What the 2022 Winter Solstice Means for Your Zodiac
Updated: Jan. 18, 2023
The winter solstice is a transitional time, both seasonally and astrologically. Here's how to navigate the winter solstice astrology, according to your sun sign.
Will everything change before the year’s end?
Dec. 21, 2022, marks the longest night of the year in the northern hemisphere, known as the winter solstice. Many cultures celebrate this day with their own unique winter solstice traditions. It happens at virtually the same time every year, on Dec. 21 or 22, but depending on the position of the planets, it can bring a very different set of circumstances when it comes to winter solstice astrology. According to astrologer Liz Simmons, this year’s solstice suggests “we need to seriously consider who and what is worth the commitment to feel confident with not only how this year will end, but also how the new year will begin,” whether you’re looking for love (a relationship with zodiac sign compatibility, of course), career opportunities or adventure in 2023.
At the time of the winter solstice 2022, the sun, Venus, Mercury and Pluto will position themselves in Capricorn and, Simmons says, as a result, we might feel the itch to review the responsibilities we took on throughout the year. “Our obligations, commitments and partnerships have played a valuable role in the structure of our year,” she explains. However, as we head into 2023, some of those responsibilities may need to be altered or adjusted in an effort to align ourselves with more empowerment. “The winter solstice astrology is ruled by the moon, indicating that we may feel more emotional and nostalgic as we reflect on what has occurred throughout 2022,” Simmons adds.
That said, because the moon is positioned in bright Sagittarius during this time, the reflective state may come partnered with more confidence and optimistic feelings. “The moon in Sagittarius will be our cue not to look back or remain stuck in the past, since the Archer [the symbol of Sagittarius] is concerned with moving forward,” Simmons notes.
By the way, if you’ve ever seen angel numbers, learn about what they mean.
Feelings of restlessness
The winter solstice astrology also brings the moon in opposition to Mars retrograde in Gemini, which indicates feelings of restlessness. “There might be an immense desire to seek new opportunities or to live a ‘carpe diem’ lifestyle at the end of the year that clashes with an overarching feeling of mental exhaustion,” Simmons continues, adding that, during the shortest day of the year, we might feel notably drained.
While all this is happening, the sun will also square up Chiron (a larger asteroid) in Aries, which astrologer Charlotte Kirsten says “encourages us to dig into our deepest insecurities around career, success and self-worth, as it seeks to put to bed any lingering themes that held us back in 2022.” She explains that when something “squares” in astrology, it boosts the planet’s energy and what it symbolizes, which can result in too many sought-after opportunities or challenges. “In this case, Chiron reveals our deepest, darkest soul wounds, and so when the sun squares it, it brings our underlying triggers up to the surface so they can be healed and transmuted,” Kirsten explains, noting how even the toughest and most painful of challenges can result in a golden opportunity for greater self-discovery.
Considering all that’s to come with the winter solstice astrology, we can’t help but wonder what that means on a more personal level—and that’s why we’re looking to the zodiac to navigate this year’s transition from fall to winter. Up ahead, take a look at what the 2022 winter solstice means for you, according to your zodiac sign. And when you’re finished, check out our guide to setting your New Year’s resolution, based on your zodiac sign.
Aries (March 21–April 19)
With the sun in Capricorn, squaring off with Jupiter in Aries, Rams will find themselves with an unbridled level of enthusiasm and ambition, seemingly wanting to tick more things off their to-do lists than usual. “This is a highly fortunate transit for you, Aries—it’s not often that your fiery, can-do spirit gets a major boost,” says Kirsten. With this in mind, she recommends setting aside some time during the winter solstice to put a strategy in place to bring those lofty plans to fruition. “Make sure to celebrate your past success and achievements too, and the energy they brought into your life,” she notes. With that said, Simmons says the enthusiasm and ambition are better suited to a long-term goal versus instant gratification. “A quick fix or taking immediate action may not do the trick, so Aries will have to be patient to fulfill a long-term goal to gain long-term gratification,” she explains. Your rising sign may also help you understand yourself better.
Taurus (April 20–May 20)
Taurus may have felt a lot of angst early on in December, according to Kirsten, but the celestial bull’s energy will surely recover quickly. “Your ruling planet, Venus, tag teams with Capricorn to bring about a sense of harmony, trust and mutual understanding in your primary relationships,” she says. She explains that this transit encourages Taurus to lean into personal values and “set the intention to never settle for less than you deserve—whether that is in platonic or romantic scenarios.” During this time, Simmons says it’s also a good excuse for Taurus to take a leap of faith “by seeking out new experiences or learning opportunities.” However, in order to do so, Taurus will need to tap into their inner go-getter in order to go after what could become the adventure of a lifetime. Get inspired by checking out the ideal vacation for your zodiac sign.
Gemini (May 21–June 20)
Gemini might feel as though they need a little extra support during the 2022 winter solstice. Kirsten says this has a lot to do with the effects of the Chrion-sun square, which can dim Gemini’s usual fun-loving, party animal vibe. “You’ll likely feel the need to retreat into hermit healer mode,” she explains. However, it’s not all doom and gloom for Gemini during this seasonal shift. “With Gemini’s ruling planet, Mercury, falling into Capricorn, Gemini will have no trouble upholding boundaries and serving a swift ‘no’ to anyone who tries to load them up with stressful commitments,” Kirsten explains. Geminis should brush up on the best way to de-stress based on your zodiac sign.
