With the Sun and Uranus both in Taurus, you may be feeling the need to escape from the same old routine. No need to take out a personal ad, however. Think of this as a time to cut through red tape and take out a personal vendetta against the pressures of society to grind and produce.

The shift should open up time for self-care, a luxury celebrated in sensual, physical Taurus. Being ruled by Venus, queen of all things sumptuous, Taurus loves to slow things down and escape. What’s luxe need not involve big bucks — think piña coladas and getting caught in the rain.

That said, it is an auspicious time to set personal goals and begin new endeavors. As we on the Cape prepare for the season ahead, take time to bless your self and your activities. The right attitude will help you barrel like a bull through any obstacles on the path ahead, though you may need to sing “The Piña Colada Song” for inspiration.

Don’t forget to read your Sun sign for the “big picture” and your rising sign for “where the work is.”

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

Mars square Chiron, conjunct Moon: While you may feel tempted to bump the pain away this week, transform your frustrations into forward motion.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

New Moon in Taurus: This is the time to tap into your own power reserves to set goals toward achieving your greatest desires. Push the envelope.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Mercury trine Saturn: You’ll be well served by the pragmatism you discover within you this week. Plan for the long term: live for the now.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Moon conjunct Mars, opposite Pluto: Pleasure can be cultivated from pain, and vice versa, but don’t let your moods rule your libido. Drama is not sexy.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Sun trine Pluto: Your already punchy personality gets a boost this week. Use your influence to make headway in terms of career, without letting your ego careen.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury trine Saturn: Feel free to get a bit bossy this week. Your motivation and planning skills pay off in the long term.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Venus trine Saturn: Commitment comes in many colors. It’s not romantic, per se, but rely on your relational prowess to curry interest and investment in your creative projects.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Pluto trine Sun: The power of influence is both a gift and a curse. Continue to use yours to forge a rainbow road ahead. It’s not a good time to be peddling darkness.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Jupiter square Sun: Optimism is a true force for good, but so is realism. Stay grounded this week and take all things in moderation.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Saturn trine Venus: True commitment requires an investment of time, effort, and emotion. Apply this to your affairs, professional or otherwise.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Uranus square Saturn: Big changes can be hard to swallow, especially those managed by nature and time. You’re best served this week by growing within.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Neptune sextile Sun: Now is the time to set goals for a brighter future. You may find the best inspiration arises in situations of community and sharing.

Hold your horses, star gazers. Last week we had Venus aligning with both Uranus and Mercury while all three were making a hard angle to stern Saturn. To top it off, this energy culminated in a full Moon in Scorpio. Still standing? Good on you.

If you haven’t learned your lessons in love or money, then I would recommend hobbling on the best you can, with any spare change (see: personal transformation) available. It’s true, the Sun’s alignment with Uranus this week could end up being a big blow to your dignity, but only if you resist change by clinging to outdated vibrations that no longer serve a higher purpose.

Mars has sidled into Cancer at an angle to Chiron, the “wounded healer.” This alignment places the process of shedding unhealthy emotional habits at the forefront of our collective endeavoring. That sounds easier than it is, of course. Mars in Cancer is heavily influenced by the Moon, Cancer’s planetary ruler, making this process a moody one. But it’s also an excellent opportunity to explore our emotions and tend to those “things” that haunt us on the inside. Time to tune in, listen up, let go, and integrate these lessons into your ever-evolving identity.

Remember to read your Sun sign for the “big picture” and your rising sign for “where the work is.”

