The Sun enters the sign of Aquarius this week. Aquarius is the realm of brotherhood, of breaking boundaries, and of a bohemian approach to this bothersome thing called life. Even though its symbol is two parallel wavy lines, which could indicate water, Aquarius is an air sign. To add to the confusion, its constellation also carries the water motif. Aquarius the Water-Bearer resides among several other celestial water symbols, like Delphinus the Dolphin and Cetus the Whale, and is nestled between Capricorn’s sea goat and Pisces’ fish.

Despite the zodiacal ocean into which the Aquarian waters spill, the symbolic waves actually refer to the waters of consciousness — those wavelengths emanating from the mind. In this light, airwaves make more sense, seeing that Aquarius rules new forms of communication and the spreading of ideas.

Humanity is the Aquarian field of experience. As such, Aquarius is a disseminator of knowledge and a teacher of light. Under this sign, borders and differences dissolve on the march toward fraternity and equality. Ruled by Uranus and, classically, Saturn, Aquarius is the herald of progress and change — not necessarily through anarchy and revolution but through a collective striving toward Utopia, which could well be orderly.

Similarly, the Aquarian individual should work toward tempering their unconventional impulses with enlightened limitations. Despite their egalitarian leanings, they must recognize that not everyone will share their vision of a new age and that compromise will require an imperfect world based on perfect ideals.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

Energy ebbs and flows with ruler Mars conjunct Uranus, affecting your social life. Self-combustion is not a cute look, so take time to air your grievances before you ignite.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Personal relationships might feel like a tug-of-war with ruler Venus conjunct Pluto. Power feels good, but try not to dominate those closest to you. Know your limits.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

With the Moon’s angle to ruler Mercury this week, your charm expresses itself in beautiful words. Be mindful of the temptation to silver-tongue your way into getting what you want.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

You’ll find your words may cast a spell with ruler Moon’s angle to Mercury. As enchanting as that sounds, be careful what you wish for. Nice words don’t always make a nice person.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

Listen up, Jumping-Jack Flash: ruler Sun square to Uranus spells trouble. Don’t get ahead of yourself and do ease up on the dogmatic outlook. Patience is greater than force.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Your wordcraft works a number on those willing to listen with ruler Mercury’s angle to the Moon. As fun as this might be for you, remember that with great power comes great responsibility.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

With ruler Venus conjunct Pluto, your relationships become sites for healing or for destruction. Channel your intensity into altruism instead of trying to dominate the truth.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Ruler Pluto conjunct Venus shores up intense energy that may make your loved ones feel overpowered and can result in destroyed partnerships. Use the force for good, Skywalker.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Try not to browbeat your peers with dogma despite ruler Jupiter’s square to Uranus. Your highbrow beliefs notwithstanding, dare to enjoy new social experiences without grandstanding.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

The Sun’s conjunction with ruler Saturn brings a lightheartedness to your tempered tedium. Cultivate cheerful friends for a change and find a creative way to be less serious.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Ruler Uranus square to the Sun can bring an erratic energy to your everyday. Independence is good but often leads to stubbornness and dogmatism. Reel it in and relax.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Proceed with caution with ruler Neptune square the Moon. This aspect presents a deceiving influence and blurs the boundaries between real and unreal. Ground yourself.

Recalling the horoscope from the week of America’s national election, we knew even then that Uranus would play a disruptive role until just before Inauguration Day, when it will station direct (and no longer be retrograde). I mentioned then that the last time revolutionary Uranus was in status quo Taurus, the sign in which it is at its weakest, we saw the rise of fascism in Europe, precipitated by American isolationism. On Jan. 20, Uranus will also be conjunct Mars and the Moon, emphasizing an already volatile combination of elements.

This configuration of Uranus-Mars-Moon in Taurus will form a square to the configuration of Sun-Jupiter-Saturn in Aquarius. The square (90 degrees of separation) is a dynamic aspect that indicates a conflict — the kind that doesn’t let an individual or group rest until the problems indicated by its component planets and placements are resolved.

Conflict, of course, can be a motivating force and doesn’t necessarily end in chaos. It can result in transformation — should the right effort be made.

