The Sun is in its final week in Gemini, and so the summer season is well under way. You may find that your social life is simply scintillating — even with democracy’s doom slowly gnawing at the edges of our collective psyche. It would seem that most of us have chosen a healthy disregard for the dumpster fire raging around us. While putting your worries aside for later is a fine coping mechanism, don’t let yourself become an extreme hoarder.

The full Moon in Sagittarius on Tuesday brings closure to the six months since we saw the new Moon in the same sign. So much has changed since the year began. Take time now to celebrate your successes and let go of anything that didn’t feel light and lucky.

Ruled by Jupiter, Sagittarius is about a bigger picture. Just beware of the selfish energy it also entails. There is still much work to be done, both personally and collectively, before we can call it quits on being good and turn our attention to summer’s impending delights.

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 conjunct Chiron: Mind your manners because this planetary combo can stir up old wounds and inflate fears. Let the old go and step into a new flow.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING
April 20 – May 20
Venus conjunct Uranus: The urge for a cheap thrill might rock the boat, so save yourself the trouble and take the high and dry road instead.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING
May 21 – June 20
Mercury trine Pluto: This easy aspect helps you deeply penetrate the mysteries you so poignantly ponder. It’s also giving you energy for the long haul.

CANCER / CANCER RISING
June 21 – July 22
Full Moon in Sagittarius: Celebrate what you’ve accomplished and look ahead. All roads you pave with your own good intentions are solid gold.

LEO / LEO RISING
July 23 – Aug. 22
Sun trine Saturn: Your self-esteem may get a boost this week as your hard work and attention to detail are recognized and rewarded.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING
Aug. 23 – Sept. 22
Mercury trine Pluto: Look deeply now under this helpful planetary influence for the mysterious causation you question constantly. Connect with others who have similar interests.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING
Sept. 23 – Oct. 22
Venus conjunct Uranus: Having it your way may seem delicious but tends to leave a bitter aftertaste. Swallow your pride, so to speak, and resist temptation.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING
Oct. 23 – Nov. 21
Mars trine Chiron: Don’t lash out at anyone, even if your feelings get a good poking. Old fears can make fresh wounds if you are careful not to contain them.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING
Nov. 22 – Dec. 21
Jupiter unaspected in Aries: Lean into your enterprising nature as this transit emboldens you to embrace your inner adventurer and devise your own destiny.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING
Dec. 22 – Jan. 19
Sun trine Saturn: You can let yourself indulge in the fruits of your labors this week, which will be noticed and rewarded, much to your chagrin.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING
Jan. 20 – Feb. 18
Sun trine Saturn: Hard work and a detailed orientation result in rewards to be reaped rapturously. Let that float your boat.

PISCES / PISCES RISING
Feb. 19 – March 20
Jupiter unaspected in Aries: Dream your own destiny while this transit lasts, for you are being empowered to enterprise and to boldly go where you’ve never gone before.

Get ready for a loosening of restrictions, cosmonauts. And if it’s not the abatement of pandemic-related rules — for which we are all desperately impatient — then it’s for a release of inhibitions of a more interpersonal sort, all euphemisms aside.

Venus and Mars are the planets of relationship, being the agents of desire and of action, respectively. Venus, that vixen, shows us what we like and Mars, so macho, shows us how to get it. Their conjunction means major developments for love and relationships, infusing them with an essential mix of understanding, passion, and sometimes — gulp — emotion.

Venus and Mars, who typically align for only 10 days annually, are hand in hand for two whole months this year. They’ve been traveling together in Capricorn since Feb. 1 and will cross into Aquarius on March 7, finally parting ways April 5. It’s like the drawing of an arrow to let loose into the spring ahead.

Unlike in Capricorn, where their tandem energy focused on commitment and consistency, in Aquarius it’s more about a stimulating social life. Expect an increase in get-togethers and frolicking with friends for the next month — and if that leads to a few ménage-a-trois, well, c’est la vie.

That said, Venus and Mars do briefly align with the guardian Pluto on March 3. Despite the powerful Piscean new Moon last week and these lover planets heading in Aquarius, you will be expected to let go of all prior expectations and disappointments, while promising never to look back — lest your prize turn into a pillar of salt.