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

Ruler Mars square Chiron: It might look a mess, but your emotional upheavals are part of the natural order. Purge to make space for better.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Ruler Venus sextile Neptune: This angle offers some reprieve from the emotional forces at play. Sex therapy or shop therapy, your choice.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Ruler Mercury square Jupiter: A broad outlook boosts your mood, but don’t boast. A hopeful future is built on the details of the present.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Ruler Moon opposite Mars: It’s the little things that bother you most. Channel all challenging energies into exercise and compromise.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Ruler Sun conjunct Uranus, square Saturn: Despite any excitement in your life, your character is being tested. Don’t buck the system; work it.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Ruler Mercury square Jupiter: Details seem elusive yet demand your attention if you desire a happy future. Don’t get cocky if you get lucky.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Ruler Venus sextile Neptune: Light breaks briefly through the stormy feelings of the past week. Sex or shopping help take the edge off.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Ruler Pluto trine Mercury: Socializing just for the sake of it isn’t as appealing to you as a deep discussion but may bring you powerful new friends.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Ruler Jupiter square Mercury: You can be proud of the future you’ve devised, but boasting isn’t a cute look. Pay attention to the details on the path forward.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Ruler Saturn square Sun: The pressure’s on, so get ready to dig in and be patient. You could avoid your work, but that would bring no reward.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Ruler Uranus conjunct Sun: While you may be tempted to buck the system, try working it instead. You might find that it makes your life more exciting.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Ruler Neptune sextile Venus: Make the most of this brief pause for peace from your emotions. Intimacy would help but buying something pretty would, too.

In contrast to the nonstop rush of Aries, Taurus prioritizes taking pleasure while also working mindfully toward goals. Taurus, symbolized by the bull, is a sensual sign, both grounded and reliable. These qualities move to the foreground of our lives during this time. A pragmatic approach, in Taurus season, results in the most enjoyable rewards. This includes frequent nature breaks to delight in the expressions of spring.

Across the sky from the Taurus Sun, the Moon goes full in Scorpio. Scorpio’s main principle is regeneration, so this full Moon may portend an intense release of something deep within. Tap into Taurus’s more stable energy during this time to provide balance. Transformation in the moment may seem catastrophic, but, seen pragmatically, it’s just a transition to a newer version of ourselves. Learn to enjoy the process.

Don’t forget to read your Sun sign for the “big picture” and your rising sign for “where the work is.”

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

Ruler Mars trine Jupiter, sextile Sun: Your self-directed empowerment opens doors where you saw only windows. Fly freely but not too near the sun.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Venus conjunct Uranus, square Saturn: The urge for a cheap thrill might rock the boat, so save yourself the trouble and take the high road instead.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Mercury conjunct Uranus, square Saturn: Devilish details elude you, despite an energized perception. Ditch any moodiness for a more creative expression.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Moon opposite Uranus: The manner in which you react to changed circumstances is largely under your control. Choose to feel, yes, but also to rise above.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Sun conjunct Uranus: Open-minded is not the same as impulsive. Break free from routine but don’t break the rules or another person in the process.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury conjunct Uranus, square Saturn: Your mind is clear, but some details are in a fog. Counter any self-criticism with a high-quality creative outlet.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Venus conjunct Uranus, square Saturn: Having it your way may seem delicious but tends to leave a bitter aftertaste. Swallow your pride and resist.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Ruler Pluto trine Mercury: Your powers of persuasion are particularly potent at present. Work the crowd for favors but don’t get sucked into any seedy scenes.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Ruler Jupiter trine Mars: Initiative, instinct, and impulse are three i’s that are all about you right now. That’s OK, so long as no one else is hurt along the way.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Saturn square Venus, square Mercury: While you’re often best left to your own devices, don’t neglect to notice the affectionate attention of those who treasure you.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Uranus conjunct Venus, conjunct Mercury: Unexpected events delight your mind, heart, and libido, but beware the tendency to overdo it.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Neptune sextile Mercury: Never underestimate the power of words to hurt or heal. If someone needs help seeing the bigger picture, speak true.

When Venus enters a new sign, especially one that she rules such as Taurus or Libra, the moment usually has the feel of Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus. Venus, arriving on a breeze like a gorgeous gift from out of the blue, has come to render the world a more beautiful place. If you have any Libra friends, you’ll notice that they arrive at any social function with a similar air: feigning modesty, fashionably revealing, unconcerned with timing, and leaning hard on the crutch of their own charms. (Lest you think I’m Libra-bashing, this local astrologer is himself a son of the Scales.)