The Sun, Jupiter, and Saturn — or what I’d like to dub “The Three Kings” — are the three most influential planets in the zodiac, and they can work together to merge idealism with social conditions, albeit with an uneasy adjustment period.

Aquarius is both enlightened and empowered by this conjunction. Itself ruled by Uranus and Saturn, Aquarius represents the force that changes the status quo; Uranus being the revolutionary and Saturn being the tempered progressivist.

Leading up to and on Inauguration Day itself, we have a conflict between these two forces for change. Both intend to destabilize the status quo, but each sees the other as its impediment. One is increasingly hostile and wields tremendous social and emotional power; the other is intent on taking the high road because it holds the reigns of institutional power. Will there be a middle road?

The answer may lie in Mercury’s placement in Aquarius, free from any aspects to other planets, which is a rare occurrence. Even in myth, Mercury was the mediator and conduit between worlds. In Aquarius, it fosters universal communication; the use of intuition to express reason. Or perhaps we can also find guidance in Venus’s aspect to Uranus, one that fosters universal love.

If compassion and understanding were to prevail, despite the major conflicts we are witnessing, it could mean our collective entry not into another era of fascism but forward into a true humanitarian age. Keep those principles in mind as we watch what unfolds over this week and the weeks to come. Lasting change will require continuous effort.

In the spirit of democracy, here are your horoscopes based on your sign’s element and its planetary ruler’s placement:

Fire

Aries, Sagittarius, Leo

You can either stoke the flames of division or carry the torch of progress. Fire feeds on air, the free exchange of ideas, and only scorches earth, that which evolves slowly.

Earth

Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

You are the immovable mountains, as well as the fertility of life. Through your actions, you can either impede the flow of progress or you can nurture its growth.

Air

Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

You can either fan the flames of chaos or soothe what they burn. Your planets are perfectly placed to carry progress forward, like a seed on a breeze bound for greener fields.

Water

Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

You can either drown the world in discord or douse the flames before they catch. Either way, water is crucial to life’s unimpeded progress.

The Sun and Moon meet in Capricorn this week for the first new Moon of the new year. When setting intentions for a new Moon, consider the qualities of the sign it’s in. Capricorn is pragmatic, more concerned with the trek up the mountain than with the views from its peak. A dour Capricorn tends to make mountains out of molehills, creating more work for themselves. They take on the burdens of others, preferring to deprive themselves. Not that the Earth sign sees this as an inconvenience. Despite any pessimistic spin they may put on it, diligent and disciplined, Capricorn is happily self-sacrificing. Much like the mountain goat who perches adeptly upon a precarious ledge, Capricorn can turn seemingly adverse circumstances to their own advantage.

Capricorn also rules structures and institutions, such as governments and nations. So, a Capricorn new Moon presents an opportunity for us to set intentions to meet the increasing vitriol surrounding the transition of presidential power with resolve and a prudent, down-to-earth sensibility. Capricorn implores us to stand by the democratic process and to speak truth to power, no matter how hard the climb. Faith can move mountains. Unifying believers born under this sign include M.L.K, Ben Franklin, and Joan of Arc.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

The new Moon in your 10th House of Enterprise calls for fresh intentions for your public image, profession, and social contribution. You can be it all.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

The new Moon in your 9th House of Purpose makes way for clearer objectives when it comes to education, travel, and philosophy. Broaden your mind.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

With the new Moon in your 8th House of Transformation, re-evaluate your shared commitments, especially in terms of sex and money. Reinvigorate where needed.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

With the new Moon in your 7th House of Relationships, find equilibrium when it comes to personal and business affairs. Diplomacy is a good place to start.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

The new Moon is in your 6th House of Wellness, giving you space to assess both self-care and work-life routines. Being of service is a skill to master.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

With the new Moon in your 5th House of Pleasure, set some intentions to maximize leisure and limerence. Have fun but don’t play games.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

The new Moon in your 4th House of Home calls for reflection regarding your roots, and if rampant growth is truly the best approach to being reborn.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

With the new Moon in your 3rd House of Connection, define your objectives in terms of communication and direction. Know where you want to go.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

The new Moon is in your 2nd House of Value, bringing attention to your possessions as well as your self-worth. Not all things of substance have a cost.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

With the new Moon in your 1st House of Self, make time to consider your initiatives for the year and how they will benefit you. You’ve earned it.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

The new Moon in your 12th House of Sacrifice makes this a good time to set an intention to forgive and forget old wounds. Healing sometimes manifests as a stroke of luck.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

With the new Moon in your 11th House of Blessings, consider your purpose and how it benefits the people around you. Wish for blessings all around.

