As I do at the beginning of each year, I will be covering (1) the current Moon Update, (2) a summary of major astrological influences during 2021, and (3) a forecast for the year 2021 from a numerological perspective.
I hope that 2021 is a year filled with peace, growth, healing, love, and laughter for all of us! Happy New Year!!
Full Moon in Cancer
In the Pacific Time Zone, the Moon will be full at 7:28 p.m. on Tuesday, December 29. 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 9° of Capricorn and 9° 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.
Full Moons ask us to review how things are going in the two signs that are involved in the opposition. With this one, we are being given an opportunity to check in on the balance between our family and home base (Moon in Cancer) and our career and accomplishments (Sun in Capricorn). These two signs have very different approaches to the world: (a) Cancer is very nurturing, emotional, sensitive, and intuitive, whereas (b) Capricorn tends to be very serious, practical, disciplined, and responsible. Both areas of our lives are important, as are both approaches. Therefore, the question is whether we have a good balance between the two signs. If there’s an imbalance, now is the time to make some adjustments.
As is true with all New or Full Moons, the planets that form geometric patterns to the Sun and the Moon (i.e., “aspects”) provide us with insights into how each lunar event will play out. In many ways, this Cancer Full Moon is a “head versus heart” or a “logic versus intuition” scenario. Neither is wrong; in fact, the best approach right now is to use all of these gifts and abilities as we navigate the time around the Full Moon.
However, it is important to point out that the Moon is powerfully positioned in its home sign of Cancer, which means that the emphasis might be slightly more on the emotional and intuitive side of the equation than the other way around. Although it’s important to incorporate all the information that we are gathering at the time of this Full Moon, insights that come from our intuition, our gut, and/or our heart should definitely not be ignored.
Let’s take a closer look at this head versus heart balance, while providing some additional insights into how to navigate this time period:
- As was true with the New Moon in Sagittarius on December 14, Mercury is again conjunct (0°) the Sun in Capricorn. But given this is a Full Moon, that means Mercury isn’t conjunct the Moon; instead, it’s in opposition (180°) to it. Oppositions always require finding a balance between both approaches. Mercury represents logic, and the Moon (especially when it is located in its own sign) represents emotions and intuition. Unfortunately, finding balance between the head (Mercury) and heart (Moon) may be a bit challenging right now. Full Moons tend to be emotional times, and they also can bring out the lower expressions of all the planets and signs. Therefore, in addition to feeling more emotional and sensitive than usual, the lower expression of Mercury in Capricorn can include being judgmental. Our challenge, then, is to follow the guidance provided in the last Moon Update: Because Jupiter and Saturn are now located in Aquarius, we all need to deepen our understanding that everyone has a right to their opinions, even when they differ from our own. We need to keep judgments out of the picture while still honoring our own beliefs and values.
- And yes, Jupiter and Saturn are now in Aquarius. This provides us with more objectivity than when these planets were located in Capricorn. Although the focus of Aquarius can be on serving and being responsible for humanity, it’s also a fixed air sign. This means that thoughts (air) can sometimes get stuck or rigid (fixed), which can, again, increase the chance of being judgmental. Luckily, having the emotional Moon in its home sign of Cancer will help. But, this again reminds us that it is best to use both our mental abilities (Aquarius) and our emotions/intuition (Moon in Cancer) to solve any perceived problems.
- As was also the case during the last Moon Update, the North Node and the South Node are still squaring (90°) Neptune. However, unlike last time, the squares are so close that they are now considered “exact.” Additionally, Venus is in an exact conjunct (0°) to the South Node, which means it’s also in an exact opposition (180°) to the North Node, and an exact square (90°) to Neptune. In other words, this is a very powerful t-square (i.e., right triangle). Venus and Neptune are both planets associated with love, which is an emotion. And, intuitive Neptune is located in its ruler Pisces, which is an emotional water sign. All of this, again, emphasizes that emotions/intuition will be important. It could also be that our past (South Node) provides us with insights about how to move forward (North Node). Given the conjunct between the South Node and Venus, this may mean taking a serious (Capricorn) look at our past (South Node) relationships and/or finances (Venus), especially if something needs to change in order to allow us to take those steps into a new future (North Node).
Luckily, making any changes around the time of the Cancer Full Moon will be made easier by Uranus forming a trine (120°) to the Sun/Mercury pairing and a sextile (60°) to the Moon. Uranus is the planet most often associated with change, and having it as a prominent player in this Full Moon means that we can expect the unexpected. However, these supportive aspects (i.e., sextile, trine) can help us be more adaptable than we might normally be. Additionally, it’s important to remember that Uranus can bring intuitive insights that may be hard to explain logically but are very valid.
