Your Weekly Horoscope by Tracy Allen –January 21-27

Your Weekly Horoscope by Tracy Allen –January 21-27

What does this week’s lunar eclipse mean for you? Follow @astrotherapist on Twitter and email tallennyc@gmail.com to schedule a reading over phone or Skype. Available in-person in NYC! 

AquariusAQUARIUS

January 20–February 18

The week starts off with a Mars-Saturn dustup that can make you your own worst enemy when it comes to standing up for what you think. Private doubts and fears can undercut your assertiveness, and even if you’re the one getting in your way, you might feel irritable. That’s bound to come across in conversations, so take your emotional temperature before you wind up in a testy debate. Thankfully, Mars vibes with Jupiter in your humanity zone late in the week, bringing tons of luck to networking and other group communication and activities. Whether you want to make new friends or rally the troops, take the lead and your initiative should pay off. Venus is also vibing with Jupiter this week, which bodes well for your social life! You could travel with your crew, enjoy an epic GNO or meet a wide variety of people when you go out. “The more the merrier” is definitely your motto now. And you won’t be a quiet bystander after Mercury arrives in Aquarius, giving you the gift of gab! Not only can you express your POV well, but you could also make a few personal decisions in the next couple of weeks.

 

PiscesPISCES

February 19–March 20

You can’t expect others to cosign when you act in your own best interests early in the week. Take-charge Mars in your worth house has a standoff with stalwart Saturn in your people sector, so if you push, you’ll only hit a brick wall — especially where money, possessions and other resources are concerned. Your instinct now is to do what’s necessary to secure what you need, but if you need the stamp of approval from a group, you better make sure you’ve covered all your bases. Late in the week, Mars schmoozes Jupiter in your ambition angle, and that’s when you’re more likely to hit pay dirt. Lobby for a promotion and raise or put your talents to excellent use and watch the praise roll in. With the right strategic move, you can make major headway in your career during this transit. And since Venus is also sidling up to Jupiter, you may have a chance to charm the socks off a bigwig or make a positive impression on a bigger stage than you’re used to. After Mercury ducks into your retreat corner, you’ll be keeping your own counsel for a couple of weeks and might want alone time to do some thinking.

 

AriesARIES

March 21–April 19

A spat between Mars in Aries and Saturn in your authority angle at the beginning of the week reminds you that you can’t fight city hall, so don’t try to buck the system. Do your best to play by the rules. Then translate any pushback from higher-ups (like a boss or parent) into parameters that guide your actions instead of feeling shot down and throwing in the towel. Lucky for you, your ruling planet clicks with Jupiter in your exploration corner later in the week, and this time you won’t hit a roadblock; in fact, you’ll hit the fast lane. It’s like whatever you do, the universe is egging you on to go for it. This is the perfect chance to take a smart risk that will allow you to learn and grow. Your initiative and optimism is going to carry you into your future, with the wind at your back. Venus is also in cahoots with Jupiter, pointing to a romantic getaway or fun trip—or an extra gratifying encounter with something or someone new! Your comfort zone is not your happy place now, so stay miles away from it and sample totally unfamiliar pleasures for maximum enjoyment.

 

TaurusTAURUS

April 20–May 20

A Mars-Saturn showdown early in the week can cause you to run up against the limits of what you know. You may have slipped into an old behavior pattern without realizing it and are about to be made aware of what you’re doing wrong. You’re not getting much credit for what you’re doing while Mars is tucked away at the end of your chart—and now it may suddenly feel like the game is rigged against you. A few days later, Mars syncs with Jupiter, though, playing up the benefits of partnering with someone else in order to increase your odds of success. A person you trust might lend their wisdom and cheer you on or pitch in to further your efforts. If you’re flying solo, facing your fears or confronting another psychological challenge will teach you something about yourself and fortify your inner reserves. And both private emotional processing and physical intimacy can be a revelation. Your ruling planet’s get-together with Jupiter doubles down on those themes of powerful closeness and self-acceptance. You’re brave enough to let someone get up close and personal and to embrace your own imperfections. Plus you could have a stroke of luck securing financial support!

 

GeminiGEMINI

May 21–June 20

Teamwork could be a challenge as the week gets underway and doer Mars in your network zone squares off with stingy Saturn. You might be motivated to collaborate but run into trouble when someone refuses to hold up their end of the bargain. Try not to put too much emphasis on what you’re not getting and who’s not delivering. Maybe one person hasn’t gotten the memo that you’re all equal players. This might be your cue to slow your roll and be more selective about whom you partner with. Later in the week when Mars gets into a much better flow with Jupiter, the floodgates open and people will act like helpers, not haters. Keep trying to work together — because there’s power in numbers! Networking could pay off in the form of a useful contact or savvy mentor, and you’re bound to learn something from your cohorts if you stick with being a team player. And if you spot an opportunity to help others out, jump right in. Your ruling planet’s arrival in your expansion corner means you’ll soon be looking at life through a wide-angle lens. Curiosity combines with wanderlust, opening up fresh possibilities to explore.

