But fear not -- progress is soon on the way...

---

Follow @astrotherapist on Twitter and @theastrotherapist on Instagram. Visit theastrotherapist.com to schedule a reading and join Moon Momentum, a unique new-moon circle hosted monthly on Zoom. You’ll learn how to set goals and intentions based on your chart!

Feel like you’re in limbo? More than half the planets are retrograde at the moment, so it’s no wonder! Lucky for us, four out of six of the heavenly bodies who have been backtracking will resume forward motion this month. Pluto, Saturn, Jupiter and Mercury get back in gear on October 6th, 10th, 17th and 18th, providing a much-needed feeling of progress. You don’t have to leap into action, but you can start to envision the pieces of the puzzle coming together one by one.

SCORPIO

October 23–November 21

After backtracking for the past five months, your ruler, Pluto, gets back into gear in your thinking-and-talking corner on October 6th, bumping you out of the groove you’ve been wearing in your brain. Get out of that all-consuming loop and start thinking along new lines. So much has been left unspoken, and you should feel more empowered soon to put your deep thoughts into words, speak about substantial matters or make an important decision. With so many planets buzzing through your subliminal corner and running into each other on the 7th and 9th, you should continue to confront what’s buried inside you and make it work for you, not against you. You’re in danger of sabotaging yourself and slipping into regressive behavior patterns. You might also send mixed messages or blurt something out that you didn’t mean to. Keep tabs on your subconscious motives and urges in case you need to redirect them. Saturn will resume forward motion on the 10th, making that a good time to prioritize self-care. He’s been backtracking since May, nudging you to mull over private feelings and memories. Those could begin to crystallize now, and you might need a little extra TLC. Since the sun will be in cahoots with Jupiter on October 15th, you’re encouraged to indulge in the comforts of home. You might be moved to do something generous for a family member or roommate, but you could also get a lot of benefit from looking within and reflecting on the past. But internal pressure could get to you when the sun feuds with Pluto on the 17th. If you’re going over and over something in your mind and feel like you’re getting nowhere, do your absolute best to let go and accept things as they are. You might try repeating a mantra that makes you feel more empowered. As Jupiter pivots direct on October 17th–18th, your underlying mood is bound to improve, and you’ll start to feel more like people want to be there for you. Has a domestic or family matter been in limbo since June? It should start to move toward resolution soon. With Mercury also doing an about-face on the 18th, your intuition will be on point—so give it its due. Introspection can once again reap rewards. Mars and Jupiter form a coalition hours later, highlighting bold self-confrontation that increases your understanding of yourself. Family support may enable you to deal with a psychological issue. A home project should flourish, and sacrificing your personal interests to help others is also favored. However, when Mars and Pluto — your co-ruling planets — skirmish on October 21st, subconscious aggression can heat up a conversation. Words can hurt, so edit yourself. Look at your emotions so you don’t slip into a destructive pattern. You could be working against yourself, and a serious decision to change may be necessary. On the 22nd, the sun bursts into Scorpio, marking the official start of your birthday season. You’ll be full of life force in the coming month and can easily make a strong impression when you choose to. Consider this a green light to express your personality freely and place yourself firmly at the top of your priority list. When Venus and Neptune become enmeshed on October 26th you could lose sight of what’s important and covet things or people you’re idealizing. Pay attention to your intuition, but don’t paint an overly rosy picture. Be real with yourself about your heart’s desire and trust that you’ll get what you need in the end. You’re primed to shine with the sun sailing through your sign now, but this egoistic planet will be at odds with Saturn on the 30th, implying that private insecurities might cause you to hide your light. Try not to let self-doubt, a serious mood, your family, your past or a domestic problem get you down and sap your vitality. It’s fine to want to improve yourself. But you should also keep aiming to understand yourself and accept yourself as you are.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22–December 21

