5 Apps to Kick Off Your New Years Resolutions

Here we are in 2024 when we will learn how to embrace the idea of transformation and understand the importance of releasing the clutches of old security. This new moon in Capricorn on January 11 will be the essential cosmic ingredient we need to take ownership of our goals while living the most authentic way.

If you lack motivation or are just getting out of the fog of this past holiday season, I've got good news for you. This new moon will catalyze you to power up your 2024 resolutions. Think of Capricorn season as the guiding force for you to become ambitious while holding onto a dash of humility. Remember when Mercury retrograde happened last month? The good news is that the messenger planet is officially direct, and the new moon will clear the way for you to see what is stirring your passion while giving you the grit to power up your plans.

There is a lot of planetary action happening in the skies on this day, and the good news is these planets are fully supportive and magical for this lunation to be supportive. Whether you are ready to fuel your endeavors, ignite momentum into your life purpose, or have the courage to say hello to your crush or renew the fires of your relationship... you are ready for this! Let's dive deep and see what is in store for you.

What's Happening in the Skies during the New Moon in Capricorn?

• Moon conjunct Pluto
• Moon conjunct Part of Fortune
• Moon square North Node
• Moon sextile Uranus
• Venus trine Chiron
• Mars trine Jupiter
• Saturn sextile Jupiter

As a part of the new moon event, this will require you to let go of what is weighing you down the most. This has been a recurring theme with the last few new and full moons because Pluto has been taking the main stage. Today, you will see the clearest of what needs to be done to expedite the changes in your life. With the new moon in alignment with Pluto, this will be the stepping stone in you seeing clearly what needs to be released. New moons are the cosmic source for you to plant seeds and manifest, but the part most often overlooked in these practices is that it requires letting go. Pluto will be on your side as it will help you cleanse your mental, spiritual, and physical space to make room for your desired shifts. But this requires you to work hard, or this involves you to make a significant decision. Pluto requires an edge of sacrifice. Even though it may feel scary, think of this as an opportunity for you to rewrite your story (like the song "Unwritten").

There will be a stroke of luck in alignment with this new moon as the point in the chart known as Part of Fortune will grant grace to your next steps. This takes unwavering optimism and courage on your part to support your venture. You will see a sliver of promise and even an outrageous idea, but it seems to work as you lean toward it with trust and belief. Just go with it.

The new moon will also intensify as it faces off the North Node, the guiding light in our dharmic path and, as I call it, the uncharted territory in your life. These two cosmic forces will feel like a pressure cooker, which will involve reviewing security and taking ownership of your life. Saturn, the moon sign ruler, in a supportive position with Jupiter, will reveal the solution for you while helping you feel grounded in alignment with your next move. You do you.

The new moon in Capricorn will encourage you to pay attention to your dream life or goals while helping you understand what is required to see it take root. Guess what? You will receive a boost of inspiration and channel in your ability to invite your desired goals with the Moon and Uranus in a supportive position. Uranus will enable you to become original, embrace the idea of liberation, and learn how to become detached from the outcome. Enjoy the process and become the artist of your life. Becoming open to change will help you be in the right place and time. Chance encounters or synchronistic events on this day will likely happen as you become receptive to the Universe's message.

Finally, there is a message for you regarding your love life during this cosmic event. The love and sex planets Venus and Mars will play an integral part during this new moon. The great news is that if you are contemplating rekindling the fires of your relationship, this will heal your love story. Lamenting on past losses will only hold you back from experiencing personal growth and strength. Investing in yourself by going through inner work with love will allow you to attract meaningful connections that result in harmony and restoration. This new moon will also breathe life into your will to achieve your love goals. Single or taken, you will feel a pull to initiate spice into your love life. It can be by designating date nights or going to more singles mixers to boost your chances of meeting bae. The new moon in Capricorn promises an outlet of powerful changes in love as you stray from settling-get off that couch and begin to chart out your ideal love life. This time around, the magic will begin.

