As I do at the beginning of each year, I will be covering (1) the Moon Update, (2) a summary of major astrological influences during 2023, and (3) a forecast for the year 2023 from a numerological perspective.
Wishing everyone a new year filled with joy, health, and amazing spiritual connections!
Full Moon in Cancer
In the Pacific Time Zone, the Moon will be full at 3:07 p.m. on Friday, January 6. With this Full Moon, the Sun in Capricorn will be in opposition (180°) to the Moon in Cancer. To further clarify how this Full Moon will impact you on a personal level, locate 16°21’ of Capricorn and 16°21’ of Cancer in your birth/natal chart. The issues associated with those two houses are going to be most impacted by this Full Moon’s presence.
All Full Moons involve finding a better balance between the qualities of the 2 signs involved. This time, those signs are Capricorn and Cancer:
- The best qualities of Capricorn include being responsible, practical, disciplined, patient, and organized. The lower expression can involve being critical, overly conventional, materialistic, or status-seeking.
- The higher expression of Cancer includes being nurturing, psychic/intuitive, sympathetic, and family-oriented. The lower expression could mean being overly emotional, moody, hyper-sensitive, fearful, or dependent.
Cancer is usually associated with our home and family, whereas Capricorn is about our career or public recognition. At the time of the Full Moon, we are being asked to make sure we are giving each of these important areas of our lives the attention they both need, without overemphasizing one side or the other. Balance is key.
Mercury, which has been in retrograde since Thursday, December 29, is closely conjunct (1°22’) the Sun and is, therefore, in a close opposition (1°22’) to the Moon. This means that we may be thinking a lot about these two important areas indicated by Capricorn and Cancer. We may bounce back and forth between being analytical (Sun) and emotional (Moon). We want to find a way to make them “work” better (i.e., find more balance between them), but we shouldn’t get lost in the “paralysis of analysis.” Luckily, the time around the Full Moon may be a time when we clarify our thinking about something important in our lives. However, because Mercury is in retrograde, whatever ideas we come up with may be hard to talk about with others until Mercury turns direct on Wednesday, January 18.
But adjustments definitely may be necessary in order to find a better balance between home and work. This may require moving toward something we want more of in our lives and moving away from something that has outlived its usefulness and purpose. But any changes may take some time to implement, and that’s OK. Uranus is in a trine (120°) to the Sun and a sextile (60°) to the Moon. These supportive aspects will make any changes easier to implement, and even small changes could have a positive impact. We just need to be patient and let them unfold. Also, Uranus will also help us maintain healthy boundaries that protect our independence and uniqueness.
The Moon is also in a very positive (but rather wide) trine (120°) to Neptune. Both planets are in water signs (i.e., Cancer and Pisces, respectively), and this may indicate that the best course of action for right now is to “go with the flow” rather than “fight the current.” Neptune is associated with intuition, and spirituality, so the solution to finding this better balance may come from tapping into the wisdom of the Universe rather than relying solely on our analytical mind to sort things out. Accessing that Divine inspiration may come when we are engaged in activities that are unrelated to the specific issue, such as meditation, a creative project, or using the Neptunian compassion to give to those in need.
Both ends of the opposition (180°) between Sun/Mercury and the Moon are squaring (90°) Chiron. This forms one of those t-square configurations (i.e., right triangle) that we often talk about. Chiron in the focal position, which means it may shed light on what may help us create that better balance and make any needed changes. It could be important to focus on acknowledging and then healing any old wounds, especially if they relate to a lack of self-confidence or self-esteem. If we ignore this healing opportunity, then we could either (a) “freeze” and not make necessary and important changes or (b) make changes that are ineffective and unsustainable over the long-run. Just be aware that Chiron’s prominent position in this Full Moon also means that we may be more sensitive than usual, especially with the Moon located in emotional Cancer. It will be important to do whatever we need to do to feel safe and protected. If we don’t, we may find ourselves pulling into our Cancer shell and hiding from the world, which isn’t going to help us make the changes that are needed in order to move forward.