 

CancerCANCER

June 21–July 22

Your ambition is in overdrive, thanks to Mars blazing a trail through your achievement angle, but when he reaches a stalemate with Saturn in your interpersonal house at the start of the week, someone could put up a stop sign. Resist the urge to keep going full speed ahead, and take negative feedback under advisement. A killjoy could be a blessing in disguise, since constructive criticism will sharpen your strategy. And it could be that you need to toggle between chasing goals and meeting personal obligations for a day. Later in the week, Mars meshes with Jupiter in your efficiency corner, suggesting that your willingness to work hard and serve a useful purpose will help you rise in the ranks. So keep approaching goals with a positive attitude and be open to helping out colleagues — or welcoming their assistance. Venus and Jupiter have their own rendezvous in your efficiency corner, so you won’t have any trouble getting along with coworkers and could have plenty of fun accomplishing tasks and doing something healthy like working out. Plus you might do a big favor for someone — or flirt boldly with a person in your everyday world, like an officemate.

 

LeoLEO

July 23–August 22

On the heels of the lunar eclipse in Leo, Mars and Saturn get into a skirmish that could stop you in your tracks. You’re all ready to take a leap of faith, and then the taskmaster planet steps in to say, “Not so fast!” That might not be such a bad thing, since doing your homework will, at the very least, ensure you’re taking calculated risks. None of this leap-and-the-net-will-appear sunniness where Saturn is concerned! First prepare for this adventure — or venture. And if you’re defending your beliefs and principles or fighting for a cause, have plenty of facts on hand that will back you up. Mars plays nice with Jupiter later in the week, sending a totally different message. Now you’re free to follow your heart and do what makes you happy. If the spirit moves you, be a passionate activist, pursue your creative vision or hook up with someone who’s a real change of pace for you. A Venus-Jupiter encounter reinforces this message and may put an even more romantic or artistic spin on it. With the planet of largesse weighing in, you have permission to enjoy more of what puts a smile on your face!

 

VirgoVIRGO

August 23–September 22

As the week begins, Mars is locked in a standoff with Saturn, which could set up a push-pull in a close relationship. Maybe one person is ready to dive deep into intimacy, while the other wants to wait and see. Or one part of you is ultra focused on a passion project, emotional issue or love interest, and another part isn’t sure about putting all your eggs in one basket like that. Should you go all in or keep something in reserve? This might be a good time to remind yourself that you’re your own worst critic. You have so much to contribute, and whatever test you’re facing will empower you to understand yourself better and get out of your own way. Venus and Mars are both harmonizing with Jupiter at the base of your chart, which should mute your worries and spark an upswing in confidence. You’ll be able to get the support you need and will have the courage to get closer to someone — or to confront something within yourself and get more comfortable in your own skin. You also might host a big bash or overindulge in simple pleasures like sweets and binge-watching.

 

LibraLIBRA

September 23–October 22

Private insecurity, domestic duties or family obligations can get in the way of partnership early in the week when Mars runs into trouble with Saturn. And unfortunately, it’s quite possible that emotional baggage and old patterns will make it hard to fight fair. Resist the tendency to get defensive. Try to delineate the part you play in an interpersonal dynamic so you can take back whatever you’re projecting onto others and own it. It helps if you can stop having to think of yourself as nice for a minute and accept that we’re all a potpourri of qualities. Venus and Mars have conferences scheduled with Jupiter after you get over Monday’s hurdle, so a positive attitude, an open mind and honest communication are sure to save the week. If you’re in the middle of a conflict, you’ll find you can patch things up pretty easily when you’re coming from a place of respect and seeking mutual understanding. Plus you’ll have no problem seeing the good in people, lightening the tone, letting beauty brighten your mood and showing others you care. You’re likely to cross paths with plenty of new faces, and a pleasant encounter might turn out to be a significant meet-cute!


Scorpio
SCORPIO

October 23–November 21

Work smarter, not harder early in the week when Mars in your efficiency corner bumps into Saturn, causing you to find fault with what you’re doing. It makes sense to refine your approach, but don’t get stuck in analysis paralysis. The point is to keep going on a more focused track, not to talk yourself out of actions altogether. You can combine Uranian ingenuity and Saturnian know-how to cross lots off your list now. The danger is that you’ll fly off on a tangent or bring things to a screeching halt — so find the middle ground. Try not to take critical jabs at people or stress yourself out (exercise is an amazing de-stressor!) Venus and Mars are both making music with Jupiter in your worth zone, implying that keeping your nose to the grindstone can do wonders for your finances and your self-esteem. Make great use of your full stash of talents and skills, and you can’t go wrong. If you get carried away coveting stuff, the urge to splurge won’t be easy to rein in, thanks to too-much-is-never-enough Jupiter. So check the return policy if money’s tight — or have fun curating a wish list instead of filling a cart.