At the time of the Cancer Full Moon, Uranus is also squaring (90°) both Jupiter and Saturn in Aquarius. Uranus represents change and squares mean a change in direction is needed. As you may have noticed, we have a pattern emerging; namely, change is definitely coming! Our last Moon Update discussed the significance of Jupiter and Saturn changing signs from Capricorn to Aquarius. I encourage everyone to read (or review) this important blog post so you can truly understand the importance of this shift for us personally and collectively. (NOTE: Interpretive information about the squares between (a) Jupiter and Uranus and (b) Saturn and Uranus is provided below in the section about major astrological influences during 2021.)
Chiron, the Wounded Healer, is also actively involved in this Cancer Full Moon. Chiron is squaring (90°) the Sun and Moon, but it is also in sweet sextiles (60°) to Jupiter and Saturn. The squares could result in increased feelings of vulnerability and/or questioning our decisions. However, rather than back down or hide, it is important now to assert our desires and not mindlessly follow the guidance of others in order to please someone else. Support for standing up for ourselves is provided by the sextiles. We may also find it’s easier than usual to free ourselves from negative attitudes or to be more open to new, progressive philosophies or ways of behaving.
The theme of change that began in December continues into the first part of the new year as 3 planets change signs:
- On Wednesday, January 6, Mars (finally!!) moves out of Aries and into Taurus, where it will remain until March 3. Over the past six months, most of us have been acutely aware that Mars has been powerfully moving through its home sign of Aries. It took longer than usual to change signs due to going retrograde within the sign of Aries. (NOTE: For those who have been reading my blog posts, you will understand when I say that we are finally done with all the firecrackers!) Unfortunately, Mars isn’t particularly comfortable in the sign of the bull. Mars likes to MOVE FAST, and Taurus prefers to MOVE SLOWLY! So, after six months of GO, GO, GO in Aries, the shift into Taurus can feel like slamming on the breaks. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. While Mars was in Aries, we had to work on controlling our impulsivity. That won’t be the case while in Taurus. Although Mars in Taurus can be stubborn, overly passive, or even resistant to change, our actions usually become slow, determined, and patient. We want to do things that will have long-lasting implications, and we are willing to pursue our goals doggedly. Changes now may not be fast-paced or exciting, but they will be sustainable. Whenever possible, we prefer taking peaceful actions that bring more beauty into our world.
- On Friday, January 8, Mercury joins Jupiter and Saturn in Aquarius. Although usually Mercury remains in a sign for only 3 weeks, it will have an extended stay in Aquarius due to going retrograde from January 30 to February 20. In fact, it will be in Aquarius for over two months and won’t move into Pisces until March 15. Luckily, Mercury usually enjoys the mental energy and stimulation of this air sign. While in Aquarius, we become eager to learn, especially if the information is new or unique. This is a time when we are definitely more than willing to “think outside the box.” We do tend to be less emotional and more objective. We can also be a bit fragmented in our thoughts and communication. But it should be noted that Uranus is the ruler of Aquarius, which again emphasizes that change is coming.
- On the same day (Friday, January 8), Venus moves into Capricorn, and it will be located in that sign until February 1. When Venus is in Cap, it’s a time of year when we need to get serious and face our responsibilities, especially regarding our relationships and finances. We may find that we form very solid, long-lasting relationships or make financial investments that will support our future endeavors in some way. Although we may be a little “slow to warm” with others, this is because we want to be sure they are going to be steadfast and reliable before we open our heart to them about our desires.
Overall, this Cancer Full Moon is providing us with important guidance as we enter a new era in our personal and societal evolution. Change is coming, and our best approach during the Full Moon is to strive for balance between mental/logical and intuitive/emotional perspectives. If we can do this, then we may be able to move forward into our future less encumbered by the past. Several supportive aspects to Uranus indicate that we may be feeling more confident (Sun) about our ability to make any needed changes (Uranus). Additionally, with the strong presence of the Moon in its home sign, it may be that we are able to emotionally adjust to any unexpected events or changes (Uranus). However, having the Moon in Cancer and due to the squares to Chiron (the Wounded Healer), we may feel vulnerable at certain times. If we notice this happening, it will likely be helpful to pull inward to check in with our inner child. If we take the time to ask and listen to this valuable (but often wounded) part of ourselves, he or she may be able to provide us with insights about what triggered us in the first place. We may also gain insights into what we need in order to come out of our shell and re-enter the world.
Major Astrological Influences during 2021
As the new year begins, I always do my best to summarize the astrological influences for the coming year. Here’s my annual sneak peek:
In general, we begin the year by continuing to adjust to Jupiter and Saturn moving out of Capricorn and into Aquarius. Without belaboring the impact, I refer you to the last Moon Update to understand the momentous shift that this is bringing to humanity. Although it will take time for the changes to unfold, it will alter the way in which we individually and collectively approach problems. Some are referring to this as “The Great Awakening,” which is what many Lightworkers wanted to witness and participate in on the Earth plane.