To understand how this cathartic new moon in Capricorn will impact you, read on for your sun, moon, and rising signs.

Aries:

You stand between your past and future during this new moon in Capricorn. Explore your potential and take steps forward guided by your passion involving work and your legacy. For you, achievement is often tied to being unapologetic rather than impressing others. As you map out your path for this lunation, focus on what fulfills you, disregarding outside expectations. Make your mark, staying true to yourself amidst external pressures.

Taurus:

With Jupiter direct in your sign, it's a call for you to live up to your promise. This could mean pursuing a dream, broadening horizons, or making concrete plans. The new moon in Capricorn urges you to ignite your dreams while undergoing substantial growth. Revise outdated goals that left stagnant results. Ask yourself what changes you desire, and review what steps will help get you there.

Gemini:

Navigating a cloud of uncertainty since last month, Mercury's retrograde threw curveballs in your romantic or partnership dealings. The new moon in Capricorn encourages you to boldly look to the future, letting go of expectations and creating achievable goals. Look deep within and analyze your inner state of beliefs. This new moon will enable you to clear out and understand what you need to cultivate tangible results.

Cancer:

The new moon in Capricorn will help elevate your relationship status or initiate changes in your love life. Get out of your comfort zone and name your terms! Step up and initiate that desired spiciness in the bedroom-it will deepen the intimacy with your partner. Measure the state of your energy as you collaborate with others, and use this moment to see who supports your ventures.

Leo:

Focus on organizing your life and work surroundings. This new moon will illuminate the state of your progress involving work. See what is hindering you energetically. Observe your immediate surroundings and assess what is lowering your vibration. Detox, visit a metaphysical shop, or try a sound bath for balance.

Virgo:

Mercury's retrograde last month may have left uncertainty regarding your home life plans. The great news is that the new moon in Capricorn prompts commitment to plans despite past concerns. Focus on loved ones and what truly brings you joy. It is a fertile time to expand your family or plant a seed leading to incredible creative ventures.

Libra:

This new moon will highlight the need to clarify what fulfills you emotionally. Reconnect with your inner self while confiding with those who make you feel safe. Focus on deeper commitments concerning home, family, and honoring your roots. Build a ritual commemorating your past heartaches or those you have lost to help you become stronger.

Scorpio:

There will be an upsurge of ideas during this lunation, and grounding your dreams requires discipline and focus. Mars in Capricorn will extend that support to you, leading by your passion and not holding back. Use this time to plan, organize, and take practical steps toward your goals. Focus on improving communication, honing skills, and open-minded to new ideas.

Sagittarius:

Jupiter's sextile with Saturn offers an opportunity to bring your vision closer to reality. Consider investing time and resources into priorities that align with your future vision. Budgeting and mindful spending will ensure success. Focus on sustainability and believe that you have what it takes to succeed.

Capricorn:

As the new moon falls in your sign, it's a chance for a fresh start and self-reflection. Appreciate the changes you've undergone and envision loftier goals. Embrace transformation while being true to yourself. Use this time to set an example by embracing your unfiltered self.

Aquarius:

The new moon in Capricorn urges reflection and letting go of what no longer serves you. This year, Pluto entering your sign hints at significant changes. Reflect on outgrown aspects of your life and seek alternative ways to cope with current circumstances. Review and clear out your subconscious patterns by beginning journaling, therapy, or meditation.

Pisces:

This new moon in Capricorn will help align your aspirations with practicality. Jupiter's sextile with Saturn emphasizes making dreams achievable. Consider your heartfelt hopes for the future and translate them into practical goals—power up your manifestation game by visualizing your dreams taking shape seamlessly.

If you wish to discover how astrology can help you find peace, fulfillment, and clarity, click here to download Lumi’s free Astrology 101 eBook. And stay tuned next month for more astrological forecasts for your zodiac sign.

