What to expect, cosmically, from the last winter solstice of the decade

By the end of the week, on Saturday, December 21, 11:19 p.m., EST, the sun moves from bold and blunt Sagittarius into stern and stoic Capricorn, heralding the official change of seasons. The northern hemisphere’s winter solstice of 2019 happens when the sun’s most direct light reaches the Tropic of Capricorn. This isn’t because the sun itself is moving, but rather we, on planet Earth, are hurling through space and traveling in a new quadrant of the sky in a new season, relating differently to the sun.

In the north, this night marks the longest of the year. And with temperatures dropping, calls increase to get cozy indoors, making winter the ideal time to restore what Traditional Chinese Medicine would refer to as our yin energy. Yin energy is vital to our well being, and nourishing it provides many benefits—it specifically helps to combat the challenges of aging, helping the body to feel supple, restored, and bright.

Soon, the length of day will gradually expand as the sun enters a cycle of rebirth. But it’s so important to linger in this moment of darkness while it lasts. Getting quiet and nurturing yourself provides way more long-term energy than another shot of espresso will land you. In fact, more than any other time of year, staying mindful of caffeine consumption now will deeply impact your well-being. This week, specifically, provides the perfect conditions for sleep, so take advantage.

Since this cosmic event marks not just the final solstice of the year but also of the decade, allow yourself ample time to integrate.

Since this cosmic event marks not just the final solstice of the year but also of the decade, allow yourself ample time to integrate. After all, now is our opportunity to reconcile the chapter we are closing and prepare for the next cycle of rebirth around the corner. Letting our bodies rest allows our subconscious process open up to receiving magic. And that’s a very different energy than forcing any kind of healing.

To usher in this state of restfulness, the waning sunlight is complemented by a waning moon, providing a heavy-handed double dose of purgative potential. The waning quarter moon, which marks the halfway point between the last full moon and the upcoming new moon, happens on December 18, at 11:56 p.m., EST. Immediately following, we enter into eclipse season, so again, you don’t want to rush this week. Take it slow and easy, and consider this: What do you need to let go of or release in order to make space for that which you wish to call in?

Aside from the winter solstice of 2019 and the seasonal transition looming on Saturday the 21st, Venus exits Capricorn, entering into visionary Aquarius. Venus in this progressive air sign will answer to Uranus in Taurus. Since Venus rules Taurus, these two planets will be in mutual reception. Enabling telepathic communication and uncanny cooperation, you will soon begin to simply “know” what to do about your love life and self care. On a deeper level, this is about disrupting the status quo and boldly going after our most authentic life. Venus travels in Aquarius, strengthening her bond with Uranus until January 13, so please do take advantage while this special connection exists. Consider picking up a journaling habit to capture your insights.

Most important of all, on Saturday the 21st and Sunday the 22nd, honor the winter solstice of 2019 by taking time to tune in. A short meditation practice will help you center yourself and listen to your inner-being. Taking a moment to write out your goals or vision for the next few months will support you, as well. My favorite ritual to practice this time of year is to write out a vision statement for where I want to be in life at the time of the next solstice, when the sun shines directly on the Tropic of Cancer. Recording your six-month vision will help you focus, and doing so now will attune you to the cosmos. So, have a wonderful winter solstice and prioritize getting some of that much-needed rest.

Jennifer Racioppi is the creator of Lunar Logic—a philosophy that integrates the deep wisdom of both science and spirituality, and blends her expertise in astrology, positive psychology, and women’s health—to coach high-achieving female entrepreneurs to reach their next level of success.