After the 6th, when Pluto finishes his lengthy retrograde phase, you should begin to feel more in control of your finances. If your self-worth has been lacking, it will slowly rebound now. Your resources are changing, creating some anxiety around security and stability. Focusing on how you can provide for yourself will bring some relief. Venus dances into Sagittarius on October 7th, bringing on a much more social mood. The love planet lends you loads of charm and magnetism, so you won’t have any trouble drawing people into your orbit. You’ll feel extra flirty and attractive during the next few weeks, making it a great time for romance and dates if you’re interested. On the 7th and 9th, planetary get-togethers in your humanity house give teamwork a big boost. Group activities will buzz with energy, but bear in mind that the sparks being generated can make it difficult for you to blend in and play nice with others. The potential for heated disagreements is there, especially since Mercury is still backtracking, but you could also make plenty of headway on a collaboration. The key is for everyone to choose their battles and keep communication civil. Competitive undertakings would be a good bet. Saturn pivots direct in your thinking-and-talking corner on October 10th after five months of traveling retrograde. Expect clarity to gradually be restored — and that could nudge you toward a decision. Have you been mulling over something that doesn’t seem to hold up? The no-BS planet will enable you to suss out what’s doable and real. The sun syncs with Jupiter on the 15th, so you should be able to integrate with others and learn from each other that day. Be open to new people and new ideas, and do some professional networking. Or take a trip with your friends if that’s possible. On the 17th, though, the sun’s clash with Pluto will make it hard to mesh with a group. If you’re determined to protect your own interests, try to find commonalities while also maintaining 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. As Jupiter resumes forward motion on October 17th–18th, you’re encouraged to get your message across in an above-board, respectful way. If travel and learning opportunities temporarily dried up, your luck will hopefully turn soon. You might also continue to improve a sibling relationship or resume a community endeavor. And with Mercury turning direct on the 18th, group communication will get easier, and you can clear up any misunderstandings that have arisen in the last few weeks. Later that day, a Mars-Jupiter link will help you actively network with a wide range of people and make advantageous contacts. You can express yourself well and align your ideas with coordinated group efforts. You might also teach others how to do something or learn by observing their actions. You’ll draw inspiration from collective energy, and your optimism will spur you to pursue your interests and ideals. Feeling a time or money crunch? A Mars-Pluto battle on October 21st warns you not to overextend yourself. Group dynamics get more complicated now, with possessions, control, finances and values being the likeliest triggers. You might have to make a choice based on what’s most important to you. On the 26th, Venus gets lost in Neptune’s mists, leading you to crave downtime at home. You’ll be tempted to overindulge in comforts like delicious food and a cozy bed and might wind up taking care of a family member or roommate. The sun in your subliminal corner is shining a light on your old patterns, and his dustup with Saturn on October 30th can cause you to beat yourself up over past mistakes. Seek self-awareness and understanding, and be sure not to put a negative spin on introspection. It’s true that changes need to happen. Just remember viewing personal growth as a positive will be more useful than self-punishment.

CAPRICORN

December 22–January 19

Pluto has been backpedaling in Capricorn for the last five months and will finally get back in gear on October 6th. Your identity is transforming, and you’ve probably gone underground to wrestle with this intensely private process. You’ve internalized a lot and done some serious soul-searching. After Pluto’s about-face, you’ll slowly become more motivated to make things happen and put positive changes in place. Don’t make any hasty decisions. But if something feels right, get the ball rolling. On the 7th and 9th, the planets join forces in your ambition angle, enabling you to give it your all when chasing after goals. If you can, work independently on projects you’re passionate about so you don’t step on toes accidentally. Your clear determination will make it easy for you to attract notice. While taking action to achieve your objectives, you’re willing to pursue the knowledge and experience that’s required. The main stipulation now is to watch what you do and say around authority figures. Your ruler, Saturn, will finish his own retrograde phase on the 10th, which can stabilize your finances and get your priorities in order. If your self-esteem has been waning of late, take stock of everything you have going for you and build yourself back up with a very adult-sounding pep talk. The sun, who’s poised at the peak of your chart, meshes with Jupiter on October 15th, empowering you to showcase your talents and stand out from the crowd. You want to make a strong impression in a public or professional arena, and you have what it takes to shine — so don’t hide your light! But when the sun battles Pluto in Cap on the 17th, you might sabotage your own success or push yourself to greater heights. Either way, intense internal pressure is driving you. You’re on a quest to prove something. Welcome challenges and let each accomplishment motivate you to keep moving the goalpost. 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. Your sign has a gift for navigating hierarchies and bureaucracies. You can channel strong emotions and generate constructive change now. Allow your aims to evolve, just as you yourself have evolved. After October 17th–18th, with Jupiter resuming forward motion, money will start to flow more freely, maybe both in and out. You could start to feel more certain of your values and your own worth. Next, Mercury pivots forward on the 18th, ensuring smoother communication with authority figures and savvier career planning. If you feel you’ve misrepresented yourself lately, now you can clarify matters. Soon after, when Mars gels with Jupiter, your ambitious efforts could pay off financially, boost your confidence or help you to believe in your ability to take care of your own needs. Your highest values can drive you to achieve your aspirations, while prioritizing meaningful work will prove productive. Mars and Pluto cross swords on October 21st, so you should still continue to be mindful of your conduct around higher-ups. Your determination to accomplish something is mixed with a compulsion to maintain control, and that combination can be explosive. If you’re able to work by yourself (and maybe on yourself), that would be ideal. Deep psychological metamorphosis can come out of consciously directing this powerful energy. Venus and Neptune squabble on the 26th, which could cause you to dream about an ex or blur reality and view them unrealistically. You’re also likely to blur boundaries and might make a misguided gesture. The worst-case scenario here is wasting tender feelings on the wrong person. It may be hard to find your place in a group when the sun argues with Saturn on the 30th, especially if your confidence is lacking. If you’re concerned with holding onto what you have or getting what you need, that can get in the way of being a team player. It will also be challenging to keep pace with people if you need to adhere to a budget. Don’t assume you need something that you don’t have in order to participate.