Finally, this year of folly finishes with a full Moon in the watery sign of Cancer, the Moon’s zodiacal domicile. Ruler of the realms of home and family, Cancer is also the sign of emergence — coming into being — associated with the summer solstice when the efforts of spring culminate in the bounty of summer.

Likewise, the results of our efforts come to fruition under a full Moon. This one, at the tail end of a challenging year, bears the fruit of poignant lessons. Under this Moon and at this moment in history, our perception of the world may be rather subjective. Emotions may be running high. The Cancerian elements of safety, belonging, and shelter in our lives may be disrupted. How can we emerge from it all with both a hardened shell and a sympathetic outlook?

Our takeaway from this year may be to forgive its failures but not forget them. And even while remembering what’s past, we might also choose to live in the present — for it is in each and every moment that the future emerges. To be here now, then, is the truly momentous act. The fallen fruit does not look back at the tree. It roots and then it blooms.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

You may be tempted to bite off more than you can chew, but your frustration will be hard to swallow. Any restlessness is best expended in bed.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Your intimate relationships may seem like a hall of mirrors. Don’t try to decipher such reflections. Let your heart guide you out of the deception.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

You may be realizing new levels of understanding that ignite sudden shifts in how you perceive the world. A change of opinion is a good thing.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Nestle yourself in the warmth and security of your home, your favorite place to be, while also endeavoring to get creative with your surroundings. New year, new drapes?

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

You might be rationalizing feelings of opposition to which you shouldn’t object — but which you should definitely try to perceive objectively.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

You’re probing your own opinions for deeper meaning, driven to understand and even undo their influence on your perception of the world. Dig deep.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

When it comes to relationships, you may be seeing what isn’t there. Don’t let illusions become delusions. Instead, learn to see with more than your eyes.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Your talent for seeing beyond the surface of life is likely to bring about a metamorphosis of outdated opinions. Clear your perceptions so that you might see.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Your self-indulgence may lead you to projects that are too big a load to handle. Instead of senseless restlessness, try sensual expressiveness.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Exaggeration is no cure for the way you waffle between expression and tension. If you want to put your energy into something, there’s an app for that.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Being self-assured is a gift, except when it challenges moments of integration into a larger conversation. Even a closed set of beliefs benefits from an open mind.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Your eyes may be deceiving you by seeing conflict in your intimate connections. Keep in mind that what’s essential may not be visible.

Did you see the Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn? The two planets were also conjunct (close together in the sky from our Earthly perspective) three times in the year 7 B.C.E. — in May, September, and December. Whether the story that follows of magi and immaculate conception is fiction or divine revelation, we can probably all agree that the idea of Christmas miracles draws upon many ancient influences.

Christmas’s proximity to the solstice, when the sun seems to stand still in the sky just before daylight begins to increase, is likely a borrowing from pagan traditions. On Dec. 25, the pre-Christian Romans celebrated the birth of their god Sol Invictus. In Egypt, it was the day of rebirth of their own solar god, Horus. Hanukkah as well, which predates Christ by two centuries, is a commemoration of enduring light and renewed life.

And why not co-opt such solar power for the birth of the shiny baby Jesus, who would later be described as the light of the world? Whether or not you subscribe to a belief is not the point. Either way, we see that, collectively, certain beliefs have a way of enduring for generations and becoming a part of who we are. And so, we celebrate various appropriations from the pagan calendar, adopt versions of festive folk customs of the pre-Christian Germanic Yule, and re-enact the merriment and gift-giving of ancient Rome’s Saturnalia, incorporating all of it into this, our yearly Festivals of Lights.

Now, confronted with the natural severity of winter, among other realities we can barely continue to endure, we would be wise to honor the abiding, central theme of these traditions: to offer each other warmth and cheer, for, hurrah, a new day will be born. Whether you light a candle in token of the Sun, the Son, old Odin, golden Horus, or because the oil burned for eight days, may its light bring you hope.