 

SagittariusSAGITTARIUS

November 22–December 21

You’re fired up to chase after what you want while Mars treks through your fulfillment house, but his run-in with Saturn at the start of the week indicates practical concerns can compel you to pull back on the throttle. You may not have the funds (or other resources) to do exactly as you please and will need to adapt to whatever reality you’re faced with. Or perhaps you’re not feeling confident enough to follow through on a risk you were poised to take. Don’t put too much on the line when the moment doesn’t feel right. Venus mingles with Jupiter in Sagittarius the next day, sending your charisma and luck soaring. Your worst problem might be narrowing down your options when you’re effortlessly drawing in whatever — and whomever — you desire. You’re not about to prejudge a potential pleasure now! Mars melds with your ruling planet late in the week, clearing any obstacles in your path and revving you up to take a chance that will lead to growth. Follow your heart and make a bold romantic or creative move. If it makes you happy and excited, this is about the best dice roll you can get, so go for it!

 

CapricornCAPRICORN

December 22–January 19

As the week begins, you could have trouble getting out of your own way, due to a fight between Mars in your foundation angle and Saturn in Capricorn. If you’re feeling prickly, getting out of a bad mood will be no small feat. That’s because your motivations are mostly unconscious and your ruling planet isn’t big on sifting through emotions. Chances are you’re slipping into an old pattern — and fear, pessimism or a related symptom is making it worse. Don’t let a family member push your buttons. Set boundaries and spend your energy pulling yourself together, however that looks for you. You might, for instance, get busy cleaning the house and organizing your to-do list. A Venus-Jupiter rendezvous occurs soon after (phew!), increasing your inner sense of wellbeing. You’d benefit from unplugging and chilling solo or with someone you can truly unwind with. Mars links with Jupiter a few days later, making it infinitely easier for you to move past whatever’s been bothering you. You might join forces with a relative or roomie on a domestic project or humanitarian endeavor. Bonus: Your parents and people you live with will be a lot more supportive now, so let others do for you!

 

Follow @astrotherapist on Twitter and email tallennyc@gmail.com to schedule a reading over phone, FaceTime or Skype. Available in-person in NYC! $125 for 60 minutes, $150 for 90 minutes.

 

Free People Blog

Done That: The Silver Lining of Surviving

Done That: The Silver Lining of Surviving

When you have cancer, what matters isn’t strength or courage so much as resilience. Keep going. Stay alive.

The first post in a series about life’s obstacles and the strength to overcome them. From first-time FP contributor and major inspiration, Deanna Pai.

The first time I was diagnosed with cancer, it felt like a camera flash had gone off in my otherwise dimly-lit world. Before I knew it, a surgeon had removed the tumor from my liver, and I was sent on my way to navigate the aftereffects — constant scans, a huge scar, and the realization that I, a 23-year-old assistant at a magazine, had had cancer — alone.

The second time I was diagnosed with cancer, I was terrified. It was my worst fear realized: Because there’s no real prognosis for the very rare liver cancer I’d had, no one knew whether or not it would return. And it did. It was like my liver couldn’t pull itself together. I didn’t want chemo. (I got it.) I didn’t want to lose my hair. (I did.) I didn’t want to be in my own body. (Too bad.)

The third time I was diagnosed with cancer, which somehow managed to rise from the dead after several months of remission, I replied, “Okay, then” to my doctor on the phone, cried a little, and went back to watching Cheers reruns on Netflix. Really, nothing equips you for handling a cancer diagnosis quite like receiving one every year for three years straight. If my doctor told me that I had cancer again, I’d just sip my coffee and shrug.

When people find out you have cancer, they try to encourage you with dumb platitudes. “Stay strong” was a common one. “You’re so brave” was another. (The only thing I really wanted to hear was, “You’re cured and also won the lottery.”) And while these are trite, I think there’s a grain of truth to them. What people are trying to offer isn’t really strength or courage so much as resilience. Like, keep going. Stay alive.

I was not born resilient. (Ask anyone who saw me after my high school boyfriend dumped me the day after prom). And I didn’t just become resilient after my first appointment with my oncologist. You don’t learn how to pick yourself up when there’s nothing to steamroll you in the first place. Even my initial diagnosis didn’t change me that much: My boss still scared me; my boyfriend and I fought; and I still got shaky when I had to slide into an MRI machine for check-ups.