AQUARIUS

January 20–February 18

On October 6th, Pluto gets back on course, which could trigger rumblings in your subconscious. You may need peace and quiet that day to soothe your soul. Work on relinquishing toxic patterns; processing losses; forgiving others and yourself; addressing troubling emotions; and identifying the ways you undermine yourself. Planetary alliances in your expansion zone on the 7th and 9th favor a physically stimulating adventure, a big intellectual challenge or a fight for truth and justice. You might be tempted to debate everything; pause and consider whether it’s important enough. Avoid extreme recklessness, since Mercury’s retrograde phase is impairing judgment. However, you’re way too restless to chain yourself to your desk. Saturn goes direct in Aquarius on the 10th, clearing a path for you to navigate. Now you can put together a game plan that’s even more workable and airtight than the last one, as you likely discovered some cracks over the last five months. The sun’s vibe with Jupiter on October 15th multiplies the benefits of broadening your horizons, so seek out learning experiences that open your eyes to other aspects of the world and help you to grow. Get out of town if you can, talk to strangers, study an unfamiliar subject, explore different beliefs. Your impetus to explore and maintain a positive outlook could be undercut when the sun spars with Pluto. Self-sabotage, overpowering emotions you can’t let go of or someone who doesn’t have your best interests at heart could be at the bottom of it. Regardless of whether the resistance is coming from inside you or outside you, bravely forge ahead. Forward progress will strengthen your resolve, and facing turmoil will empower you to get back to pursuing new experiences and knowledge. Jupiter wraps up its four-month retrograde in your sign on October 17th–18th, which could make you feel unstoppable. You might be overstimulated at first, but as the planet of expansion gets back up to speed, your optimism about creating a bigger and better life for yourself will return. Maintain a focus on self-awareness and personal growth and try to translate your high hopes into a viable mission. If you shuffled your aspirations over the summer, clarify your quest. Keep learning about yourself and pushing the boundaries of your potential. Use your faith in yourself to widen the scope of your identity and your life. Mercury also moves out of reverse on the 18th, implying that education, intellectual debates and maybe even travel won’t be so fraught with delays, detours and misinterpretation. The big picture should start to fall into place, as recent revelations gel. Be patient while the meaning gradually becomes clearer. A collaboration between Mars and Jupiter that same day doubles down on the idea that learning experiences are sure to foment growth. You may take a stand for what’s right, head out of town, engage in a lively exchange or take action that requires guts. Unfortunately, a Mars-Pluto fight on the 21st can trigger self-destructive action. Avoid knee-jerk responses if you feel like someone is against you. Instead, look for any motives you might have for holding yourself back. Difficult emotions that you haven’t dealt with may lead you to undermine your own efforts. You’re a progressive sign, but you’re also fixed — making you rather ambivalent about change. Venus’s skirmish with Neptune on October 26th may affect squad rapport if insecurities pop up or a lack of realism confuses matters. Don’t let a desire to fit in with people warp your judgment and priorities, or you might wind up feeling like you were led astray. Saturn locks horns with the sun on the 30th, putting you at risk again of getting in your own way. Part of you may be intent on proving yourself on a bigger stage, while part of you feels like you’re a work in progress. If you don’t think you’re ready for success, what can you do to get ready? It makes sense to put all the pieces in place before stepping into the spotlight, to have a Plan B in case something doesn’t go your way and to gain the qualifications you need for the position you’re after. But don’t let impostor syndrome stop you in your tracks. You’re the real deal.