You're seriously missing out if you're not meal planning. It initially sounds like a meal plan takes a ton of work, but that isn't always the case. Meal planning can guide you to a healthier diet, and take the worry out of cooking every day. Take these 31 easy recipes for example: they take less than an hour of your time, utilize widely accessible ingredients, and yield big servings that you can portion out accordingly throughout the week. Try a few of these meal plan-friendly recipes this month, and you'll see why it's a timesaver and a lifesaver.

Whether meal planning is new to you or you’re a planning pro, we’ve made it simple with this guide full of easy, healthy recipes to try. Take a peek at this 31-day meal plan for 2024 to get some stellar nutritional inspiration!

Paleo Chicken Piccata

Brit + Co

This cozy meal is full of beneficial ingredients and the leftovers reheat amazingly well. (via Brit + Co)

Keto Alfredo Zoodles

Brit + Co

This zoodles recipe is an uber-creative way to craft a delicious alfredo flavored dinner. It's low-carb, keto, vegan and gluten-free friendly. Plus, this recipe stores super well in the fridge for meal prep. (via Brit + Co)

Instant Pot Tuscan White Bean Soup

Brit + Co

Soup is always a good call when it's cold outside. This white bean soup recipe is extremely healthy and filling for the season, so make sure it's not missed on your monthly meal plan. (via Brit + Co)

Mermaid Veggie Sushi Bowl

Brit + Co

Sometimes making a healthy meal look like a work of art makes it taste so much better. Try out this single-serving sushi bowl and garnish it with care. Your fam will love this meal plan option at first bite. (via Brit + Co)

Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Salt & Lavender

Prioritizing protein is a crucial step in maintaining a healthy diet. This easy chickpea salad is packed with protein, and super delicious, too. Prep a big batch to enjoy in a salad or on a sandwich this year! (via Salt & Lavender)

Vegan Spaghetti Squash with Spinach and Cheese

Two Spoons

When meal planning a healthy dinner, don't skip the veggies. This recipe delivers on a super easy and healthy vegan bite. The squash perfectly emulates pasta if you're trying to eat low-carb. (via Two Spoons)

Honey Mustard Mason Jar Salads

Chef Bai

Storing your office lunch has never been easier with a mason jar. The best part about this salad recipe is you can make the portions ahead of time, taking the worry out of your mind when considering what to eat for a healthy lunch. (via Chef Bai)

Healthy Chai Banana Pancakes

Half Baked Harvest

When the sweet tooth calls, we always answer. But that doesn't mean we have to ditch healthy eating. These banana chai pancakes are so yummy and so good for you. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Chicken Caesar Salad with Grilled Romaine

Barley and Sage

Saladdoes not have to be boring to be healthy. Take this Caesar salad for example. It's full of nutrients but is also super delicious with fresh bites of veggies and grilled chicken. Grilling the romaine gives it such an interesting texture, too. (via Barley and Sage)

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Feel Good Foodie

Cauliflower wings are perfect for getting those vegetables in for dinner. Add your desired amount of spice and enjoy! You can even make these super easily in the air fryer for a quick bite. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Stuffed Zucchini Boats

A Spicy Perspective

If you haven't tried a stuffed zucchini boat, you are surely missing out on a great easy dinner option. This recipe calls for peppers, quinoa and pine nuts, but you can modify the filling with the ingredients you have on hand. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Half Baked Harvest

Another boring salad bites the dust! Make this sweet potato kale salad when you're craving a more hearty dinner. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Tortellini Vegetable Soup

Half Baked Harvest

Get that slow cooker ready, because this healthy tortellini soup is a must-make. When you're craving Italian food, this soup delivers on a full flavor and is packed with veggies. Make a big batch to eat on throughout the week! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Roasted Golden Beet Salad with Farro

Barley and Sage

Farro is the ultimate star of this salad since it carries a ton of protein to fill you up. Prep all of the components and store them separately to easily throw this salad together any night of the week. (via Barley and Sage)

Slow Roasted Salmon with Citrus and Capers

Forks & Foliage

Get all those important vitamins in by preparing a salmon-forward dinner. This recipe pairs a zesty lemon flavor with the fish. Serve on top of salad, rice, or quinoa for a complete healthy meal! (via Forks & Foliage)