In golden days of yore, I would spend the holiday with my extended family. We would gather and give and revel in our love for one another. This year is not as festive or familiar, however, and our troubles may not yet be out of sight. So, in the spirit of my family’s tradition of ordering Chinese food on Christmas Eve, I offer you these small fortunes, based, of course, on the miracle of your own birth under the sacred Sun. They may not be frankincense or gold, but we’ll muddle through somehow.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

Gifts that are hard to open are often full of wonder.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Dreams left unchecked devolve into delusions.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

Intuition flows from an open mind through a thoughtful mouth.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Don’t put off until tomorrow what can be done today.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

When one door closes, open three more.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Be mindful even when speaking from the heart.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Nothing is as it seems, especially what you think you see.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

It’s tempting to start from scratch, but don’t scratch that itch.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Seeing the bigger picture involves losing yourself in the details.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Overthinking can be demoralizing. Opt for morale.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

If you’re speaking words of wisdom, let them be.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Your reflection is all misdirection. Close your eyes to see.

We may have come around to Aquarius again, but the Moon is not in the Seventh House and Jupiter is definitely not aligned with Mars. Still, the winter solstice on Dec. 21 does shepherd in two other celestial events.

First, the Sun arrives in conservative, calculating Capricorn, ruled by the planet Saturn. Symbolized by the mountain goat, Capricorn and its solemn season give a glimpse of the heights that can be attained through persistence. An apt energy, indeed, for the end of a messy year, when all we desire is the promise of spring. Perseverance rewards.

Meanwhile, Jupiter and Saturn are both aligned at zero degrees Aquarius, having finally left behind the rocky realm of Capricorn for a loftier look at life. These planets represent expansion and boundaries, respectively. Their conjunction portends the Age of Aquarius, signifying significant changes for the collective consciousness — and not a moment too soon.

Examine the existing structures of your life. Which boundaries need pushing? Which need fortification? Fortune grows rampantly upon strong foundations built with passion and diligence.

It might not be a “mystic crystal revelation,” but love will steer the stars.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

The Aquarian Age is less about your feisty independence than it is about your willingness to collaborate on collective outcomes. Embrace a group dynamic if magic is what you seek.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Thinking outside the box may be a touch beyond your comfort zone, yet the New Age beckons you to bend your boundaries. Your career objectives will thank you with a calling that rings true.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

Aquarian energy is where your own potential basks in exaltation. Devour all knowledge that whets your appetite for self-discovery and revelation on the road to enlightenment.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

That ongoing tug of war between having boundaries and being vulnerable isn’t likely to be settled in the Aquarian Age. Inner strength comes from fostering connections, especially if they test your resolve.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

The Age of Aquarius boosts your personal sense of freedom. Be willing, however, to redefine the rules of your relationships, even if compromise means getting unconventionally creative.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

The abundance of the Aquarian Age will mean an increase in opportunities that will require a keen sense of moderation. Saying yes to everything comes at the expense of your well-being.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 23

The potential for growth is exponential in the Age of Aquarius, so dream without measure. Manifestation, however, requires structure and discipline, and big dreams demand hard work.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Aquarian energy demands inner innovation that brings about outer change. Dig deeper than ever for your demons and bless them in the light of a new age. Connection with others begins within.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

You’ll need to invent new ways to assist in the greater good that have less to do with your own ego and more to do with your interpersonal connections. Big ideas come from listening better.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

The Aquarian Age wants you to expand your good fortune without increasing your budget. Fortune follows a disciplined purse, and Lady Luck keeps a finely balanced checkbook.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Living in your own age will mean blessings that come in waves. Let Saturn’s teachings speak clearly now: obstacles are also opportunities, even if it means you end up all wet.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

The Age of Aquarius is a time of quiet expansion, supported by a clearing out of any karmic garbage that’s weighing you down. Thank your obstacles for their teachings and let them go with love.

The Sun has entered the fiery sign of Sagittarius the Archer, ruled by Jupiter. Unlike emotional, internally focused Scorpio, Sagittarius tends toward self-expression and expansion. The motto, as it were, for this sign is “I seek, therefore I am.”