PISCES

February 19–March 20

Pluto powers forward on October 6th, which might help you to get a friendship back on track. A difficult group endeavor can also start to come together. Team Pisces has been evolving, sometimes in painful ways. But hopefully you’re learning which relationships to fight for and which have run their natural course. Move past competitive comparisons, power struggles and gossip. Strive to construct a circle of people who have your back. On the 7th and 9th, the planets hold summits in your depth-and-merging house that could set off sparks in a close relationship or in your psyche. This potent energy can be channeled, but you need to be highly aware if you’re going to make the best use of it. Things might turn sexy or combative, troublesome or transformational—depending on whether you can resist the natural temptations to overreact to what’s going on and to project what you’re feeling. An intense encounter or passion project are two possible positive outcomes. If you come up against any psychological warfare, stick to fighting above the belt. With Saturn coming out of reverse on the 10th, you might resume a regular spiritual practice or begin to feel more at peace after you’ve unpacked emotional baggage. If you’re playing a martyr or victim role somewhere in your life, work on maintaining firmer boundaries. The sun’s collab with Jupiter on October 15th indicates that introspection and intimacy will teach you something about your true self and give you a sense of hope. This pairing makes it easier for you to accept who you are and give another person the benefit of the doubt too. But when the sun and Pluto battle on the 17th, peer pressure can affect a close relationship or your psychological state. It may be difficult to gauge who to trust and how much to share that day. If you rise to the occasion, though, you can change something that’s not working. Loyalty is everything right now. On October 17th–18th, Jupiter powers on after being in standby mode for the last four months. Soon, you’ll feel more supported by the universe and willing to trust that it will all work out. If you’ve been exploring spirituality, doing something to serve others or seeking closure, you’ll get back at it soon. Then when Mercury edges forward on the 18th, you can gain a firmer grasp on recent intuitive inklings, dreams, imaginative brainstorms and half-revealed secrets. Later that day, Mars aligns with Jupiter, emboldening you to get close to another person or confront something within yourself. You’ll gain a sense of peace, connectedness and self-awareness. Spirituality and sexuality may commingle, creating a powerful experience. You could also delve into a subject you want to learn more about. But on October 21st, friction between Mars and Pluto can generate tremors in your relationships. Don’t get into any power struggles, and try not to let anger get the best of you. Don’t fall into the trap of comparing yourself to other people either; jealousy and envy have a tendency to foment suffering. Keep solid lines between your friendships and your sex life now, and be careful with privacy, secrets and trust. Venus’s spat with your ruling planet, Neptune, on the 26th makes it harder to pick up on social cues and recognize the image that you’re conveying. You want to make a positive impression, but are you glamorizing success and power in some way? Come up with your own version of those things rather than shooting for tenuous ideals. A showdown between the sun and Saturn on October 30th may pit your enthusiasm for branching out and trying different things against lingering doubts. Perhaps you need to wrap up old business before breaking new ground. Don’t let skepticism persuade you to give up, though. If the weight of the past tempts you to hedge your bets, try taking a calculated risk instead of going all out.

ARIES

March 21–April 19

After spending five months backpedaling, Pluto moves forward on October 6th. This course correction can have a subtle but powerful effect on your career or life direction. You’ve struggled to find your way at times, and it may seem like more options are closing off than opening up. Pay attention to the slow evolution of your ambitions and try to align yourself with that process. Make peace with the fact that you can’t go back — only forward. On the 7th and 9th, a coalition of planets in your interpersonal angle pushes you to devote lots of energy to partnership. Whatever you’re doing, ask another person to join you and don’t insist on calling the shots. Look at this as an opportunity to get better at collaborating. If there’s conflict, it’s likely to get heated. Tempted to attribute antagonism to the other party rather than owning it? You won’t learn about yourself by focusing on what others are doing. Make a choice to discover something about how you operate in relationships. And if you avoid defensiveness, clearing the air can promote progress. After Saturn gets back in gear on October 10th, rallying the troops won’t be as much of a struggle, and group projects will come out of limbo shortly. The sun dovetails with Jupiter on the 15th, which should fuel socializing and networking. This is a great time for meeting new people, so get out and mingle. On the 17th, the sun’s clash with Pluto can make relating seem harder, particularly if you’re stressed about sorting out your path in life or making headway with your goals. The energy you get from people you’re close to can motivate 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 common goal. You’re likely to resist if it seems like someone is wielding power over you; try not to make this about control. Fortunately, Jupiter’s direct turn on October 17th–18th can boost your faith in people and help you to feel more supported. Mercury will also get back on track on the 18th, promoting diplomatic dialogue that will enable you to get on the same wavelength, especially if you need to clear up recent miscommunication. It’s so much easier to resolve your differences when the messenger planet is moving forward. Hours later, Mars meshes with Jupiter, green-lighting shared adventures and teamwork. Joining forces can teach you something and inspire you. You might make new contacts and widen the circle of people in your life. And you can count on your friends for their support and wisdom if you’re having trouble in a relationship. On October 20th, a full moon in Aries brings out all the feels. Pay close attention to what you need, and put yourself first—diplomatically. Quiet alone time at home will help you decompress, so don’t hesitate to reschedule social plans and hole up by yourself. When Mars challenges Pluto on the 21st, tension over goals can impact a partnership. Get problems out into the open and solve them as a team if possible. If you can maneuver yourselves onto the same page, you might go after something big together. On edge due to work pressures or an individual? Decisive action can help avert an explosion. Venus gets into a muddle with Neptune on October 26th. Self-doubt or wistfulness could dampen your enthusiasm as a result. Or you might take a good thing too far and indulge in escapist pleasures. It’s nearly impossible to stay in the moment, so you needn’t try. But don’t let yourself compare and contrast the present with the past or future. On the 30th, a sun-Saturn quarrel suggests that even though you may want to invest wholeheartedly in a particular person or endeavor, the fear of cutting off other opportunities can make you hesitate. Perhaps you’re torn between powerful intimacy with one person and a relationship that’s rooted in a steadier feeling of friendship. Peer pressure might strain a close relationship, but you should only pay attention to well-intended feedback.

