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Two steps forward, one step back! Even though Jupiter is turning retrograde on September 4th, as it does every year for about four months, Venus will finish her six-weeks of backpedaling on the 3rd and Mercury’s three-week reversal comes to an end on the 15th. It feels more personal when inner planets like Mercury, Venus and Mars change direction — so don’t dwell on the fact that Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto are all beating a retreat. Focus on this: Relating, love, communication, thinking, travel and tech are getting back on track!

VIRGO

August 23–September 22

With Venus finally powering on in your intuition corner on September 3rd after her six-week retrograde phase, pent-up desires could have more breathing room. What has your sixth sense been telling you lately? Your inklings and imaginative musings will coalesce as the month unfolds. If you suspect you should let go of a relationship or something that no longer satisfies your soul, chances are you’re ready. The next day, Jupiter shifts into reverse in your expansion camp for the next four months. During that time, your enthusiasm for new learning experiences could wane, and travel plans, a publishing project or a legal proceeding may stall. You’re excited to explore fresh territory, but now it’s time to contemplate the knowledge you’ve gained since mid-May, search for personal meaning in your latest adventures and begin to form a philosophy around what you’ve seen and gleaned. Focus on your inner journey and personal growth if your impetus to branch out is unsuccessful. However, a coalition between Jupiter and the sun in your sign on September 8th suggests you’re capable of doing something you thought was out of reach. Get up the courage to test your mettle! Virgo hosts the new moon on September 14th, inviting you to make a fresh start and set intentions for the coming year. Here’s your annual chance to reinvent yourself. Are you ready to change your look or show off a different side of your personality? You might opt to try something bold that launches your new year on an exciting note. And luckily, you can trust your judgment starting the next day when Mercury pivots direct after its three-week retrograde in your sign. Your thoughts should start to come together in the days ahead, particularly if you’ve been reflecting on personal matters or weighing a decision. You’ll no longer feel like your words are being misconstrued and will have a much easier time representing yourself clearly—a welcome change if people have read you wrong recently. The Virgo sun gels with Uranus hours later, inspiring you to discover what you’re made of by exposing yourself to stimulating encounters and events. Unfamiliar undertakings can bring fresh insights into yourself and the world. Stay out of your comfort zone and keep an open mind. On the 17th, you could find yourself torn between relishing downtime and getting out to have new experiences when Venus disagrees with Jupiter. Should you indulge in escapist pleasures or answer a higher calling and show heartfelt selflessness? Maybe both. Jupiter isn’t fond of narrowing down the options! Note that this planetary pairing puts you at risk of chasing after a romanticized dream that’s all smoke and mirrors—so they or it may not turn out to be as amazing as you imagine. The sun’s yearly standoff with Neptune can produce confusing interactions on the 19th. Another individual could wear you out now. Avoid getting lured into agreeing to something that’s not right for you. When the sun and Pluto join forces the next day, you’ll feel able to express your passion and your personality in a powerful way. Consider this your cosmic cue to stand out from the crowd and show what you’re made of. The sun departs Virgo on September 23rd and segues into your worth zone, turning your attention to what you have and what you need. This is a month for assessing your resources, getting your personal priorities straight and using your assets to your advantage. The full moon of September 29th lands in your depth-and-merging sector, which could bring an issue around intense, private emotions, sharing or closeness to a head. You may feel compelled to go all in or cut your losses. Either way, you can come out of this stronger than before. Later that day, a Venus-Uranus squabble alludes to tension between your desire to let go and drift and your impulse to seek adventure. Relationship closure, a selfless gesture or a pleasant retreat can feel liberating.

WHAT’S YOUR SIGN?