Jupiter will be in Aquarius for 1 year (i.e., until December 2021), and Saturn will be in Aquarius for 2.5 years. This means that the entire year will be strongly influenced by Aquarian energy. This will likely increase our understanding that strength comes when we honor diversity, inclusion, and individual expression. Jupiter in Aquarius brings the urge to expand and share our gifts with the world. Saturn in Aquarius means that we each needs to make any necessary foundational shifts so we are free to share those gifts. Saturn is also telling us that we need to be responsible, committed, and disciplined in our pursuit of these goals. The Aquarian energy will bring new ideas, but then we need to use the disciple of Saturn to create durable structures that will survive.
Adding to the Aquarian focus during 2021, Mercury’s three annual retrograde periods will all occur in air signs: Aquarius (begins January 30), Gemini (begins May 29), and Libra (begins September 27). Due to the air focus, these retrograde periods will encourage all of us to review and revamp how we think and communicate (air). We may also question issues related to equality, freedom, objectivity, and fairness.
During the Cancer Full Moon, we are already feeling the impact of the first major aspect of 2021, which is a square (90°) between Jupiter and Uranus. This square will be exact on January 17, but it will impact us for several weeks before and after the actual event. This is not an easy alignment. Jupiter in Aquarius is telling us to be progressive and expansive; however, because Uranus is located in slow-moving Taurus, this can feel like the brakes are being applied. The shift of Mars into Taurus during January reinforces this feeling of deceleration rather than acceleration (see earlier interpretation). This slower pace is not meant to discourage us. Instead, it is designed to help, although I acknowledge that it may not feel that way. It’s only been a few days since Jupiter and Saturn moved into Aquarius and since the Grand Conjunction between Jupiter and Saturn on December 21 (see last Moon Update for interpretation). Although part of us wants to move quickly into “a whole new world,” we first need to spend time cleaning up the old before we shift into this new, progressive reality. Additionally, this slower pace gives us the time we need to clarify where we actually want expansion to occur in our lives, both personally and collectively. We may realize that our first impulse isn’t necessarily the best solution.
However, the dominating astrological influence of 2021 will be a series of squares (90°) between Saturn and Uranus. Due to Saturn going retrograde mid-year, these squares between Saturn and Uranus will occur 3 times. Although we will be impacted for several weeks before and after each meeting, they will be in an exact square on February 17, June 14, and December 24. Consequently, the Saturn-Uranus squares will be impacting us for the entire year!
What does this aspect represent? First, it’s important to understand that squares between Saturn and Uranus only occur every 22.5 years. Therefore, this is important! Unfortunately, these time periods have been challenging times, historically speaking. Squares are always difficult. They tell us that a change in direction is needed. But change is often difficult and even messy. Many people prefer the status quo and resist change.
Saturn represents the past and structure; Uranus represents change and the future. Specifically, squares between Saturn and Uranus often represent times when there are clashes between conservative and progressive ideologies. One group desires stability and the status quo (Saturn), while the other group seeks progressive movement and freedom from anything perceived to limit individuality (Uranus).
Ideally, the goal with this aspect is to find compromises and peaceful resolutions. When you think about it objectively, neither extreme is sustainable. We need both sides of the continuum. For example, we can’t get so stuck in our ways that we don’t grow and adapt with the changing times. However, if we are too progressive, then life can become ungrounded, fearful, and chaotic.
Unfortunately, from an historical perspective, this process has rarely been described as peaceful and compromises have been hard to come by. There tends to be an underlying tension that leaves people unsettled and uncertain. As issues come up, clashes occur between the two “camps.” Due to the involvement of Uranus, unexpected events (Uranus) have been known to occur that force us to look at ourselves differently and/or do something in a new, innovative way. Understandably, these same events that force “newness” also challenge the status quo (Saturn), which brings up resistance from more conservative factions.
This process is meant to help us come up with creative solutions, but it can be very frustrating for both groups, especially those who hold more extreme positions. Ultimately, those who seek a more conventional approach will need to stretch into unfamiliar territory; and those seeking change and increased freedom may not get as much as they hoped.
Whether we are talking about our personal lives or on a societal level, it can help to remember that we are all in this together and that we share similar needs. Respecting differences of opinion will be hard at times, but it is critical to a positive outcome. Our job as Lightworkers is to keep this in mind, be good role models, and do our very best to the calm eye of any hurricane swirling around us. (NOTE: I find it fascinating to see how accurate this interpretation is given the political conflicts currently unfolding in the United States. Pretty amazing!)
