MARCIA SACKS

The first full moon of the year is on January 1, 2018, 8:24 p.m. CST. at 11° Cancer.  The full moon in this sign is great for enjoying things having to do with home and family. This full moon is trine to Neptune so excellent for taking time for meditation, reflection, guided imagery and paying attention to your dreams.

Uranus is station direct on January 2 at 24° Aries with a week on either side of this date for the effect.  One positive phrase for this is "creative insights."  Keep a pen and paper handy to right down all your ideas no matter how far out they seem.  If not written down, they may be ephemeral, easily lost among the multitude of thoughts racing through your mind at this time.

The phrase that embodies the challenge of Uranus is "sudden, unexpected change of plan."  Remember that humans are generally good problem solvers. Take a deep breath, be flexible and find the "creative insight" to make things better.

What about New Year's resolutions you ask?  Resolve to be happy!  Here is a reprint of an article I wrote for The Monthly Aspectarian back in 1998 which describes some perils, pitfalls and opportunities for success with your resolutions:

​The new moon is always our Earth's Moon making its monthly conjunction with the Sun (by longitude, as seen from Earth).  This time it's part of a lineup of five planets in the sign Sagittarius, at 26° on December 18, 2017, 12:30 a.m. central time.

Sagittarius energy is enthusiastic, idealistic and philosophical, perfect for getting into the spirit of whatever holidays you observe.  Do things that give you joy.  Be generous in the things that give joy to others.

Saturn is sitting at the end of the stellium right up against the new moon.  This is not a time to take on new responsibilities.  No matter how guilty you might feel about all the things you think you should be doing, it is the time to keep things simple, at least until several days after Mercury goes direct on December 22. 

Key technique for this new moon:  Intensifying Your Happiness

As you go through your daily life or your holiday activities over the next two weeks, use as much conscious awareness as possible to  be grateful and enjoy the good things around you. 

If you're sitting in a comfortable chair, spend a minute to appreciate the chair's comfort and support.  If you take a bite of chocolate or your favorite food, say "Mmmmmmm!"  If you see someone you love, smile and feel the joy rising. 

​Whatever good emotions you have, put a little extra energy or attention into them.  In this way you change your inner state from joy to greater joy.