The Emotionally Charged Full Leo Moon Is Here, and Decisions Will Need to Be Made

The first full moon of the year happens in Leo on January 28, 2021 (11:16 AM Pacific Time, 9°06’).

The Leo full moon invites us to celebrate everything that makes us one-of-a-kind. It’s a time to show our stuff and share our talents, as only we can. But since it can also bring out our attention-seeking side, we’ll want to be gracious about sharing the spotlight. Each of us is encouraged to let our light shine, and not worry too much about outshining (or being outshone by) anyone else.

After all, we shine our brightest by shining together. The Leo moon evokes our need to feel special and unique, but the Aquarius sun reveals that we share this need with all our fellow humans. While we all deserve a chance to be the center of attention, we must also realize that we’re not the center of the universe.

What Does the January Full Moon in Leo Mean?

The Leo/Aquarius polarity is about balancing individual freedom and self-expression with collective responsibility. Still, with a stellium of Aquarius planets (Saturn, the sun, Jupiter, Pallas Athena, and Mercury) opposing this full moon, right now one of these clearly outweighs the other. As important as our feelings are to us, we might have to put them on the backburner for now in service to the greater good.

Jupiter and Saturn are moving on from their Great Conjunction on December 21, 2020. But both personally and collectively, we’re still experiencing the “growing pains” of this era-defining aspect. Jupiter’s conjunction with the sun highlights the unique role each of us has to play at this time, within our own community and the larger human family. Meanwhile, the moon’s oppositions with Jupiter and Saturn ask us to confront whatever feelings this brings up—such as wounded pride, resentment, or resistance to change.

With so many planets in fixed signs right now, we might be digging in our heels and doubling down on deeply-entrenched patterns. But the more we refuse to change with the times, the more likely Uranus, Mars, and Black Moon Lilith in Taurus will force our hand.

As the Leo moon and the Aquarius sun/Jupiter/Saturn make a T-square to this volatile trio, it can feel like we’re living in an emotional pressure cooker.  Whether it’s a situation in our personal lives, or our response to what’s happening in the news, there’s a sense that something’s got to give: Things simply cannot go on this way.
In this emotionally charged environment, it’s important to be mindful of how we express our anger and frustration (and how we respond to others’ expressions). An exact Venus/Pluto conjunction on the day of this full moon gives us the power to transform our relationships, but whether it’s for better or for worse depends on who we choose to be in our interactions. The cracks in our common foundations can either be deepened or repaired—the choice is up to us.

Fortunately, as the Leo full moon trines Chiron in Aries and Juno in Sagittarius, we’re supported in doing the work of healing and repair. We can take pride in recommitting to our shared values and ideals—and most importantly, to each other.

Mercury goes retrograde in Aquarius two days after this full moon (January 30-February 20). And while this can present some communication challenges, it also presents us with an opportunity: to reconnect as a community, and reimagine a better future together.

Read on for your sun and rising signs to learn more about what this full moon means for you.

Horoscopes for the Full Moon in Leo

Leo

Rise and shine, Leo! This full moon calls you to show up as your best and brightest self. But it also reminds you that “showing up” doesn’t have to mean “showing off.” Rather, it’s about letting your natural warmth and light shine through in everything you do.

Virgo

Namaste, Virgo! This full moon invites you to honor the light within. But it also reminds you that your own inner spark is just one part of the equation. Once you’ve discovered the divine in yourself, the next step is recognizing and acknowledging it in everyone else.

Libra

Whether it’s in person or virtual, Libra, you’re the heart and soul of the party. And at this full moon, it feels good to bask in the warm acceptance of your peers. Make sure, though, that it’s you they’re celebrating—not some other person you’re pretending to be.

Scorpio

Your star is on the rise, Scorpio. But as this full moon lights up your house of career and reputation, it may also illuminate some mixed feelings about success. Ego-driven achievements alone won’t satisfy your sense of purpose. For accomplishments to matter, they must have personal meaning.

Sagittarius

Shed some light on the subject, Sag! You’ve had some illuminating experiences; Now, this full moon finds you eager to enlighten everyone else. While you deserve to take pride in sharing your wisdom, don’t be too proud to admit that there are things you still don’t know.

Capricorn

You’re the kind of person, Capricorn, that others are proud to know. But the level of influence you have on their lives comes with great responsibility attached. This full moon illuminates the power dynamics in your intimate relationships—and shows you how to use them for the benefit of all.

Aquarius

You’re more than just a face in the crowd, Aquarius. But with so many strong personalities and unique characters in your orbit, it’s easy to lose sight of what makes you stand out. At this full moon, surround yourself with the people who make you feel truly seen.

Pisces

There’s no job too small, Pisces: Even mundane tasks are dignified when you take pride in doing them well.  Still, at this full moon, you may worry that your talents are being wasted—or your noble efforts going unnoticed. If so, perhaps it’s time to find new opportunities to shine.

Aries

You do you, Aries! While you rarely shy away from expressing yourself, this full moon takes your originality to a whole other level. Still, you’ll want to make sure you’re standing out for the right reasons. Celebrate your individuality, but resist indulging in over-the-top antics.

Taurus

Family takes pride of place for you, Taurus. And at this full moon, there’s plenty to be proud of. Still, it’s important to remember that you’re also connected to the larger human family—and the choices you make for yourself and your loved ones contribute to the collective.

Gemini

What’s your story, Gemini? At this full moon, you’ve got plenty of tales to tell—and a unique way of spinning them that has others hanging on your every word. But while you have their attention, you might try redirecting it toward a cause you care about.

Cancer

Only the best, Cancer: You and your loved ones deserve nothing less. But there are people outside your inner circle who may be equally deserving—and more in need—of what life has to offer. Welcome them in at this full moon, and share the wealth as you are able.

Art by @luna.lingua