Given to magnanimity and generosity, people born under this sign may, on one hand, wax philosophically about the greater good and other collective issues. Meanwhile, their other hand, out of view, may seek to expand knowledge of a more sensual nature. Being children of Jove, Sagittarians may be apt to overdoing it, wanting more of all they have. Give them food and they may eat gluttonously. Give them power, they become authoritarian. Give them a taste of universal love and, behold, a martyr is born. Although in need of external forces to curb their appetites, they aren’t as personal as the other fire signs. Their desire for freedom of both body and mind confirms for them a life of exploration beyond the confines of home and the known.

For comparison, famous Sagittarius personalities include Pope Francis, Churchill, Stalin, Beethoven, Sinatra, Disney, Hendrix, and Swift (Taylor, not Jonathan).

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

Ruler Mars square Pluto has you tearing the sheet from the typewriter before you can complete a sentence. Channel that energy toward undesirable traits and circumstances instead. Patience is a virtue.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Ruler Venus trine Neptune illuminates your imagination while increasing your magnetism. Such a bright, open mind is the womb of compassion. Love without measure.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

Ruler Mercury square Neptune may have you creating your own version of the truth. Beware the temptation to deceive. Read everything before signing. Speak, don’t sneak.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Ruler Moon trine Jupiter gives you a ray of hope, manifested materially as a helping hand or opportunity to travel. Tap into your altruistic side. Pay it forward.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

Ruler Sun square Neptune presents challenges in parsing motivations from the make-believe world you perceive. Don’t be tempted by deception. Let your true colors shine.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Ruler Mercury square Neptune makes it easy to lean on the fantasy version of your reality. Don’t be fooled but also don’t be the one who fools. Truth always prevails.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Ruler Venus trine Neptune electrifies your magnetic personality. Don’t be full of yourself — instead, share that love in the form of compassion. Imagine all the people.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Ruler Pluto square co-ruler Mars challenges you to finish the things you start. If you want to destroy something, destroy bad habits and unnecessary life circumstances. Get out of your own way.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Ruler Jupiter opposite Luna might make you a bit restless in terms of your relationships. No need to be extravagant to help you regulate these feelings. Money talks, money walks.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Ruler Saturn opposite Luna may have you taking on external pressures as your own call to duty. Lessons here involve selflessness and responsibility. Let your burden be light and your yoke be over-easy.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Ruler Uranus trine Luna increases your intuition. The unconventional energies of this aspect implore you to get creative in terms of networking. Express yourself.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Ruler Neptune trine Venus enhances your imaginative faculties and gives you a certain je ne sais quoi. Instead of getting a big head, expand your heart. Compassion is the mot du jour.

November ends with a lunar celebration, marked by a full Moon and lunar eclipse in the sign of Gemini. The Moon, of course, is the second most influential celestial body in astrology, after the Sun. While new Moons are generally regarded as times to set intentions, full Moons are for reaping what we’ve sown.

Besides the monthly lunar cycle that includes them both at two weeks apart, however, we must also consider the six months it takes for the Moon to complete a cycle in the same sign. The new Moon in Gemini occurred at the end of May. Here we are, now, at the culmination of a six-month cycle with the full Moon in Gemini. And oh, how the world has changed in that time!

Take some time to reflect on where you were and what you wanted just before the summer began. In Gemini terms of logic, spontaneity, and communication, what made sense? What makes sense now? If it’s a need for change and more spontaneity, how can you bring that about while operating rationally within the confines of the present reality? Tap into the full Moon’s reinforcement of creativity for answers.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

With ruler Mars lingering in its home of Aries, your courageous candor may make for inconsiderateness when it comes to others. Don’t become your own obstacle.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Your awareness is sharpened by ruler Venus in Scorpio — especially concerning how personal relationships might pad your proverbial pockets. Still, friends are more valuable than gold.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

With ruler Mercury in Scorpio, you may have an aptitude for seeing through subterfuge. Such awareness of motive is useful, but don’t go looking for answers that you might not like.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Ruler Moon’s transit of Taurus and Gemini this week boosts your sense of security around material and emotional attachments, while also making every place feel like home.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

Ruler Sun’s occupation of Sagittarius only increases your need to expand upon who you are, through your activities and through the company you keep. Gather ye rosebuds.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

