Making The Most Of Void Of Course Moon

Did you know that the moon has an astrological “pause button”? Every once in a while, the Moon literally takes a celestial break. In astrology, this is known as the Void of Course (VOC).

During this time, the Moon is considered “void,” meaning that it is not forming significant aspects with other celestial bodies in its current sign, and it has not yet entered the next sign. It’s a brief pause, a momentary break in the Moon’s journey that invites us to take a time out to recalibrate, reflect, and reset.

The concept of the VOC Moon dates back to Hellenistic astrology in the first century BC. Ancient astrologers observed that activities initiated during this phase often produced unexpected or unfavorable results.

While its origins are ancient, its relevance remains, especially for those who seek to align their actions with cosmic rhythms. Traditionally, astrologers advise against making important decisions or starting new projects during this time due to the perceived unpredictability associated with this lunar phase.

The concept was popularized in the 1940s by American astrologer Al H. Morrison who spent decades researching and writing about this astrological phenomenon. He recommended using this time for subjective, spiritual, and non-material concerns such as prayer, meditation, or rest.

According to Chris Brennan, a prominent astrologer specializing in Hellenistic astrology, the term “void of course” comes from the Greek word kenodromía (κενοδρομία), which means “running in the void” or “running in emptiness.”

It’s like the emotional focus of the world is getting an software update, and you’re just going to have to do something else with yourself until the moon comes back online ~ Elise Edwards

I have personally experimented with different scenarios during VOC to test its true effect. For example, I intentionally made an appointment during the VOC only to have it unexpectedly postponed. I also made a small online purchase, and not only was delivery delayed, but I had to return the item because it was damaged in transit.

On another occasion, I started a new project that later required significant revisions. This time it was by accident, and I only realized my mistake when I checked the VOC dates for that time period. These are just a few of the everyday experiences that have shown me the importance of astrological timing and the Moon’s subtle yet powerful influence in our daily lives.

Learning from such experiences has allowed me to navigate the VOC Moon more effectively. While it’s not about fear or rigid, restrictive rules, paying attention to VOC periods can help you avoid unnecessary frustration, disappointment and loss, and empower you to align your actions with the celestial rhythms and make the most of the unique lunar energy.

Here are some practical tips to help you incorporate VOC awareness into your daily life with ease and purpose.

Understanding Void Of Course Moon

The Moon travels through the entire zodiac in about 27.5 days each month, spending aprroximately 2.5 days in each sign. As it transits through each sign, it also forms aspects (specific angles) with other planets, each of which influences our state of mind, thoughts, emotions, moods, attitudes, behaviors, activities, and so on, affecting our daily lives and well-being.

The VOC phase occurs after the Moon makes its last major aspect to another planet in its current sign, and before it enters the next sign to make new aspects. During this time, the Moon is said to be “void of course,” meaning that it makes no significant connections. This phase is often compared to a “time between times” when the Moon’s influence is less direct and structured.

When the Moon is VOC, its influence is thought to be less predictable and effective. This makes it a less-than-ideal time to start new ventures or make important decisions, as the results may be uncertain or not go as planned.

Instead, the VOC phase is perfect for activities that require less structure and precision. It’s a great time for reflection, introspection, and engaging in routine tasks. It is also an ideal time for rest, self-care, and completing current projects rather than starting new ones.

The void of course isn’t a time to solve issues with intellect, logic, reasoning, or mind. “Kenodromia” asks us to lean into our trustworthy intuition. As the moon is running through the void, a moment of silence is of utmost respect ~ Makayla Mcrae

Preparing For Void Of Course Moon

To make the most of a Moon VOC, preparation is key. Start by highlighing the VOC times on your calendar. These times are widely available online, but be sure to adjust them for your local timezone. Apps and astrology websites often offer detailed lunar calendars, making it easy to plan ahead and keeping track of the VOC moon effortless. Schedule tasks accordingly, leaving low-stakes activities for VOC periods.

Prepare a VOC to-do list of activities ahead of time and make it part of your monthly routine. Include tasks such as organizing, journaling, or practicing mindfulness. Having a plan will ensure that you use this time productively. Keep a journal to record your experiences during VOC periods. Over time, you may notice patterns that help you fine-tune your approach.