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

Mars conjunct Venus: You may find that your desires become easy to take action on over the next weeks. Make haste to make love.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Venus conjunct Mars: For the next month, you might regularly be jumping for joy. Right into the sack.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Mercury conjunct Saturn: Expect a mental liberation from the oppressive forces in your head that hold your nose to the grindstone.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Moon conjunct Uranus: Try not to act impulsively this week. Any urges are a natural reaction to unexpected subconscious insights.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Sun conjunct Jupiter: This fortunate aspect ends this week so you might want to take time to review whether you’ve made the most of your luck and optimism.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury conjunct Saturn: Free your mind from the negative narrative you can’t help but project onto others.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Venus conjunct Mars: Don’t be bested by your emotions. Instead, sublimate that angst into something satisfying, like canoodling.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Mars conjunct Venus: You may find yourself tempted to manipulate via your charm. Instead, let someone else take a turn on top.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Jupiter conjunct Sun: This most magical aspect is coming to an end this week. Save some optimism for later.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Saturn conjunct Mercury: You may find yourself waffling between feeling manic and relieved. You did enough; now keep moving forward.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Saturn conjunct Mercury: Move on from any ruts in which you’ve been stuck. But as you pull yourself out, try not to put the cart before the horse.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Jupiter conjunct Sun: Be sure to tuck some luck away for a rainy day as this conjunction comes to an end. Good fortune is a state of mind.

Take heart, star gazers, and welcome the Leo full Moon. It always occurs opposite the Sun in Aquarius — at the height of winter when we need it most.

The Aquarius Sun tends to pull focus toward the contrast between the individual and the collective. Leo, on the other hand, is a more expressive sign. Some would probably say downright dramatic. Both have an independent but brotherly spirit. Leo energy, however, is a steady stream of warmth and play. This helps to ease the cooler, more impersonal energy of Aquarius.

We tend to be more inward at this time of year, but a Leo full Moon encourages us to wear our hearts on our sleeves. Balance in all things is the way.

If you’re feeling cold, take heart from Joni Mitchell, a triple water sign (read deep). Joni’s Jupiter in Leo in her 2nd house of career infuses her work with personality and success. In her 1966 “Both Sides Now,” she expresses the essence of the Leo-Aquarius axis, in which life is teeming with contrasts like play and loneliness. “Something’s lost and something’s gained in living every day,” she sings.

And if losing something includes your Spotify account because of Joe Rogan (a Leo, by the way), I suggest investing in a record player and a few albums from the late ‘60s.

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

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

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Moon opposite Venus: Feeling needy is fine, but if you can’t fill those needs with friends then eat your feelings alone. Just don’t order for two.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Moon opposite Mercury: Your normally apt way with words may be affected by your suppressed emotional life. The faster you let it out the sooner you can close it up again.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Moon opposite Neptune: Ground yourself with relaxing activities that you don’t have to take seriously, unless you want to be a one-person drama in three acts.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Moon trine Sun: Get in touch with your inner feminine this week if you want improved relationships and a sense of well-being.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Moon opposite Mercury: Instead of stumbling over emotional blocks, find a method or mentor to help you overcome your biases. Communication skills are a must.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Moon opposite Venus: Find something less interpersonal to bring you pleasure instead of catfishing yourself just to get some attention.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Moon opposite Mars: Fighting for a just cause requires action, not just words. If the pen is mightier than the sword, what’s mightier than the pen?

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Moon trine Jupiter: A helping hand or opportunity to travel manifests this week if you tap into your altruistic side. Don’t neglect to pay it forward.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Moon trine Saturn: You’ve got the emotional fortitude this week to handle delicate topics. Lean into the tried and true for solutions.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Moon trine Saturn: Seek advice from within this week and expect to be of counsel to those seeking advice from you.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Moon trine Jupiter: Learning to love and be loved will boost your standing in both social and professional circles. This is the way.