You’re a keen sort, Virgo, and with ruler Mercury in Scorpio, your ability to see through the B.S. is fortified. Let people have their secrets without holding your insights over their heads.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Refinement is your modus operandi, especially with ruler Venus in Scorpio. While panning your relationships for gold may bring rewards, don’t treat them like dirt when they don’t pan out.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Co-ruler Mars in its home of Aries has you marching rather aggressively to the beat of your own drum. Making music is fine, but pushing others out of the way as you march can create cacophony.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Ruler Jupiter in Capricorn has you slaying life on your path toward personal success. Don’t squeeze your life philosophy into a box just to get ahead. Temper your expansion, but don’t restrict it.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

You’re working hard on a long-range plan for success with ruler Saturn in your sign. With a little foresight, enduring achievements will come as you incorporate opportunities within reach.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Co-ruler Saturn in Capricorn requires important limits that may seem as if they are restricting your naturally free flight path. Take advantage of opportunities at hand to make a successful landing.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

With co-ruler Jupiter in Capricorn, you may be trying to squeeze yourself into a one-size-fits-all life as you attempt to attain your ambitions. Let out the waist a bit. Your success might be measured but shouldn’t be restricted.

In the shadow of last week’s new Moon in Scorpio, truth’s clarion call rises from the depths of our hearts — in animus veritas. Scorpio energy doesn’t tolerate shallow anything, especially from other people. This often requires honest, emotional exchanges that spark unwanted but overdue transformation. Like the autumn, Scorpio sheds to renew.

Scorpio energy can also be described as the “urge to merge” — sexually or spiritually. More often than not, these are experienced as two sides of the same coin. Under Scorpio, interpersonal relationships become conduits for achieving states of being beyond the cycles of life. Yet Scorpio’s propensity to be a creative catalyst is paralleled by an aptitude for catabolizing another’s energy for selfish purposes.

As for the Scorpio characters in your life, I’m reminded of this line from A Course in Miracles: “Beware the unhealed healer.” Indeed, Scorpio may heal with the power of love — or lust for power at all costs. To know which Scorpio you’re dealing with, just look for the telltale signs of a narcissistic personality disorder. Inflated sense of self-importance? Squash the scorpion before you get stung.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

Ruler Mars is challenged by a square to the Moon this week, putting you on offense. Relax. Tap into your latent feminine energies to balance your made-up machismo.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Don’t hold back your love, Taurus, despite ruler Venus’s square to Saturn and Pluto. The more you share your love with others, the more there is to give. It’s not pie, but it’s just as sweet.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

Allow yourself to be inspired by ruler Mercury’s angle to Neptune. Seeing many sides of a situation broadens perspective and increases empathy.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Ruler Moon is challenged by a square to Mars this week, hyping up any suppressed aggressive tendencies. Tap into Mother Moon’s feminine energy to maintain a heart-healthy balance.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

Blessings abound with ruler Sun’s happy angle to Jupiter, Saturn, and Pluto. Saturn brings confidence and Pluto fortitude while Jupiter brings a touch of luck. Don’t muck it up.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

With ruler Mercury’s angle to Neptune, you’re more in touch with the thoughts and feelings of others than they might give you credit for. Let it open your mind and soften your heart.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Don’t be the fickle lover, Libra. Ruler Venus’s square to Saturn and Pluto tests your capacity for sharing what you’ve got to give. Even if you don’t have extra dollars, love don’t cost a thing.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Ruler Pluto is challenged by a square to Venus. Under it, you may be working to undermine your relationships. There’s a time and place for righteousness. Just not today.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Venus’s square to ruler Jupiter would have you squandering ostentatiously. Tap into Jupiter’s angle to the Sun for a stroke of luck — you may receive a happy birthday surprise.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

With ruler Saturn square to Venus, it’s easy to refrain from sharing emotion with your beloveds, but that’s not the lesson here. Giving freely brings its own loving reward.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Try not to rouse the rabble with Mercury’s opposition to ruler Uranus. Jumping to erroneous conclusions is a form of gaslighting, which is far beneath your Aquarian principles.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Ruler Neptune’s angle to Mercury opens the channels of inspirational thinking. Allow your broad perspective on life to bring substance to your interpersonal connections.