Cancer (June 21–July 22)
The upcoming winter solstice is the best time for Cancers to go all out on their dreams, ambitions and goals. “Cancer will experience the reverse energy of Gemini this season, flipping from their usual hidden-shelled self to taking center stage,” Kirsten explains. As the moon, Cancer’s ruling planet, moves into the earthy pragmatism of Capricorn, crabs will shift from a phase of emotional healing to one of taking assured and direct action. “Take this time to move past your fears, home in on your intuition and expand into new territory—your future self will thank you for it,” says Kirsten. Figure out how to rise to the occasion and face your fears.
Leo (July 23–Aug. 22)
Leo might feel this winter solstice a little harder than other signs, and it might not be in the way they expect. “The beginning of the solstice could leave Leo feeling more emotional than usual, but make no mistake, this is an opportunity to delve deeper into the shadow side—the side that rarely gets explored,” says Kirsten. With this in mind, she says the winter solstice is the best time for Leos to face insecurities head on and discover what held them back in 2022. “Ruled by the luminary sun, Leo’s spirit is sure to pick up around the time of the New Moon (Dec. 23), as this favorable transit sees them spending lots of time with family and friends and even meeting new acquaintances,” she adds. Here’s the best way to celebrate the holidays, according to your zodiac sign.
Virgo (Aug. 23–Sept. 22)
According to Kirsten, the winter solstice is a wonderful time for Virgos, as their ruling planet, Mercury, stations into Capricorn during the change of the seasons. Virgos will be met with a deep sense of grounded energy, balance and harmony. “As this season is ruled by Capricorn, a fellow earthy zodiac element with just as much ambition, drive and vitality as Virgo, they’ll feel empowered to step into their authentic selves,” Kirsten explains, adding that this kind of energy can be life-changing and isn’t something that pops up in Virgo’s chart often. “Just make sure not to over-rely on Virgo’s perfectionistic and workaholic tendencies to get things done this season,” she adds, noting how Virgos need to remember their humanity—and limitations—during this time.
Libra (Sept. 23–Oct. 22)
The winter solstice is about going inward for Libras. “Now’s the time to reflect on what went well and what didn’t go so well externally this year—and that includes any frivolous spending, work imbalances or travel mishaps,” says Kirsten. She also says Libras might feel called to let go of some of the more toxic relationships in their lives and get closer to those who are in Libra’s corner. “Call in close family and friends or host small gatherings at home to raise spirits,” Kirsten suggests, adding that this winter solstice is all about bringing Libra back to the thing that matters most—themselves.
Scorpio (Oct. 23–Nov. 21)
The winter solstice astrology equates to a time of great purging for Scorpios. “They’re being asked to meet their shadow self in all its glory and truly uncover the depths of their identity,” Kirsten says. “This is a huge spiritual and metaphysical transformation and comes as a direct result of Mars squaring Venus earlier in the month,” she adds. Some questions for Scorpio to ask themselves during this time are “How can I reconnect with myself again?” and “What steps can I take to protect my energy?” as they take time for mental self-care during this transitional time. If work is the issue, make sure you know your sign’s top career strengths.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22–Dec. 21)
The winter solstice will be fairly relaxed for Sagittarius. “While they were busy passing the birthday torch over to Capricorn, the planets were aligning to offer Sagittarius all the love, adoration and romance they deserve,” Kirsten notes. “This is a welcome change in energy from their usual always-on-the-go self,” she adds. During the 2022 winter solstice, Kirsten recommends Sagittarius spend this time reveling in little pleasures and relaxation, since this sign will kick off the New Year with a heap of ambitious plans. You may also want to look for a new hobby that’s perfectly suited to you.
Capricorn (Dec. 22–Jan. 19)
The winter solstice occurs right as we transition into Capricorn season, making this an extra-special time for the Earth sign. “Capricorn is being called to wrap up all their existing projects and do what it takes to make them a resounding success but, at the same time, notice any thought processes that are hampering them from living their best life,” Kirsten explains. With that in mind, this could be a time when Capricorns feel like they’re being pulled in two directions, with the seemingly ambitious “go-getter” on one shoulder and the energy of “let’s take time to slow down and reflect” sitting on the other. “This is a golden opportunity to move from hustle to flow, just in time for the New Year,” Kirsten adds.
Aquarius (Jan. 20–Feb. 18)
“For Aquarius, this season is full of adventure, spending time with loved ones and even getting a spot of solo travel before the year fully comes to an end,” says Kirsten. With all five of the major planets aligned in Capricorn, those with Aquarius sun signs might feel more enthused and passionate than ever. “Whilst it’s tempting to take some time to rest, Aquarius is all about seizing the day and doing things that energize your spirit,” Kirsten notes. “They might even feel the pull to nurture their humanitarian spirit as they volunteer in their local community to help those in need,” she adds.
Pisces (Feb. 19–March 20)
After a heavy Neptune retrograde kicked off in December, Kirsten says Pisces will be happy to know that they’ll step into their stride by the time of the winter solstice. “This solstice encourages Pisces to tap into their usual imaginative and dreamy self to conjure up a bright vision for their future,” Kirsten explains. She recommends using this time to tap into your Pisces creative superpowers to manifest a life of your dreams through a vision board. Additionally, the solstice might leave Pisces feeling more extroverted than usual, which Simmons says is a great excuse to socialize. “Connecting with friends, dreaming of future accomplishments and being active online might be a Pisces’s top priorities during the winter solstice,” she notes.
Sources:
- Liz Simmons, professional astrologer and tarot reader
- Charlotte Kirsten, professional astrologer with a master’s degree in Cultural Astrology and Metaphysical Sciences
