After the intense psychological depths of Scorpio season, the Sun’s move into Sagittarius on December 15th arrives like a breath of fresh air. In my nearly four decades of practice, I have observed how clients emerge from Scorpio’s transformational waters often feeling emotionally wrung out—and Sagittarius brings that welcome return of Christmas joy and optimism right when we need it most.
Sagittarius is the natural 9th sign of the zodiac, connected to dharma, higher education, philosophy, long-distance travel, father figures, and gurus. While it is a place where we turn to the Divine after the tumultuous journey through Scorpio, it is not necessarily a passive place. The Sagittarius Centaur is the only zodiacal sign with a weapon—the bow and arrow of the archer—reminding us that this sign fights for what is right. Jupiter owns Sagittarius, and when the Sun transits here, it channels Jupiter’s expansive, wise, and optimistic energy, supporting right action and the restoration of law and order.
The Saturn Square: Reality Check Before Expansion (Dec. 16th)
The Sun barely settles into Sagittarius before Saturn in Pisces throws a square aspect, peaking on December 16th. Saturn cuts off the energy of the Sun and restricts its ability to shine. You may feel lonely, cut-off, or face demands for responsibility before any expansion can occur. On an emotional level, Saturn afflicting the Sun can hurt confidence and bring on heaviness or even mild depression. This is a time to be disciplined about your meditation practice and yoga—these lighten the burden and give us more strength to deal with everything. The tendency is to skip that which is good for us when we are challenged, but that’s like taking off a winter coat when it’s below zero. Be patient with yourself around Dec. 15–18 as this energy builds and releases. Once this square passes, you’ll have much more freedom to embrace Sagittarian optimism.
New Moon in Sagittarius (Dec. 19th, 8:43 PM)
The New Moon on December 19th offers a fresh lunar cycle to set intentions around Sagittarian themes—belief, higher learning, spiritual practice, travel, and connecting with teachers. Plant seeds for growth now.
The Nakshatra Journey
The Sun travels through three nakshatras. In Moola (Dec. 15–28 approximately), we encounter the Galactic Center—a giant black hole that can suck one into deep mystical experience, but also take away material comforts to point us toward God. Late December through early January brings Purva Ashadha, the nakshatra of invincibility and victory. Finally, from Jan. 8–14, Uttara Ashadha carries themes of lasting leadership and universal goals.
Mars Conjunct Sun (Jan. 6th)
On January 6th, Mars conjoins the Sun in Sagittarius. Mars does not become as vulnerable to combustion because fire does not extinguish fire. Still, depending on other aspects involved, this can increase volatility and blow out Mars with too much firepower. Channel this energy into purposeful action rather than angry outbursts. This is powerful energy for taking decisive action on dharmic matters—just watch the temper.
Business and Growth
For those in business, this month supports expansion after the Saturn square passes. Jupiter rules Sagittarius and governs sectors connected to publishing, education, and marketing. The Sun brings confidence and leadership to business ventures—good energy for launching initiatives from December 20th onward.
The US and Collective Themes
The United States is a Sagittarius rising country. Around December 21st, the Sun crosses the nation’s ascendant, highlighting our collective choice between higher dharmic purpose and conflict.
Rising Sign Snapshot
Sagittarius: personal rebirth. Capricorn: spiritual retreat. Aquarius: gains and friendships. Pisces: career visibility. Aries: fortune and teachers. Taurus: transformation. Gemini: partnerships. Cancer: health and service. Leo: creativity. Virgo: home and heart. Libra: communications. Scorpio: finances.
Embrace this season. Without Jupiter and hope, we can be lost in suffering.