With Venus having left her retrograde last week and Mercury stationing direct this week, we heartily welcome some emotional reprieve and levity. The tough lessons of the past weeks of retrograde, however, must be reconciled with our intentions for the future. We’ve all been pushed through a pinhole, with worries about everything from finances to relationships to general miscommunication preoccupying us, at the least — so we can’t just let all the hard work of squeezing through it go unconsidered.

Emotional and technical difficulties aside, self-reflection is the essential nature of any retrograde. At this point, we now know many valuable things that we didn’t know before. Closely reviewing our challenges and the changes they will lead to can fortify us for the next journey into the woods.

This will prove poignant soon, when the Sun enters the Piscean dreamscape, and we drink the final dregs of a cold winter.

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

Mars trine Uranus: You’ll likely experience a burst of energy in terms of projects and physicality. For maximal results — and pleasure — don’t hold back.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Venus trine Uranus: You may find yourself trying something new this week, which can range from hobbies to partners. Stimulate yourself any way you see fit.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Mercury sextile Neptune: You could find yourself more compassionate than usual this week. Let that inform both your relationships and your creative pursuits.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Moon square Venus: You’ll find it difficult to do anything besides indulge in pleasure this week. Don’t overdo it, of course, or you’ll feel totally drained in the end.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Sun conjunct Saturn: You’ll benefit most this week from finding ways to bring efficiency to your life. If something isn’t working, don’t waste time trying to fix it.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury sextile Neptune: Your creative, sensitive side takes precedence this week. Do things that relax you and help others along the way.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Venus trine Uranus: You could find yourself reaching out for something shiny and new this week. Whether it’s a new membership or something even better, make it worthwhile.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Mars trine Uranus: You’re going to want to get up, get going, and likely get off with all the energy bubbling inside you. Don’t hold back from scoring any way you can.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Jupiter trine Mars: You might find your competitive edge this week but don’t let it become selfishness. Opportunities for growth necessarily involve other people.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Sun conjunct Saturn: Your diligence will have no patience for lost causes this week. If something’s not working, put it aside and focus on fostering efficiency.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Sun conjunct Saturn: You’re good at making the most of what you’ve got. Efficiency will serve you well this week so don’t get caught up in the small stuff.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Jupiter trine Mars: You may see room for growth but consider at what cost. As long as it’s not to the detriment of your relationships, you’ll find fortune in abundance.

The Chinese Lunar New Year takes place on Feb. 1, so if you’re heading to a festival of lights, don’t forget to wear red for luck. This is the year of the Tiger, whose energy, of course, is both confident and unpredictable.

There isn’t much overlap beyond the 12 symbols of the Greco-Roman zodiac and the 12 animals of the Chinese one, but with Feb. 1 also being the day of the new Moon in Aquarius, you may find the energy this week very tiger-like — confident and unpredictable.

Aquarius can be both diligent and surprising, being ruled by Saturn and Uranus. Aquarius energy is defined by breaking from tradition and outdated modes of being. Coincidentally, the Moon is currently conjunct to Saturn and square to Uranus, Aquarius’s ruler planets. This combination may make for some sudden mood swings and serious emotions. So, our work of self-reinvention here will focus on emotional maturity and vulnerability. If you can bring yourself to the next level within, you will experience great changes on the outside.

I guess one could say that when you feel tempted to be ferocious as a tiger, try instead to be soft as a kitten. Push past your fossilized emotional instincts and you’ll be luckier and lighter in love and in more. Fortunately, Venus leaving her retrograde period will make all of this a bit easier.