LIBRA

September 23–October 22

As your ruling planet, Venus, gets back in gear on September 3rd after six weeks of spinning retrograde, a desire to get together with people resurges, and you’ll gradually find it easier to connect. If you’ve felt cut off, you’ll start to get a better grasp of where you stand with a friend or a group and who’s in your core crew versus who’s merely an acquaintance. With Jupiter doing a 180 in your depth-and-merging court on the 4th, outside resources won’t be all that attainable in the next four months. If a partnership or psychological growth has been on the fast track lately, progress is likely to slow, and you might begin to lose hope. The pace will pick up again around the end of the year. In the meantime, you can make good use of this slowdown by pondering what change and support is really needed. The sun syncs up with Jupiter on September 8th, encouraging solo reflection in a peaceful place. You could gain insight into the way you tick. One-on-one time with someone special can bring moments of authenticity and acceptance that allow your connection to thrive. The new moon of September 14th in your release-and-retreat corner invites you to seek out quiet solitude for soul searching once again. You might start a new spiritual practice, begin a dream journal or volunteer to help others. After Mercury edges forward in that part of your chart on the 15th, subtle inklings from the past few weeks will start to gel, and you may come to some conclusion. It still seems like the truth isn’t out in the open, but the fog is clearing, and soon you’ll feel more keyed in. That night, a sun-Uranus encounter beckons you to step back from the world and perhaps let go of something or someone to free up space in your psyche or your personal life. Liberating change originates within. As you look back over the past, try to glean what or whom would best be left behind you. On the 17th, Venus’s dustup with Jupiter might leave you unsure of whether you want to play the field or put all your chips on one person. Jealousy, sex and overblown expectations can affect a friendship, so tread carefully. On the other hand, a casual connection may heat up in a good way. When the sun faces off with Neptune on September 19th, tune into your needs and make time for rest if your battery is drained. Honor the mind-body-spirit connection and aim for a healthy balance of work and relaxation to nurture your overall wellbeing. The sun’s synergy with Pluto the next day reminds you to keep seeking out calm settings if you want to transform your emotional state. If possible, shine a light on your subconscious and process situations and emotions you’ve swept under the rug. Although this kind of inner work may not sound all that appealing, you need to acknowledge an old pattern before you can change it. The life-giving sun blasts into Libra on September 23rd, kicking off your birthday season and bringing a welcome burst of energy and confidence. This is the time of year when you’re meant to focus on YOU and what you want to make happen in your life. Put yourself first this month! However, the full moon of September 29th in your interpersonal angle encourages you to strike a better balance between “me” and “we” in all your one-to-one bonds. You might decide to make things more official in a relationship or call it quits. Cede the spotlight to others temporarily if they’re in need. Hours later, Venus’s feud with Uranus hints that money, jealousy, mistrust or control could pose problems. Friendship and sex don’t mix well now. Focus on mutually beneficial connections, learning what you can from people and giving them space to be themselves.

SCORPIO

October 23–November 21

Once Venus restarts her engine on September 3rd, it won’t seem as hard to make a good impression on higher-ups and shine in your career (or in public). You want to cultivate a positive reputation, but while the social planet was backtracking for the last six weeks, you may not have felt like you were seen in the best possible light. If your heart wasn’t in certain goals, the retrograde probably led you to question the direction you’re heading in — which will ultimately be a good thing. After Jupiter reverses course on September 4th, you could be less optimistic about a committed relationship or the quality of people you’re meeting. Since May, you’ve hopefully had some luck clicking with individuals who have plenty to offer. But for the rest of 2023, you may not make quite as many connections. Start to narrow down the prospects who have legit long-term potential. Jupiter tends to put quantity over quality, and this is your chance to sift through the selection, homing in on the keepers. A sun-Jupiter alliance on the 8th inspires you to get out and see people, and you may enjoy a certain someone’s company or make a worthwhile contact. Being your authentic self in a group setting will enable you to connect with a possible pal or love interest who can enhance your life. On the 14th, a new moon can coax you to grow your circle, join an organization, make a new friend or get involved in a humanitarian effort. Mercury pivots direct on September 15th, improving group communication. You can reach an understanding if anyone got the wrong end of the stick recently. Hours later, the sun’s chemistry with Uranus also encourages you to be yourself with others, be open to new people and be tolerant of everyone’s quirks. You might assume an unexpected role in a group or experience a surprising shift in a relationship. Other individuals are likely to act as agents of change in your life. When Venus needles Jupiter on September 17th, your charms won’t be lost on people — as long as you’re careful not to push your luck. You might secure a professional mentor or invaluable contact with the help of this planetary pair. If you’re currently ultra-focused on relationship goals and get into a discussion about where things are headed, you might discover you’re not on the same page. An ultimatum could move the needle, but is that how you want to get your way? The sun and Neptune go head-to-head on September 19th, which could confuse you over the part you play in a group or inspire you to sacrifice what you want so you can be there for a friend. On the 20th, the sun jibes with Pluto, offering you more incentive to connect with people. Your interactions will have a strong influence on your frame of mind, and you feel able to make a positive impression. With the sun slipping into your subliminal sector on September 23rd, your solar year is drawing to a close. It’s appropriate to take a step back from the frenzy of daily life and give yourself opportunities to rest and reflect. Find someplace peaceful where you can chill out and look back over the last year — in preparation for your upcoming birthday season when you’ll ramp it up and set your intentions for the future. The full moon in your efficiency corner also pushes you to conserve energy by dropping time-wasting habits and stressful duties so you can prioritize what matters most to you. That afternoon, Venus’s spat with Uranus in your one-on-one angle hints that partnership might be an unreliable route to success right now. Relationship difficulties could interfere with self-promotion — or perhaps you need to change your strategy with someone in order to save face.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22–December 21