TAURUS

April 20–May 20

On October 6th, Pluto gets back up to speed after five months of traveling retrograde in your expansion zone. So if you’ve lost sight of the big picture, it should begin to fall back into place soon enough. You may have had a crisis of faith and feel like you’ve lost the thread to some extent. But gradually you’ll become bolder about venturing out on a limb in search of powerful learning experiences. A conglomeration of planets in your productivity corner on the 7th and 9th can help you knock out some labor-intensive tasks. You have tons of momentum for getting stuff done and should continue working alone if possible, since this ultra-focused energy may cause you to dominate others unintentionally. Intellectual stamina will also be a boon, so look for difficult mental challenges to sink your teeth into. And if you find yourself with more energy to burn, use it up with hard workouts. Thanks to Saturn powering forward in your ambition angle on the 10th, recognition will soon be more forthcoming. If you’ve been questioning where you’re headed, now you can start to formulate a more concrete plan for success. As you work on defining success for yourself, you’ll continue to see the potential for progress. Then the sun teams up with Jupiter on October 15th, empowering you to back up promises with hard work. You have the energy to get a lot done. If you channel it wisely, you can check off some major objectives. The sun and Pluto battle on the 17th, reminding you that practice makes perfect. You could feel internal or external pressure to know more in order to accomplish something. But there’s much to be said for learning on the job. Don’t shy away from trial and error. And if you’re questioning whether the work you’re doing will make a difference in the world, shift your approach a little or funnel your efforts in another direction. Combining pragmatism and a strong work ethic with an empowering guiding principle is a can’t-miss strategy. Jupiter’s U-turn on October 17th–18th will boost optimism about your career track. Note that a fresh infusion of enthusiasm and ambition might lead you to come on strong around higher-ups, though. Mercury also gets back in gear on the 18th, which should straighten out scheduling snafus and improve your attention to detail. And hours later, a Mars-Jupiter confab could reward your hard work with greater responsibility or recognition. Your willingness to learn and aid others will serve you well. You’re doing what’s required of you with humility but should stay confident as well. Keep your eyes on the prize and focus on long-term progress — not short-term gains. You’re in the process of actively growing your career. Since Mars and Pluto are at odds on the 21st, stress could impact your wellbeing, and you may feel a meltdown coming on. Pull back on the throttle if you’re overwhelmed with work. Tackle tasks one at a time. Where can you make the most difference? Direct your energy there. Try not to force anything in order to get results. And avoid destructive criticism and micro-managing — they can easily backfire. A Venus-Neptune dustup on October 26th can blur the line between platonic and sexual, and a friend might become a friend with benefits. Don’t put anyone on a pedestal, and protect yourself from being deceived. Not sure what you want or what you’re willing to give? Rushing into things blind would be a mistake. On October 30th, the sun’s discord with Saturn gives you a chance to look at how you relate to authority. Are you too timid or too malleable? Your efforts to partner with someone could reach an impasse, and it may be difficult to reach an agreement. You might be prepared to compromise but fear the prospect of deferring to another person. Know your value, and don’t settle for a disrespectful dynamic.