Venus just entered Aquarius on Monday, January 2, where it will remain until Thursday, January 26. During this time, we may be especially intrigued by relationships that are unconventional or at least different than our “norm.” This placement also means we are more likely to feel rebellious if someone tries to limit our freedom and independence. We can be very loyal and faithful during this time, but we also need our “personal space.” Romantic partners may feel a bit emotionally detached, as if both parties would rather be friends than lovers. In all of our relationships, we want everyone to be treated fairly.
Luckily, Venus is in a sweet sextile (60°) to Jupiter around the time of the Cancer Full Moon. This can increase our desire to be social and might even create opportunities for new relationships. It may also favor financial endeavors, but we need to be sure Jupiter doesn’t cause us to go to extremes or be unrealistic. Additionally, a trine (120°) between Mars and Venus also provides support in all kinds of relationships. But given that both Mars and Venus are in air signs (i.e., Gemini and Aquarius respectively), this again emphasizes that others may experience us as a bit on emotionally detached. We will definitely be drawn to those who are mentally stimulating.
A final and important note: Since October 30, 2022, Mars in Gemini has been moving in retrograde. For many people, this has meant tapping into a lot of patience as our actions have been met with unexpected obstacles and challenges. This has been an important time when we have been asked to slow down in order to reconsider recent decisions and reevaluate what actions we want to take. But there’s good news! As of Thursday, January 12, Mars will finally begin moving direct again. Mars will continue in Gemini for another 10 weeks (i.e., until March 25), which means our minds will be very active! Whatever actions we’ve been reconsidering and thinking about over the last 2 months are likely ready to take off. There will be so much energy available that we may feel like a race horse ready to bolt out of the gate. (IMPORTANT: See my 2023 astrological forecasts below for more about the especially fortuitous time period between January 22 through April 23.)
Overall, this Cancer Full Moon will likely be an introspective time. Our focus will be on our loved ones and taking care of our own emotional needs. However, our inner musings may involve thinking through changes that bring about a better balance between home/family and career/public recognition. Solutions may come through both an intuitive and analytical process. But in order to move forward, we may need to (a) heal inner wounds related to self-confidence and (b) shed whatever is not necessary for the next phase in our life. Until Mars turns direct on Thursday, January 12, Mercury turns direct on Wednesday, January 18, and Uranus turns direct on Sunday, January 22, this is a good time to do this inner work. If we are successful, then we will be ready to take full advantage of the positive and productive time period that begins toward the end of January and continues through April (see more about that below).
Major Astrological Influences for 2023
For those who have been following my Moon Updates, you may remember that my annual sneak peek at the upcoming year often focuses on significant aspects between planets (i.e., geometric relationship like squares or trines). This year’s forecast will be different. Instead of aspects between planets, I will be focusing on each planet and the sign in which it is located.
Why am I doing this? Between 2023-2026, all 3 of the outer planets (i.e., Uranus, Neptune, Pluto) will be transitioning into new signs. These outer planets are slow movers, and only change signs about every 7 to 20 years (depending on the planet involved). Therefore, when they shift into a new sign, it’s a big deal. But to have all 3 changing signs within a few years is extremely rare, which is why many astrologers are predicting that this time period will likely be the beginning of a “new era for humanity.”
Because these three outer planets are in retrograde for about half of each year, their shift into a new sign often involves a 3-step process:
- An initial foray into the new sign
- A retreat back to the previous sign for several months
- A finally movement into the new sign
The first time the planet tentatively steps into the new sign often gives a sneak peek at what might be coming in the future. However, the time period when the planet returns to the old sign is important. It gives us a final opportunity to finish up any unfinished business related to that sign.
PLUTO: Although we will talk about many of the planets below, the first of the outer planets to start the sign-changing process is Pluto. This minor planet represents transformation, the use of power versus force, destruction that leads to rebirth, and deep healing. Back in 2008, Pluto entered Capricorn, which is the sign associated with and structures in our lives, including business, government, and even the skeletal structure of the human body. In retrospect, I think we can all agree that many of the structures in our personal and collective lives have transformed radically during the last 14 years!
