Life is anything but square in October

This month, remember to keep doing your best.



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October serves up a grand total of eleven quincunxes (an uncomfortable 150º angle between two heavenly bodies) from the 1st to the 19th — most of them involving planets in Libra, the sign of equilibrium. So just when you’re trying to maintain an even keel, you feel the metaphorical pebble in your shoe. Do yourself a favor and stay flexible. Make any adjustments that will help you regain your footing. And bear in mind that perfect balance is somewhat of a myth. You can make yourself anxious trying to attain that elusive ideal OR you can accept that real life is messy and complicated and keep doing your best!

LIBRA

September 23–October 22

After Mercury skips into Libra on October 4th, you’ll have a silver tongue and can weigh personal matters with the benefit of added objectivity for the next two and a half weeks. On the 8th, Mars in your sign spars with Pluto, so you could feel triggered by a family or domestic challenge. Examine your emotions before you react. You’re more likely to lash out if you fail to come to grips with your own feelings. Sift through them by yourself or ask someone you trust for their support. Minutes later, your ruler, Venus, sneaks into your subliminal corner, coaxing you to carve out alone time, even if you’re supposed to be out celebrating your birthday season. Don’t feel guilty about enjoying a slice of solitude when you need it! A Venus-Saturn faceoff on the 10th can limit the pleasure of private retreat by reminding you of your obligations, but getting the necessary stuff done will take some pressure off, allowing you to balance duty and relaxation. That night, Pluto edges forward at the base of your chart, stirring up those deep, dark emotions inside you. If your relatives, living situation or mood have been stressing you out, don’t try to skirt the issue in order to feel better. You need to deal to heal. On October 11th, Mars charges into your worth zone for a six-week visit, motivating you to use your resources well. You could get busy earning money, shopping for necessities or dealing proactively with possessions. A Mars-Saturn alliance on the 13th enables you to work with what you have — and go after what you require — to get the job done. Figure out what’s most important, and do what needs doing. A solar eclipse lands in Libra on October 14th, echoing one that occurred at the exact same degree and on the same date back in 2004. This supercharged new moon offers you a massive fresh start, almost like a second birthday. The universe is nudging you to keep growing and evolving so you can become the person you were meant to be. In the coming year, how do you want to reinvent yourself? What new chapter of your life do you want to begin? What personal goals would you like to achieve? New Year, new you! When the Libra sun battles Pluto on the 21st, hassles at home could wear you out. An old issue could resurface and test your limits. Don’t ignore the fact that something isn’t working. You can prove something to yourself by not shying away from a conflict. The chemistry between Venus and Jupiter that night persuades you to grab me time or private time with a loved one. A sweet sacrifice can enhance a relationship. After the sun exits Libra on the 23rd, a chunk of your focus shifts from who you are to what you have, what you need and what you value. Mercury and the sun sync up with Saturn in your productivity corner on October 22nd and 24th, enabling you to get your priorities straight. You’ll have the ability to utilize the tools you have at your disposal and operate efficiently to accomplish something. Apply a surge of confidence to tasks that matter. Give some thought to your finances and material needs, and decide what must be done to improve your security. Assess your range of talents and how you can make them work for you. Mars goes toe-to-toe with Jupiter on the 28th, and their battle is bound to complicate give and take. Avoid digging your heels in and becoming possessive. Rather than getting defensive about your values or pinning your hopes on someone’s support, have respect for the needs and values of others. A few hours later, a lunar eclipse hits your depth-and-merging realm, shining a spotlight on your finances, assets, self-sufficiency, values, self-esteem and stability, as well as sharing, sex, interdependence, closeness, control and change. An outside resource like a loan could finally come through; you might pay off a debt; or you could lend your support (financial or otherwise) to someone. Physical intimacy is extra emotional now, and a close connection could heat up or burn out. Transformation is in the air, and saying yes to change will fuel psychological growth. When Venus embraces Uranus on the 31st, getting past your inhibitions can bring a rush of closeness. Divulging a secret will feel liberating, and if you’re alone, wandering around in your own imagination can elicit an aha moment. Either way, getting closer to another person or to your own truth requires you to surrender control and go with the flow.

