The Astrology Behind January's Full Moon In Leo + How To Work With It

The year's first full moon is set to peak on Thursday, January 25, at 12:54 p.m. EST. And as astrology expert and author of Astrology SOS Imani Quinn tells mindbodygreen, the full moon is following a massive shift in the stars and the collective, as Pluto moved into Aquarius this past week.

"Coming off the heels of that new beginning, now with this full moon in Leo, it's allowing us to release any residue that comes from our ego, or ways in which we operate that keep us from our higher self or the higher good of humanity," Quinn explains.

Full moons are, after all, about releasing something, and with the influence of Aquarius season focusing on humanity, spiritual development, and technological advancement, Quinn says we're not just looking at the "I," but the "we."

Of course, Leo does appreciate recognition—and has no problem standing up for what it believes in—so according to Quinn, we could be feeling that as well. "Leos operate from a courageous heart with lots of joy, so this full moon encourages us to get in touch with our hearts, our courage, and what brings us joy," she explains.

In terms of other notable influences at play under this full moon, Quinn notes Jupiter will be squaring the moon, which could put extra emphasis on what you need to release in order to expand and access abundance.

Between Pluto moving into Aquarius and Uranus wrapping up its retrograde period, Quinn notes we're entering a new collective era. So, take the opportunity to journal on some of these big-picture planetary shifts, reflecting on how you want to show up for the collective, she says.

Between the high-minded vibes of both the sun and Pluto in Aquarius, along with a loud and proud full moon in Leo, the first full moon of 2024 is set to be a humanitarian one. Tap into the courage of your heart, and what's more, let go of anything that keeps you from your heart's truth.