The second time around was harder, since chemotherapy comes with so many demands on the body. I had to freeze my eggs (as the drugs affect fertility), a process that involved me, a crybaby needle-phobe, giving myself shots in the thigh. My hair came out in clumps in the shower. My hearing became so sensitive that I had to leave my office’s holiday party early, because the chatter hurt.

I was forced to figure out how to wake up in the morning and face all of these things that I did not want to do. What else was I going to do? That question followed me everywhere, and I knew the answer: Nothing. I had no other options. I had to get out of my warm, cozy bed while it was still dark outside to go to chemo. I had to answer work emails while getting a third blood transfusion. I had to put the needle in my own damn leg.

The last time I had cancer (knock on wood) I had no choice but to get a liver transplant. “Maybe it’ll give me superpowers, like a comic-book mutant,” I joked with my donor and oldest cousin, Nick. And it came true, in a way. Once I had my new liver — okay, half of Nick’s — and was declared cancer-free, I felt different, almost in awe of myself. I can do anything now. I am so much more capable than I thought.

It’s been two and a half years since then. I’m not some calm, swaggering hero without weakness. Please, I could probably use quality time with a good therapist. But I know myself so well. I know how to put myself back together if I need to. And I know that I can handle anything that comes my way. (Were I to have a personal mantra, it would be, “If it’s not cancer, I don’t care.”) And sure, while I’d swap this for a healthy, pristine body with my own liver in a heartbeat — obviously — I can still recognize a silver lining when I see it. And that makes all the difference.

 

Free People Blog

Free People Weekly Horoscope by Tracy Allen, Week of Jan 14-20

Free People Weekly Horoscope by Tracy Allen, Week of Jan 14-20

Bunker in — Tracy’s got a LOT to share with you this week! Follow @astrotherapist on Twitter and email tallennyc@gmail.com to schedule a reading over phone or Skype. Available in-person in NYC! 

CapricornCAPRICORN

December 22–January 19

This week’s Venus-Mars tête-à-tête says you should allow yourself to be a little vulnerable in showing your feelings and a little bold in conquering insecurities. The payoff? You can bond with someone or leave emotional baggage like a heartbreak firmly in the past. Venus and Neptune aren’t getting along so well later in the week, which could cause you to relapse and dream about an ex or see them in low definition, blurring reality. You’re also likely to blur boundaries and possibly make an ill-advised gesture — so watch out that your heartfelt feelings aren’t being wasted on the wrong person. When Mercury and Pluto mingle in Capricorn, your mental and verbal powers will be formidable — and can be used for good or evil! You have the ability to see through people and influence them; you might offer penetrating insight or turn into a master manipulator (worst case scenario!) A few ideal uses of this pairing: Make a big decision, answer an important question or figure out a necessary change. The sun in your sign is at odds with Uranus, so your mood or home life could change on a dime and affect your behavior. Deal with what’s going on inside you, in your family or in your living space before you try to get back to doing your thing. This is only a temporary challenge, and you’re totally capable of rising to the occasion. Next, the sun segues out of Cap and into your worth house, turning your focus from who you are to what you have, what you need and what you value. A lunar eclipse in the opposite house wraps up a cycle that’s been going on for the past two years, pushing you to master the art of give and take. Your finances, assets, self-sufficiency, values, self-esteem and stability have been highlighted, as have sharing, sex, interdependence, closeness, control and change. An outside resource like a loan could finally come through; you might pay off a debt; or you could lend your support (financial or otherwise) to someone. Sex is extra emo now, and an intimate connection could heat up or burn out. Transformation is in the air, and saying yes to change will fuel psychological growth.

 

AquariusAQUARIUS

January 20–February 18

Whether you’re interested in meeting new faces or connecting with people who are already in your life, this week’s Venus-Mars mashup will help that happen. You can find the right combo of assertive and agreeable that allows you to get along with everyone and still make your presence known. Your gut feelings will kick in when Mercury meets with Pluto in your subliminal corner, turning up the volume in your subconscious. Behind-the-scenes research and investigation should yield big results, so hole up and delve in! Pay attention to your dreams and inklings because they tend to be packed with hidden messages under this influence. It might be best to keep quiet for a bit, searching your psyche rather than spilling its contents — you run the risk of divulging secrets and offending others now. A sun-Uranus scuffle can also trigger unconscious communication, reminding you to err on the side of not saying a lot. And if someone irritates you with their bluntness, wait a beat rather than reacting in the moment. Your thoughts aren’t fully formed, and speaking off the cuff can backfire. The sun blasts into Aquarius next, bringing a welcome energy surge and pushing you out into the world if you’ve been hibernating lately. This is the time of year when you’re supposed to focus on yourself and personal matters like what you want out of 2019. Others are likely to focus on you too, since the sun’s vitality amplifies your personality to the nth degree. Granted, Venus’s momentary tangle with Neptune could impact squad rapport if a lack of realism about money, belongings or values confuses matters or insecurity strikes. Try not to let a desire to fit in with people cloud your judgment and warp your priorities because you may wind up feeling like you were led astray. A lunar eclipse in your interpersonal angle is the last in a two-year cycle, and it’s powerful enough to push a partnership to another level of commitment or to a breaking point. If a connection is tested, trust that it’s for a reason. You’re meant to shift your relationship dynamics in search of a healthier balance between me and we. And even though it’s your birthday season, if others seem to need the spotlight, give it to them—you’ll get it back soon enough. Happy solar return!