SCORPIO

October 23–November 21

Your co-ruling planets, Mars and Pluto, do battle with each other on October 8th, placing a potential hurdle in your path. Subconscious aggression can heat up a conversation, and words have the power to wound, so edit yourself. Examine your emotions rather than slipping into a destructive behavior pattern. You could be working against yourself, and a determined decision to change may be called for. After Venus sashays into your humanity house minutes later, you’ll be in the mood to socialize and do some networking. Say yes to group gatherings — where you’re bound to thrive — this month. A Venus-Saturn standoff on October 10th can make you feel too self-conscious to enjoy yourself with people, however. Or it might generate tension between your social life and your love life. Respect your feelings, but don’t fixate on them, as they’ll subside soon enough. After backtracking for the past five months, Pluto resumes forward motion that night, helping you to get out of the groove you’ve been wearing in your brain. Time to start thinking along new lines! A lot has been left unsaid, and soon you should feel empowered to voice your deep thoughts and discuss heavy subjects. A big decision could also be imminent. Mars barrels into Scorpio on the 11th, his first visit to your sign since the fall of 2021, providing you with some serious mojo for the next six weeks. You’ll have the drive to tackle passion projects and execute your own agenda during this period. Work your magic, but keep anger in check and don’t mow anybody down in your race to accomplish your goals. On the 13th, a Mars-Saturn alliance empowers you to take action that can bring you lasting satisfaction. This planetary pair wants you to live up to your potential. Go for it! You’ll prove something to yourself in the process. A solar eclipse on October 14th can usher in a new chapter in your spiritual life, and you may start to do some serious soul searching. If an ending is overdue, this eclipse prompts you to begin to bring something to a close. Internal pressure could stress you out when the sun clashes with Pluto on October 21st. If you’re ruminating over something and feel like you’re getting nowhere, try letting go and accepting things as they are. Pull your mind back into the present moment and lay the past to rest. That night, Venus’s chemistry with Jupiter can help you have a great time socializing or help a friendship take off — either of which will lift your spirits. If you have a partner and you’ve wanted to get your squad together with theirs or hang out with your friends (or theirs) as a couple, this is a good time to intermingle your crews. Mercury skips into Scorpio on the 22nd, giving you the gift of gab and sound judgment over the next two and a half weeks. You can weigh a personal matter with objectivity now and come to a decision. The sun blasts into your sign on October 23rd, bringing a welcome burst of energy and pushing you out into the world if you’ve been hibernating lately. This solar surge launches your birthday season, when you’re supposed to focus on yourself and your goals for the coming year. Others are likely to focus on you too, since the sun’s vitality amplifies your personality to the nth degree. On the 22nd and 24th, Mercury and the sun in your sign join forces with stabilizing Saturn in your self-expression arena, encouraging you to continue on a path to personal fulfillment. You’ll feel more confident now in your ability to be a whole, happy individual. Taking your potential seriously is vital to your growth. You can pour a great deal of yourself into a solid creative effort, a promising romantic bond or another pleasurable pursuit that lights you up that day. Radiate your uniqueness and you’ll make an impact. An opposition between Mars and Jupiter on October 28th may require you to temper your actions. If you’re expecting a lot of someone and they don’t come through for you, try not to overreact. It’s easy to come on too strong now; a challenging workout will help you burn off steam. A few hours later, a lunar eclipse in your interpersonal angle could push a partnership to a higher level of commitment or to a breaking point. If a connection is tested, trust that it’s for a reason. You’re meant to shift your relationship dynamic in search of a healthier balance between me and we. And even though it’s your birthday season, if others seem to need the spotlight, give it to them — you’ll get it back soon enough. Venus sets off sparks with you-never-know Uranus on October 31st, which could set off romantic sparks between you and a platonic pal. Another possible scenario: You’ll meet someone new through people you already know. If you’re looking for love, look no further than the circle of friends, acquaintances and colleagues that’s already in your life.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22–December 21

A fight between Mars in your social-network zone and Pluto in your resources realm on October 8th warns you against overextending yourself, especially if you’re feeling a time or money crunch. Group dynamics are extra complicated, and values, material possessions, finances and control could all act as triggers. You might have to make a choice based on what’s most important to you. Venus climbs to the peak of your chart minutes later, coaxing you to do creative work, charm higher-ups and polish your public image over the course of the next few weeks. On the 10th, Venus faces off with Saturn, implying that private insecurity could hamper your ability to impress the right people. Or domestic obligations could prevent you from schmoozing with your superiors. You can overcome this problem with some form of compromise. After Pluto wraps up his five-month retrograde phase on October 10th, hopefully you’ll start to feel like you have a better handle on your finances, belongings or self-esteem. Focusing on how you can provide for yourself will alleviate some of your concerns around security and stability. After Mars sneaks into the last house of your chart on the 11th, you’re due for six weeks of operating off the grid. It’s time to work quietly to tie up loose ends and face the stuff you’ve been pushing aside. Watch out for self-sabotage and other old behavior patterns because you’re sort of on automatic pilot during this period. Try to be more conscious of your actions and confront any difficult feelings that have been privately nagging you. On the 13th, Mars forms a coalition with Saturn at the base of your chart, nudging you to sink your teeth into a private effort like a home project or emotional reckoning. Whether you’re tackling physical tasks around the house or grappling with a personal issue in your head, doing the work should bring success. A solar eclipse lands in your social-network zone on October 14th, and on the heels of this lunation, you might make new friends and professional contacts, join a different group, get an altruistic endeavor off the ground or add something significant to your bucket list. The sun’s clash with Pluto on the 21st can make it harder to mesh with a group. If you’re determined to protect your own interests, try to find commonalities while also leaning into your strengths. Finding a good fit with other people can push you in a good way. However, don’t succumb to pressure to make things work if you know the cost is too high for you. That night, Venus’s harmony with Jupiter can help you to get along with authority figures. Enjoy the underrated pleasures of learning the ropes as you go and being productive. After the sun slips into your release corner on the 23rd, your energy will wane as your solar year draws to a close. If you need more alone time to rest and reflect, don’t feel guilty about claiming it. On October 22nd and 24th, Mercury and the sun click with Saturn, encouraging you to take stock of your life. Follow your intuition regarding what to leave in the past and what to build on in the coming year or so. Take pride in how far you’ve come, and believe in your ability to gradually grow into the person you were meant to be. A standoff between Mars and Jupiter on the 28th might cause you to push yourself too hard to stay on top of your to-do list, a self-improvement effort or your job. Is your busyness concealing something in your psyche you should deal with in order to attain mind-body wellness? Take timeouts to escape into solitude, sleep and your imagination, and seek alternate channels for your energy. When a lunar eclipse lands in your productivity corner, the universe is handing you the year’s best incentive to give up a bad habit once and for all. A health or work crisis might grab your attention, pointing to what has to change. You could finally admit what you need to drop from your schedule, to-do list, job description or routine. It may be an ongoing process, since a series of eclipses has been activating this corner for the past couple of years. If you need help, ask and you shall receive! Be open to new ways of accomplishing what you want to on October 31st, when Venus in your ambition angle makes music with change-loving Uranus. The more flexible you are in your approach to goals, the more likely you are to earn rave reviews. Be spontaneous, not stubborn, and you’ll polish your public image or create favorable circumstances in your career.