GEMINI

May 21–June 20

Issues involving merging, sharing, intimacy, investing and trust will be brought into sharper focus once Pluto plows forward on October 6th. A close relationship, contract, loan or collaboration could come out of limbo and start to move ahead — probably with some needed alterations. With the planets convening in your joy sector on the 7th and 9th, it’s time to pursue your heart’s desire and do as you please. You’re due for a creative burst or a fun activity that stimulates your mind and body. If you’re passionate about something, you’re capable of devoting a ton of energy to it and taking chances to attain it. Romantic and artistic drives are particularly strong, and you’re inclined to follow them. Bear in mind that since your ruling planet is still retrograde, a choice you make now might come up for review later. After Saturn pivots direct on the 10th, you’ll find it easier to turn your vision into a reality and make plans for the future. Problems connected with travel and education should also start to subside—to whatever degree Covid will allow. On October 15th, the sun’s harmony with Jupiter encourages you to get out and play. Enjoy a weekend getaway if possible — or some other experience that excites you and even scares you a little bit. Due to a fight between the sun and Saturn on the 17th, your inclination to do as you please and be your lighthearted self could hit a snag if someone seems to think you owe them. On the other hand, you might tighten the screws yourself if you’re not getting what you want from another individual. Maybe a breezy romance is starting to feel too heavy? Skip the ego trip that this planetary combo can produce; instead, aim for constructive change. Closeness with a good friend or S.O. can be a source of strength. You don’t have to give up who you are or give up on a relationship when it gets hard. What can you do to transform things for the better? Jupiter pivots direct on October 17th–18th, filling you with renewed belief in your vision. Keep moving forward into the future that you’ve dreamed of. Mercury also goes direct on the 18th, lifting a creative block or helping you to feel less tongue-tied around someone you’re interested in. If your mind has been on an ex, it’s easier to get your head into the present now. Mars vibes with Jupiter later that day, giving you the courage to go after what you want. Taking a risk to expand your horizons is likely to pay off, so don’t play it too safe. Go out on a limb! Whether your aspirations involve self-expression, learning, creativity, adventure or love, pursue them. Optimism will help you seize an opportunity to try something bold and unfamiliar. On the 21st, a feud between Mars and Pluto can take the drama or passion in a close relationship up a notch. Avoid power struggles and jealousy. A love affair might get too intense for your liking, or you could feel like someone’s trying to control your carefree nature. Trouble may involve lust, trust and loyalty under this planetary map. Venus’s tussle with Neptune on the 26th can again complicate one-on-one relations. Remind yourself that nobody’s perfect. Even someone who knows and loves you can’t be expected to read your mind. On October 30th, your productivity could take a hit when the sun struggles with Saturn. You’re motivated to accomplish a lot but could run out of steam if you start to doubt the point of it all. Stay humble and don’t get discouraged if someone senior to you thinks you have more to learn. Try to do what needs doing, and work within the boundaries of what you can verify as fact. Combining discipline and vision will increase your odds of success. Don’t push your luck by being shortsighted.

CANCER

June 21–July 22

Pluto will do an about-face on the 6th that can regenerate a bond and empower you to shift your relationship dynamics in general. After a five-month retrograde period, you’ll start to see the way 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 most challenging qualities onto people? Pluto’s direct turn compels you to face the truth. As three planets mingle at the base of your chart on October 7th and 9th, you might dive into a domestic project to gain a sense of accomplishment. Your mood is bound to affect your interactions, and you might test another person to protect yourself — or vice versa. You could also use sharp words with housemates or family. Talking to relatives and people you live with can give you insights, but you should claim your personal space if you feel agitated. You’re likely to butt heads if you try to collaborate. Juggle alone time with meeting your obligations to others, and try not to project what’s going on inside you onto the people around you. Assigning blame is a waste of energy. Saturn’s reversal on the 10th can help you to feel more empowered when dealing with such touchy issues. You may be able to resolve matters related to trust, finances, sharing, intimacy or change, and you’ll feel more in control soon. On the 15th, the sun syncs with Jupiter, hinting that relaxing with someone you feel comfortable with will foster closeness, while introspection can help you feel more at peace with where you are in your life. But due to a sun-Pluto conflict, you could get pushed out of your comfort zone on October 17th if another person exerts pressure on you. It may be as simple as needing 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 individual is shaping your mood. Again, try not to project your own challenges onto anyone. Own your emotions before pointing the finger. Problem solve rather than attempting to get the upper hand. With Jupiter resuming forward motion on October 17th–18th, you’ll feel more resilient on a psychological level. And if you haven’t received the support you need or the help you rely on from an outside resource, it should begin to flow more freely soon. Also on the 18th, Mercury gets back on course, enabling you to understand your emotions and articulate them. Plus, you can straighten out crossed wires on the home front now. Later that day, Mars and Jupiter have a tête-à-tête that can help you unearth buried anger so you can understand yourself better. Dealing with dormant emotions and aiming for meaningful transformation will be worthwhile. Face those feelings bravely and consider trusting someone with them. Intimacy in the privacy of your home is also favored. On the 21st, a spat between Mars and Pluto can cause turmoil in a close relationship, and an old behavior pattern may be at the root of it. If you’re in a bad mood, try once again not to take it out on others. Dealing with your emotions will ultimately produce change in your one-on-one connections. Venus gets lost in Neptune’s fog on the 26th, implying that no matter how much you’re enjoying what you’re doing and relishing the flow of being on your grind, another side of you still longs for escape. If you yearn to be elsewhere but can’t take a trip, focus on the old adage that the grass isn’t necessarily greener on the other side. Then indulge in the pure pleasure of a daydream or a new experience that takes you out of yourself. On October 30th, the sun and Saturn argue, which might put pressure on a romantic relationship or cause you to feel judged by someone you care about. Putting too much emphasis on getting a specific reaction from another individual can inhibit your self-expression and pull you out of your bliss. Don’t worry about imperfections or an affair’s staying power. And don’t let fear get in your way. We’re all works in progress, and relationships call for mutual dedication.

