Dzikra Imron, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Full Moon @ 27 degrees Cancer 51'
January 17, 2022
3:49 PM PST
6:49 PM EST
Our first Full Moon of 2022 occurs in the tropical sign of Cancer and includes an opposition from Pluto in Capricorn. Additionally, this lunation occurs at the confluence of two inner planet retrogrades: Mercury and Venus. Combined with the sometimes nostalgic nature of Cancer and the backward motion of retrograde planets, many features from the past can emerge alongside this lunation vying for completion, resolution, and awareness.
It might feel as if a lot has suddenly come to a standstill, snag, or moment of indecision. We're also moving into the peak of the lunar cycle, which can dissipate building momentum and crises over the following two weeks. Use this lunation for careful reflection, revision, and reconsideration. The retrograde flow is helpful for a review and contemplation of directional changes rather than forcing things to happen.
Pluto's opposition to this Full Moon represents the intrusion of collective and personal shadows, urging us to acknowledge blindspots and neglected realities. Cancer's intuitive and emotional nature combined with Pluto's opposition can heighten sensitivity and bring forth unexpressed feelings and impulses. The emergence of uncomfortable truths and perceptions is also likely when Pluto dominates.
The Cancer archetype highlights the need and desire for connection, kinship, nurturance, and belonging. Pluto's opposition can shed light on how our access to those dimensions has been blocked or stifled due to fear, ignorance, or culturally systemic factors. Yet, the other face of Pluto is the freedom and empowerment that comes from facing the darkness, embracing honesty, and speaking our truth.
While a potentially difficult Full Moon, the bright side to this lunation is its ability to deepen our most critical bonds and bring to light a more honest perception of events and situations that have been building for some time. It is hard to ignore the truth when it becomes so painfully obvious. For some, this is liberating and even validating. The fruits of dedicated shadow work and keen investigation are ready for harvest. It's time to acknowledge all that you've gotten right as much as you've missed.