Beginning in mid-March, Pluto will begin its shift into Aquarius. Due to Pluto going retrograde for about 6-7 months, it will only remain in Aquarius until mid-June and will then creep back into Capricorn, where it will remain until January 2024. During the first 2 months and the latter part of 2023 when Pluto is located in the final degrees of Capricorn, we will all be asked to make absolutely sure we have let go of whatever structures are no longer needed in our lives so we can fully commit to moving into the new era when Pluto is in Aquarius. We may need to finalize a lot of endings in our lives, clean up any lingering problems (e.g., pay off debts), or clear out any emotional or mental patterns that keep us trapped in the past.
When Pluto takes up residence in Aquarius, it will be a huge shift! March through June, when Pluto dips its toe into Aquarian waters, may give all of us a glimpse of what is to come once it settles in for a 20-year stay. For example, Capricorn focuses on the past, slow growth, predictability, stability, and controlling what can be experienced with our five senses. Aquarius is basically the antithesis of this. It is about the future, unlimited possibilities, doing the unexpected, and trusting what cannot be seen. We will have much more time to talk about this later, but be ready for a radical shift.
NEPTUNE: Neptune will remain in Pisces during 2023. When it begins it’s 4-5 month retrograde phase on June 30, we may feel an increased need to compassionately help others, be less judgmental, and focus on our spiritual practice. Our intuition will be heightened. Spending time in self-reflection will be important. (See numerology below for more about the need for reflection.)
URANUS: Uranus begins 2023 in retrograde; but as of Sunday, January 22, it will begin moving direct again. This frees up even more energy for a special period of time between January 22 and April 23 (see discussion below). It’s basically time to implement whatever changes we’ve been thinking about for the past few months while Uranus was in retrograde. (NOTE: Uranus will be in retrograde again from the end of August through the first part of 2024.)
Uranus will continue moving through Taurus during 2023. Taurus is often associated with finances, and Uranus is associated with change. As with Pluto’s impact on structures in our lives, I think we can all agree that we’ve seen profound upheaval happening in the financial structures around the world.
The good news is that having Uranus in slow moving Taurus means that any change process is slower and more manageable than it might be in a different sign. Although we are advised to be conservative and cautious regarding our financial investments, patience will likely lead to slow growth and eventual success over time.
Uranus in Taurus is also helping many of us find new ways to take care of our bodies. We should continue exploring what makes us as healthy as possible.
SATURN: For the past 2.5 years, Saturn has been making its way through Aquarius. As of Tuesday, March 7, it will enter Pisces. Unlike Pluto, Saturn will not retrograde back into the previous sign but will remain in Pisces.
Saturn isn’t happy in either Aquarius or Pisces. Saturn is all about stability, predictability, control, and the past. It’s been a hard passage through Aquarius, because this sign likes instability, change, and focusing on the future. Individually and collectively, we’ve had to creatively explore novel solutions (Aquarius) that tap into the wisdom gained from the past (Saturn). Although it’s been challenging at times, creative approaches were needed because we can’t repeat the past without suffering and we can’t be so radical that we ignore what the past has taught us.
Unfortunately, Saturn is even more uncomfortable in Pisces. Where Saturn wants limits and boundaries, Pisces wants no limits and permeable boundaries. If navigated successfully, Saturn can actually help us learn to trust our intuition and be patient with “the process.” It can also support us in creating a spiritual routine. One thing that Saturn and Pisces do have in common is a focus on endings. Therefore, wrapping up anything that is unfinished is emphasized this year.
JUPITER: OK, let’s talk about Jupiter! On December 20, 2022, Jupiter moved into Aries. Usually, Jupiter moves through a sign for about a year, but this time it will quickly move out of Aries and into Taurus in mid-May. It will remain in Taurus until May 2024.