LEO

July 23–August 22

After five months in reverse gear, Pluto does a U-turn in your productivity corner on October 6th, which should help you to feel more in control of your daily life. Although changes affecting your routine, your job or your wellness appear to be out of your hands, soon you’ll gain a better understanding of how to improve your quality of life and your wellbeing. Stress may be sapping your strength, so listen to what your body is telling you. It’s the vehicle that transports you through life; treat it with great care! On the 7th and 9th, your thinking-and-talking corner hosts a planetary party, causing you to identify strongly with your ideas and views and firing you up to sell people on them. Avoid pointless arguments and state your position with passion rather than anger—unless you’re quite sure that it’s righteous anger. You might also take a short trip (if that’s doable where you are) or get caught up in a frenzy of activity going on around you. If you have to learn quickly, this is a good time for cramming. Saturn has been backing across your interpersonal angle for several months, compelling you to come to terms with the lessons you’re learning about relationships. He pivots forward on October 10th, allowing you to translate any knowledge you’ve gained into a potential plan for moving forward. Whether you’re meant to strengthen or sever a connection, now you’ll spot a clearer path ahead of you. Your ruling planet, the sun, vibes with Jupiter on the 15th, setting the stage for lively, positive communication. Expressing your real self can make it easier to meet new people who are good for you, and it can also improve your existing bonds. But the sun’s battle with Pluto on the 17th might exacerbate the stress of trying to get something right. Though criticism may dent your ego, you can use it wisely 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 under this influence. With Jupiter wrapping up its four-month retrograde phase on October 17th–18th, your faith in people should bounce back, and relationship progress will feel more doable. Mercury also gets back in gear on the 18th, enabling you to communicate more clearly and perceive other people’s meaning more accurately. Hours later, an alliance between Mars and Jupiter encourages you to assert yourself in conversations; pitch your ideas; and reach out to a lot of people so you can make beneficial contacts. Your mind is very active, and you’re inclined to espouse a strong viewpoint. When Mars and Pluto cross swords on October 21st, things may not play out precisely as you planned them. You have specifics in mind that changing circumstances are bound to affect. If you have an idea that could potentially help others or make a difference in the world, go ahead and put it out there. But don’t push your point too vehemently at work or speak in haste. You might hold someone to an impossibly high standard and need to let that go when Venus squares off with Neptune on the 26th. Love and sex can be both lovely and confusing now; do your best to separate fantasy from reality. The sun’s conflict with Saturn on October 30th signals that personal commitments can force you to give up the comforts of home. Since someone can trigger insecurity during this transit, try to give harsh critics a wide berth. You might test another person in order to protect yourself (or vice versa), and your mood is sure to color your relations. Juggle spending time by yourself and meeting your obligations to others. And try not to project what’s going on inside you onto the people around you.

VIRGO

August 23–September 22

On October 6th, Pluto resumes forward motion, bringing your emotions to the surface. Drama could impact your love life, but try not to react in the moment. A romantic connection, a physical attraction, your creative expression or the ways you find joy in life are shifting. You’ll start to feel better about those prospects shortly. When the planets congregate in your worth house on October 7th and 9th, you might go on a shopping spree, clean out your closets or fight for what matters to you. Action related to possessions, finances, values or priorities is emphasized. If you’re not careful, a conflict could erupt. Skip the squabbles, but stand up for what’s vitally important. You’ll be motivated to resume a project you put on hold, get your wellness goals back on track or implement a streamlined daily routine after Saturn powers forward on the 10th. Saturn is teaching you how to run your life like a well-oiled machine. Efficiency and organization are the name of the game. On the 15th, a sun-Jupiter link can bail you out by enabling you to tap into the resources you need. Make good use of your talents, connections, belongings, self-esteem and other assets to accomplish as much as possible. When the sun and Pluto argue on October 17th, it will help if you’re willing to adjust your priorities to suit the situation. Your values, self-worth or money may seem at odds with pleasure, love or self-expression, and you could feel like you’re putting too much on the line. Strong feelings are shaking 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. It feels like you’re paying the price for powerful desires, a stormy love affair or intense, happy experiences. Deal with your emotions, even if they scare you! Jupiter’s direct turn on October 17th–18th could make you busier at work, but the upside is you’ll begin to feel more effective and capable of tackling what’s on your plate. If you’ve narrowed down your agenda because you bit off more than you could chew, now you can move ahead with a streamlined list. Since Mercury also does a U-turn on the 18th, your judgment will be much sharper, and any delayed payments should come through soon. Mars plays nice with Jupiter hours later, helping you to use your resources well and get tons done. You can acquire new skills if you jump in with confidence and make the most of your talents. A strong work ethic will serve you well. Channel your exuberance into actions that can open up avenues of income. Don’t be afraid to fight for your security and take on more duties. But when Mars and Pluto argue on the 21st, you might jeopardize your security for something or someone you’re passionate about. Maybe you’ll be tempted to splurge on an item you’re obsessed with, thinking it will deliver major gratification. Or you could be fixated on a person and put your self-worth at risk in hot pursuit. Jealousy can lead you to battle for what you think is yours. Don’t let anyone or anything hold so much sway over you that you feel insecure. When Venus wanders into Neptune’s fog on the 26th, you might gloss over the reality of another person to feel more comfortable. Or maybe a questionable individual will throw you off-balance. Your mental powers and communication skills will help you identify what’s really going on. The sun challenges Saturn on October 30th, implying that a heavy workload or criticism — including self-criticism — could hold you back right when you’re amped up to express yourself, learn and connect with people. A rush of thoughts can hit a wall if the details trip you up. Your best bet is to narrow your focus so as not to scatter energy. Do your homework, so when you or naysayers uncover potential problems, you have an answer. Gather info, come up with clever ideas, then fact check yourself to make a stronger case. Don’t fret over getting stuck or shot down; work hard to develop something solid.