Thai Basil Steak Sandwich

Half Baked Harvest

Fresh ingredients just make this sandwich all the better. You can prep this yummy Thai bite with any protein source you feel like adding! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Easy Three Bean Salad

Salt & Lavender

This option is more of a side dish, but it's so delicious we could eat it for a whole meal. The beans will load you up with protein and all the veggie goodness. (via Salt & Lavender)

TikTok Salmon Rice Bowl with Seaweed

Cilantro Parsley

We all saw this recipe go viral, and knowing that it's a healthy choice makes it so much better. Prep and store all of the fresh ingredients separately for the perfect weekly meal prep. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Roasted Delicata Squash and Kale Salad

Barley and Sage

Okay, we're obsessed with pretty salads. This recipe strikes an amazing balance between savory and sweet notes and is packed full of healthy ingredients. (via Barley and Sage)

15-Minute Buddha Bowls

Live Eat Learn

A buddha bowl is a balanced concoction of greens, protein, grains, healthy carbs (like fruit) and healthy fats (hello, avocado). Follow this recipe to guide your first buddha bowl! (via Live Eat Learn)

Quick Chickpea Curry

Two Spoons

When it's cold out, reach for this easy chickpea curry recipe. It's a great healthy dinner that definitely beats any Indian food takeout option. (via Two Spoons)

Healthy Caribbean Chicken Curry Sheet Pan

A Spicy Perspective

Sheet pan recipes are perfect for meal planning, since you can bake a large amount to save for later. It's extremely easy to clean up, since you just need a single sheet pan, so you'll save tons of time in the kitchen. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Turkey Chili

Culinary Hill

Try out using ground turkey the next time you're craving chili. It's lower in fat than your regular ground beef, but still carries a similar flavor. This recipe will be your go-to for a meal plan since all you need is a handful of ingredients and one pot. (via Culinary Hill)

Fresh Green Bean Casserole

Barley and Sage

Your Thanksgiving fave doesn't have to go away with the holiday. This healthy vegetable casserole is perfect to save and dish up later on. (via Barley and Sage)

Ginger Lime Cold Noodle Salad

Chef Bai

This refreshing bite will fill you up for lunch or dinner, and is a great light option for the summertime, too! If you want to crunch on it later, this salad will keep well in mason jars for meal prep. (via Chef Bai)

Grilled Chicken Pitas

Most Hungry

This Mediterranean-inspired pita recipe comes together fairly quickly with minimal cooking time. This one packs a fresh bite with the tomatoes and cucumbers! (via Most Hungry)

Healthy Tuna Pasta Salad

Salt & Lavender

Pasta salad is to die for, in any form. This recipe is ideal for meal prepping since all you need to do is combine the veggies, pasta and tuna! (via Salt & Lavender)

Zucchini Fritter

Fancy Peasant

This zucchini fritter recipe emulates a good old tater tot, except it's a super healthy take. (via Fancy Peasant)

Healthy Chicken Alfredo

The Endless Meal

This alfredo pasta is made with a cauliflower-based sauce that makes it lower-carb without sacrificing good creaminess. Like any meal prep dish, this one can be saved for amazing leftovers. (via The Endless Meal)

30-Minute Healthy Chicken Paleo Teriyaki

Rachel Mansfield

Make this paleo-friendly teriyaki chicken in under 30 minutes. It'll beat any takeout you're craving and deliver a healthy bite. (via Rachel Mansfield)

The Best Crispy Baked Tofu

Munching with Mariyah

Use this baked tofu to top any healthy recipe you make whether its rice, salad or stir fry. It will add a handful of protein to any meal. (via Munching with Mariyah)

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This post has been updated.