 

PiscesPISCES

February 19–March 20

Mercury in your network zone vibes with Neptune in Pisces early in the week, so people may seek you out for your sympathetic ear. And if your mind is on a new dream, this transit can help you ask for the support you need. Days later, Merc merges with Pluto, sending a powerful contact your way or enabling you to conquer a fear of public speaking and present something to a group. You could get into a deep conversation with a friend, but steer clear of gossip since language carries a potent charge now. Hurt feelings could affect your squad if your words or someone else’s come across with excessive force. Luckily, Venus and Mars are making music, allowing you to put your talents to good use and do creative work. Positive professional relations may ultimately improve your finances, so play nice with colleagues, schmooze higher-ups and turn on the charm with potential mentors. Venus’s clash with Neptune a couple of days later can make it harder for you to pick up on social cues and recognize the image you’re projecting. Your desire to make a good impression may lead you to glamorize success and power. Try to create your own version instead of aiming for an elusive ideal. The sun and Uranus are at odds, so your confidence might waver due to peer pressure, or your personal values might deviate from group interests. Don’t compare yourself to others! Recognize that everyone has their own unique qualities and deficits. Be open to the idea of bending a little, but stay true to yourself. After the sun sneaks into your release corner, your energy will wane as your solar year draws to a close. If you need more alone time to rest and reflect, don’t feel guilty about taking it. When a lunar eclipse lands in your productivity corner, the universe is handing you the year’s best incentive to give up a bad habit once and for all. A health or work crisis might grab your attention, pointing to what needs to change. You could finally admit what must get dropped from your schedule, to-do list, job description or routine. It may be an ongoing process, since a series of eclipses has been activating this corner for the past couple of years. If you need help, ask and you shall receive!

 

AriesARIES

March 21–April 19

When Venus in your exploration corner sweet talks Mars in Aries this week, unfamiliar pleasures like new people and places will get your juices flowing. You’re drawn to difference now, and with your ruling planet in your sign, going after what you want is likely to end well. Since Venus gets into a muddle with Neptune a couple of days later, wistfulness or self-doubt could dampen your enthusiasm temporarily, or you might take a good thing too far and indulge in escapist pleasures. This planetary pattern makes it nearly impossible to stay in the moment. Just try not to compare and contrast the present with the past or future. A Mercury-Pluto summit in your achievement angle can help you get your message across in a public or professional setting, but weigh your words carefully when communicating with authority figures, since you’re likely to sound rather authoritative yourself. Speak with conviction; just be careful not to steamroll. And bypass the power struggle if you encounter resistance. Make your case and then rest it. If you’re researching careers or plotting your path to a goal, laser focus will bring positive results. Note that the sun is also in that angle and quarreling with Uranus in Aries late in the week, making it necessary to keep your impulses in check. Resist the urge to rebel against a boss or bureaucracy or to veer off-track to get your freedom back. And don’t make yourself crazy trying to rush success! Your individuality can be an asset and a liability now; use it to stand out, not to game the system. Once the sun moves into your network house, you’ll find it easier to integrate your identity with that of others and be a team player. Collaborations and group settings will fire you up, and your energy will naturally shift to the circle of people in your life. In contrast, a lunar eclipse in the opposite house gives you permission to stand out from the crowd. This lunation wants you to show off a little, wear your heart on your sleeve and reach for love and happiness with both hands. A love affair could blossom or break up, and it’s important for you to be bravely authentic no matter what.

