Full Moons are a time for releasing and relinquishing. If you have an excess in your life, this is the time for it to go down the drain. Through silent meditation, exchanging of thoughts, or spiritual practice, Full Moons are a point when we can let go. January’s first Full Moon, in Cancer, is an astrological hint to reminisce about how much you’ve grown. Following Western astrology, these new and complete Moon guides are monthly reminders to set and review your intentions–your horoscope is a rudimentary prompt for self-reflection.
The shitty thing about being an adult? We rarely get what we want when we want it. Life’s lessons can come with a cruel sense of timing—when we’re already juggling diapers, PTO hours, and expectations that stretch far beyond our paychecks. Even self-care—that glorified treat we’re all supposed to prioritize—can feel like just one more thing on the to-do list. Some days, having high hopes and fair goals feels downright delusional.
I don’t need to be in your high heels or ballet flats to understand that tired feeling. It’s heavy, persistent, and creeping up way too soon—because, let’s be real, we’re only 13 days into 2025, and it already feels like the year is pushing us into a doom-scroll of responsibilities. Sis, I’m going to gently ask you to put your smartphone down for just a moment and get back to the basics.
If you can, escape the roaring city noise or the mental commotion of bills, debts, and deadlines. Ground yourself in the now. Sometimes, that might look like stepping outside to feel the breeze on your skin, crying it out in your car, or just breathing deeply in a quiet space. Whatever it takes to bring you into the present moment, do it—because this January 2025, the Full Moon in Cancer is delivering something we all desperately need: permission to feel.
On January 13, 2025, Cancer’s nurturing energy will wash over us, encouraging us to drop the chill adult faces we’ve practiced and let the truth pour out. If no one has ever told you it’s okay to feel your feelings, let this be your permission slip. The Moon in Cancer, paired with Mars retrograde, is begging you to be raw and honest—especially with yourself. Over the next few weeks, you might face unmet promises or betrayed expectations. Pain may come, but here’s the catch: It’s not your enemy. Instead of letting it harden you into a cynic, let it shape you into a wiser, more resilient version of yourself.
Yes, the Moon is squaring off with Chiron, the wounded healer in Aries, which might bring up old hurts and tender spots. But even as those wounds resurface, you have the power to turn disappointment into wisdom and lack of foresight into life lessons. Cancer’s energy is here to teach you that vulnerability is not a weakness but a superpower. So cry the tears, speak your truth, and let this Full Moon remind you of the beauty that exists even in life’s messiest moments.
Read your horoscope based on your Sun, Moon, and Rising signs. Read your Sun sign to gain insight on the version of yourself that you’re maturing into. Read your Rising sign to reflect on your present state. And read your Moon sign for guidance on how to grow your inner child (no one is perfect). If you find your horoscope helpful, please share it and tag me on social media @monishaholmes.
Aries, if I tell you the truth, you can’t be mad at me, okay? I promise…? According to these constellations, “bed peace” is finding its way into your vocabulary. With the Moon in your house of home and Mars retrograde, it’s time to slow down and focus on grounding yourself emotionally. This isn’t to say you won’t continue seeing the fruits of your labor. I get that latency can stir up feelings of restlessness, but you have the opportunity to pause and enjoy your harvest.
The more you know, the more you can feel like younger versions of yourself were left out in the cold…or that there was a better way of handling a particular situation. With the Moon in your house of communication and Mars retrograde, expect a focus on conversations or realizations tied to your past. Feeling let down because of something you didn’t know is the worst form of self-bullying, because it’s not like you can do anything about a lack of exposure. Check in with yourself and mind your petty comments. We all miss the mark at least once in our lives—what matters now is what you do with what you know.
Gemini, it’s time to slow down and breathe—yes, even for you, a multitasking genius. With the Moon and Mars retrograde stirring up your house of possessions, you might feel a tinge of financial or emotional insecurity. Keep it chill; This is your chance to revisit what truly gives you a sense of stability. There’s no need to try to overthink your way out of everything—sometimes, the simplest truths are the most freeing. Let the tension guide you to clarity.