Nothing's more irritating than having to throw out fresh fruit you just bought because it either ripened too fast or was already festering with mold. And what food is the biggest culprit? Usually, it’s bananas. Unless you're fitting bananas in your everyday meal routine, it’s difficult to keep up with how quickly they brown (which can be anywhere from 24 hours to five days, depending on how green they were at the store when you grabbed them).

What To Do With Overripe Bananas

Image via Butternut Bakery

Banana Bread, Obviously

One of the most widespread baking recipes to make with overripe bananas is banana bread. Why? Because it’s simple, delicious, and an automatic crowd-pleaser. Check out our one bowl gluten-free banana bread recipe, our chocolate banana pumpkin bread, or these 40 recipes of banana bread that you need to make this weekend (the options are endless!).

(Writer’s note: My go-to recipe is the chocolate chip banana bread from Butternut Bakery — but I use dark chocolate chips instead!)

Image via Half Baked Harvest

Freeze Them For Your Smoothies

When in doubt, put your overripe bananas in the freezer. Then you’ll at least have time to think on what to do with them—and you can throw them in your morning smoothies. Bananas last up to three months in the freezer ideally, and pair well with a variety of different flavor profiles, like caramel, blueberry, chocolate, or orange.

This strawberry-banana colada smoothie from Half Baked Harvest may just be your new fav, or the cloudy summer smoothie which doubles as an Erewhon smoothie dupe. Chef Chris Morgan of Joon restaurant in Washington D.C. advises using overripe bananas and other raw fruits for your children at home (he makes little smoothies for his 7-month old baby—pure genius!).

Image via Food Faith Fitness

Make Banana Cookies

Substitute the flour for bananas in your baking with some tasty cookie options. The plus side of banana cookies is that they are often automatically gluten-free and can easily become dairy-free (but always check first!). These easy peanut banana oatmeal cookies from Food Faith Fitness are a great option. If you’re looking to ditch the peanut butter, try out these 4-ingredient banana oat cookies from Livvin Media.

Image via Kathryn's Kitchen Blog

Ice Cream, Anyone?

There is nothing better than sorbet or ice cream in the summer months. All you really need is frozen ripe bananas, any other frozen fruit you prefer, milk (whichever kind you enjoy— almond, oat, etc.) and some sweeteners like honey or vanilla extract. To fit your health goals, you can even throw in protein powder. This strawberry nice cream from Kathryn’s Kitchen Blog only has five ingredients!

Image via Butternut Bakery

Upgrade Your Breakfast

Pancakes, overnight oats, and muffins are all incredibly tasty options to use up those ripe bananas and upgrade your breakfast game. Try Butternut Bakery’sbanana nut muffins for a quick snack or these healthy chia banana pancakes from Half Baked Harvest for a savory morning bite. You can also sift through Brit + Co’s 17 overnight oats recipes — keep in mind that overnight oats only last a few days in the fridge, though!

Photo by Anna Tarazevich/PEXELS

Make Dog Treats

Don’t leave out your furry friends— they love bananas too! Making long-lasting dog treats “relieves the pressure on the idea of food waste, plus there is a bonus that your pets are spoiled, happy, and nutritiously rewarded,” says pastry chef Susan Bae of the critically-acclaimed restaurant, Moon Rabbit in Washington D.C. Check out her go-to dog treat recipe below:

Chef Susan Bae’s Dog Treat Recipe:

250g organic whole wheat flour

240g organic peanut butter

70g organic, unsweetened apple sauce

56g mashed overripe banana

113g organic plain bone broth

25g organic shredded cheddar cheese

25g freeze dried blueberries

Preheat oven to 350F.

1.) Mix to combine whole wheat flour, peanut butter, apple sauce, bone broth and banana. Until a dough is lightly formed.

2.) Fold in shredded cheese and dried blueberries to evenly distribute in dough.

3.) Roll dough out to 1/4” thickness and use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out treats.

4.) Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and bake dog treats until firm and dry to touch (this varies with each oven) Check at 45 minutes.

5.) Store at room temperature for up to 1 week in an airtight container or in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

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Header image via Half Baked Harvest