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

Mars sextile Jupiter: You’re probably feeling like you’re on top of the world. Enjoy the emotion-free ego boost as you go for what — or whom — you want.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Venus trine Uranus: Your typical taste for kink gets a big boost. Don’t be afraid to experiment or at least go for broke on something surprising and satiating.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Mercury conjunct Pluto: Sometimes you can be a bit twisted. Take time for some self-analysis and really ask yourself how you’re using your mind to manipulate relationships.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Moon square Uranus: Get ready for some ups and downs, kitten. You thought being a water sign was about making waves. Turns out it’s about crying a river.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Sun conjunct Saturn: The payoff for your hard work is imminent, if you can hold yourself together. Don’t look down on others, but don’t count on them either.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury conjunct Pluto: This is the moment where your manipulative factor increases. It’s okay, we get you, but balance it out with some healthy self-analysis.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Venus trine Uranus: Popular? You know all about popular. Get out and about this week but don’t make plans. Let the wind take you where it will.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Mars sextile Jupiter: Take advantage of your good mood this week and transform it into good luck. And hey, you might even get lucky. God knows you need it.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Mars sextile Jupiter: Your already boosted ego gets a jolt of energy this week. Make the most of your increased charm and turn it into results.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Sun conjunct Saturn: Stand up and be counted, babe. Your hard work deserves recognition. That said, don’t sacrifice relationships for productivity goals.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Sun conjunct Saturn: Unclutter your life if you want to make room for success. This means shoving aside any personae non gratae who stand in the way of your shine.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Mars sextile Jupiter: Your devious charm gets a dose of honest this week, so put it to good use. You’ve got a short window to turn your dreams into reality.

While we may have come up against a few holiday hiccups — namely a pesky little thing called Covid canceling plans and flights — you can rest assured it’s not bad luck. Venus, that vixen, has been retrograde in Capricorn, and therefore meddling in relationships and finances. Accountability is the theme here, so own up to move forward.

Meanwhile, Jupiter has returned to Pisces, where it was in midsummer and where it will remain for most of 2022. The planet of abundance in the sign of fantasy creates an atmosphere of co-existence unlike any other — and what a welcome theme this is after two years of pandemic preceded by years of Trumpian angst.

Opportunities to create connections and community rooted in compassion will abound. Let’s all rejoice.

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

Mars square Neptune: Ward off any negative feelings with words and actions that inspire creativity instead of spiraling into sadness.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Sun conjunct Venus: Plentiful good omens for your relationship to love and money. Just remember that too much of a good thing is no good thing at all.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Mercury square Uranus: Expect excitement but not necessarily the good kind. Mishaps will happen; just remember perspective is a great thing to be gained.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Moon square Venus: Try not to be careless this week lest you find yourself in uncomfortable social situations. Don’t lower your standards for anyone.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Sun conjunct Venus: Your eye for a good bargain and other eye candy is enhanced this week. You can enjoy but try not to enjoy too much.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury square Uranus: Take extra care to be mindful this week. Distractions abound and with them opportunities for miscommunication.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Sun conjunct Venus: Harmony abounds for your love life and fills your pockets, as well. Seek pleasure but don’t be a glutton.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Mars square Neptune: Instead of conspiring with negative feelings, spend time inspiring yourself with creative distractions.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Jupiter in Pisces: Your planet isn’t making any aspects for weeks. It’s a good time to pay attention to your dreams for insight into the future.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Mercury conjunct Saturn: Don’t dwell on the negatives. Find something productive to put your mind to and you can defeat any doldrums.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Mercury conjunct Saturn: Make the most of this increase in concentration. Focus is the antidote to melancholy and meanness.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Jupiter in Pisces: Your planet isn’t making any aspects, and won’t for weeks, but it’s in your sign, which means much of what you dream can become reality! Sweet dreams.

The new Moon is a time for creating purpose and pushing it forward into the future. The first new Moon of 2022 takes place in Capricorn this week, so let your intentions be their most practical and persistent.

Capricorn is the most pragmatic of signs. While Capricorns may tend to make mountains out of molehills, they also conscientiously consider the views along the way. Just don’t expect them to choose the easiest path to trek. Nothing makes Capricorns happier than making life harder for themselves, especially if it’s by picking up a few unnecessary burdens along the way. They tend to view any extra weight as an opportunity to gain strength. Turning seemingly adverse circumstances to their own advantage is their bag.

While not all signs are so disciplined or diligent, all are adept, in their own ways, at putting a practical spin on their experiences. Under this Capricorn new Moon, how will you make the most of what you’ve got? Navigating the way ahead is all about choices. Capricorn’s quest for strength is a reminder that what brings success may not be the path of least resistance.