Your outlook will brighten, and you’ll regain an interest in new people and pleasures after Venus moves forward on September 3rd following a six-week retrograde period. You may get a yen for travel or crave other kinds of mind-broadening experience. With your ruler, Jupiter, beginning to backtrack in your productivity corner on the 4th, your daily life won’t be as fast-paced for the next four months, giving you time to catch your breath. You’ve been taking on duties and responsibilities, and now it’s time to evaluate which means the most to you and what skills you should develop to tackle them. If you have too much on your plate, start scaling back and learn to say no without feeling guilty. The sun plays nice with Jupiter on the 8th, hinting that your positive work ethic will reflect well on you. Seek meaning in what you’re doing and grab hold of the opportunities that resonate with you. You can catch the attention of higher-ups when you take pride in a job well done. You don’t need to go out of your way to promote yourself now; your work will speak for itself! The new moon of September 14th coaxes you to set concrete objectives, embark on a new chapter in your career, craft a business plan or take a turnoff on your life path. Mercury wraps up its retrograde on September 15th, facilitating communication with authority figures and clarifying your goals. Soon you won’t have trouble clearing up career-related confusion and publicizing your accomplishments. Hours later, the sun clicks with Uranus, suggesting that a change in your responsibilities, routine, skillset or job performance can help you to shine. Breaking free of old habits will give you a sense of progress. To elevate your public or professional status or make headway toward an aspiration, be willing to adapt to circumstances. A flexible approach is essential when Uranus is in the mix. On the 17th, Venus in your exploration realm spars with Jupiter in your efficiency zone, generating tension between the fun of experiencing unfamiliar pleasures and the need to overanalyze everything. You might be yearning to escape daily life, but meanwhile, you’re juggling a full workload. If you’re feeling connected to people who are different from you, you might be excited to put your skills to use and help others. Although the sun at the peak of your chart is allowing you to shine your light, its opposition with Neptune on September 19th reminds you to strive for a healthy work-life balance. You could feel unsure about your chances of success and need some TLC from family or soul-soothing time at home before getting out there and proving yourself. Or maybe you need to get a domestic issue squared away, and that’s causing you to take your eye off the ball. When the sun and Pluto team up on the 20th, you can channel a sizable amount of drive into achieving aims that reaffirm your personal priorities and values. After the sun soars into your humanity house on September 23rd, you’ll be less focused on standing out as an individual and making a name for yourself and more inclined to collaborate with others. Consider your various affiliations and the roles you play in other people’s lives. Group energy will give you a lift in the coming month, so don’t go it alone too much. The full moon of September 29th may heat up a love affair to the point of blastoff or grand finale, and a creative project could culminate as well. Find pleasurable outlets for this overflow of passion; a fun night out may be just what you need. That afternoon, a dustup between Venus and Uranus implies that restlessness can push you to overthrow the status quo with zero hesitation. That may not be such a bad thing!

CAPRICORN

December 22–January 19

Closeness won’t seem so hard to come by and you’ll feel your passion returning after Venus pivots direct on September 3rd. If you’ve been waiting for outside money like a loan or grant to come through during the six-week retrograde, cash flow should begin to ease. Jupiter shifts into reverse in your fulfillment realm on September 4th, which can make romance, fun and creativity seem less plentiful and forthcoming during the next four months. But they certainly won’t disappear from your life. Between now and the end of the year, try asking yourself what and who makes you happiest. Fortunately, the sun’s chemistry with Jupiter on the 8th can inspire you to get out into the world and shift your perspective. Express your inner artist in a bold way. A change of scenery and trying new things can raise your consciousness, teach you about yourself, help you grow and even enrich your love life. The new moon of September 14th lands in your exploration corner, coaxing you to plan your next adventure, take a leap of faith, launch an entrepreneurial venture or adopt a new philosophy. With Mercury doing a 180 in that part of your chart on the 15th, travel won’t involve as many delays and detours as it did these past few weeks, and you’ll also find education to be more straightforward. The big picture should begin to fall back into place, and you won’t feel as if you’re missing the point. When the sun gels with Uranus that night, your hunger for new experiences that teach you something will push you to broaden your horizons in whatever way you can in the moment. If you’re not able to leave town, simply exposing yourself to unfamiliar people, cultures, beliefs and ideas can be stimulating. Find innovative ways to get out of your routine because you’ll thrive when you look at the world with fresh eyes. Are you hoping for more from a relationship than you’re getting? Or maybe you’re not sure if you want it to be hot and heavy or breezy and light? When Venus in your intimacy zone locks into a square with Jupiter in your love-and-happiness house on September 17th, tension involving your desires and expectations could come to a head. Try not to overreact; this mood is bound to shift. If you see a chance to inject more creativity, play, romance and self-expression into a close connection, seize it. On September 19th, the sun glides into its yearly faceoff with Neptune. This opposition can temporarily influence your judgment, and you might even feel taken in by someone. Try not to assume anything until the smoke clears. The sun teams up with Pluto in your sign on September 20th, filling you with inspiration. You need to push yourself beyond the boundaries of your comfort zone in order to change on a profound level. If you play it too safe, you could miss out on a golden opportunity to grow and change. Step into the spotlight, Capricorn! The sun ascends to the pinnacle of your chart on the 23rd, prompting you to shine bright. Set goals and devote energy to achieving them in the coming month. And be sure to keep a high profile. You might be called upon to assume a leadership position or prove yourself on a bigger stage. If you show off your capabilities, you’re likely to garner recognition. On the 29th, the full moon reminds you that attending to whatever is going on inside you or in your home will allow you to go out into the world and succeed. Your living situation might be undergoing a change, or a family member may need you. But if you’re overwhelmed with emotions at the moment, grab alone time to decompress. Later that day, Venus clashes with Uranus, hinting that independence, unpredictability and infatuation can disrupt a relationship. The best way to weather the storm is to expect the unexpected.

