NorthPoint Astrology Journal
Your guide to planetary energies for
January 20 to 26, 2025
By Astrologer Pam Younghans
THE SATURN-PLUTO CYCLE: Saturn and Pluto aligned in Capricorn in January 2020, marking the start of a new synodic cycle between the two planets. That conjunction began a 33-year period in which humanity — and each of us individually — is gaining a clearer understanding of our true source of power and authority.
The global crisis that began to unfold at the Saturn-Pluto conjunction has had great impact on all of our lives. Events in 2020 and beyond tested our ability to maintain our inner strength while dealing with situations that were outside of our control. It represented the first phase of what ultimately will be a great dismantling of our reliance on external authority, and of our human tendency to allow outer circumstances to determine our well-being. SATURN-PLUTO SEMISQUARE: Since May 2024, Saturn and Pluto have been dancing in and out of being semisquare each other (separated by 45 degrees). This is the first significant hard aspect between the two planets since their 2020 alignment, and is thus challenging us to take the next step in reclaiming our innate sovereignty. Any ways in which we "stand down" and hand over the reins of our lives to others are being challenged, especially if we give authority figures the ability to disempower us or else expect them to rescue us. Next Sunday, January 26, the third and final Saturn-Pluto semisquare perfects (the first two aspects were exact on May 6 and September 25 of last year). However, the effects of the aspect will be strongly activated much earlier in the week, since the Aquarius Sun is semisquare Saturn on Monday and conjunct Pluto on Tuesday. As we once again work with this Saturn-Pluto influence, we must ask ourselves: what limiting perspectives we are still holding onto, that serve to convince us that power lies outside of us? With Saturn in submissive Pisces, where do we continue to play the victim or martyr? And with Pluto in progressive Aquarius, in what ways do we resist or fear stepping into greater mastery? This week, as we perhaps navigate another external circumstance that appears to be outside of our control, we have a choice. We could succumb to the old, fear-based beliefs that tell us we are powerless, and thus dissipate our energy in blaming others. Or, we might instead choose to actively dismantle those limiting interpretations of reality. To help us in this process, we can acknowledge and tap into the only source of true power, the vast spiritual energy that lies within us, and allow it to both support us and guide our steps going forward. WEBINAR REPLAY: If you missed my recent webinar and wish to know more about the energies of 2025 (and the next three months in particular) — no worries! You can still purchase the replay, slideshow, and monthly calendars of the webinar, which is entitled "A Dark Night's Journey into Day." Please send an email with "Webinar Replay" in the subject to [email protected] and I'll reply with all the details. DAILY ASTROLOGY: For my daily astrological insights, including lunar aspects not covered in this Journal, please follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamyounghans/ ASPECTS THIS WEEK: Here are my brief interpretations of this week's most important planetary aspects, day by day: Monday Mars square Eris: Tension is palpable as the god of War and the goddess of Discord square off. People may act impulsively, defensively, or aggressively under this aspect, driven by fear or anger. Sun semisquare Saturn: The Sun is activating the Saturn-Pluto semisquare today and tomorrow. This side of the equation, the Sun-Saturn semisquare, indicates feelings of restriction, isolation, and discouragement. Tuesday Mercury square Chiron: It is important to touch base with our inner child today, the part of us that feels that it has no voice. As we embrace this part of us with love and understanding, and listen to its fears without judgment, it has the opportunity to heal. Sun conjunct Pluto: People are especially ambitious, passionate, and strong-willed with this aspect. There may be a drive to take control and some could be manipulative or secretive. Episodes of social injustice and inequality cause strong, visceral reactions. The transformative nature of Pluto, which takes us through a process of death and rebirth, is highlighted. Wednesday No major aspects are exact today. Thursday Mars sextile Uranus, Mercury opposite Mars, Mercury trine Uranus: Opposing opinions are loudly voiced and it could be hard to find common ground. People are emboldened, willing to take risks, and may take actions into their own hands. Intuition and innovation are enhanced and new insights are possible. Friday Mercury square Eris: This is an argumentative aspect. Communications are challenging and people are unlikely to take the time to truly listen to each other. Saturday Mercury sesquiquadrate Jupiter: This aspect is an indication of information overload, so it will be important to take a break from the news. There is a tendency to exaggerate the facts to prove a point or to demonstrate one's authority. Venus trine Mars: Personal relationships and creative self-expression are supported by this aspect. There is an easier flow of energy between loved ones. Sunday Mercury sextile Neptune: The imagination is enhanced and it is easier to express compassion. This aspect supports intuitive communications and psychic perceptions. Venus sextile Uranus: We are more easygoing in relationships, due to an increased ability to allow each person to be authentic and true to themselves. Saturn semisquare Pluto: This is the final pass of a long-term transit, which began in May 2024. We will feel the effects of this semisquare for at least the rest of January. IF YOUR BIRTHDAY IS THIS WEEK: Your process of personal transformation is fully engaged now, as you get in touch with aspects of your being that may have been hidden or unconscious until now. There is a strong need for freedom and autonomy, as well as a resistance to being told what to do. It will be important to let go of judgments and criticism, of either self or other, for you to take most advantage of the many opportunities for expansion and positive change that will come your way this year. (Solar Return Sun semisquare Venus, opposite Mars, semisquare Saturn, trine Uranus, sextile Neptune, conjunct Pluto) In peace, love, and gratitude, Pam Younghans For an audio recording and non-English versions of this Journal on InnerSelf.com, please click HERE. (New week's audio and text are online no later than 9 p.m. Pacific Time on Sunday.) Photo: The Great Nebula in Orion by Fényes Lóránd NorthPoint Journal © 2025 Pam Younghans. All Rights Reserved. DISCLAIMER: This NorthPoint Journal is not intended to replace the need for qualified healthcare, mental health, legal, or spiritual consultations. No guarantees, implied warranties, or assurances of any kind are given, and as such, Pam Younghans will not be responsible for any interpretation made or used by the recipient of the information and advice provided herein. |
Aspects of Note this Week Times and dates use Pacific Standard Time (PST). Add 8 hours for Universal Time (UT/GMT). MONDAY: Mars square Eris, Sun semisquare Saturn TUESDAY: Mercury square Chiron, Sun conjunct Pluto WEDNESDAY: No major aspects are exact today THURSDAY: Mars sextile Uranus, Mercury opposite Mars, Mercury trine Uranus FRIDAY: Mercury square Eris SATURDAY: Mercury sesquiquadrate Jupiter, Venus trine Mars SUNDAY: Mercury sextile Neptune, Venus sextile Uranus, Saturn semisquare Pluto Subscribe to the Journal! |