During the first part of 2023, we are all strongly advised to take full advantage of Jupiter moving through Aries. Especially beginning in mid-January, this is a great time to take the initiative and start a new venture that might actually involve a modicum of risk but could lead to great success. Jupiter in Aries provides us with the energy and courage that we need in order to expand, grow, and take a leap of faith, face challenges with confidence, and believe in ourselves. Overall, this can be a time of new beginnings, especially regarding personal and collective goals.
However, this may require looking inward to determine if there’s anything blocking your ability to do this (e.g., unhealed fears, self-doubt, restrictive values, resistance to leaving something that isn’t working). Luckily, Jupiter in Aries also provides us with the courage and energy we need to do this inner healing.
Jupiter’s shift into Taurus in mid-May may feel like we are slamming on the breaks and going from 150 miles per hour down to well below the posted speed limit. But after five months of having our proverbial foot on the gas, we need to understand that this is a necessary and important slowing down process. We need time to take a deep breath, focus on self-care, and allow all of the recent growth to settle.
This could be a very good time for financial growth, but with one caveat. Jupiter is about expansion, but its lower expression can be going to excess. Any financial investments should be practical and based on realistic assessments and not on wishful thinking. This is one of those times when we need to trust that “slow and steady wins the race.”
MERCURY: As is typical, Mercury will have three retrograde periods during 2023, all of which are occurring in earth signs:
- The first began on Thursday, December 29 and will continue through Wednesday, January 18. Mercury is moving through Capricorn, so we may be in the process of restructuring how we think, communicate, or learn. We could also be rethinking the structures in our lives.
- The second retrograde phase will be from April 21 through May 15.
- The third will again be in Capricorn from December 13 until January 2, 2024.
A SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY: During the month of January, three planets will end their retrograde phases and begin moving direct again:
- Mars on Thursday, January 12
- Mercury on Wednesday, January 18
- Uranus on Sunday, January 22
The reason I mention this is that as of Sunday, January 22, we will enter a 3-month period of time when all of the 10 planets in our solar system are moving direct. This doesn’t happen that often; and when it does, it’s basically the Universe giving all of us a big green light.
However, when you combine this green light with Jupiter moving through Aries (see previous discussion) and Mars going direct as of January 12 (again, see previous discussion), this is huge. It’s GO TIME! We will have ample energy available, and we are likely to experience fewer obstacles in our path than usual. Whatever goal we have set for ourselves is more likely to be attained now than any other time during 2023. This is not a time to procrastinate. If we work hard, we will likely see major results. I hope we all take full advantage of this beautiful gift!
NODES OF THE MOON: In July, the Nodes of the Moon will be shifting from the Taurus/Scorpio axis to the Aries/Libra access (they move in reverse order of the signs). The Nodes only change signs every 2.5 years, and the Nodes haven’t been in Aries/Libra for 18 years. We will talk more about this when the time comes, but the Aries/Libra axis will likely usher in a time when we have greater self-confidence and may even find new ways to enjoy life. We could also have people from our past come back into our lives, possibly to start something new or it could be that we need to finalize an ending.
In sum, the first few months of this year provides an excellent opportunity to start something new. But this is also a year when it’s important to take time to go inward and make sure that any changes or new adventures are aligned with who we are and not based on what others think is “right” for us. Additionally, this is a year when it will be important to “clean up” and “clear out” anything that no longer serves who we want to become.
Forecast According to Numerology in the Year 2023
The year 2023 is a 7 Universal Year (i.e., 2022 = 2 + 0 + 2 + 3 = 7). Everyone on the planet is influenced by the energy of the Universal Year number, so it is a subtle, collective experience. I think of it as the “landscape through which we are all driving.”
In numerology, the influence of the Universal Year number is believed to fade during the last three months of the year (i.e., October through December). Therefore, by January 1, 2023, many of us may have already started to experience the waning influence of 2022’s 6 Universal Year and are beginning to feel the energy of a 7 Universal Year.
