A week for sorting
After the solstice and the full moon, this week opens with a different rhythm. The Moon is on its way to the last part of its cycle and is thereby losing more and more light. In the symbolism of astrology that is a time for pruning. For Geminis, who like to pick up many things at once, it is an invitation to decide which subjects may come along into the coming year.
Consider a practical example: you have a list of books, courses, plans and stories that you once wanted to share. Choose three you now genuinely intend to explore and place the rest in a folder labelled 'later'. That may feel like a loss, but it often gives more room than you expect. Curiosity, after all, also needs boundaries if it is to remain fruitful.
Jupiter in Leo and Uranus in Gemini are in retrograde according to the calendar. Read that as an invitation to look again at old ideas, not as a warning. You may discover an angle you previously overlooked.
Love, friendship and honest conversations
If you have a partner, this week you may use the time to have a conversation that has been stirring for longer. It need not be heavy. Begin with an open question such as 'What has been occupying you most this week?' and listen until the end. Geminis often interrupt out of enthusiasm, but a longer silence can reveal far more than a quick reaction.
For those on their own, the theme of friendship may take centre stage. Perhaps you have an acquaintance whom you have long wanted to invite for a walk or a coffee. Send one concrete proposal rather than a vague invitation. In that way you prevent the contact from remaining stuck in loose messages.
The last quarter on 30 December in Libra may help you find balance between giving and receiving. You could ask yourself: who leaves me feeling more energised after a conversation, and who leaves me feeling drained? That question is not a judgement, but a compass.
Work, study and direction for January
For those who work or study, this week is suitable for sketching the first outlines of the new year. With Mercury in Capricorn, as the calendar shows since 25 December, the focus may lie on structure, arrangements and goals that are realistic. Begin with one goal that you can test within three months, for example finishing a presentation or getting a new skill in order.
For those looking for work, this may be a week to review an application or profile calmly. Ask a trusted person to read one sentence and say what becomes most clearly evident about you. Feedback of that kind often gives more direction than long lists of tips.
Leave room for unexpected messages, but choose deliberately which ones you reply to. A useful conversation is one in which both parties take something concrete away.
Rest around the turn of the year
This concerns general wellbeing, not medical advice. The transition to a new year often brings a mixture of tiredness, busyness and expectations. Geminis can switch quickly in such times and forget to pause. Plan two moments of genuine rest this week: a walk in daylight and an evening without screens.
Enjoyable movement can be a sociable activity, such as skating on a safe rink, cycling together or a brisk walk with friends. Choose something your body finds pleasant and that suits your fitness. The point is enjoyment and regularity, not performance.
Also notice your sleep rhythm around the turn of the year. Small habits, such as a fixed time to switch off the light, often help more than grand resolutions.
The lunar phases of the week
On 28 December the Moon is in Virgo in a waning gibbous phase, with 74.5 per cent illumination according to the calendar. On 29 December the Moon remains in Virgo at 64.2 per cent. These are observations from the calendar; the meaning we attach to them is a personal, creative reading.
On 30 December at 20:00 Dutch time the last quarter follows in Libra. In astrological imagery, that is a moment for adjusting and looking honestly at relationships and arrangements. On 31 December the Moon is in Libra with 43.2 per cent illumination, and on 1 January in Scorpio with 33.4 per cent. On 2 January the Moon is still in Scorpio at 24.5 per cent, and on 3 January at 16.7 per cent.
Use the days of the waning moon as a calm time for letting go. Write down one thing you do not take into the new year and one thing you particularly want to keep.
Astrological interpretation for inspiration and self-reflection. Not a medical diagnosis or personal health advice.