Cancer, this Full Moon is your personal permission slip to drop the armor and get real about your feelings. With the Moon conjunct Mars retrograde in your sign, the cosmos are practically daring you to express yourself without censoring every word. Yes, it’s messy, but healing always is. Lean into the vulnerability and allow others to see your raw, authentic self. This isn’t about playing nice—it’s about being gently honest.
Leo, even the fiercest warriors need time to rest and recover from battles. With the Moon tucked away in your house of dreams and Mars retrograde right there with it, the universe is telling you to hit the pillow. Stop roaring long enough to listen to what your inner voice is whispering. This is your time to process, reflect, and let go of emotional baggage. Trust that retreating now will help you return stronger later.
Virgo, I know having a detailed plan can feel a lot like owning a safety net, but this Full Moon is throwing your house of connections a whirlwind of unexpected emotional dynamics. With Mars retrograde tagging along with the Moon, you’ll find it’s best not to overanalyze every interaction. The longer you live, the more you may realize how often you’re mistaken. Instead, focus on the connections that matter most and feel consistent. Releasing the pressure to fix everything will free you to nurture the relationships that truly align with your values.
Libra, with the Moon lighting up your house of ambition and Mars retrograde stirring the pot, it’s time to take a long, hard look at your career and personal goals. Are you working towards something you actually want, or are you chasing a dream that no longer feels like yours? The pressure to keep up appearances may feel intense, but this Full Moon is your reminder to step back and reevaluate. Authenticity beats perfection every time, babe. Life is too long to spend it hustling to meet everyone’s expectations, so start figuring out what success looks like for you.
Scorpio, the Moon is highlighting your house of growth, pushing you to think beyond the limits you’ve set for yourself. Mars retrograde is calling you out, though—are you truly ready to embrace growth, or are you dragging old baggage along for the ride? It’s okay to take a step back and reevaluate before leaping into your next adventure. Whether it’s through travel, education, or reconnecting with your spiritual side, this Full Moon wants you to embrace the unknown. Just remember: You can’t fill your cup with both doubts and dreams, so pick wisely.
Sagittarius, this Full Moon is stirring up deep, emotional waters in your house of transformation. Vulnerability may not be your go-to vibe, but the cosmos are urging you to let your guard down. With Mars retrograde hanging out, old fears or unresolved issues might resurface, but don’t panic; It’s all part of your evolution. This is your moment to let go of what’s no longer serving you. Whether it’s an outdated belief, a toxic relationship, or just emotional baggage, release it with grace. Remember, shedding your old skin makes room for something brighter and more aligned.
Capricorn, the Moon in your house of relationships is putting a spotlight on your closest partnerships. Mars retrograde might bring some tension, making it harder to ignore imbalances or withheld truths. Whether it’s with a partner, friend, or colleague, this is your chance to realign. Are your relationships built on mutual respect and support, or have you been doing more of the heavy lifting? Honest conversations might be uncomfortable, but they’ll pave the way for deeper connections. Remember, vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s actually how you strengthen your bonds.
Aquarius, the Moon in your house of routines is shining a light on your daily grind. Mars retrograde is forcing you to slow down, take stock, and ask yourself: Are your habits helping or hurting you? It might feel like the chaos of life is catching up, but don’t resist the slowdown—it’s here to help you refocus. Take this opportunity to weed out the distractions and prioritize self-care. A little structure goes a long way, but so does learning when to let go of perfectionism. Trust that this reflection will set you up for long-term stability.
Pisces, the Moon in your house of creativity is stirring up inspiration, but Mars retrograde wants you to dive deeper than surface-level daydreams. This is your moment to reconnect with your inner artist or embrace the passions you’ve been ignoring. Old memories or feelings might resurface, but instead of letting them weigh you down, channel them into your work. Whether it’s through art, writing, or simply playful expression, this Full Moon is your invitation to explore without judgment. Let yourself create for the sake of joy—it’s healing, it’s freeing, and, honestly, it’s exactly what you need right now.
Monisha “Six” Holmes is an astrologer and Master of Social Work (MSW) who covers love, relationships, and wellness. She earned her MSW at Columbia University, where she specialized in contemporary social issues. Aside from writing, Monisha is the founder of Black Women Being, a media platform aimed at promoting wellness, spirituality, and justice.
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