Taurus is earthy to Libra’s airy. When Venus comes ashore in this sign, she sets her divine gaze upon deep romantic connection and material abundance, which may even feel like they are one and the same. Indeed, Venus’s presence here unearths hidden gems — both in terms of money and of love. Getting lucky, then, at a time like this, might take on multiple meanings. If the energy of Venus in Taurus doesn’t fill your pockets with riches, then let it fill your heart just the same.

When reading personal horoscopes, read your Sun sign for the “big picture” and your rising sign for “where the work is.”

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

Ruler Mars trine Jupiter: Fortune favors the brave. And true bravery is built on a strong belief in the self, along with good intentions.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Ruler Venus in Taurus: Your romantic life is energized as your ability to attract resources increases. Take advantage of this planetary transit!

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Ruler Mercury square Pluto: Your perceptiveness is matched by your capacity for sarcasm. Don’t go prodding any weak spots if you can’t also poke your own.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Ruler Moon in Cancer: You’re vibing with the spring birds who are building their nests. Take care of your home nest and use it to keep others warm and safe.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Ruler Sun square Pluto: Sometimes you have to break things down to build them back up again. Challenging? Yes. Enjoyable? Up to you.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Ruler Mercury square Pluto: Be mindful of other people’s vulnerabilities. Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Ruler Venus in Taurus: You’re on cloud nine romantically and tilling gold from all the toiling you’ve done. This planetary transit could be good for you.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Ruler Pluto square Sun: Sometimes, in order to build ourselves up, we have to let go of our past ways. Caterpillar, meet butterfly.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Ruler Jupiter trine Mars: You’re used to getting lucky, but have you tried believing in the power of your own intentions to create that so-called luck?

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Ruler Saturn square Uranus: Sometimes we have to rebel against our own principles in order to foster lasting change. Break the chain.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Ruler Uranus square Saturn: Despite your eccentricity, you have a soft spot for tradition. The best kind of inventiveness takes place between the two.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Ruler Neptune in Pisces: While you’re flying high on the magic carpet of your imagination, the rest of us are stuck on dry land. Lend out some inspiration!

The new Moon in the first sign of the zodiac sets the tone for the year ahead. It is an invitation to begin again by refreshing your routine and cultivating a creative vision for yourself. With this new Moon also eclipsing the Sun, our experience becomes more intuitive and less ego-driven. This makes space for expressing ourselves authentically without needing to edit ourselves based on how we want or are expected to be perceived.

Aries energy has nothing to prove. It is straightforward, active, and resilient. And as the new Moon is a time for setting intentions, we should resolve to be honest about who we are and what we want without fear of reprisal.

Such resilience in the wake of last year’s struggles may seem like a hard ask. That said, this new Moon and eclipse also occur in conjunction with Chiron — a planet known as the “wounded healer.” It represents the growth associated with confronting personal obstacles and pain. A promising backdrop for the work of uncovering deep resources of compassion within and applying them to our vision for a constructive, happy future.

Read your Sun sign for background, as well as your rising sign for where the action is.

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

A five-planet pileup in your sign is the perfect opportunity for shoring up the best of what you’ve got to give and giving it all your best. Believe in yourself.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

While your love life may be cruising along, other aspects of your life may feel like they’re grinding gears. Keep your nose to the grindstone and your legs in the air.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

It’s easy to confuse verbalizing your needs with aggressively demanding understanding. Unlearn developmental wounds to unlock constructive communication.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Don’t take anything personally as you get a punch of power from the Moon’s eclipse in Aries. Your triggers don’t always have to lead to a smoking gun.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

This eclipse dials up your intuition, which serves to pave the way ahead in gold. Be mindful of any strong feelings that surface now. They are nothing but shadows of past lives.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Outmoded behaviors are hard to break, especially regarding effective communication skills. Your boundaries and needs are valid, but your complaints are not.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Unbecoming emotional behaviors tend to surface in romantic relationships. Unlearning them is crucial to a fulfilling love life, whether you currently have one or not.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Your capacity for love and transformation is monstrous, if only you could tame the monsters in your mind. Free your beastly shadows from the cage of your heart.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

You’re on a winning streak of proactively innovating sweeping and successful changes across every aspect of your life. No need to gloat but please pay it forward.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Yes, you’re profound and those pragmatic personal depths are the font of your most poignant inspirations. Being principled can have limited social applications.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

While your hard work in the material world doesn’t seem to be getting you anywhere, on a spiritual plane it’s another story. Personal evolution is an internal process.