CAPRICORN

December 22–January 19

Be mindful of your conduct around authority figures on the 8th, when Mars in your ambition angle challenges Pluto in Capricorn. Your drive to achieve something is at odds with your compulsion to maintain control, creating a volatile brew. If you’re able to work by yourself (and perhaps on yourself), that would be ideal. Consciously channeling this intense energy can bring about deep psychological transformation. Venus breezes into your expansion corner minutes later, inviting you to explore a wide variety of pleasures. Date someone you’d normally overlook, enjoy a romance while traveling or start a long-distance relationship, socialize with people who are very different from you. Relationships benefit from a spirit of adventure in the next few weeks, so steer clear of the familiar. But on October 10th, a Venus-Saturn opposition can make you think twice about exploring new pleasures. It’s fine to weigh risks, but don’t let negativity prevent you from enjoying more of what life has to offer. Pluto pivots direct on October 10th after backing through Capricorn since May 1st. Your identity has been evolving, and you’ve turned inward to grapple with this process and do some soul-searching. Now you’ll gradually get more motivated to make things happen. Avoid snap decisions, but if something feels right, you could get the ball rolling. Mars segues into your network sector the next day, motivating you to shift your energy from solo projects to collaborations in the next six weeks. It’s time to be a team player — so first, find people with common goals and ideals, and then join forces to make things happen. Sometimes it’s challenging to meld Martian drive and team spirit, making it even more essential for you to seek out others who are aiming in the same direction as you. And if you encounter tension, destress with friends and other peers via physical activities like group sports. When Mars colludes with Saturn on the 13th, make a concerted effort to get into circulation and join forces, especially if you’re striving to manifest your ideas or improve your community. On October 14th, a solar eclipse in your ambition angle prompts you to chart a fresh course and make your mark in the world. A change in your public image, professional status, responsibilities or life path may be in the works, and it’s a good time to set new goals. The sun’s skirmish with Pluto on the 21st can make you your own worst enemy or generate tremendous inner drive. Either way, the pressure you’re experiencing originates within you, and you have the power to shine with intensity. One achievement can motivate you to keep upping your game. Embrace challenges in a quest to prove something to yourself. You can channel strong emotions and generate constructive change. Allow your aims to evolve, just as you yourself have evolved. Resist the temptation to get into power struggles. Don’t try to take on a whole system — instead, reform your way of working within it. Venus meshes with Jupiter that night, reminding you that comfort and sameness will not deliver maximum pleasure. Adventures will be incredibly fulfilling — perhaps even romantic. There’s more to life than sticking to the tried and true, and taking a chance can bring you happiness. On October 23rd, the sun sets up shop in your network sector for a monthlong visit, making it easier to integrate your identity with that of others and enjoy camaraderie. Group endeavors and gatherings will energize you, and even more of your focus will naturally shift to the circle of people in your life. With Mercury and the sun syncing up with Saturn in your communication corner on the 22nd and 24th, expressing yourself clearly to friends and other groups should come easily. You’re liable to learn from others and can come across as a voice of authority yourself. You could also make beneficial contacts, so socializing will be productive, not just enjoyable. When Mars goes head-to-head with Jupiter on October 28th, creativity, romance and the freedom to express your individuality may seem diametrically opposed to collaboration. Compromise is the solution to the problem. A few hours later, a lunar eclipse in your joy realm gives you permission to stand out from the crowd. This lunation wants you to show off a little, wear your heart on your sleeve and reach for love and happiness with both hands. A love affair could blossom or break up, and it’s important for you to be bravely authentic no matter what. A Venus-Uranus encounter on October 31st can inspire you to date outside your comfort zone if you’re single and enjoy a trip or new experience with your significant other if you’re in a relationship. You might be drawn to someone unexpectedly. Uranus is in favor of spontaneously saying yes to anything and anyone that will push the envelope. Indulge in liberating pleasures, Capricorn!