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

Mars square Neptune: Instead of conspiring with negative feelings, launch the New Year by getting inspired by creative distractions.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

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

Mercury conjunct Pluto: Personal revelations abound this week as you probe ever deeper into your own mind. Careful — it might be a scary place.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Moon in Capricorn: Let yourself set clear boundaries going forward. You might be a cry baby, but you can at least be a competent one.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Sun trine Uranus: Let your hair down this week and show off that quirky side that attracts people to you. Leaving your comfort zone will surely pay off.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury conjunct Pluto: Looking deeper into the darkest parts of your own mind may turn up surprising truths. Fear is the mind killer.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

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

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Mars square Neptune: Ward off any negative feelings with words and actions that inspire creativity, instead of spiraling into sadness.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Jupiter in Pisces: Your planet isn’t making any aspects for weeks, but it’s in Pisces, which means much of what you dream can become reality.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Saturn sextile Mars: Practicality begets progress, so be patient with any passion projects, and the same goes for your romantic life, too.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Saturn sextile Mars: If you’re looking for progress, get practical. Looking back, you might notice, sometimes the best measure of achievement is how patient you were.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Jupiter in Pisces: Your planet isn’t making any aspects right now, but it’s in your sign. Now is the time to pay attention to your dreams for insight into the future.

If you think 2021 wasn’t as full of silver linings as 2020, you can thank the cosmic dance of Saturn and Uranus for making every molehill this year feel more like a mountain. The square aspect between these planets creates challenges, but also opportunities — if you’re willing to put in the work.

Saturn and Uranus squared off three times during 2021, in February, June, and December. Saturn represents structure and control, whereas Uranus is all about bucking the status quo, especially when it is in a material-centric sign like Taurus. Think of the push and pull of the economy this year, or Bitcoin’s rise and fall.

Saturn, on the other hand, is in idealistic Aquarius, which signals momentous social changes. Saturn prefers to temper Aquarius’s innovative drive, however, by reminding us that progress takes perseverance — and not just a new president. So much for my student loan debt!

So how is any of this a gift? Well, in my humble opinion, the greatest gift we can ask for is a coming together of people for the greater good. It’s either that or a come-to-Jesus moment, which I honestly I believe we could all use. Either way, we come out the other side stronger.

Speaking of Jesus — that anti-capitalist, table-flipping, sinner-loving Jew — Merry Christmas!

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

Mars sextile Saturn; trine Chiron: You’re exceedingly motivated to channel your energies into constructive self-determination. Cut loose any emotional anchors.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Venus conjunct Pluto; conjunct Mercury: Gentle your infatuations by putting actions above words. Attraction is a quotient of expression and appreciation.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Mercury sextile Neptune; conjunct Venus: Your words have never been so capable of healing. Speak from the heart, speak only love.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Moon opposite Chiron: Your vulnerability isn’t simply inward. It is also an outward expression that you should let flow instead of hold back.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Sun square Chiron: Those with truly healthy egos are able to address both their own needs and the needs of others simultaneously, without losing their identities.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury sextile Neptune; conjunct Venus: Words are more powerful than actions for you now. Use yours only to heal and to share love and you can’t go wrong.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Venus conjunct Pluto; conjunct Mercury: You love to speak loving words, but actions now speak more loudly for you. The greater your expression, the greater your attraction.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Mars sextile Saturn; trine Chiron: Your self-determination receives a cosmic burst of constructive energy. Don’t let your emotions weigh you down.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Jupiter sextile Sun: Your optimism may feel like it’s waning. On the other hand, perspective is built upon choices. Choose more, not less.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Saturn square Uranus; sextile Mars: That inner tension is exactly the energy supply you need to regulate and command if you wish to exercise your brilliance.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Saturn square Uranus; sextile Mars: Take control of that anticipatory energy within you. Brilliance is best expressed when measured.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Jupiter sextile Sun: You can choose to expand your perspective with optimism or otherwise. Most important, the choice is yours.

As the days begin to wax again after the solstice, bringing longer light, we find ourselves at a turning point. Winter is settling in, and the full Moon in Gemini this week illuminates our longing to be comfortable and cozy right where we are. As with all major lunations, however, we must consider both sides of the axis. Gemini is opposite Sagittarius in the sky and the latter is all about outward expansion and adventure.

This full Moon invites us to find balance between the two, while also encouraging us to express our feelings, longings, and needs.