PISCES / PISCES RISING
Feb. 19 – March 20

Do your level best to shut out any negative or intoxicating influences so that you may continue to inspire, instead of spiraling into the darkest abyss of the imagination.

The history of Aries, which begins the zodiacal year, as a symbol of creation and sacrifice extends thousands of years into the past. The constellation of Aries (not to be confused with Ares, the Greek god of war) was ascribed the form of a ram in many ancient cultures. In Egypt, the ram — associated with the god Amun — was worshiped both for its fertility and for its warlike nature.

In Genesis, Abraham sacrifices a ram instead of killing his son Isaac. This story is similar to the Greek tale of the golden ram saving Phrixos from being sacrificed by his own father, who then sacrificed the ram to Zeus in return for saving his life. The ram was also an ancient symbol of Christ, who himself was also sacrificed, so the story goes.

Given that the ram is a procreative and powerful creature, it’s no wonder it became the trendiest animal to sacrifice to the gods of yore. In most cultures, making symbolic offerings to assuage moody deities was a normal part of life. Even the season of Lent ends while the sun is in Aries.

As the new zodiacal year gains steam, what are you willing to give up? What things can you sacrifice to create space for new growth? Are they emotional? Physical? Relational? Material? It’s up to you. Whatever it is, let it go with a blessing. The nature of life is to reward sacrifice with transformation.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

Venus conjunct Sun in Aries: You’re not just hot-headed, you’re hot to trot. Find sweet release for any tension.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Venus sextile Mars and Saturn: When it comes to relationships, you want it all. Give as much as you wish to receive.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

Mars in Gemini: Don’t blame others for your own scattered mind. Accountability is power.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Moon opposite Mars: When things come up against you, choose to fight instead of taking flight.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

Sun conjunct Chiron and Venus: Wounds from past relationships are sources of wisdom and growth.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury conjunct Neptune in Pisces: Instead of the voices in your head, listen to those deep in your soul.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Venus sextile Mars and Saturn: Commitment can be exciting and playful if you’re willing to return the favor.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Pluto sextile Mercury: Your penetrating mind makes for intense conversation. Probe gently.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Jupiter trine Mars: Now is the time to believe in yourself. Good intentions lead to good fortunes.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Saturn sextile Venus: You won’t stand for a fleeting sense of love. Value yourself foremost.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Moon trine Uranus: Your private life gets a heavy dose of excitement without any chaos. Enjoy.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Mercury conjunct Neptune: Those inner voices are delivering worldly wisdom. Listen deeply.

I heard someone say once that people on the West Coast are nice but not kind, while people on the East Coast are kind but not nice. Having lived on both coasts, I can say that this generalization is largely untrue. And yet, a relevant inquiry surfaces from the comparison: What is the difference between niceness and kindness? It likely has little to do with where one resides.

Niceness, in my opinion, is a simulacrum of kindness. It is fake fruit — with a skin that people are content to rest their teeth upon but never bite into, and that’s easily bruised. Nice is facile, and it puts up an un-affronting front.

Kindness, on the other hand, is the juicy meat under the taut surface. It’s sweet, but it satisfies. Kindness requires being honest about boundaries, expectations, and needs. Kindness isn’t defensive, although it does defend integrity. It is something one either is given through love or has earned through struggle. Kindness is not easy. Kindness is being true to who you are.

The full Moon is in Libra this week — the sign of harmony and relationship. The scales of this duality are tipped in favor of being real to yourself over the desire to please others. Dare to pierce the flesh of your choices that come to fruition under this full Moon. Let the sticky mess of your truth dribble down your chin as you wildly delight in the taste of being wholly you. Eat it with your hands, then lick the honesty from your fingers and wipe the honey of who you truly are upon your self like baptism. Forget the imposition of etiquette, napkins, and cutlery. If someone suggests that your kindness is offensive because it’s not nice, chew louder.