AQUARIUS

January 20–February 18

You’re ready to take risks in order to learn and grow while Mars is charging through your expansion camp, but his quarrel with Pluto on October 8th can trigger self-destructive action. Avoid knee-jerk responses if you feel like someone is working against you. Instead, look for any motives you might have for holding yourself back. Troubling feelings that you haven’t dealt with may lead you to sabotage your efforts to conquer new territory. You’re a progressive sign, but you’re also fixed—making you somewhat ambivalent about change. After Venus slips into your sharing sector minutes later , you’ll start to crave deeper closeness with other individuals. Sex is likely to be extra intense in the next few weeks. Sharing the real you with someone you trust can help you to overcome fear. But when Venus opposes Saturn on the 10th, a fear of not having what you need can prevent you from sharing openly, while a fear of not being enough can inhibit closeness. Although it’s understandable to protect your interests, try not to let worries win out. That night, Pluto’s U-turn could trigger rumblings in your subconscious, and you might need peace and quiet to soothe your spirit. Work on addressing difficult emotions; forgiving others and yourself; relinquishing toxic patterns; processing losses; and identifying the ways you undermine yourself. Mars climbs to the pinnacle of your chart the next day, where he’ll hover for the next six weeks, revving up your ambition. Keep your eyes on the prize, and go after your goals with determination, sticking to a game plan. Try to work solo whenever possible, since you’ll be in no mood to answer to anyone! On the 13th, Mars-Saturn harmony can help you make a smart move to achieve an objective. Concentrating on the precise gains you’re aiming for will enable you to take spot-on action. You’re willing to work hard and can prove yourself on a big stage. The solar eclipse on October 14th in your exploration zone will push you to forego the status quo and launch an entrepreneurial venture, embark on a new course of study, take a big trip or broaden your horizons in some other way that gets your juices flowing. On the 21st, the sun’s tiff with Pluto could mean that your impetus to explore uncharted territory will be undercut by potent emotions you can’t let go of; self-sabotage; or someone who doesn’t have your best interests at heart and is working against you. Whether the resistance is internal or external, bravely forge ahead. Forward progress will strengthen your resolve, and facing turmoil will empower you to get back to pursuing new experiences and knowledge. That night’s Venus-Jupiter confab suggests your underlying desire for security and comfort can facilitate closeness or self-love. Your personal life should be a priority, so don’t hesitate to hole up at home. When the sun ascends to the peak of your chart on the 23rd, you’re ready to channel more energy into achieving your goals, and the coming month may nudge you into the spotlight. It’s your time to prove yourself in a public or professional setting. As Mercury and the sun jibe with Saturn on October 22nd and 24th, shining on a big stage goes hand in hand with taking your talents seriously and getting clear on what’s most important to you. Ideally, working hard to shore up your security and making an effort to appeal to people who can give you a leg up will sync up perfectly now. When Mars opposes Jupiter on October 28th, your ambition may compete with a strong desire to indulge in the pleasures of home. If you’re quite sure of yourself or you’re hyper-aware of your family’s expectations of you, you might push yourself extra hard. Try alternating between action and relaxation. A few hours later, the lunar eclipse in your foundation angle pushes to attend to your home life. A domestic or family crisis could grab your attention, or maybe your living situation is due for yet another change after being in flux for years. Do your best to find a work-life balance that suits you. And if you have a major mood swing, that’s your cue to chill in your own space and double down on self-care. Dare to divulge your private feelings to someone on the 31st when Venus makes magic with revelatory Uranus. Don’t hide who you are. You need to open up in order to feel understood. Sex is likely to be an emotionally revealing experience, making it extra important to trust the person you’re with. If you don’t have a partner, carve out alone time for introspection or talk to a person who’s known you forever. The aim is to know yourself better and to liberate yourself from an emotional pattern that could be stunting your growth.

PISCES

February 19–March 20

On October 8th, friction between Mars and Pluto can generate tremors in your relationships, and you’d be smart to sidestep power struggles. Try not to let anger get the best of you. Stay away from the comparison game because jealousy often leads to suffering. Keep solid boundaries between your friendships and your sex life, and be very mindful of privacy, trust and secrets. Minutes later, Venus crosses your interpersonal angle, and the next few weeks will be even more relationship-oriented. Going forward, you can find common ground with — and enjoy the company of — other individuals, so make plenty of one-on-one plans. If you’re ready to make peace with someone, extend the olive branch. However, Venus’s faceoff with Saturn in Pisces on the 10th could make you crave companionship and — at the same time — seem aloof. Try to balance discipline and fun, and don’t isolate yourself to the point of loneliness when you’re feeling shy or serious. Build a bridge if there’s a moat around you. With Pluto powering forward that night, a friendship or group collaboration should start to get back on track. The network of people in your life has been evolving, sometimes in painful ways. Ideally, you’re learning which connections are worth working on and which you’ve outgrown. Get beyond destructive infighting and competition and rebuild a team of true supporters. Mars blasts into your exploration corner the next day, launching a six-week period that will ramp up your wanderlust and embolden you to push the envelope and try new things. It’s time to take some risks in the interest of learning and growing, so don’t be too cautious. Explore uncharted territory, get on the frontlines fighting for a worthy cause, do something that scares you a little! Mars syncs with Saturn in your sign on October 13th, giving you tons of motivation to plan a bold move, take a smart risk, study hard, go on a life-changing trip or stand up for what’s right in a well-thought-out way. When a solar eclipse lands in your depth-and-merging realm on the 14th, you’re prompted to pay off a debt; seek a loan or grant; or recover from a loss, wound or crisis. A new chapter of emotional growth or a new level of intimacy may be just around the corner. As the sun and Pluto do battle on October 21st, peer pressure may affect a close relationship or your psyche. It may be difficult to gauge who you can trust and how much is safe to share. If you’re up to the challenge, try to change something that’s not working. Venus links arms with Jupiter in your thinking-and-talking corner that night, encouraging you to stay positive and consider a change of scenery to lift your mood and elevate a relationship. Showing (and voicing) your love and affection without holding back will also work wonders. After the sun blazes into your expansion court on the 23rd for a monthlong tour, you’ll feel much freer to explore unfamiliar turf and have adventures. This is a favorable period for any kind of learning and travel. Mercury and the sun harmonize with Saturn on October 22nd and 24th, confirming the importance of broadening your horizons. Novel ideas, beliefs and experiences and people who are different from you can all foment the process of self-definition that you’ve been going through this year. Make a point of getting beyond your routine and exploring uncharted territory. A Mars-Jupiter opposition on October 28th could cause you to overstate your case, making it harder to reach an accord. Although you may get carried away defending your POV, cultivating a healthy degree of curiosity will help you to listen attentively. Plus, a lively exchange can make you wiser. Jupiter wants you to keep expanding your perception, so aim for a learning opportunity, not a debate win. A few hours later, a lunar eclipse in your thinking-and-talking corner is the last in a two-year series that’s been shaking up your perception and communication. A development related to writing, a sibling, your community or your attitude may finally reach fruition. Information overload or sudden busyness could pull you in a hundred directions at once, so take a breath and process one thing at a time. If you’re overwhelmed or anxious, let people know how you’re feeling. An attraction might take you by surprise when Venus vibes with unpredictable Uranus on the 31st. You could see a person you know in a different light or meet someone new. A friend, neighbor or sibling might be involved, perhaps making the introductions. Couples can come to an understanding after an honest conversation that reveals unspoken truths. It will feel good to get things out in the open.