Jupiter’s harmonious angle to the Moon also adds a bit of luck and optimism to this event, so whatever arises may feel more like a gift than a burden. Given that the Sun will sidle into Capricorn shortly after the full Moon, expect to lean into the hardworking spirit of winter’s cardinal sign for assistance as you seek to forge a new and exciting path ahead.

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

Sometimes fire can be used to heal. Mars and Chiron ask you to tap into old wounds for fresh inspiration.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Get out the handcuffs. Venus and Pluto say try crossing pleasure with pain lest love itself become a pain.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Keep an open mind. Mercury and Uranus electrify your thought processes, leading to great discoveries about your self.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Pay attention to your connections. Mars and Neptune deepen your capacity to comfort and be comforted.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Think happy thoughts. The Sun and Jupiter bring you some good luck and maybe even a shiny penny or two.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Exciting news is on the horizon. Mercury and Uranus increase your chance of new discoveries and new friends.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Turn on the charm and turn up the heat. Venus and Pluto increase your magnetism. That said, don’t abuse this power.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

You can use your power for healing. Mars and Chiron inspire you to grow by reminding you of how far you’ve come.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Get lucky and stay lucky. Jupiter and the Sun bring buckets of optimism, if you know how to use it right.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

You can be yourself and be professional. Saturn and Chiron keep you humble while you increase your competence.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Channel your inner rebel into a consummate pro. Saturn and Chiron empower your realism and your respect.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Shine bright like a diamond. Jupiter and the Sun bring you good luck and lots of faith.

New Moons can present the ripest moments in which to set intentions for the future. And a new Moon in Sagittarius would dare us to dream big. This week’s new Moon, however, is also a total solar eclipse (though visible only in the Southern Hemisphere), and so we are invited not to intend but to embrace.

Sagittarius is a sign of expansion and of thinking big beyond the boxes we draw around ourselves. It is a sign whose energy mediates change. Its placement as the last sign of autumn reminds us to notice the propensity for transition that also appears in the natural world. And just as nature does her thing, you, too, should let life’s inevitable changes unfold without trying to make them happen.

So much of our lives are dedicated to effort. That effort, we are told, is supposed to produce something. We are an outcome-oriented society. If there’s no product or goal, we are told, we have wasted our time. Instead, and especially with this eclipse, let’s not see change as something to fight against but something to flow with. Effort is maximized only by balancing it with ease. When life is permitted to flow with ease, the efforts we do have to make are more focused and therefore more productive.

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

You’re having a good week, Aries, with Jupiter, Venus, and Pluto boosting your natural propensity for progress and playfulness. Success and lovers just fall into your lap.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Level up your love life this week, Taurus, with Mars, Neptune, and Pluto heating up your romantic side. Passion is not just for pet projects. Meow.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Things could be a bit confusing for you this week, Gemini, with Neptune fogging up your mind. For clarity’s sake, keep communications simple.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Learn to let live this week, Cancer, with the Moon in Sagittarius. Instead of forcing anything to happen, you’ll see better results from just taking it all as it comes.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Perseverance is the word of your week, Leo, with solid Saturn influencing your work ethic. Add some patience and a practical attitude and you can’t be stopped.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Avoid overcomplicated communications this week, Virgo, because Neptune’s clouding your thoughts. Ward off any psychic vampires by focusing on yourself.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Your love life is scoring major points this week, with Mars, Neptune, and Pluto emphasizing both your sensitivity and your sensuality. Enivrez-vous.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

You’ll see progress on multiple fronts this week, Scorpio, with Jupiter, Venus, and Pluto pushing you forward toward your desires, both in terms of romance and success.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Avoid your telltale impulsiveness, Sag, despite Mars’s overpowering influence. A bit of bravado is fun, but real bravery comes with follow through.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

You’re being asked to adapt this week, Cap, which may run counter to your desire for stability. Instead of being resistant, try a new kind of approach.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Despite your progressiveness, you’re not one for too much change. Instead of getting frustrated, try seeing transitions as opportunities, not obstacles.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Pick your battles, Pisces, because Mars’s influence would have you fighting all sides. Moderation is key, especially when it comes to swagger.