Your horoscopes this week are written with both the energy of the full Moon and your ruler planet’s interplanetary aspects in mind. Read your Sun sign for the “big picture” and your rising sign for “where the work is.”

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

Mars square Mercury: Sometimes you tend to blurt out more than you intended. Measure your words wisely.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Venus conjunct Sun: Loving has never been so easy. Let your beauty and creativity shine.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

Mercury square Mars: The truth will set you free, but not if it cuts and stings. Speak with care.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Moon opposite Jupiter: It’s a good time to share your feelings and open up. Just don’t overdo it.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

Venus conjunct Sun: Love and affection are yours to give and to receive. Soak it in and spread it around.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury square Mars: It’s wonderful to speak your truth! Do so kindly and it will be well received.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Venus conjunct Sun: You feel beautiful, and it shows! Let that love inspire and uplift others.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Mars square Mercury: Your personal truth runs deep. Others will listen better if you whisper instead of shout.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Moon opposite Jupiter: Learn to be OK with unwanted attention, but don’t let it get to your head.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Saturn trine Mars: Efficiency is your salvation, though perfectionism is your undoing. Stay honest, but relax.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Uranus square Saturn: Challenges become opportunities when you are honest about what’s not working.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Neptune trine Moon: This is a time of creativity and inspiration. Dig deep and express your truth.

Flip the switch on your self-expression, star gazers. A planetary mashup of Sun, Moon, Venus, and Neptune in imaginative Pisces illuminates your sectors of creativity and compassion. Such an orgiastic conjunction should come with a disclaimer: resist the urge to lose yourself in daydreams or day-drinking. The best escape from your overwhelming divinity is selfless service to others. If ladling lovingly at your local soup kitchen isn’t your cup of tea, give back, then, by giving your creative best. Unrestricted inspiration has a long tradition of benefiting humanity with lasting creative works.

The new Moon in this conjunction amplifies your power to create possibilities on the path ahead … as long as your vision is rooted in reality. Delusions of grandeur simply will not do. Daring a deep dive into the dark waters of the subconscious can be dangerous indeed for those uninitiated in divine mysteries. In the ancient teachings of Yoga, the deceptive powers of the world are collectively called Maya. This is the blinding force of glamour that convinces us of our own grandiosity. Empower your resistance by distinguishing what’s true from what’s illusory. That kind of discrimination, coupled with compassion, is a recipe for collective enlightenment.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

Your patience and self-discipline are empowered by Mars’s angle to Saturn. Apply them to projects about which you are most passionate.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

With ruler Venus wrapped up in a four-way, as described above, charm is your greatest creative asset, among other things. Don’t indulge, but do express yourself.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

The week starts off with a strong alignment of Mercury and Moon, making you fast on your feet and quick to speak. Avoid the impulse to be a busybody.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Let loose and lose yourself in some good deeds as ruler Moon draws upon the planetary pileup in Pisces. Balance your indulgences with charity and compassion.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

The beauty of your life is illuminated by ruler Sun’s conjunction to three other planets. Don’t get distracted by idle dreaming. Better to actively create a dream life.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Listen up, gossip girl. Ruler Mercury’s alignment with Moon gets you up and going with the flow but also obsessed with being in the know. Remember curiosity and the cat.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

With ruler Venus delighting the planetary party this week, you’re tapped into the creative undercurrents of the universe. Let it give you life, mama.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Ruler Pluto’s soft angles to both Sun and Moon are like striking gold in the subconscious stores of life’s regenerative force. Drink deeply from this well.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Ruler Jupiter aligns briefly with Mercury and Moon, but this happy-go-lucky mix quickly fades. Instead of getting restless, go do something for someone else for a change.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Take advantage of the assertive energy that Saturn’s angle to Mars brings to your sense of discipline and perseverance. Passion projects pay off.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Saturn’s persistent square to ruler Uranus may have you in a bit of a mood. Take a cue from the Moon’s mashup and go be selfless.