First, here’s a brief review of 2022’s 6 Universal Year: 6 Universal Years are often times when we are focused on family, relationships, responsibility, service, balance, harmony, nurturing, warmth, love, and healing. It’s usually a time when we get to hunker down and adjust to all the changes that came into our lives during the previous 5 Universal Year (i.e., 2021). For some of us, 2022 may have felt like a year when we reinvented ourselves. This could have included changes to our home environment, our social relationships, and even our relationship with ourselves. The ultimate goal was to create a safe, solid, functional foundation in our lives.
7 Universal Years are a time when we turn inward for reflection. After the changes that have happened during the 5- and 6-Universal Years, we now want to focus on our personal development. It’s also a time to implement what we have been learning over the past few years. For example, during the preceding 6 Universal Year, we may have learned new skills regarding how to “fill our own wells” and explored what we need in order to create a home/foundation for ourselves. During this 7 Universal Year, we need to apply what we have learned.
7 Universal Years are often very active years, but much of the action is more internal than external. We need to do a “deep dive” into exploring who we have become after all the changes that have occurred in our lives both individually and in society. This year has a focus on many of the “r-words”: rest, restoration, recalibration, revaluation, reflection, and renewal. All of this applies to our emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual lives. It’s a good year for planning, organizing, and finishing up projects.
Although this description may sound like a solitary year, that isn’t necessarily the case. 7 Universal Years are often a time when we feel drawn to compassionately help others. However, whatever we choose to do with our energy needs to be based on our personal values and not on what is “the right thing to do.” Part of this year is learning to trust ourselves and God/Source/Spirit at a deeper level.
Unfortunately, there is the potential for conflict during 7 Universal Years. On the one hand, the world often presses us to achieve and be active. However, 7 Universal Years encourages us to be introspective, self-reflective, and self-focused (which is different than being selfish). We will need to find a balance between external expectations/demands and our internal needs.
Here are some recommendations for making this year manageable:
- Take everything one step at a time
- Don’t feel a need to rush, especially when it comes to making important decisions
- Don’t isolate but do make time to be alone
- Learn to trust your intuitive hunches
- Create and engage in a regular spiritual practice
- Find ways to give to others that feed your soul and don’t deplete you
- Make time to explore what is true for you because this year is all about YOU!
In sum, keywords for 7 Universal Years include self-reflection, faith, spirituality, intuition, study, analysis, and philanthropy. It’s all about personal growth, but we do need to aim for balance this year. For example, we do need to find time to engage socially and give back, but it’s essential that we allow time for introspection, spiritual connections, and personal development. Also, our analytical mind is a great asset, but this year we need to learn that the “right” answer for us may come through intuitively and not through logic.
Looking ahead: A 7 Universal Year is about taking care of and healing our inner world so we are ready for an 8 Universal Year. 8 Universal Years are often intense. Everything is amped up when it comes to power, control, achievement, advancement, and recognition. If we do the work of the 7 Universal Year, then we will be ready to take full advantage of the amazing opportunities that will be coming our way in 2024!
WRITTEN BY
- Anne Reith, Ph.D.©
THIS FULL MOON
Full Moon at 16°21’ of Cancer
- Friday, January 6, 2023, 3:07 p.m. PST
- Friday, January 6, 2023, 6:07 p.m. EST
- Friday, January 6, 2023, 11:07 p.m. GMT
IMPACT OF ANY MOON EVENT
- All New Moons and Full Moons influence us for the 3 days before, the day of, and 3 days after the actual event.
RELATED LINKS
- Anne’s Astrology Readings
- Training and mentoring sessions with Anne
- Anne’s Blog (Including additional posts about Astrological information)
- Anne’s Astrology courses
- Complete list of classes and workshops offered through IMPART
- Testimonials and reviews
- IMPART’s online Store
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Be sure to Join Anne’s Online Community to receive:
- New & Full Moon Reports.
- Announcements about class offerings, new Blog posts, and new online products when they become available.
- If you have additional questions, feel free to email us at Anne@AnneReith.com or call (714) 599-0017.
Visit our Facebook page to receive Anne Reith’s daily inspirational quotes and announcements.
By Anne Reith, Ph.D.