For All Signs: The winter solstice this year is timed at 12:11 p.m. EST on Dec. 21st. This is the point of the year at which the northern hemisphere is tilted furthest from the sun. Therefore our nights are longest at this time. Ancient people of the north celebrated the "return" of the sun within a few days following the winter solstice. They believed the return would bring heat, light and life back to the people. This holiday was widely celebrated among the pagans at least as far back in time as Stonehenge in the British Isles, carbon dated at 2500 B.C.E. To 1700 B.C.E.
Another notable feature of the week is that Venus is turning retrograde on the solstice. She will appear to be going backward until the beginning of February. During this time, buried resentments or old hurts and losses may surface for another review. It is better if we examine our personal contribution to the old problems, rather than pointing a finger in the other's direction. When we hold onto anger it is because the unconscious wants to teach us something. Ask what it wants you to know, make a conscious commitment to remember the lesson but forget the pain, and you can let it go more easily.
Aries: Venus is retrograding in your career territory. You may back away from recent decisions in this area. Former partner(s) and client(s) may return. If you have a huge expenditure in mind concerning career, it is a good idea to put off the final decision until February.
Taurus: People who live at a distance are likely to seek out contact with you. If anyone reappears who you know to be of less than favorable character, use extreme caution. You may be traveling or studying and returning to places where you have previously been.
Gemini: This will be a time to evaluate resources that you share with others, including stocks or investments. You may be drawn to make changes in your estate planning. Consider your options but don't make final decisions until after February.
Cancer: You and your partner have need of increased space between you. You have been so in tandem that the Self is getting lost. It does not matter who initiates the idea for a breathing space. It comes from a joint need. This does not mean anything about love, so don't see trouble where it is not.
Leo: Venus retrograde will cause you to focus on your health. You may be surprised that you are prone to letting good habits slide. Don't beat yourself to pieces. A retrograding planet in this territory asks us to make positive health decisions over and over.
Virgo: Venus is beginning to retrograde in your territory of romance, play, creativity, and children. This suggests that there is some need to reevaluate your position in these areas. You may need to slow down so you can look more deeply at your personal needs before pursuing activity here. Don't fall into old mistakes.
Libra: Be careful when handling items in your home, office, or vehicle. Breakage is more possible than usual. You may have a need to reconnect to family members. Don't let anyone draw you into discussions of traumas in bygone times, lest it put a kink in your mood.
Scorpio: Venus will be rolling backward in your third house of communications. Double-check any contractual process with a magnifying glass. Hold your tongue if you become angry. Avoid bringing up old injuries in relationships unless you are apologizing.
Sagittarius: Venus will be backtracking in the territory of finances and resources. It is in your better interest to conserve assets during this period. Think carefully about the future before you spend your holdings.
Capricorn: You may be experiencing some odd feelings at this time. Venus is turning retrograde in your sign and what you thought was great two weeks ago is now causing you to think again.
Aquarius: In some way you will be dealing with people or situations from the past. Reflect on how the past may be interfering with your present. Focus on dreams, journaling, meditation or prayer.
Pisces: You may be avoiding commitments. Possibly you will become bored with usual activities. Relax for the next couple of months. It is possible that old friends will resurface or you will take the initiative to find them.
Are you interested in a personal horoscope? Vivian Carol may be reached at 704-366-3777 for private psychotherapy or astrology appointments. (There is a fee for services.) www.horoscopesbyvivian.com.