 

TaurusTAURUS

April 20–May 20

Your ruler — Venus — is in sync with her cosmic mate — Mars — this week, generating sexy sparks and emotional breakthroughs. You might get close to someone special behind closed doors or face a psychological demon and feel more at peace with yourself. There’s also a chance you’ll decide to release something (or someone) from your life so you can heal and move on. Venus’s discord with Neptune in your group house may blur the distinction between platonic and sexual, and a friend could turn into a friend with benefits. Be careful not to put anyone up on a pedestal, from which they’re bound to tumble — and also try to protect yourself from being taken advantage of. If you’re not sure what you want or are willing to give, don’t rush into things blind. A Mercury-Pluto meetup can help you dig for deeper answers and piece together meaning, but your mind may not be on relationships so much as broader issues like truth, justice and faith. You might become obsessed with a cause and win people over to your side or have a revelation that changes your own worldview. The sun in your exploration corner is feuding with Uranus in your subliminal zone, hinting that a subconscious impulse could catch you by surprise and go against your own best interest. You might give up on a new experience prematurely out of fear, sabotaging your growth. You’re meant to be waking up and shaking things up, so keep moving towards what you don’t know, even if that requires some zigging and zagging this week. When the sun ascends to the peak of your chart, you’re ready to channel more energy into achieving your goals, and the coming month may nudge you into the spotlight. Don’t hesitate to prove yourself in a public or professional setting; it’s your time to shine! The lunar eclipse in your foundation angle reminds you to attend to your home life as well, and it may take a domestic or family crisis to get your attention. Your living situation might be due for one last tweak after two years of intermittent change. Do your best to find a work-life balance that suits you. And if you have a major mood swing, that’s your cue to chill at home and administer self-care stat.

 

GeminiGEMINI

May 21–June 20

Mercury aligns with Pluto this week, convincing you to get to the bottom of something and not to stop until you do. Any kind of research or investigation is likely to deliver answers, but there’s no guarantee what you uncover will sit well with you. What you need to know and what you want to know aren’t necessarily one and the same! Be careful what you share and with whom, but if you confide in someone you trust, an intimate dialogue can prove transformative. Plus introspection could produce profound psychological insights, so you might stick to mulling things over by yourself. Although you can benefit from focusing intently on something or someone, try not to get into an obsessive loop. A Venus-Mars confab brings you back up for air and makes it super easy to click with people and team up. You might make a new friend or meet a potential love interest through the circle of people you already know. If you’re in a relationship, doing stuff as a couple and involving your respective squads won’t be as tricky as it sometimes is, and you’ll also enjoy pursuing new interests together. The sun’s spat with Uranus is a whole other story, as a sudden need for personal space might trigger jealousy or mistrust. You may suddenly want to lighten things up and spend time apart seeing your friends solo. Twins need to switch gears often, but see if you can do so without sacrificing the upside of more in-depth focus. Try taking brief breaks from intense intimacy or a passion project you’ve been preoccupied with. After the sun zings into your exploration corner, you’ll feel much freer to broaden your horizons and have new experiences, so it’s a great month for any kind of learning and travel. Venus’s tussle with Neptune can also complicate one-on-one relations, and you’d do well to remember that nobody’s perfect and even someone who knows and loves you can’t be expected to read your mind. This week’s lunar eclipse is the last in a two-year series that’s been shaking up the way you think and communicate. A development related to writing, a sibling, your community or your attitude may finally reach fruition. Information overload or sudden busyness could pull you in a hundred directions at once, so take a breath and process one thing at a time. If you’re overwhelmed or anxious, let people know how you’re feeling.

 

CancerCANCER

June 21–July 22

When Venus in your efficiency corner gels with Mars in your achievement angle, your creativity, drive and ability to work well with others can all come together, helping you to make serious headway. You’re able to beautifully balance a pleasant approach to work with formidable ambition so you’ll neither come on too strong nor fade into the woodwork. This combo allows you to climb the ladder without stepping on any toes. Mercury and Pluto rendezvous in your interpersonal zone next, propelling you into a heavy convo and possibly helping you to drill down to the heart of a matter. Strong words can inflict pain, though, so try to temper your speech with that in mind. You can have a powerful effect on someone (and vice versa), making it important to listen attentively, avoid defensiveness and just say no to power struggles. A dialogue can be highly productive or destructive now, and the more conscious you are, the more you can steer it in a productive direction. The sun is also in your interpersonal zone, and he’s at odds with Uranus this week, making it hard to see eye to eye on goals. One party might be itching for more autonomy or balking under the thumb of authority. The sun plunges into your depth sector soon after, compelling you to shine a light on a close relationship, passion project or private emotional matter and give it your all. This is the time of year when you put blinders on and really focus on what (and whom) you’re most invested in. Since Venus is out of sync with Neptune, no matter how much you’re enjoying what you’re doing and relishing the flow of being on your grind, you’ll still yearn to escape now and then. If you long to be elsewhere but can’t swing a getaway, remind yourself that the grass isn’t necessarily greener on the other side — then allow yourself the simple pleasure of a daydream or a new experience that takes you out of yourself. When this week’s lunar eclipse hits your worth house, retail therapy could be irresistible, thanks to a tidal wave of emotion surrounding your needs. Conquer the urge to splurge if money’s tight. The good news is you could just as easily experience a cash inflow. If you can gracefully juggle your own values, needs, confidence, possessions and priorities with those of another person, you’ve aced this lunation!