Alas, poor Scorpio, we know you well. Temperamental, unpredictable, intelligent, determined … sounds like a character from Shakespeare. Indeed, the zodiac’s most complicated sign is aptly represented by the prince of tragedy, Hamlet. Not that Scorpio is all doom and gloom, yet they, above all other signs, are the most willing to look at life from inside the shadow. Who else could waffle from blissful enthrallment to despair with as much style and awareness?

Like Hamlet, Scorpio is obsessed with seeking out the truth at all costs, wandering from room to room in the palace of their keen minds to root out deceit. Yet “madness in great ones must not unwatched go….” Scorpio requires trustworthy friendships to keep from tumbling over the brink of paranoia. They live faithfully by the maxim, “To thine own self be true,” and woe to those who get in their way.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

The moody Moon in opposition to ruler Mars makes you temperamental. Channel hostility into work or sport and don’t let your aggression become a regrettable transgression.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

The Moon’s conjunction to ruler Venus, albeit brief, brings you a higher love. Ride the waves of this mood and bring others along for it, too. Spend time, not money.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

You’re feeling zippier than usual, with ruler Mercury in opposition to disruptive Uranus. Take extra care to listen, think before you speak, and expect the unexpected.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Ruler Moon’s opposition to assertive Mars this week makes you moody and therefore apt to snap your claws. Take that aggression and channel it into something productive.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

With ruler Sun lingering in Scorpio, you’re still shoring up mysteries from your own depths. Neptune’s influence this week can bring you soaring fantasies or spiritual freedom. You decide.

VIRGO

August 23 – Sept. 22

Disruptive Uranus in opposition to ruler Mercury encourages you to not take life so seriously. When you let go of expectations, you tend to be more pleased with the results. Give it a try.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

You don’t have to spend money to prove your love. The Moon’s conjunction to ruler Venus brings you good feelings. Being so rich, do share the wealth of your love.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

With the moody Moon square to ruler Pluto, deeply buried feelings see the light. It is healing to release intense emotions, so don’t cower when they rear their heads. And they will.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Ruler Jupiter’s square to the Moon may cause your mood to change more than you’d like it to. Instead of chasing all the feelings, find a comfortable center and stay there.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

The moody Moon’s square to ruler Saturn might have you feeling low. Instead of chasing this dark rainbow, make a choice that will lead you to a pot of gold, not same-old, same-old.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Mercury’s opposition to ruler Uranus encourages you to communicate clearly with others despite any snafus. It’s okay to be distracted but don’t be anxious. Go with the flow.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

With both the Sun and Moon angling softly at ruler Neptune, you’re weaving in and out of the conscious and unconscious. Make the connection between mind and heart and pay it forward.

This week’s major planetary transit is brought to you by Uranus retrograde in Taurus. Uranus, which rules humanitarian Aquarius, is a “generational” planet — its transits last longer and tend to influence society at large. Presiding in Taurus from 2018 through 2026, Uranus is currently retrograde until just before Inauguration Day in January 2021. It has also been in opposition to — at odds with — the Scorpio Sun for the past two weeks and through Election Day.

Often called the Great Disruptor, Uranus is a revolutionary planet, and its energy doesn’t mix easily with the status quo of stubborn Taurus. For example, the last time Uranus made its eight-year transit through Taurus, we had Depression-era American isolationism, followed by the rise of fascism in Western Europe, culminating in World War II.

Looking ahead at the stars for Inauguration Day, Uranus may be holding some post-retrograde tricks up its sleeve. No matter what surprises unfold, Uranus in Taurus calls for us to hold steady and to continue to evolve. In the immortal words of Aquarius Sam Cooke, it’s been a long time coming, but I know a change is gonna come.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

With ruler Mars in opposition to Venus, sexual tensions are sky high. Stimulate your senses in whatever direction, just beware the tendency to be too aggressive.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Vampy ruler Venus in opposition to Mars increases sexual tensions. If you’ve got a lover, hold tight. This energy makes for wandering eyes — unless you like to fight for fun.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

Ruler Mercury is squaring off with Saturn, putting you in a pretty little pickle — in your head. Dive into the details, where you’ll find the high road toward happy.

