Each month's full moon not only has its own name and story [1], but it also has a spiritual meaning and an impact on each zodiac sign. Many even believe in the various powers [2] of a full moon, including charging water with moonlight [3] to cleanse and empower yourself for the upcoming month. In January, there's a wolf moon in the beginning of the month, when the moon is at its biggest and brightest — and completely full. As each full moon signals the turnover into the next phase — of the moon, of time, and of your life — it's the perfect marker for turning over your own new leaf.
As the first full moon of the new year, January's wolf moon often heralds a time of change [4], which can feel refreshing but also intense. So what's the best way to approach this moon, and what should you know about it ahead of time? Ahead, POPSUGAR spoke with astrologers to garner some insight on what each sign may experience at the start of 2023 as the wolf moon rises to its peak.
Keep reading to learn all about the wolf moon for 2023, as well as what January and its full moon may bring for your zodiac sign.
Why Is It Called the Wolf Moon?
According to the Old Farmer's Almanac [6], the wolf moon is named as such wolves were more likely to be heard howling at this time. While the wolves were once assumed to be howling because of hunger, over time the howling was understood as a way to mark territory, hunt, and find other pack members. In the end, regardless of the true reason behind the howling, the name for the January full moon stuck.
When Is the Full Wolf Moon in 2023?
The wolf moon will be at its peak on Friday, 6 Jan., 2023, at exactly 11:07 P.M. GMT.
What Sign Is the Moon in January?
January's full wolf moon is in Gemini.
What Is the Spiritual Meaning of the Wolf Moon?
"The wolf moon that comes in the dead of winter is a time for transformation and introspection," Stina Garbis [7], psychic and astrologer, tells POPSUGAR. "It is a time of figuring out what you need in order to have a successful life. It's also a time of seeing what's missing and finding truth in what you long for. It's about sacrifice, finding personal truth, and discovering your purpose and how it relates to the bigger picture and society as a whole."
Astrologer Lisa Stardust [8] says that the wolf moon in 2023 may also signal an intense time of change. "This full moon connects with rebellious planet Uranus, which is pushing us to move 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 cosy [9]. Stardust recommends snuggling up with a good book or TV show and embracing the warm, relaxed vibe.
- Taurus: Is there something you need to open up about, Taurus? Stardust says that your heart may be "yearning to speak your truest emotions," so it may be time to have those tough conversations.
- Gemini: Geminis may start feeling like some lines are being crossed, and Stardust says that now's the time to address it. "Setting boundaries [10] with others is important right now," she explains.
- Cancer: It's time to let those feelings out, Cancer. If you're feeling emotionally clogged up, go ahead and have a good cry [11] during this wolf moon, Stardust advises.
- Leo: For Leos, Stardust says this is a time of introspection. This month is an opportunity to connect with yourself without the glare of the spotlight, so try to take advantage of it.
- Virgo: This month, including the wolf moon, will be all about relationships for Virgos. Now's the time to step up and prove how much you care [12] about those closest to you, Stardust says.
- Libra: Libra, get ready for a career development. "A new professional opportunity is around the corner," Stardust shares. "Believe in yourself and it'll come your way."
- Scorpio: January may present challenging situations for Scorpios, and it will be important to approach them carefully. "Taking the high road is hard, especially when you know that you were the one wronged in a situation," Stardust says, but it'll be essential for Scorpios this month.
- Sagittarius: Sagittarius may be thinking of stirring the pot, but sensitivity and patience may be the better move. "You want to be heard," Stardust says, "but at what cost? Think about the consequences of creating drama now. It's simply not worth it."
- Capricorn: Now is a time for deep conversations, Capricorn. "Talking out matters with your loved ones will bring you both closer together," Stardust says.
- Aquarius: Take a sec to chill, Aquarius. "Adding downtime to your life is important, as it will help you relax and unwind right now," Stardust says.
- Pisces: Love may be powerful for Pisces in January, Stardust notes, helping you to transform and evoke your spirit — and the full wolf moon is an especially potent time to tune in.
When Is the Next Full Moon?
The full moon following January's wolf moon is February's snow moon on 5 Feb., 2023 [13]. The next wolf moon is 25 Jan., 2024.
— Additional reporting by Maggie Ryan