The festive season is under way and 2015 is drawing to a close

Make realistic plans and set your ideas in motion to make 2016 your best year yet

The festive season is under way and the sun is in the fiery sign of Sagittarius until December 22 so make the most of this sociable energy as the year draws to a close. 

On December 9, the new moon in Sagittarius brings a feeling of lightness, expansion, passion and adventure. What feeds your soul? Follow your passions and do activities which are fun and rewarding.  

The next important date is the Winter Solstice on December 21. On the shortest day of the year, light a candle and ask to release anything from your mind, body and spirit that no longer serves you. It is the perfect time to release the old in order to make space for the new next year. 

On Christmas Day the Full Moon will light up the night sky. The moon becomes full at 11.11am UK time on December 25. This is a magical moment so make a wish and ask that your wish may be granted for you. 

The Full Moon at Christmas is influenced by the Cancer sign. This is appropriate as Cancer loves to be around family. Show compassion for yourself and those you love, as Cancer is a nurturing and maternal sign. It is a good time to count your blessings, so extend a feeling of gratitude to those you meet this Christmas. 

Each astrological sign relates to a  part of the body and Cancer rules the stomach so watch out for over-indulgence! You may also feel you want to retreat into your shell at some point on Christmas Day, so give yourself some time alone if you can.  

December is the 12th month. In the Major Arcana Tarot deck, the 12th card is the Hanged Man. The image on this card is of a Jester hanging upside down, contemplating life. 

The Jester is helping you to lighten up, take a different perspective on your life and be patient. By recognising how to change your thoughts  you may find the solution to what you considered to be a challenge.

You may need to communicate something important over the festive season. Draw on the energy of the full moon to help you speak up.  

On the last day of the year, the moon is influenced by the Virgo sign. This practical earth sign brings focus to your health and well-being. Do something for yourself, to start the new year refreshed and energised. 

Begin 2016 by getting organised because that is what Virgo is encouraging you to do. Make realistic plans and set your ideas in motion so you can make 2016 your best year yet!

Sally Trotman is a counsellor, reiki master, yoga and meditation teacher. She offers one hour Astrology, Numerology and Tarot Readings via Skype. For more information or to make a booking visit www.sallytrotman.com.