ARIES

March 21–April 19

When your ruler, Mars, goes up against Pluto on the 8th, tension over goals can impact a partnership. Get problems out into the open and solve them together, staying on equal footing. If you can maneuver yourselves onto the same page, you can go after something big together. On edge due to work pressures or another person? Decisive action could help you to avoid an explosion. After Venus enters your efficiency corner minutes later, you’ll enjoy your work more and shouldn’t have much trouble getting into a pleasantly productive flow. But a Venus-Saturn opposition on October 10th can make you doubt your ability to do the work you want to do or make you hesitate to help someone. Listen to your reservations without letting them rule you. That night, Pluto edges forward after spending five months in reverse, and this shift can produce tremors in your career or life direction. You had trouble finding your way at times, and it may have seemed as if more options were closing off than opening up. But you’ve done your best to align yourself with the gradual evolution of your ambitions. Honor this growth process as part of a divine plan for fulfilling your true purpose. On the 11th, Mars dives into your depth-and-merging sector for a six-week visit, prompting you to delve deeper into an important personal bond, passion project or emotional issue. Your libido may go into overdrive, as you focus intently on having what it feels like you can’t live without. Emotions will run hot, but you’re not meant to be calm, cool and collected during this transit. Thanks to a Mars-Saturn alliance on October 13th, you’re empowered to experience cathartic closeness, emotional regeneration or success with a passion project. And when a solar eclipse rocks your interpersonal angle the next day, you could start a serious relationship or commit to someone you’re already seeing. Another kind of partnership may also be in the pipeline, or you might go public with something you’ve been working on. When the sun clashes with Pluto on the 21st, relating seems harder if you’re pressed to make headway with goals or sort out your life direction. But the energy you get from those closest to you is likely to be the very thing that fuels you to keep aiming for success. It’s not easy to stay on equal footing with other individuals now, and career pressures might impact a bond. Either party may try to push a relationship forward. See if you can work toward a mutual objective. You’re likely to resist if it seems like someone is wielding power over you. Try not to make this about control. That night’s Venus-Jupiter harmony boosts your creativity and confidence. A job well done can help you feel good about yourself, and liking what you’re doing can enhance your capacity to provide for yourself. The sun plunges into your depth-and-merging sector on October 23rd, compelling you to focus even more intently on a close relationship, passion project or private emotional matter and give it your all. This is the time of year when you put blinders on and zero in on what — and whom — you’re most invested in. Mercury and the sun click with Saturn on the 24th, coaxing you to delve into something and see it through to completion; work through an issue in your psyche and let it go; or conquer limiting fears and share yourself with another person. You’re naturally inclined to jump ahead and explore new territory, but right now, you’re called to go deeper into what’s already going on. When Mars goes toe-to-toe with Jupiter on October 28th, money, belongings or values could become problematic. The solution is to contemplate how you can integrate mine and ours better. Hear someone out, aiming to attain a firm grasp of priorities and harmony in a relationship. A few hours later, a lunar eclipse in your worth arena could make retail therapy irresistible, due to a tidal wave of emotion surrounding your needs. Conquer the urge to splurge if money’s tight. The good news is you could just as easily experience a cash inflow. If you can gracefully juggle your own values, needs, confidence, possessions and agenda with those of another person, you’ve aced this lunation! You could tap into a new talent while working on a creative project on the 31st, thanks to a harmonious trine between Venus and Uranus. Or a coworker might appreciate the unique contribution you make to the team. Getting along with your colleagues and enjoying what you’re doing will make you feel good and might make a difference in your earning power. You could end up taking a gig that doesn’t pay as much as you wanted for the chance to work with people you like or work on something fun.