 

LeoLEO

July 23–August 22

A tryst between Venus and Mars can inspire you to break out of the same old routine and do what makes you happy. Take a creative risk; add more spice and romance to a relationship with an impromptu, decadent date; go out with someone you’re drawn to who doesn’t meet all your LTR criteria; try your hand at something new like snowbiking; or pick your pleasure! The idea is to have a fresh experience that brings you joy. Since Venus will square off with Neptune later in the week, you might hold someone to an impossibly high standard and need to let that go. Love and sex can be both blissful and bewildering, so do what you can to separate fantasy from reality. Mercury’s meetup with Pluto allows you to latch onto a problem and not let go until you solve it. Your mental focus is off the charts, and you should be sure to direct it toward a useful, demanding project to get the most out of it. Your attention to detail and thoroughness can veer into obsessive perfectionism and wounding criticism if you’re not careful, though. The sun’s skirmish with Uranus indicates that your attention span will reach its limit, at which point you’re sure to get distracted and need time off. Overwork can backfire if you’re so stressed and tired that you’re no longer productive — and more susceptible to illness. Take a break before you desperately need it! The sun crosses your interpersonal angle next, breathing new life into your one-on-one relationships. Look for chances to connect with other individuals and partner up to accomplish more than you could alone. Although your attention will be oriented towards others, this week’s lunar eclipse is hosted by Leo, pushing you back onto center stage. This is the last in a two-year series of eclipses, and it’s all about necessary personal endings. So if something or someone truly needs to exit your life, there’s no time like the present! What no longer serves your needs? Who have you outgrown? It’s possible that you don’t need to cut the cord, and a major shift in your relationship with that person or issue will suffice. Also, something might reach a climax now — for instance, you’ll finish your pet project and get rave reviews. If you sense a meltdown coming on, keep your cool and explain what you need. Or steal away for some me-time!

 

VirgoVIRGO

August 23–September 22

This week’s Venus-Mars tango will create the perfect blend of sweet and sexy, thanks to their current positions in your emotions and intimacy zones. You feel safe enough to express your feelings to someone and powerful enough to make the first move. And no big deal if you happen to be on your own! This planetary pairing suggests an underlying sense of wellbeing can help you build resilience and move on from a crisis, loss or hurt. Later in the week, Venus gets lost in Neptune’s fog, luring you to gloss over the truth about someone to stay comfortable and secure. Or maybe a dubious individual will throw off your equilibrium and disturb your peace. It’s a good thing you’re a sensible Virgo! Call on your intellectual powers and communication skills to pinpoint what’s really going on. Speaking of which, your ruler, Mercury, has a get-together with penetrating Pluto that’s lending extra depth to your thoughts and words. You might feel drawn to someone you’re talking to or hit upon a solid creative idea. Witty banter and fun flirting won’t cut it now; you want a heart-to-heart with someone you care about. But given that the sun is in the same house as Mercury and quibbling with wild card Uranus, you can’t expect anyone to be coming from the same place as you. Don’t put too much pressure on the response; just be you, and if another person doesn’t seem to get you, that’s okay. You can only play your role and allow others to play theirs. And your feelings are yours to feel; if someone doesn’t share your exact feelings, it’s because their feelings are uniquely theirs. Once the sun blazes a trail into your productivity corner, you’ll get fired up to accomplish a ton in the coming month. Your energy is geared toward work instead of play now, so get down to business and take pride in how much you can check off your list. The lunar eclipse in the opposite corner may signal that your spiritual side needs some attention too. Contemplate how the mind-body-spirit connection operates in your life and how you can bring your whole self into better balance. It may be time to recognize that control is an illusion (gasp!) and trust in the divine plan of the universe.

 

