January Horoscope for Leo:

Mars is in Leo, amping up your drive and physical energies. But it's in retrograde all month (and through to March 15th). This makes it hard to feel like you're advancing. You may find it difficult even to express anything new. Mars is the motivator, but with so much in limbo, it's not clear where to channel that extra energy.

This may bring frustration. But it can also give you the chance to polish what's already in play to a perfect shine. It's the opportunity to perfect your art, craft, public style, leadership skills. Later, this will serve you well when you're ready for your come back in Spring.

Look for ways to release pent-up energies in January. You might take your physical training to a higher level, for example. Or rekindle the passion with your mate. If you go into the love cave now, you'll find it's painted red and has erotic music piped in.

New Moon in Capricorn

Your ambition is piqued by Mars, and this new Moon (January 15th) brings out messages about your career, status, how you'll make your mark, your legacy. It's a time to commune with spirit about your true purpose. Venus draws near then, too, and aligns with the Sun and Moon. All this earthy rooted energy allows you to visualize realistic pathways to your creative goals.

It's a good time to think about the long haul. Your health may come into focus, and particularly, how you're treating your heart. You may want to look at new strategies for stress reduction. And in the midst of all this seriousness, find ways to play and laugh.

A Change in the Music

There's some relief from the feeling of being overburdened, when planets change signs around Jan 17-19. Jupiter goes into Pisces, giving you a taste of the sublime through art or spirituality. These themes find their way into your relationships and life's work.

You can enjoy the sparking that happens in a group, when the Sun and Venus move into Aquarius. If you've felt isolated, this transition opens the door to more connecting. You may find kindred spirits that you can share your dreams with. Some may be creative collaborators that show you experimental ways to make progress. You're likely to encounter quirky dudes and odd gals that shock you awake to ways of being. It's a breath of fresh air that's elevating, and not a moment too soon.

Full Moon in Leo

You may have trouble around the 17th, as Mars (Leo) opposes Venus (in Aquarius). This could have to do with how well you "play with others." You may be too absorbed in your own goals to see how they're at odds with a group. It's a chance to harmonize your sense of what you're wanting to achieve for yourself, with that of the whole.

This leads up to the glorious Full Moon on the 30th in your sign, that opposes planets in Aquarius. You can be illuminated now on what your own passions have to do with the times we're living in. It may confirm that you're on the right path, and embolden you to take more risks. It's a celebration of being your biggest self, in service to humanity as a whole.

Booby-Trapped Ending

The month ends not only with a Full Moon in your sign, but the exact square of biggies Pluto and Saturn. You might know that squares are very provocative. This is a challenge to hurl out of your life what's not working, while staying within the limits set by circumstances around you. It's not easy, since there may be a desire to make radical changes. And yet, this tension to confining Saturn sets the tone for the whole year.

Even as there are exciting and wildly unexpected new possibilities, there are many demands that press you to be resourceful and fair to those in your life. It's a test of your ability to use discernment to know when to take risks, and when to be cautious.