While it’s not necessary to let astrology dictate your life, being aware of VOC periods allows you to work with, rather than against, the natural ebb and flow of planetary energy. Think of it as scheduling around Mercury retrograde or planning activities according to your circadian rhythm. Small adjustments can pay big dividends.

Life doesn’t always allow for perfect timing. If you must take action during a VOC Moon, do so with awareness and adaptability. Set realistic expectations and be prepared to make adjustments.

What To Do During VOC

The energy of Moon VOC encourages introspection, relaxation, and tying up loose ends. Here are some activities that work well during this phase:

Clean and organize: VOC periods are great for decluttering and reorganizing. Whether it’s your closet, workspace, or digital files, tidying up can bring a sense of accomplishment and clarity.

Practice self-care: Take a luxurious bath, indulge in a nap, or both. Use this time to recharge your emotional and physical batteries. Gentle activities like yoga or meditation can also help you stay centered.

Routine tasks: Stick to activities that don’t require new ventures. Update your to-do list, pay bills, or run errands you’ve been putting off. The key is to keep things simple and straightforward.

Review and revise: Revising and correcting work is favored during the VOC Moon. Whether it’s a writing project or a home repair, revisiting what’s already in motion can lead to improvements.

Quiet reflection: Use the VOC as a time for introspection. Journaling, reading, or researching topics of interest can provide valuable insight and inspiration.

Despite the fact that the Void of Course Moon tends to ~slow everything down~, you can actually use this phenomenon to your benefit. While it’s not the best time to start new actions, it’s the perfect time for recharging, brainstorming, and daydreaming ~ Kyle Thomas

What To Avoid During VOC

While the VOC moon is great for the above activities, there are others that are best postponed:

New projects or launches: The unstructured energy of the VOC is not conducive to starting new ventures. Initiatives started during this time may experience delays, setbacks, or require significant adjustments later.

Purchases and financial decisions: Avoid making large purchases or important financial decisions. Purchases made during the VOC often result in buyer’s remorse or unforeseen complications. In finances important details might be overlooked, leading to errors or misjudgments and investments may not perform as expected, resulting in lower returns or losses.

Meetings and appointments: Important discussions, first dates or business meetings are better scheduled when the Moon is actively aspecting the planets. During the VOC, communication and results may feel lackluster or inconclusive, and some interactions may even be disastrous.

Risky activities: Avoid gambling, taking big risks or extreme adventures. The nebulous energy of VOC is better suited to safety, caution, and sticking to routine tasks and activities.

Hiring or partnering: Refrain from hiring new employees or entering into business partnerships during the VOC. Agreements made during this time may lack clarity or stability.

Upcoming VOC Dates

Here are the upcoming Void of Course (VOC) Moon dates and times for the rest of this month in the Eastern Time Zone (ET, UTC−5). Be sure to adjust for your local time zone:

January 12: 9:49 AM – 9:54 AM (Moon at 29° Gemini 57′)

January 14: 1:52 PM – 2:42 PM (Moon at 29° Cancer 32′)

January 16: 9:40 AM – 10:15 PM (Moon at 23° Leo 21′)

January 19: 7:31 AM – 9:03 AM (Moon at 29° Virgo 14′)

January 21: 10:03 AM – 9:50 PM (Moon at 24° Libra 12′)

January 24: 8:10 AM – 9:58 AM (Moon at 29° Scorpio 4′)

January 26: 5:00 PM – 7:12 PM (Moon at 28° Sagittarius 48′)

January 28: 10:21 PM – January 29, 1:01 AM (Moon at 28° Capricorn 28′)

January 30: 5:57 PM – January 31, 4:22 AM (Moon at 23° Aquarius 50′)

Mark these dates on your calendar and plan your activities accordingly. These breaks are ideal opportunities to pause, reflect, and recalibrate. By making the most of this energy and aligning your actions accordingly, you can navigate these times with grace and purpose. Whether you’re cleaning your space, revising a project, or simply taking time to relax, the VOC Moon invites you to embrace silence and trust the natural flow of life.

Remember, astrology is a tool for empowerment, not limitation. By working with the VOC Moon, you’re not only avoiding potential pitfalls – you’re creating space for meaningful growth and self-care. So, the next time the Moon takes its celestial nap, take it as your cue to pause and realign. The results may surprise you.