TAURUS

April 20–May 20

A Mars-Pluto battle on October 8th suggests stress could impact your physical health, and you may feel a meltdown coming on. Ease up on the throttle if you’re overwhelmed with work. Tackle tasks one at a time. Where can you make the most difference? Focus your energy there. Try not to force matters in order to produce results. Avoid destructive criticism and micromanaging, which can easily backfire. Have faith that things will turn out the way they were meant to. After Venus dances into your joy zone minutes later, you’ll be in the mood to get out of the house and live it up for a few weeks. Schedule dates and nights out with friends. Express your creative side and wear your heart on your sleeve. The Venus-Saturn standoff of October 10th might pit personal pleasure against group obligations, or a romance might not get the stamp of approval from your squad. Don’t allow peer pressure to steal your joy, but listen to constructive feedback if it’s offered. Pluto resumes forward motion that night after five months of backpedaling. If you’ve lost sight of the big picture, it should begin to fall into place soon. You may have experienced a crisis of faith and feel like you’re stuck. But you will rediscover your impetus to venture out on a limb and resume your quest for learning experiences. After Mars crosses your interpersonal angle on the 11th, he’ll activate one-on-one relationships for the next six weeks. Get grievances out in the open and address them directly. Look for chances to engage in activities with other individuals. Pairing up will be much more fruitful than flying solo, so work out with a companion or recruit a partner in crime for your next adventure. That goes double on the 13th, when Mars joins forces with Saturn in your network sector. On October 14th, a solar eclipse in your productivity corner invites you to improve your health through a different diet or fitness routine; get on a new schedule; initiate a positive habit; launch a job search, learn a skill; and get better at time management. As the sun and Pluto clash on October 21st, you might feel pressure (internal or external) to know more in order to get something done. But there’s nothing wrong with learning on the job, and you shouldn’t be afraid of trial and error. Practice makes perfect. If you’re questioning whether the work you’re doing will make a difference in the world, shift your approach or funnel your efforts in another direction. Combining pragmatism and a strong work ethic with an empowering guiding principle is a winning strategy. That night’s Venus-Jupiter mashup coaxes you to lead with your heart and make personal fulfillment a top priority. You deserve to be happy and loved! Focusing on your own growth isn’t selfish. The sun crosses your interpersonal angle on the 23rd, breathing even more life into your bonds. Look for chances to connect with other individuals and partner up to accomplish more than you could alone. When Mercury and the sun harmonize with Saturn on the 24th, you can enjoy fruitful interactions with others. Pairing off can help you firm up new goals and continue to build a supportive team. Professional networking could yield beneficial new contacts, and encounters with individuals and groups who share your interests or aims will strengthen your resolve and energize you. A Mars-Jupiter standoff on the 28th can make it seem like you’re too much for some people. Stay open to constructive feedback, and collaborate enthusiastically when you spot an opportunity. If you’re faced with a conflict, represent yourself honestly and deal with the problem at hand. Avoid exaggerating and overreacting. If someone’s behavior is at odds with your own truth, remind yourself you don’t have all the answers. Hours later, the lunar eclipse in your sign is the last in a two-year series that’s catalyzed necessary personal endings. What no longer serves your needs? Who have you outgrown? It’s possible that you don’t need to cut the cord, and a shift in your relationship with that person or issue will suffice. Something might reach a climax now — for instance, you’ll finish your pet project and get rave reviews. If you sense a meltdown coming on, keep your cool and explain what you need or claim your me time. On October 31st, a Venus-Uranus meeting can inspire generosity, affection, romance, creativity and play. On the flipside, an attraction or fun experience could come to you out of the blue, bringing a dose of excitement. You need to shake things up, so avoid sameness and enjoy life in an unexpected way.

GEMINI

May 21–June 20

The feud between Mars and Pluto on October 8th takes the drama or passion in a close relationship up a notch. Avoid power struggles and steer clear of jealousy as well. A love affair might get too intense for your liking, or you could feel like someone’s trying to control your easy-breeziness. Trouble may involve lust, privacy and loyalty under this planetary map. Venus dips down to your foundation angle minutes later, reminding you that there’s no place like home. Soon you may feel like cocooning, redecorating, entertaining, hanging with family and relishing good food and drink. Enjoy nesting whenever you have the chance over the next few weeks. Venus’s opposition with Saturn on the 10th presents a conflict between enjoying downtime and tackling responsibilities. Do your best to find a balance between your inner and outer lives. Pluto finally inches ahead that night after traveling retrograde for the past five months. Expect matters involving trust, sharing, intimacy and investing to be brought into sharper focus. A close relationship, loan, collaboration or contract could come out of limbo and start to progress, with some needed alterations. After Mars segues into your efficiency corner on October 11th, you’ll be fired up to work. For the next six weeks, you can zero in on essential tasks and cruise through your to-do list. Productivity and health are top priorities, so you’ll be busy on the job, working out and generally making yourself useful. You’re more interested in getting stuff done than making a name for yourself while the doer planet is in this service-oriented part of the chart, but you might get competitive with a coworker or take on too much and stress yourself out. Try sharing the workload. As Mars allies with Saturn on the 13th, keep your nose to the grindstone so you can earn the success and recognition you deserve. Your efforts are getting you somewhere, and you feel it all coming together. A solar eclipse rocks your joy arena on the 14th, turning your attention back to personal gratification and hinting that a new romance, creative venture or other source of pleasure could be in the pipeline. On October 21st, the sun’s spat with Pluto complicates your inclination to do as you please and be lighthearted yourself — if someone close to you thinks you owe them. Conversely, you might tighten the screws now if you’re not getting what you want from another person. Closeness with a good friend or S.O. can be a source of strength. Don’t give up your identity or give up on a relationship when it gets hard. Skip power struggles and ego trips and aim for constructive change. Luckily, that night’s Venus-Jupiter collab puts the uplifting, peaceful feeling you yearn for within your grasp. The pleasures of home, self-care and quality time with people who know you well will be big mood boosters. Give yourself permission to enjoy downtime. After the sun blasts into your productivity corner on the 23rd, you’ll be even more motivated to accomplish a lot. A sizable chunk of your energy is geared toward work, so get down to business and take pride in how much you can check off your list. When Mercury and the sun gel with Saturn in your ambition angle on October 24th, you should feel like you’re getting somewhere. You’ve been working hard — trying to improve your health, stay on top of job responsibilities, take care of daily business and get yourself together in various little ways. And now hopefully you’ll feel things falling into place. On the 28th, a Mars-Jupiter opposition points to the tension between the part of you that’s driven to get tons done and the part of you that yearns to check out and chill. Avoid overindulging either part. Instead, do your best to balance the call of reality and the call of your spirit. Hours later, a lunar eclipse can signal that your spiritual side needs some attention too. Contemplate how the mind-body-spirit connection operates in your life and how you can bring your whole self into better balance. It may be time to recognize that control is an illusion and trust in the divine plan of the universe. Get unstuck from lingering emotions and revel in a new sense of liberation when pleasant Venus in your foundation angle embraces freedom-loving Uranus in your release corner on the 31st. Is it time to let go of an old love or become more independent from your family? You’ve got this! If you’re in a relationship, revealing private thoughts and personal secrets can bring a rush of closeness.

