The fixed winter moon (Feb. 1) finds itself in the air element, this time around in the sign of the water bearer. But, what does that mean? Anytime the moon is in conjunction with the sun, we have a new moon. The entirety of the moon is “hidden” or “invisible” in the night sky during this lunar transit. Speaking to energy, the new moon in every lunar cycle marks a period of anticipation, initiation, manifestation, and often, heightened intuition and emotions. This new moon will be in Aquarius which is ruled by the sign of Uranus (and Saturn) and associated with the eleventh house (11H) in astrology, which makes this a great time to focus on our independence, relations to the community, freedom, and also what we feel to be our restrictions.
The moon in Aquarius
Aquarius is a fixed sign (occurs in the middle of the winter season) in the air element. Aquarius characteristics include intelligence, humanitarianism, independence, creativity, and tolerance among many other things. The new moon falling in this sign will bring in an energy that makes us feel like we are finally breaking free and able to move forward in anticipation of achieving our goals. So, don’t be surprised if you have a sudden feeling of curiosity and motivation sweep over in the next couple of weeks. Since the new moon is also a time that aligns with manifestation, we may also find ourselves making new connections, starting new projects, and exploring new places, and possibly even planting seeds of foundation for relocating to a new space or area.
Aquarius belongs to the air element, which encompasses all things dealing with the mind and communication. This Aquarius new moon prompts us to clear our heads, lend an innovative approach to our process(es), and proceed with a logical approach. We can also attribute this to a square aspect the moon makes to Uranus (in Taurus). Uranus transits are often associated with sudden, and unexpected changes as the planet governs this area in our lives (looking at your natal Uranus placement can give you an idea of how you may experience these themes throughout your life). We will also have Mercury stationing direct (Capricorn) and eventually moving back into the same sign. Current Uranus and Mercury energies paired with the Aquarius new moon will push us into the space of figuring out what’s next and how to make it happen.
The Aquarius new moon also makes a trine aspect to Venus (stations direct on Jan. 29) in Capricorn. The direct energies of both Venus and Mercury give this lunar transit and the cycle following it a positive and progressive tone. Venus governs the main themes of finance, love, and aesthetic in our lives. The easy energetic flow associated with the trine to the new moon can produce some new and unexpected[Uranus] financial opportunities such as a promotion or possibly a payment from an unknown or unlikely source. This trine will also help us see a return of our efforts start to manifest in tangible ways. The most enjoyable element to this aspect will be the overall positivity and lightheartedness that we haven’t seen over the past month while the moon was in the Capricorn cycle. As this is a time of manifestation and cultivation, any projects you start, or connections you make will most likely start to show a return of your efforts around the middle of the Leo lunar year July/August).
Aquarius new moon rituals
Intentions are a great way to manifest the things you want to see in your life. It is important to remember that the new moon marks the beginning of the a lunar cycle therefore, intentions should be focused on bringing in something new. Write intentions with phrases like “I can,” “I do,” and “I am” related to the Aquarian energy of this lunar transit. You can write your intentions in a new moon notebook, so that you can reference them later on in the year. Another way to tap into this new moons’ vibes is by working with the air element. Take a few moments to stand under the night sky and breathe in some fresh air…just make sure you wear a jacket — we are in the middle of winter.
New moons and full moons are a great time to get in touch and in tune with our spiritual energy, sometimes called our “higher selves. ”Working with colors, scents, and stones associated with the Aquarius zodiac energy is one of the best ways to make the most of the spiritual tools you have available. Aquarius colors include different shades of blues and green — aqua and teal are good colors for this zodiac sign. Crisp and clean smells are best to work with for this particular moon. A few stones that you can work with during the next couple of weeks are: Angelite, Aquamarine, Amethyst, Indigo Aura Quartz, and Ruby Zoisite. You can either place these stones around you, wear or carry them, or meditate with them to get the full effects of their healing properties.
Don’t forget about Cancer…and get ready for Leo!
We are starting a new lunar cycle however we did have a Cancer full moon a couple of weeks ago (Jan. 17). While the Cancer themes will be a lot less intense moving away from that lunar transit, some residual energy will linger for about two weeks, or until we have the full moon in Leo. You can also use the first couple of weeks in February to pair your Cancer full moon rituals with some Aquarius new moon tools. A good way to mix in Cancer energy is to add a couple of stones to your Aquarius collection. A few Cancer stones you could use are: Carnelian, Ethiopian Opal, Green Calcite, Rainbow Moonstone, and Red Jasper. You can also incorporate the water element into your rituals by putting yourself in some water (if it’s warm where you are) or taking a spiritual bath.
The Aquarius moon energy will stay with us for about a month, or until we have the Pisces new moon (Mar. 2). The strength of the effects will be more prominent during the new moon shadow periods, which are typically about three to four days before and after the new moon. We will be working gradually on understanding, communication, our community connections, and breaking free of any restrictions hindering us from achieving our goals. This lunar transit will primarily affect individuals with natal Aquarius moon placements, specifically in 12 degrees or within the orb (six to seven degrees). People with a lot of Aquarius, fixed, and air in their chart(s) can expect for this to be a transformative time, even if it not clearly evident at a conscious level. Additionally, anywhere you find these placements in your chart can give you a hint as to what this full moon might bring in for you based on the surrounding planets, houses, and aspects.