One final note about 2021: Every year, there are usually two “eclipse seasons.” During 2021, the first Solar and Lunar Eclipses will occur on May 26 and June 10, and the second pair of Eclipses will happen on November 19 and December 4. Eclipses always provide a powerful catalyst for change, and these are no exception. All 4 eclipses will be occurring on the Gemini-Sagittarius axis, and these are signs that focus on information, learning, and beliefs. Therefore, it’s likely we will be encouraged during 2021 to make shifts in how we think, communicate, and even view the world around us. Given everything described above regarding the squares between Saturn and Uranus, these shifts would seem to be a logical outcome!
Forecast According to Numerology in the Year 2021
For those interested in numerology, the year 2021 is a 5 Universal Year (i.e., 2020 = 2 + 0 + 2 + 1 = 5). Everyone on the planet is influenced by the energy of the Universal Year number, so it is a subtle, collective experience. I once heard it described 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, 2021, many of us may have already started to experience the waning influence of 2020’s 4 Universal Year and are beginning to feel the energy of a 5 Universal Year.
First, here’s a brief review of 2020’s 4 Universal Year: Although it may come through challenges, this tends to be a year of discipline, hard work, and growth. It’s a year in which great things can be manifested, if we are willing to put in the effort. (NOTE: Developing vaccines in less than a year would be a good example of this.) However, it’s also a year when many pull inward, slow down, focus on making foundational changes in our lives, and actively engage in our responsibilities and obligations. (NOTE: Due to the pandemic, many people unexpectedly slowed down, experienced radical changes to their lives, and/or had to take on additional responsibilities.) Another focus of 4 Universal Years is our home and family. It is often a time of healing in our homes because we are seeking stability, security, and practical solutions to our problems.
Now, let’s talk about shifting to 2021’s 5 Universal Year: 4 Universal Years are often seen as a time of preparation for the increased activities, unexpected occurrences, and profound transformations that are typical of 5 Universal Years. The number 5 in numerology is often associated with change. Having 2021 be a 5 Universal Year is perfectly aligned with everything mentioned above regarding the major astrological influences of 2021; namely, change is upon us! (NOTE: I have always believed there is a close relationship between the number 5 and the planet Uranus, which is a planet that will be very prominent during 2021.)
The primary keywords for 5 Universal Years are change and transformation. These years are often associated with exploring new ideas and fearlessly pushing past boundaries as we seek more freedom. Similar to the energy of Uranus, this is a year to expect the unexpected. For some, this type of energy can be exciting – even exhilarating. For others, it can feel threatening and overwhelming. But it is true that everyone during a 5 Universal Year will be more willing to take risks and try something new. This can result in dramatic shifts in our lives, both personally and on a societal level.
However, there needs to be a balance between change and stability. I saw one author give the example that someone can’t have financial freedom unless the person is willing to earn money and then invest wisely so he or she can eventually have the funds available to be financially free. The same logic can apply to almost all areas of human existence. For example, if someone wants the freedom of owning their own business, then that person has to be willing to put in the time, energy, and money to create, run, and maintain the business. Both change and stability are important for success, so balance will be key!
Summary
Overall, I think you will agree that there is a great deal of overlap between the astrological and numerological forecasts for 2021. Change seems inevitable, so we would all do well to embrace this process rather than fear it. The Law of Attraction reminds us that we draw to us similar energy; therefore, if we approach this year with fear, then fearful things will be drawn into our experience. Therefore, it will be helpful if we can find ways to approach new things with curiosity, humor, and an open mind. Be willing to experiment and learn new things. It’s also important to remember to use our critical thinking skills to determine if a specific change is wise and sustainable. Change simply for the sake of change is never advisable.
2020 has seen our world completely turned upside down in many ways. It makes sense that the process of change would continue into 2021. The world we enter in 2022 may be radically different, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. From a numerological perspective, the year 2022 is a 6 Universal Year. Keywords for 6 Universal Years are family, relationships, responsibility, balance, harmony, nurturing, warmth, love, and healing. It’s usually a time when we get to hunker down and adjust to all the changes of the previous 5 Universal Year. So, hang in there . . . we will make it together!!
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THIS BLOG POST WAS WRITTEN BY
- Anne Reith, Ph.D. (AnneReith.com)
- For information about Dr. Reith’s downloadable eBooks and meditations, feel free to visit her online Store
SOME INFORMATION TAKEN FROM
- The Mountain Astrologer (magazine)
- Various online sources (e.g., www.cafeastrology.com)
REMINDER
- New Moons and Full Moons often influence us for the 3 days before and 3 days after the actual event.
FULL MOON
Full Moon at 9° of Cancer
- Tuesday, December 29, 2020, 7:28 p.m. PST
- Tuesday, December 29, 2020, 10:28 p.m. EST
- Tuesday, December 30, 2020, 3:28 a.m. GMT