In the shadow of this week’s New Moon in Scorpio, truth’s clarion call rises from the depths of our hearts. Expect honest, emotional exchanges that spark unwanted but overdue transformation. Like so much of nature does in autumn, Scorpio sheds to renew.

Scorpio season is about that “urge to merge” — sexually or spiritually. Under Scorpio, interpersonal relationships become conduits for achieving states of being beyond the cycles of life. Scorpios themselves tend to use others on their quests to satisfy their desires. This may seem alluring at times, but it’s best to be wary.

Scorpios can heal with the power of love, or they can lust for power at all costs. To know which Scorpio you’re dealing with, just look for the telltale signs of narcissism. Inflated sense of self-importance? Squash the scorpion before you get stung.

ARIES / ARIES RISING
March 21 – April 19
Saturn square ruler Mars creates resistance in the pursuit of your goals. This may be frustrating, but use the friction to sharpen your blade for forging a fresh path forward.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING
April 20 – May 20
You’re blessed with a brief reprieve as ruler Venus sextiles fast-moving Mercury. Take time to relax, to unwind, and to deepen your most intimate bonds.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING
May 21 – June 20
As zippy ruler Mercury sextiles charming Venus, you’ll be well positioned as a resolver of conflicts. Use the power of love to relax any barriers to progress.

CANCER / CANCER RISING
June 21 – July 22
Ruler Moon conjunct lovely Venus this week offers you a brief yet sweet reprieve from your usual mooning. Relax, have fun, and remember that you’re beautiful.

LEO / LEO RISING
July 23 – Aug. 22
You won’t be told what to do this week with ruler Sun opposite rebellious Uranus. Try to keep an open mind as you find ways to foster your independence.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING
Aug. 23 – Sept. 22
Take some down time as ruler Mercury sextiles Venus. You’ll get the most pleasure by fostering your most intimate social bonds. Let your love shine.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING
Sept. 23 – Oct. 22
Relational harmony is yours to have this week as ruler Venus sextiles communicative Mercury. Let your affection bridge any space between yourself and others.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING
Oct. 23 – Nov. 21
Ruler Mars’s square to Saturn may place obstacles in your path toward achievement. Use the friction to your advantage. The heat of your effort will melt them away.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING
Nov. 22 – Dec. 21
Ruler Jupiter square to the Moon may make for a fickle disposition. Committing to choices may seem like a life sentence, yet your mind can easily be changed.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING
Dec. 22 – Jan. 19
Persistent ruler Saturn’s square to Mars may stymie your projects in the most frustrating fashion. Don’t lose momentum. The harder you push, the stronger you’ll get.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING
Jan. 20 – Feb. 18
Instead of going around obstacles this week, blaze a way through them. Ruler Saturn’s square to Mars is forcing you to be aggressively committed to realizing your goals.

PISCES / PISCES RISING
Feb. 19 – March 20
Your tendency to flake increases this week with ruler Jupiter’s square to the Moon, and it’s not because you have layers. Don’t half-bake your commitments.

Brace yourselves, star grazers. The Sun enters the intense sign of Scorpio on Oct. 22. You’ll be feeling all the feels and uncovering truths about yourself you’ll wish you could forget. It’s not all bad, however. Scorpio season brings together the high points of fall with the depths of personal transformation.

As the leaves reach peak autumn colors, so you, too, may find yourself shifting shapes. Letting go is a natural process that prepares us for what’s to come. Old leaves fall so new ones can bud. And whether your changes mean just a new shade of lipstick or a whole new way of life, don’t skimp on the commitment part.

Scorpio energy has less to do with the superficial than it does with digging deep. Keep it as real as you can and understand that in all of nature things come in cycles.