LIBRA

September 23–October 22

A new moon graces Libra on October 6th, beckoning you to make a fresh start and set intentions for the next 12 months. Here’s your chance to reinvent yourself! Are you ready to change your look or show off a different side of your personality? You might decide to try something bold that starts your new year off on an exciting note. Hours later, Pluto does a 180° at the bottom of your chart, causing you to grapple privately with difficult feelings and memories that are shifting the ground beneath you. There is a way forward, and Pluto’s reversal will make it more obvious. If your living situation, family or emotions have stressed you out, know that the path leads through that challenge, not around it. On the 7th and 9th, the sun, Mars and Mercury rendezvous in your sign, providing you with major momentum and empowering you to walk your talk. Channel this energy into whatever is most important to you, and combine your intellect with drive. Keep touchiness and recklessness in check, though, because you might seem ready for a fight. If you feel wound up, burn off steam via a tough workout. When Saturn pivots forward on the 10th, you’ll feel a renewed determination to live a well-rounded life. You might decide to turn dating into more of an official mission. And since the theme is taking your own happiness seriously, you could also get serious about a specific romance or hobby. If you’ve struggled with a fertility problem, a creative block or a stalled love affair, Saturn’s U-turn might help resolve matters. When the sun shines his high beams on Jupiter on the 15th, you’re invited to bet on yourself and reach for the love and joy you deserve. The stars want you to be all you can be, so don’t hide your personality and passion. Find the courage to show people what’s inside of you. But the sun’s struggle with Pluto on October 17 hints that domestic hassles can wear you out. The spotlight is supposed to be yours during your birthday season, but your mom or housemate might be on a power trip. Or an old issue could resurface and test you. You can prove something to yourself by not shying away from conflict. Disregarding the fact that something isn’t working may do more damage. You can come through this challenge stronger. With Jupiter powering forward on October 17th–18th, you’re bound to feel hopeful — perhaps especially when it comes to progress in your love life or on an artistic project. You should have a better understanding lately of what fulfills you and will be more enthused about making time for it. Thanks to Mercury’s about-face in Libra on the 18th, the objectivity of your thinking and effectiveness of your communication are about to improve. If you’ve felt misunderstood or made iffy choices recently, you can bring about a course correction. Soon after, Mars collaborates with Jupiter, giving you the guts to take a well-timed, worthwhile risk for the sake of love, pleasure, personal fulfillment or creative expression. A taste of freedom and progress can inspire you to take bold action or enjoy life to the fullest. Pursue what (or whom) you want. However, when Mars clashes with Pluto on October 21st, you could feel triggered by family or pushed to the limit by household or personal duties. Before you react, examine your own emotions; they’re likely to be rather volatile now. Don’t smother dark feelings, or they’ll end up calling the shots. Carve out time to sift through them by yourself — or ask a healing professional for help. Venus’s entanglement with Neptune on October 26th implies that the logistics of socializing could become complicated, and a health or work matter might cast a cloud over your positive attitude. A dose of nature can nourish you. On the 30th, a feud between the sun and Saturn could point to low self-confidence that keeps you from expressing your real self. Or maybe you’re concerned about having sufficient resources for the fulfillment you’re after. You might feel like you don’t have what it takes — in terms of money, talents, self-worth or other assets, but this feeling will pass. Don’t tear yourself down; build yourself up!