Winter Solstice 2024: Reflect, Release, and Realign

Happy Winter Solstice! Today, we honor the longest night of the year and celebrate the return of the light. Astrologically, this marks the Sun’s entry into Capricorn—a time of grounding, reflection, and setting intentions for steady progress in the months ahead. As we shift seasons, this is an opportunity to pause, take stock of our growth, and plan for the future.

Let’s dive into what the astrology of this solstice is all about and how you can work with its energy.

Astrological Highlights of the Solstice

At 2:41 AM MST, the Sun entered Capricorn and made some powerful connections to other celestial players. Here’s what’s lighting up this solstice chart:

The Sun in Capricorn: Steady Progress and Building Foundations

Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, is all about responsibility, discipline, and long-term success. This solstice invites us to reflect on what truly matters, focus on our goals, and commit to building a solid foundation for the year ahead.

Capricorn energy isn’t about quick fixes or shortcuts—it’s about steady, intentional progress, even when the work feels tough.

Sun Square the Nodes: Karmic Lessons Coming Full Circle

The Sun at 0° Capricorn forms a square to the North and South Nodes at 2° Aries and Libra. This brings up themes from the past 18 months when the nodes first shifted into these signs.

It’s a moment to reflect on how we’ve been learning to:

• Speak our truth and live authentically (Aries North Node).
• Release toxic dynamics or relationships that hold us back (Libra South Node).
• Find balance between honoring our own needs and considering the needs of others.

This solstice encourages us to integrate those lessons and move forward with courage, self-awareness, and balance.

Sun Square Neptune: Letting Go of Illusions

The Sun also forms an out-of-sign square to Neptune in Pisces at 27°. This energy asks us to release ego-driven fears and embrace the interconnectedness of all things. While the Aries North Node calls us to individuality, Neptune reminds us that we’re part of a greater whole.

This can feel like a paradox—being fully yourself while dissolving the ego—but the deeper lesson is understanding that we are everything and nothing all at once.

Pluto in Aquarius: Transformation and Belonging

Pluto at 0° Aquarius is trine the North Node and sextile the South Node, amplifying the energy of transformation. Aquarius is about innovation, individuality, and contributing to the greater collective. Pluto’s influence here highlights:

• Shifting power dynamics, both in relationships and societal structures.
• Embracing our uniqueness while finding ways to make an impact on the world.
• Redefining what it means to belong in a way that honors our authenticity.

Saturn in Pisces: Boundaries and Responsibility

Saturn, the ruler of Capricorn, is sitting at 13° Pisces. It’s reminding us to:

• Set healthy boundaries, especially in emotional or spiritual matters.
• Take responsibility for what’s truly ours while releasing what isn’t.
• Reevaluate where we’ve built walls that no longer serve us.

Saturn is also square Jupiter retrograde in Gemini, challenging us to review old belief systems, missed opportunities, or information that might be ready for a second look.

Chart Patterns: Adapting to Change

This solstice chart features some powerful aspect patterns that reflect the complexity of this moment.

• Mutable Grand Cross: With Saturn, Jupiter, the Moon in Virgo, and Mercury in Sagittarius, this configuration invites us to adapt and grow. It challenges us to bridge the gap between spiritual ideals and practical action.
• Grand Trine: Lilith in Libra, Jupiter in Gemini, and Venus in Aquarius encourage us to embrace our shadow and show up authentically, darkness and all.
• Mystic Rectangle: This supportive configuration, involving Pluto, Mars, Neptune, and the Nodes, brings harmony to the transformational work we’re doing. It reminds us that even amidst challenges, there’s sweetness and support available.

How to Work with This Energy

The Winter Solstice is a time to go inward, reflect, and plant seeds for the future. Here are some practical ways to harness this energy:

1. Reflect on the Past Year: What lessons have you learned about yourself and your relationships? How can you integrate those lessons as you move forward?
2. Set Intentions: Use Capricorn’s energy to create realistic, grounded goals. Focus on what’s sustainable and meaningful.
3. Release What No Longer Serves You: Neptune’s influence invites you to let go of illusions, fears, or outdated patterns.
4. Connect with Your Tribe: Pluto in Aquarius asks us to find our place within the collective while honoring our individuality.

Rising Sign Insights: How This Solstice Shows Up for You

Here’s how the solstice energy might play out for your rising sign. Use these insights to align your goals and intentions.

• Aries Rising: Focus on career and public image. Set long-term goals and evaluate your relationships for mutual support.
• Taurus Rising: Reflect on your beliefs and worldview. Explore new perspectives and release limiting ideas.
• Gemini Rising: Deep emotional or financial transformation is on the horizon. Prioritize healing and shared resources.
• Cancer Rising: Relationships take center stage. Balance your needs with others and establish clear boundaries.
• Leo Rising: Health and daily routines are in focus. Create practical habits and release energy-draining obligations.
• Virgo Rising: Embrace creativity and self-expression. Let go of perfectionism and honor your unique talents.
• Libra Rising: Home and family dynamics come into focus. Build emotional security and create healthy boundaries.
• Scorpio Rising: Communication and learning are key. Speak your truth and release outdated ideas or toxic patterns.
• Sagittarius Rising: Finances and self-worth are highlighted. Reevaluate your resources and align them with your values.
• Capricorn Rising: Personal identity and self-image are transforming. Step into your power and embrace your authenticity.
• Aquarius Rising: Spirituality and rest take priority. Reflect, release, and recharge.
• Pisces Rising: Community and friendships are in focus. Connect with like-minded individuals and let go of unaligned relationships.

Final Thoughts

This Winter Solstice is a powerful time to reflect, release, and realign. It asks us to embrace who we are, let go of what’s holding us back, and create a foundation for lasting growth. The energy of Capricorn reminds us that meaningful change happens slowly and steadily, one step at a time.

Take this moment to go inward, honor your journey, and set intentions for how you want to move forward. The universe is supporting you every step of the way.

What are your intentions for this season? Let me know in the comments!