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

Mars square Pluto: You may be repressing the urge to meet your goals, which makes you aggressive. Give in to the workload. Idle hands are the devil’s playthings.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

Venus square Neptune: Embrace the fact that you are a fault-ridden individual, and that your faults only serve to enhance your natural beauty. There is no such thing as perfect.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Mercury quincunx Uranus: Positive life changes will likely require an alteration of your basic habits. Don’t act impulsively, however. Good things come to those who wait.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

Full Moon in Aries: Last week’s full Moon in Aries, whose effects endure a week or two, demands that you find that self-other balance you may be missing.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

Sun in Scorpio: Instead of focusing on the purging of what’s superficial, find those things you’re carrying within and catharsis the heck out of them.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

Mercury quincunx Uranus: Be patient as you make positive alterations to your life. Impulsiveness will only slow you down. Slow but steady wins the race.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

Venus square Neptune: You may be abhorring what you see in the mirror, but it’s really your attitude about yourself you should dislike. Don’t ignore your faults but also don’t become their victim.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

Mars square Pluto: Don’t hold back from setting your mind to your goals. The less focused you are, the more likely you are to get distracted. Better to stay busy.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Jupiter trine Mars: Dress for success this week! As long as you believe in yourself and have good intentions, you are likely to accomplish all that you set your mind to.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Saturn sextile Chiron: You’re feeling both competent and secure this week. Confidently be yourself and make sure not to rock the boat on your way to new horizons.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Saturn sextile Chiron: Feel free to be confidently you this week. That said, try not to shake anything up. No need to cause a ruckus just because you’re on your way.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

Jupiter trine Mars: The power of self-belief cannot be overestimated. Success will come to you as long as you set your mind to what you’re doing and exude positive intentions.

October 20 presents a full Moon in the sign of Aries. Because full Moons occur when the Sun opposes the Moon, it is often helpful to consider the polarity of the signs in which the planets are found. Libra coexists on the same axis as Aries, the former being more concerned with others and the latter with the self. It is a relationship axis with compromise at one end and self-assertion at the other.

The Libra Sun awakens us to the foundations of maintaining relationships, which include compromise, negotiation, grace, and balance. Libra is a fair-minded sign and dedicated to diplomacy. The Aries Moon, however, is more independent, assertive, and autonomous. Aries cares little for tact and more for authenticity.

This full Moon urges us to find and maintain that balance between meeting our personal needs and attending to the needs of others, especially those with whom we are closest. Companionship need not be codependent, and one’s independence need not exclude others to the point of isolation.

Full Moons are about letting go of energy that has been building within us over both the past month and the past six months since the new Moon in Aries. Consider deeply what needs expression and keep the pressure off both yourself and your companions. Compromise is key.

ARIES / ARIES RISING

March 21 – April 19

The full Moon in your sign may have you out for blood. While it is correct to be assertive, do not use this energy to tear anything — or anyone — down.

TAURUS / TAURUS RISING

April 20 – May 20

This full Moon might challenge you to release some of your codependency. It’s not about issues, it’s about validation.

GEMINI / GEMINI RISING

May 21 – June 20

Communicate tactfully under this full Moon. Honesty is the best policy but there’s no need to draw blood with your words.

CANCER / CANCER RISING

June 21 – July 22

The full Moon in Aries may be a good time to drain your wishy-washy heart of all its tears and to learn to be more autonomous.

LEO / LEO RISING

July 23 – Aug. 22

You may be seeking the exact balance demanded by this full Moon in terms of your relationships. When it comes to love, make room for yourself while holding space for others.

VIRGO / VIRGO RISING

Aug. 23 – Sept. 22

While you may think that you’re “just being honest,” your words can cut deeply. Be more compromising and less exacting.

LIBRA / LIBRA RISING

Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

You’re one of the more codependent signs and this full Moon encourages you to feel more secure in your attachments. Nobody’s leaving you.

SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING

Oct. 23 – Nov. 21

This full Moon encourages you to tap into your natural grace and to be fair-minded when dealing with your closest companions.

SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING

Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

You love your independence but don’t neglect those who depend on you. This full Moon asks you to find this balance.

CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING

Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

This full Moon encourages you to maintain your autonomy while also actively cherishing your dearest relationships.

AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING

Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

Though your mind works autonomously, this full Moon asks you to keep in mind the creative spirit of depending on others for inspiration and love.

PISCES / PISCES RISING

Feb. 19 – March 20

This full Moon reminds you that authenticity need not be a one-man show. Be you, but also be part of the troupe.