LibraLIBRA

September 23–October 22

Venus, Libra’s ruling planet, flirts with her planetary paramour, Mars, this week, greasing the wheels for you to do what you do best: connect with people. The yin-yang energy generated by this pair allows you to show warmth and affection but also assert yourself in relationships. Sometimes your sign errs on the side of people pleasing, but that’s not the case here. So get out and meet some new faces or make a point of hanging with individuals you like. When Venus gets caught in Neptune’s web days later, the logistics of socializing could become more complicated, and a health or work issue might cast a cloud over your cheery outlook. The antidote to a feeling of depletion? A healthy dose of nature! Even a quick fix can replenish you. A Mercury-Pluto huddle at the base of your chart pushes you to dig into your private thoughts and emotions, so make time for introspection and resolve to get to the bottom of anything that’s troubling you or solve a mystery from the past. And maybe share what you’re feeling with someone you trust implicitly — perhaps talking to a strong but sensitive healing professional. The sun is also hunkered down at the base of your chart, and his feud with Uranus implies you can’t predict a person’s response (or behavior) and shouldn’t try. If a curveball comes your way, don’t take it personally and swing wildly. If you have to confront someone, do what you need to do. But be sure you’re not reacting based on projection. Not long after, the sun shows up in your joy sector, giving you the go-ahead to have more fun. Shift your attention to what makes you happy — and get more of it in your life! Express your personality, creativity, feelings and romantic side. And when a lunar eclipse lands in the opposite sector, balance out all that self-expression by shining a light on your squad. You may need to put group interests first for a minute or be there for a friend in need. This is the last in a two-year series of eclipses, signaling that if a friendship or affiliation with a particular group has been on life support, pulling the plug may be what’s best for everyone. It’s natural to revamp your team as your interests and goals change and you change.


Scorpio
SCORPIO

October 23–November 21

You could get the reassuring feeling that you know what you want and are willing to work hard to get it when Venus in your worth house vibes with Mars in your productivity corner this week. You can magnetically draw in what you need and also go out and make your own luck. Take advantage of this fortunate flow by concentrating on your highest priorities. When Venus and Neptune get tangled up days later, you might lose sight of what’s important and covet things (or people) you’re romanticizing. Listen to your intuition, but don’t paint an overly rosy picture. Sprinkle plenty of realism in there for good measure. Are you being honest with yourself when it comes to depicting your heart’s desire? Trust that you’ll get what you need in the end. A Mercury-Pluto summit invites you to ask those hard questions and try to come to grips with the dark stuff swimming around in your head. A deep dive is nothing new to you! Be mindful that your words carry a lot of weight now, so skip the gossip and leave out the loaded language. No low blows and no covert attempts to manipulate either. Use your powers for good and stay true to the Scorpio code of loyalty and respect for privacy. The sun’s clash with Uranus can divert your focus and force you to change gears—for instance, if work, health or circumstances spring a surprise on you. Don’t stress if life doesn’t go according to plan. You’ve been tweaking the everyday systems that help you function, and they should have some wiggle room. Next, the sun dips down to the base of your chart, and you’ll be much more occupied with home and family in the month that follows. Plant yourself in familiar surroundings and ease into the comfort of being who you’ve always been. Relax solo or invite your fave people into your inner sanctum. But when a lunar eclipse rocks the peak of your chart, you might have to emerge from your cave and step into the spotlight — possibly to take a bow for a major accomplishment you’ve been working toward; to take on a high-profile role; or to deal with boss or parent drama. If you’ve spent the last two years trying to turn a corner in your career or to shift directions in your life, this represents that last push to make it happen.

 

SagittariusSAGITTARIUS

November 22–December 21

No one can say no to you with Venus twirling through your sign, and this week she’s partnering with go-getter Mars to send your mojo skyrocketing. Your powers of seduction are off the charts, with enticing charm and sexy boldness working in tandem to slay suitors or make your mate fall for you all over again. Don’t sleep on this opportunity! Milk that sweet-with-a-side-of-sass energy for all it’s worth. Later, Venus wanders into Neptune’s quagmire, leading you to crave soothing downtime at Chez Sag. You’ll probably be tempted to overindulge in comforts like delicious food and a cozy bed and might end up taking care of a family member or housemate — ideally, out of love and not because they seem helpless and need you to play savior. With Mercury and Pluto mingling in your worth zone, at some point your lens will zoom in on a money matter, and you may hit on the core truth about your attitude toward belongings, income, assets and budgeting. This is a handy pairing for devising a no-BS financial strategy or negotiating like a pro (especially if you don’t show your hand!) The sun is also in that zone, and he’s sparring with Uranus in your pleasure sector, daring you to grab for today’s treat and forget about tomorrow’s security. Of course you deserve to enjoy life! But you may not be doing your future self any favors if you roll the dice to get what you think you want and lose what you need in the process. Find clever ways to use what you already have. Rebel in small ways that feed your hunger for adventure. You don’t have to be predictable to be prudent. After the sun rockets into your thinking-and-talking corner, your brain and everyday life will feel more up-tempo. You’ll become more interested in getting out and about, engaging with people and learning new things. You might plan day trips and weekend getaways to keep boredom at bay. But when a lunar eclipse shakes the opposite corner, you could feel a sudden need to aim higher and book a big trip you’ve wanted to take for a while or get an entrepreneurial venture running full force. If you’ve been studying something for a couple of years, you may finally feel like you know your stuff and are ready to move on. The hidden bonus of this lunation: It’s your annual excuse to dump a belief that’s limiting your growth.

 

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