Each month’s full moon not only has its own name and story, but also has a spiritual meaning and influence on each zodiac sign. Many even believe in the various powers of a full moon, including charging water with moonlight to purify and strengthen oneself for the month ahead. In January there is a wolf moon at the beginning of the month when the moon is largest and brightest – and completely full. As each full moon signals the transition to the next phase – of the moon, of time and of your life – this is the perfect marker to turn over your own new leaf.
As the first full moon of the new year, January’s wolf moon often heralds a time of change that can feel refreshing but also intense. So what is the best way to approach this moon and what should you know about it beforehand? Ahead, POPSUGAR spoke to astrologers to gain insight into what each sign could experience in early 2023 when the Wolf Moon peaks.
Read on to find out all about the wolf moon 2023 and what January and its full moon could bring for your zodiac sign.
Why is it called the Wolf Moon?
According to that Old peasant almanac, the wolf moon is named because such wolves were more likely to be heard howling at the time. While wolves were once thought to howl from hunger, over time howling has come to be understood as a way to mark territory, hunt, and find other pack members. In the end, regardless of the real reason behind the howl, the January Full Moon name stuck.
When is the wolf full moon in 2023?
The wolf moon will culminate on Friday, January 6, 2023 at exactly 18:08 ET.
What is the sign of the moon in January?
January’s wolf full moon is in Gemini.
What is the spiritual meaning of the wolf moon?
“The wolf moon, coming in the middle of winter, is a time of transformation and introspection,” Stina Garbi, psychic and astrologer, tells POPSUGAR. “It’s a time to discover what it takes to live a successful life. It is also a time to see what is missing and to find the truth in what you long for. It’s about sacrifice, finding personal truth and your purpose and how it relates to the bigger picture and society as a whole.”
astrologer Lisa Stardust says the wolf moon in 2023 could also signal an intense period of change. “This Full Moon connects with the rebellious planet Uranus, urging us to step into the New Year with high hopes and individuality and the incentive to reach for our dreams,” Stardust tells POPSUGAR.
What does the wolf moon mean for each zodiac sign?
- Aries: January is a good time for Aries to get cozy. Stardust recommends curling up with a good book or TV show and embracing the warm, laid-back vibe.
- Bull: Is there something you need to open up about, Taurus? Stardust says your heart may be “longing to express your truest feelings,” so maybe it’s time to have those difficult conversations.
- Twins: Gemini might feel like some boundaries are being pushed, and Stardust says now is the time to address that. “It’s important to set boundaries for others right now,” she explains.
- Cancer: It’s time to let those feelings out, Cancer. If you’re feeling emotionally constipated, go ahead and cry out during this wolf moon, advises Stardust.
- Lion: For Leos, Stardust says this is a time for introspection. This month is an opportunity to connect with yourself without being in the spotlight, so try to take advantage of it.
- Virgo: This month, including the wolf moon, is all about relationships for Virgos. Now’s the time to stand up and prove how much you care for the people closest to you, says Stardust.
- Scale: Libra, get ready for career development. “A new career opportunity is just around the corner,” shares Stardust. “Believe in yourself and it will happen to you.”
- Scorpio: January can present challenging situations for Scorpios and it will be important to approach them cautiously. “It’s hard to walk the right path, especially when you know you’ve been wronged in a situation,” says Stardust, but it will be crucial for Scorpios this month.
- Protect: Sagittarius might think about stirring the pot, but sensitivity and patience might be the better move. “You want to be heard,” says Stardust, “but at what cost? Now think about the consequences of creating drama. It’s just not worth it.”
- Capricorn: Now is the time for deep conversations, Capricorn. “When you talk about things with your loved ones, you both become closer,” says Stardust.
- Aquarius: Take a second to relax, Aquarius. “Adding downtime to your life is important because it helps you unwind and relax now,” says Stardust.
- Fishes: Love can be powerful for Pisces in January, Stardust notes, helping you transform and evoke your spirit – and the Wolf’s Full Moon is an especially powerful time to tune into.
When is the next full moon?
The full moon after the January wolf moon is the February snow moon on February 5, 2023. The next wolf moon is January 25, 2024.
— Additional reporting by Maggie Ryan