PISCES

Feb. 18 – March 20

You love to slide right into dreaming. But this planetary mashup in which ruler Neptune plays a major part dares you instead to awaken to a shared reality.

Have you been having vivid dreams? Some so intense you could call them visions? The Sun’s approach toward Neptune climaxes this week with their conjunction — meaning they cross paths from our point of view here on Earth. This unites the powers of will and illumination, respectively. Their conjunction occurs in Pisces, the home of Neptune and the zodiacal sector of imagination, spirit, and reckless delusion. Dare to tread the magical landscapes of your inner worlds, but beware: mystic visions can be confused with self-deluding dreams. Those who believe in their own enlightenment are often the most deceived.

Meanwhile, Jupiter and Mercury also cross paths in Aquarius, where Mercury’s power is exalted. This combination brings an element of compassion to our insights, endowing us with the gift of seeing the bigger picture. When taken together with the Sun-Neptune conjunction, we have, this week, the potential to envision an empowered humanity that cares for its own.

When reading your individual horoscope, be sure to read your Sun sign for the big picture and your rising sign for where the action is. Sun signs represent our personalities, but rising signs represent how we express ourselves in the world.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

Mars’s angle to Pluto pushes you to transform your sexual overdrive into a creative hyperdrive. These are, of course, the same energy, but one is better for growth than the other.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

The ongoing conjunction of Sun and Venus has you reaching new levels of amour. Neptune’s influence, however, may increase the potential for delusion.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

Mercury and Jupiter are joining forces to help you see the larger issues at work in humanity as well as the smaller. Take care to keep them both in perspective.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

With the Moon square Neptune, separating the real from the unreal will require discrimination. Moods, mood-altering substances, and mysticism should be avoided.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

The Sun’s romance with Venus continues, delighting your love life. Beware the incoming influence of Neptune, whose impractical dreaming may foster disappointing delusions.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury’s conjunction with Jupiter brings compassion to your communications. When people present you with their problems, give them the gift of the bigger picture.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Venus and the Sun are still intertwined, bringing passion and power to your love’s labors. Keep an eye out for delusions as Neptune creeps into bed with them.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Pluto’s angle to Mars empowers your creativity by drawing upon your endless sexual energy. Use it for erecting personal transformation.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Jupiter and Mercury cross paths, delivering a healthy dose of compassion to your personal philosophy. Keep things in perspective for yourself and others.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Saturn’s hard angle to Uranus has you feeling like a law unto yourself. Rebelling against authority is a time-honored tradition, but stop yourself short of outright violence.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

With Uranus and Saturn challenging each other, you’ll find you’re a bit more touchy than you care to admit. You don’t have to respect all laws, but don’t go breaking them just for amusement.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Neptune’s square to the Moon has you knee-deep in dangerous delusions. Exercise caution deciphering what’s real and what’s not. Keep your moods private and avoid mind-altering substances.

Ever get the feeling that things might actually go your way if you could just let go and trust in the process of life? Well, now would be a good time to listen to your instincts. This week’s full Moon in the orderly, nurturing sign of Virgo brings clarity to chaos, illuminating the many imperfections we try so hard to subdue. Instead of trying to manage disorder, try being more tolerant and accepting. You might find that embracing things that you can’t control actually makes them easier to bear.

The energy of this full Moon makes positive change easier to implement, so let go of burdens that are no longer — or never were — yours to hold. That said, keep in mind that the Moon is also reflecting the conflict of Saturn’s angle to Uranus, which might make it difficult to simply go with the flow. Expect the unexpected and be prepared to adapt.

