December New Moon in Sagittarius & the Winter Solstice: Where Endings Become Intentional Beginnings

Endings and beginnings have a way of bringing clarity and December arrives like it has something to prove. And honestly? It does.

Do not underestimate the power of the final month of the year. December carries a unique weight, not just because it closes a chapter, but because it holds the wisdom of everything that came before it. As the 12th month, December embodies the numerological energy of completion and wholeness. The number 1 speaks to self, independence, and personal growth, while the number 2 represents partnership, harmony, and duality. Together, they create a powerful invitation for reflection, balance, and conscious choice.

It’s no surprise, then, that December naturally pulls us inward. It offers reflection, hope, and an opportunity to shape what comes next. Depending on what we choose to focus on, we can fixate on what was lost this year, or we can shift perspective and honor the wisdom gained, the victories won (even the quiet ones), and the intentions we are ready to set for a new beginning.

The Winter Solstice: The Return of Light

The Winter Solstice, occurring around December 21–22, marks the longest night of the year and the symbolic return of light. With the “death” of the sun and the fading of warmth—we grieve what has passed and what we’ve had to release. Yet, with the rebirth of the sun, we are reminded that light always returns. This is a time to celebrate hope, gratitude, hearth, and home, and to remember that rest and darkness are not failures they are part of the cycle.

The December New Moon in Sagittarius

This December New Moon lands in Sagittarius, a mutable and adaptable fire sign. Sagittarius, the archer, is always ready to adjust direction depending on what’s needed, aiming not from fear, but from faith. This energy prioritizes meaning over regret. When your focus is on what truly matters, there’s no need to look back.

Sagittarius encourages us to think bigger, dream brighter, and trust that growth often requires stepping into unfamiliar territory. It reminds us that expansion doesn’t happen by staying comfortable—it happens when we’re willing to explore new perspectives, new beliefs, and new possibilities.

Setting Intentions with Faith

This is the perfect time to set intentions... and to set them high. Gratitude grounds us, and there is honor in appreciating what we already have: a warm home, food to prepare, breath in our lungs. Every breath, regardless of circumstance, is a new opportunity.

Think of the days surrounding the New Moon and Solstice as a reset, a chance to ground, reflect, and refocus. Become still. Meditate on the energy you want to carry into 2026. Clarify what you want more of and what you are ready to release. You don’t need to force clarity; you already have everything you need to navigate your path.

A little faith goes a long way when you choose to focus on the brightest part of your journey rather than what lingers in the shadows. Fear has a subtle way of consuming us if we let it but intention, trust, and perspective gently guide us forward.

Winter Solstice Hope & Joy Ritual

Slice an orange and add the pieces to a pot of gently boiling water. Add cinnamon and a touch of honey, allowing it to simmer like tea until the air fills with a warm, sweet, citrus aroma.

Light a white (peace/new beginnings), yellow (joy/ energy), or green (growth/abundance) candle. As the scent lifts your spirits, visualize the sun on your face: warm, glowing, and steady. Reflect on the moments of joy you experienced this past year, no matter how small. Let that joy guide your focus toward what you want more of in the year ahead.

Meditate on this feeling until it naturally brings a smile. When you’re ready, open your eyes and offer gratitude for your blessings with a simple thank you. Blow out the candle as if it were a birthday wish—symbolizing hope, intention, and trust in what is to come.