CANCER

June 21–July 22

A scuffle between Mars and Pluto on the 8th can cause turmoil in a close relationship, and repressed anger or an old behavior pattern may be at the root of it. If you’re in a bad mood, try not to take it out on others. Dealing with your emotions can help create change in your one-on-one connections. When Venus segues into your thinking-and-talking corner minutes later, your attitude brightens and your social life picks up. Noticing the warmth in your interactions and the beauty in your environment will lift your spirits over the next few weeks. With Venus and Saturn going head-to-head on the 10th, concerns about the future could detract from the pleasures of the moment, and you may fret over interpreting words and intent. Try to see the glass as half full. That night, Pluto’s about-face can regenerate a bond and empower you to shift your relationship dynamics. After a five-month retrograde period, now you’ll start to see the path forward with someone — or at least feel like you’re capable of changing the situation. Are you giving too much power away or projecting your own qualities onto others? Pluto compels you to face facts. When Mars rockets into your joy arena on October 11th, life is about to get way more fun! During the next six weeks, you’ll feel like getting out and playing rather than staying in and getting stuff done. It’s your turn to pursue what you desire — whether that means romance, good times with your squad, creative fulfillment, or pleasurable activities like hobbies. Mars and Saturn get on the same wavelength on October 13th, so if you take risks, they’re likely to be smart ones. Your pursuit of personal fulfillment isn’t selfish. It’s teaching you that striving to make your mark in the world is a lifelong journey. On the 14th, a solar eclipse coaxes you to start a new self-care practice and alludes to a coming change in your living situation or your family. The sun’s run-in with Pluto on October 21st can push you out of your comfort zone if another individual exerts pressure. It could be as simple as having to leave the house to meet a personal obligation or as complex as having to mature for the sake of a relationship. If you’re stressed, your feelings can come bursting out, particularly if a forceful person is shaping your mood. Own your emotions before pointing the finger. Problem-solve rather than attempting to get the upper hand. That night, Venus’s vibe with Jupiter implies that you’ll thrive on being around a group of people and expanding your circle of acquaintances. After the sun shows up in your joy arena on the 23rd, you have a green light to have even more fun. Focus on what makes you happy — and get more of it in your life! Express your personality, creativity, feelings and romantic side. Mercury and the sun click with Saturn in your expansion corner on the 22nd and 24th, reinforcing your personal growth. Through love, artistic pursuits and various forms of play, you can learn more about life. Cultivating different aspects of yourself will make you a more well-rounded person, enrich your experiences and give you a broader outlook. Express more of the real you every day, and the world can start to take on a different shape — subsequently transforming your place in it. As Mars moves into opposition with Jupiter on October 28th, you might want to do one thing, but your friends expect you to do another. Romance may be at odds with your social life, requiring you to juggle. You’re in the mood to play, and Jupiter tempts you to go overboard. Rather than pursuing your ideal of a good time, grab pleasures as they come. Hours later, a lunar eclipse compels you to balance out all that self-expression by shining a light on your squad. You may need to put group interests first for a moment or be there for a friend in need. This is the last in a two-year series of eclipses, signaling that if a friendship or affiliation with a particular group has been on life support, pulling the plug may be what’s best for everyone. It’s natural to revamp your team as your interests and goals change and you change. Thanks to an encounter between Venus in your communication camp and Uranus in your network sector on the 31st, your best bets for meeting new people are large gatherings, technology, friends and the circle of people you already know. Start swiping, mingling and working your contacts if you’re interested in making a match. Already attached? You might spend time as a couple with mutual friends or give each other space to hang out with your respective crews. A frank dialogue or pleasant feeling of camaraderie between you could come out of nowhere and stimulate your connection.

