of the Light. But prior to that, there are lively aspects present that can expand your consciousness, allowing for a renewed experience of reality if you will loosen your grip on your old “structures of knowing” (beliefs). Not always easy to do, but a worthy cause…
Dec 16 – The Sun square Neptune. Higher experience or lower? This spacious energy of imagination and infinite potential literally has no boundaries or limitations. Tapping into higher dimensional realities can activate downloads, messages, creative flow, supports spiritual practices, being in nature and/or service that feeds the spirit and elevates your reality. There is no limit to what you can dream up – and yes, your dreams are real. If they are in your consciousness, they are meant for YOU!
But Sun-Neptune can also create illusions that mislead, deceive or disappoint you (idealizing others), can bring up grief, melancholy, disillusionment, victimhood or escapism when the world feels too harsh. It’s up to you to utilize the energy in healthy ways – and if you are hurting, reach out for help. Neptune can go low, but it can rebound and rise up like no other, so never, never give up if you’re on the downside.
Dec 18 – Mercury trine Jupiter. This is an upbeat, productive aspect with bright ideas and solid plans, giving and receiving good news or positive communications that may be the continuation of something you began on Dec 7 when Mercury and Jupiter met earlier this month. The energy is stable, grounded and practical, yet it will expand your world. A wonderful gift, so use it well!
Dec 19 – The Sun conjunct the Galactic Center. This is an annual event, as the Sun crosses the center of the Milky Way, downloading frequencies that you may not be aware of. This affects the collective, as life on the planet is ascending more rapidly than our human minds can grasp, which accelerates our spiritual evolution. Focus on the idea of grace being delivered to all and to you, no matter what the world looks like. We are in the breakdown before the breakthrough.
Dec 20 – Venus opposite Uranus. This indicates a rebellious or impulsive action, seeking liberation. This can be a breakup, breaking out of a stale situation or a breakthrough. But it arises spontaneously after feeling oppressed for a time, when you can’t take anymore. Don’t burn a bridge you will later regret.
In relationship, Venus is connection and Uranus, independence and change, which means one is reaching out and the other is breaking away. It can be an unavailable person, jealousy or excitement, but it’s fleeting or chaotic, or the unexpected interferes with your Self-worth or love object. Venus is in Scorpio, so it won’t just lie down if there is interference with your heart’s desire.
The level of spiritual maturity will determine how things play out based on the plot line, but there is a lesson and healing involved depending on how personal the circumstances are if this touches your life. It can refer to your Self-worth, $$, relationships, beauty, style or creativity. I think this is meant to highlight weak areas if you are triggered by Uranus (the unexpected) and where you are operating in lack if you are triggered by Venus (love, $$, what you value). Notice what comes up for you, if anything, and put it on the Needs Attention for Healing list going forward.
Dec 21 – Mercury sextile Saturn. This pair is perfect for schedules, plans, outlines, structures, agreements and it is a follow up to Dec 2 when they met for the first time this month, therefore, you may be continuing something you began earlier. Mercury in Capricorn is so clear and well organized, which is perfect for creating your Winter Solstice Intentions, as it will help you articulate your goals for 2024.
Dec 21 – Winter Solstice / Sun in Capricorn. The shortest day of the year and The Return of the Light, a reverent time of withdrawal and reflection. This is a powerful time to acknowledge the road you’ve traveled over the past year, as you look ahead with vision, faith and gratitude for your experience.
The Sun in Capricorn brings you down to earth with practical actions, thinking, reality checks and an eye on responsibility. In the midst of the holidays, this supports grounding and staying conscious, especially during Mercury Retrograde (thru Jan 1).
On a metaphysical level, Capricorn urges you to claim your Inner Authority and learn to trust your Self when making decisions (what feels right for you), rather than looking for outside approval, permission or agreement. If you need support, ok, but being directed by others or being a “follower” is disempowering.
You cannot be in your power if you are living by someone else’s decisions. Time to step into YOUR life, your way! If you don’t know how to do it, get help asap – it will change everything!
What a sacred, fertile, supportive week we have in store for us – full of potential for opening, organizing, liberating, contemplating and visioning for 2024. Elements are coming together and falling into place on various levels, many beyond our 3D minds. You don’t have to do everything yourself. Tend to your world and your sacred space and allow the peace within and beauty of the season to soothe your heart and soul.
Wishing you a beautiful Solstice.
“People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.” ~ Elisabeth Kubler- Ross
As always, I am grateful for your presence on our journey together.
© 2023 Lisa E Zimmermann • All Rights Reserved • Soul Level Solutions
Lisa E Zimmerman is an Intuitive Astrologer, Transformational Coach and Creator of Awakened Life Retreats, helping seekers discover who they came here to be and how to create an evolving, empowered and meaningful life. It is a joyful, heartfelt journey. www.soullevelsolutions.com ❤