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

Ruler Moon square to the Sun increases pressures in home and family, making you moody. Don’t react emotionally. Instead, let it be a moment to learn to let go.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

Ruler Sun square to the Moon stresses you out on the home front. With the head and heart seemingly at odds, try not to take things too personally. Shedding a skin ain’t pretty.

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mental ruler Mercury is square to Saturn, leaving you lost in the details in your mind. Somewhere between negativity and self-confidence is the way out.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Seductive ruler Venus in opposition to Mars heightens physical desires. You know what to do; just don’t break the rules. And if you do, mum’s the word.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

With ruler Mercury square to Pluto, you may feel drawn toward intense interactions. Don’t try to coerce anyone into thinking your way. Even you can keep an open mind.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec 21

With ruler Jupiter in opposition to Mercury, your best bets are placed on fewer risks. You don’t need any extra luck, but overconfidence is a losing play.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Mercury’s square to ruler Saturn has you seeing things from their worst angle. Don’t get bogged down by negative thinking, and don’t bother with what others may think.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

The Moon’s square to ruler Uranus depletes your reserves of patience for the duration of its passing. Don’t run from the emotionally demanding. Demand boundaries instead.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Take advantage of the Sun’s angle to ruler Neptune, upping your power to manifest. Share your vision for a brighter world, and make the most of your connections.

The Sun enters the sign of Scorpio this week. Deeply passionate and resourceful, Scorpio’s intense energy has no patience for the superficial. It’s an all-or-nothing sign committed to digging deep in order to reveal what treasures — or monsters — hide beneath the surface. Scorpio, of course, is ruled by Pluto, mysterious master of the underworld. By underworld, I mean the subconscious mind, where death and transformation, both qualities of Scorpio, take on a deeper meaning. Sex, as well, falls under its purview. Remember the story of how lustful Hades (Pluto) stole innocent Persephone away, bringing winter to the world? So, too, your Scorpio friend may capture you with intensity, then leave you bereft. Wade carefully into this water sign, who makes a powerful friend, and a seductive foe.

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

You’re still getting a boost of confidence from ruler Mars square Jupiter. Don’t be afraid to take some risks, but do pick your fights carefully. Fearless doesn’t mean tactless.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

With ruler Venus in cahoots with Jupiter, Saturn, and Pluto, your relationships take on cheerful, stable, and passionate qualities. Should make a nice change.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 20

You might be laying bare all your best secrets this week, with the Sun conjunct ruler Mercury in Scorpio. This could be a good break from all the pretending you do. Oops, did I say that out loud?

CANCER

June 21 – July 22

You’re more in touch than touchy this week, Cancer, with ruler Moon’s connection to Mercury. Let that emotional clarity translate into emotional availability.

LEO

July 23 – Aug. 22

With ruler Sun conjunct Mercury in Scorpio, you’ll be confiding your best kept secrets with your sexiest confidants. Try not to take anything too seriously. (That shouldn’t be hard for you).

VIRGO

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Ruler Mercury conjunct the Sun in Scorpio brings passion to your interpersonal play. Set your self — and your secrets — free. You may find life to be sweeter.

LIBRA

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

You can relax, for now. Ruler Venus teams up with Jupiter, Saturn, and Pluto to bring a steady, happy calm to your most passionate pursuits. There is no other shoe waiting to drop.

SCORPIO

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

With the Sun in your sign and ruler Pluto getting kissed by Venus, you’re as tantalizing as a tarantella. Enjoy the attention, but don’t let it go to your head.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

You might be feeling lucky in love, with Venus’s angle to ruler Jupiter. Let this optimism soothe any stress-worn relationships and get out there and gather ye rosebuds.

CAPRICORN

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Ruler Saturn gets a bit of love from a helpful angle to Venus. Let your characteristic sensibility benefit your relationships and bring some ease to your affections.

AQUARIUS

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

With the Sun opposite ruler Uranus, best to expect the unexpected. This tends to be a nervous energy. Take off the edge by doing something out of the box.

PISCES

Feb. 19 – March 20

Wires might seem crossed with ruler Neptune conjunct the Moon. Steer clear of wrong signals and rely instead on your innate capacity for compassion and empathy.