Each horoscope for this week reflects the Virgo full Moon and its influence on your sign. When reading horoscopes, it’s best to read for your Sun sign as well as for your rising sign (ascendant). Your Sun sign is more about the big picture, whereas your rising sign is where the action is — more on that next week.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

You assertively embrace change in your never-ending quest to project yourself upon the world. Use this acceptance to inspire others to take action in their own lives.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

For someone who likes to settle in, as you do, change can seem like a daunting, disruptive force. Lean into it as a way to foster the growth of the roots you’ve set down.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

Because you’re intellectually flexible, change seems like the breeze upon which you’ve always soared. Yet lasting change requires roots and grounding yourself in purpose.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Virgo’s critical yet nurturing energy may confuse you, but change is something you understand. Unclutter your life and your heart to be fully present to possibility.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

Playful yet pragmatic, you find change a thoughtful process, which you sometimes draw out due to your love of detail. Don’t waste time considering every imperfection.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Your role in the light of this full Moon will likely be that of interpersonal adviser. Helping others is great, but keep your more critical assessments to yourself.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

You are driven by perfection in action, which all too often leads to indecision and inaction. Letting go of the need to please others will reveal an appealing authenticity.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

For you, the principle of change is foundational to your drive for mastery over self and others. Let go of your self-seeking needs and help others with their own transformation.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Change is something you like when choosing what to eat, but not always when it comes down to your own mind. Embracing different opinions is key to self-growth.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Change for you is the work-in-progress that is your life. Your habits and responsibilities can become burdensome behaviors that may require moving mountains to let go of them.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Letting go of the old to create the new is part of who you are. As you try to change the way people think, beware the burden of ideology and dogma.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Letting go is easy for a fantasizer like you, who wants to live forever in your imagination. Keep in mind not everyone and everything is a burden on your freedom.

The Sun enters the watery sign of Pisces, the final sign of the zodiac before the cycle begins again with Aries, herald of spring. Pisces is the culmination of all the other signs — their experiences, gifts, and failures, and thus straddles the spectrum between the conscious and unconscious worlds. Its symbol of two fish endlessly circling one another, like a yin and yang, portrays this balance of opposite forces. Indeed, Pisces can seem to have two personalities. On one hand, they are selfless and driven to be of service and understanding. On the other, they are prone to feckless flightiness.

Pisces season marks the end of winter and focuses us on the deepest reaches of our inner worlds, where we go to escape the bleakness outside. It is from this space where we can most recognize our inherent connection to the rest of humanity, which should drive us toward selfless deeds, and, in return, liberate us as spring arrives.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

Ruler Mars makes a hard angle to a Sun-Venus combo, which has you sexually charged and way too assertive. Grabbing the bull by the horns is the only grabbing you should be doing.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

The Sun and Venus align, lighting up your vision for personal harmony, which attracts people, wealth, and good times. A harsh angle to Mars, however, may have you running hot and cold.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

Ruler Mercury’s alignment with Jupiter and Saturn makes you a deep, compassionate thinker. Grab the reins of this intellectual moment and gain some perspective.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Ruler Moon teams up with Mercury, Jupiter, and Saturn to boost your interpersonal communication skills, deepen your patience, and enable you to help those in need.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

Ruler Sun and Venus join forces, firing up your romantic, artistic side. Beware the tendency to overindulge sensually. You don’t need to prove yourself.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Ruler Mercury aligns with Jupiter and Saturn, giving you compassion and a deep appreciation for both the forest and the trees. It’s a good time to help others gain perspective.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Ruler Venus sparkles in alignment with the Sun, making you exude harmony and romance. This brings rewards if you don’t overindulge. Beware a push by Mars that makes you too assertive.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Co-rulers Mars and Pluto make a harmonious angle to each other, tapping into your sexual energies for some serious creative output. Go for maximum transformation.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Ruler Jupiter’s alignment with Saturn and Mercury deepens your compassion and hones your usually bumbling communication skills. You’re primed to help others in need.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Ruler Saturn lines up with Jupiter and Mercury to increase your appreciation for seeing things from all angles, making you more compassionate than usual. Share this moment.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Mercury and Saturn both make a hard angle to ruler Uranus, making you a bundle of nervous energy and touchy in the face of authority. Fix your mind on a creative endeavor to stay out of trouble.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

The Moon makes several angles to ruler Neptune this week, empowering your creative side, but making you notoriously moody. Don’t get lost in your hallucinations, but mine them for inspiration.