LEO

July 23–August 22

With Mars and Pluto butting heads on the 8th, things may not play out exactly as you’ve planned them in your head. You have specifics in mind which changing circumstances are sure to affect. Got an idea that could potentially help others or make a difference in the world? Go ahead and pitch it. But don’t push your point too vehemently at work or speak in haste. After Venus shows up in your worth zone minutes later, your desire for nice things and your ability to earn what you need can increase, making money “easy come, easy go” for a few weeks. Keep your eyes peeled for financial opportunities and try to match your taste to your budget if you’re worried about extravagance. Venus’s faceoff with Saturn on October 10th can make you extra conscious of not getting what you need from another individual or not having access to a particular resource. Try not to see the glass as half-empty. Find a compromise you’re satisfied with — or stop trying to get blood from a stone and concentrate on your capacity to take care of yourself. Pluto gets back in gear that night, empowering you to feel more in control of your daily life. Changes that impact your job, your routine and your wellness have seemed to be out of your hands. Soon you’ll have a better handle on such matters. Stress is probably taking its toll. Listen to what your body is telling you and treat it with the respect it deserves. Mars dips down to your foundation angle on October 11th for a six-week stay, keeping you busy on the home front and possibly triggering disagreements there as well. Perfect time to take on a daunting domestic project. But clear any big changes with housemates to minimize friction. Thanks to a Mars-Saturn conference on October 13th, confronting what’s inside you will be worth the effort. You can gain assurance that private fears and other emotional challenges really are surmountable. This planetary combo can also get you focused on a household matter or relationship issue, so delve into one of those if they’re more pressing. On the 14th, a solar eclipse encourages you to learn, communicate, travel and make decisions — and it suggests that new information and increased busyness is around the corner. A feud between the sun and Pluto on October 21st hints that the stress of trying to get something right could wear on you. Criticism may be a blow to your ego, but you can use it constructively to shape your thinking. You could see things going one way, and then circumstances change. Take everything one step at a time, and ask yourself what can be done to transform or rebuild. Avoid overstraining your brain and your body. That night’s Venus-Jupiter alliance can help you attract what you desire and need via career progress. A positive self-image will empower you to project confidence around authority figures. After the sun dips down to the base of your chart on the 23rd, you’ll be even more occupied with home and family in the month that follows. Plant yourself in familiar surroundings and ease into the comfort of being who you’ve always been. Relax solo or invite your favorite people into your inner sanctum. As Mercury and the sun mesh with Saturn on the 24th time at home — either alone or with someone close to you — can ground you and solidify your relationship with yourself or with that person. A Mars-Jupiter confrontation on October 28th can make it challenging to balance home life and ambition. Are you pushing yourself to do too much? Are you burying turbulent feelings and slipping into an old behavior pattern? Getting stuff done around the house will help you burn off excess energy. If you become irritable, see if you can drill down to the root cause. Hours later, a lunar eclipse can push you into the spotlight, though. A big goal could come to fruition soon or you might take on more responsibilities. You might also have to deal with drama involving an authority figure like a boss or parent. If you’ve spent the last two years trying to turn a corner in your career or to shift directions in your life, this represents that last push to make it happen. On the 31st, a Venus-Uranus mashup encourages you to set some financial targets or consider tweaking an aspiration to make it more lucrative. You can give your self-esteem a boost by showing off a distinctive talent or making headway toward an objective. If you’re in a relationship, you might have a conversation about values and where you see things heading.

VIRGO

August 23–September 22

The Mars-Pluto argument of October 8th could cause you to jeopardize your security for something or someone you’re passionate about. Maybe you’ll be tempted to splurge on something you’re obsessed with, assuming it will give you great pleasure. Or you could be fixated on a person and put your self-confidence on the line in hot pursuit. Don’t allow anyone or anything to have that much influence over you. Take your power back. After Venus sashays into Virgo minutes later for a two-and-a-half-week tour, you’ll turn into a social butterfly. Others will be drawn to your lovely aura, so hang with your favorite people — and potential mates if you’re single and looking for companionship. You’ll feel like your most attractive, charming self, so take advantage! But when Venus opposes Saturn on the 10th, you may exude warmth and get the cold shoulder. Don’t take it personally if people aren’t meeting you halfway. See if there’s any lesson to be gained from this temporary strain. Your emotions will bubble up to the surface, and drama may impact your love life after Pluto powers ahead that night. Try not to react in the moment. You’ll start to feel more in control of your personal fulfillment soon enough. Mars arrives in your thinking-and-talking corner on the 11th, nudging you to speak up for yourself and assert your ideas. You’ll become busy with local travel, daily interactions and learning. Let your curiosity lead you to new experiences, places, people and knowledge. A Mars-Saturn coalition on October 13th makes it easy to assert yourself, and that may impact a relationship. For starters, other individuals will have to take you seriously because you’re not backing down. You might make a case for particular terms in a partnership. A solar eclipse on October 14th nudges you to set financial goals, and a new source of income may open up soon. When the sun and Pluto do battle on the 21st, your values, money or self-esteem could be at odds with romance, pleasure or self-expression. be willing to shift your priorities to suit the situation you’re facing. Intense feelings are hitting you while you try to safeguard your bottom line. The fact that you’re identifying strongly with your needs and resources can make everything seem like a bigger deal. What you need and what you want may not match up. Try to come to grips with your emotions, even if they scare you. As Venus and Jupiter join forces that night, the allure of new experiences like a trip to someplace you’ve never been or a flirtation with a person who’s really different from you will be impossible to resist. Familiar pleasures aren’t nearly enough for you now. Take a flying leap outside your comfort zone and revel in the unfamiliar. After the sun rockets into your thinking-and-talking corner on the 23rd, your brain and everyday life will feel even more up-tempo. You’ll become more interested in getting out and about, engaging with people and gathering info. You might plan day trips and weekend getaways to combat restlessness. Mercury and the sun sync up with Saturn on October 22nd and 24th, making your interactions even more productive. Everyday encounters may take on a serious tone, as you’re prompted to engage on a meaningful level. This would be a good time to discuss issues in a relationship that need resolution. You can handle this kind of dialogue with clarity, maturity and respect. On the 28th, an altercation between Mars and Jupiter could get you into an overheated debate if you identify very strongly with your opinions and beliefs. When that’s the case, disagreements feel more personal. If you know your cause is a just one, fight for it. But if you’re stuck in a pointless argument, do your best to rise above it. An enlightening exchange of ideas is possible here, so don’t call it quits without trying to move this discussion to the high road. A few hours later, a lunar eclipse could give you an impulse to book a trip you’ve wanted to take for a while or get an entrepreneurial venture running full force. If you’ve been studying something for a couple of years, you may finally feel like you know your stuff and are ready to move on. The hidden bonus of this lunation: It’s your annual excuse to drop a belief that has been limiting your growth. You’re effortlessly magnetic with charming Venus swaying through your sign, and her exciting rendezvous with Uranus on October 31st may inspire you to try something new and perhaps draw even more attention to yourself. You might be attracted to someone unexpected, flirt with an eclectic range of people, show a different side of yourself and enjoy an impromptu eye-opening experience. You’ll be enticed by uniqueness in others — and vice versa!

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