Vedic Astrology Update

December’s major astrological event begins on December 6, 2024 when Mars, planet of action, begins its extraordinarily long retrograde phase in the sign of Cancer. Saturn in Aquarius aspects the Sun in Scorpio exactly on December 3 and 4. Mercury, planet of communications, continues its retrograde phase in Scorpio until December 15, 2024, and opposes benefic retrograde Jupiter in Taurus. The winter solstice occurs on December 21, 2024.

Saturn transits the sign of Aquarius and aspects the Sun in Scorpio through December 15, 2024. The exact influence of Saturn on the Sun occurs on December 3 and 4, when both are 18 degrees. Saturn/Sun energies can bring up imbalances of energy or power, personally or on a global scale. This is a time to discover and realize our true identity and develop equanimity and peaceful interactions with others.

Mars goes retrograde once every two years, and usually lasts about 11 weeks. This important shift begins on December 6, 2024 when Mars turns retrograde at 11 degrees Cancer, its sign of debility. During this long retrograde phase, Mars will eventually travel back to the sign of Gemini on January 20, 2025, and finally goes direct on February 23, 2025 at 22 degrees Gemini.

While Mars, planet of assertiveness, action, energy, and anger is retrograde, we are asked to examine how we deal with our inner conflicts and frustrations. We can experience lack of direction, built-up tensions, exhaustion, or even misdirected anger. Mars retrograde periods are useful in helping us to understand how we may have sabotaged our actions and plans in the past. Review your personal goals now and make any needed adjustments for the future, when Mars is out of retrograde.

With Mars retrograde, we may not feel our usual energy or have the stamina needed to complete an action or rise to the challenges at hand. Mars retrograde periods can make us less inclined to take action, and we can wait until the last minute in order to respond to a situation. Instead, uncover your authentic desires and find your inner passion. Use the powerful Mars quality of courage and fearlessness to overcome spiritual obstacles and challenges.

Mars is debilitated in the water sign of Cancer, a sign that rules home, family, security, and deep emotions. We may feel especially sensitive and can be more defensive than usual in these areas in our life. At times, we may feel powerless or want to avoid our true feelings. It is good to occasionally unplug from the internet and social media to decrease any excessive mental/emotional stimulus in order to feel a sense of neutrality, peace, and calm. Increase your yoga and meditation practices, get bodywork done, or take a peaceful walk in nature – all helpful remedies.

With greater awareness, you can use this time constructively to uncover and heal the sources of stress and anxiety. Be with those you love and who support you. Practice mindfulness, observe your feelings, and come from a more neutral place with compassion. This transit teaches us the quality of humility in order to relate well with all beings, without pride or excessive ego.

Mercury transits the sign of Scorpio a long time, due to being retrograde since November 25. Mercury will exactly oppose retrograde Jupiter in Taurus two times in December. As Mercury and Jupiter are two benefic educational planets, and are influencing each other a longer time than usual, intellectual or creative pursuits can be a big focus or interest now. The first opposition occurs on December 3 when both Mercury and Jupiter are retrograde at 22 degrees. Mercury then goes direct mid-month, on December 15, 2024. On December 26 Jupiter retrograde and Mercury again oppose each other exactly at 19 degrees. Conversations with others can be enlightening or inspirational. We desire greater insight into life. This is also a positive time for involvement in group meditations for global well-being.

Winter officially begins in the northern hemisphere with the winter solstice occurring on Saturday, December 21, 2024. This day has the fewest hours of sunlight, and so is the longest night of the year. At this time of the year we naturally turn inward. The winter solstice is an exceptional and sacred day for inner reflection, self-examination, meditation, and prayer. This is a positive time to express gratitude, generosity, and connect with those we love. Take some quiet time to set meaningful intentions for the coming new year.

Debra Infante is a practicing Vedic Astrologer and teacher. She began her studies of Vedic astrology in 1995, and was certified by the American College of Vedic Astrology as an approved teacher (Level I) in September 1999. She taught Vedic Astrology to students in yoga teacher trainings at 7 Centers Yoga Arts in Sedona from 2002 to 2020.