AQUARIUS

January 20–February 18

On September 3rd, Venus inches forward after rolling retrograde for the last six weeks. Soon people will seem more agreeable and engaged. You can strike compromises, mend relationship issues and perhaps get a significant bond back on track if it’s faltered lately. When Jupiter begins a four-month retrograde the next day, your underlying sense of security and comfort may be affected. A positive development in your home life could be delayed. You might begin to question putting down new roots and wonder where you belong. While family support may not be quite as forthcoming, it’s a good time to mull over what you need to feel at peace and at home. A sun-Jupiter link on the 8th suggests hole-ing up with someone special or devoting time to self-care will replenish your energy and boost your mood. The new moon of September 14th alludes to the possibility that a new sexual relationship could be on the horizon. It can also indicate a new outside resource — like a loan or grant — will soon be available to you. You might restructure a payment plan or start to transform your emotional state in the process of recovering from a wound, loss or crisis. After Mercury does an about-face on the 15th, communication in an intimate relationship becomes simpler — and again, money matters should start to sort themselves out. If you or someone else broke a confidence this month, it’s time to repair the damage. That day’s sun-Uranus collaboration can have a positive impact on your mood or your personal life, and you’ll benefit from spending time alone or with someone close to you. Pay attention to the subtler nuances of what is going on inside you or between you and another individual, seeking insights that will drive positive change. Spend time with people you feel at ease with when Venus and Jupiter go at it on September 17th. Once again, your mood and your rapport with other individuals are intertwined. You might try to push things to the next level in a relationship out of an emotional need for more security. If that’s the case, slowing down and seeing what happens could be the way to go, even if it feels counterintuitive. As the sun goes toe-to-toe with Neptune on September 19th, the boundaries in an intimate relationship may become blurred, and you’re susceptible to giving up a lot in order to be with someone. Your self-worth may not be strong enough right now to make sound decisions. Try not to let fear call the shots. The next day, the sun joins forces with powerful Pluto, giving you a chance to bring about a major internal shift that helps you to heal. It’s worth it now to dig deep into your own psyche, a close relationship or an emotional matter and face what you find there, free of fear, no matter how intense it is. On the 23rd, the sun sails into your exploration corner, taking the blinders off. Soon you’ll be more interested in broadening your horizons than zeroing in on one person or undertaking. This is the season for expanding your mind through travel and study and seeking out learning experiences wherever you can find them. You’re up for adventure and eager to expose yourself to a wider range of what life has to offer. A full moon on September 29th can bring information to light or bring a writing project to fruition. It may also trigger a flood of thoughts and busyness. Words and emotions are intertwined, nudging you to express how you’re feeling. Later that day, Venus scuffles with your ruler, Uranus. Once again, your mood, family, home life or underlying urge for independence or change could disrupt a relationship or affect your ability to get along with people. It may sound easier said than done, but try not to let that happen!

PISCES

February 19–March 20

Venus gets back on-track in your efficiency zone on September 3rd, allowing you to take more pleasure in your work and other daily doings. You’ll slowly start to feel more invested in your efforts and more satisfied with the quality of your life. If you’ve had any realizations in the past six weeks about how you spend your time, you might tweak your routine. With Jupiter heading into its four-month retrograde phase in the house that rules communication, cognition and community the next day, you won’t keep up the same fast pace you’ve enjoyed since May, interacting with lots of people, making new contacts, speaking freely, thinking big and hatching optimistic plans. You might trim your sails when it comes to a buoyant tone and grand ideas. This is a time to pause and weigh what to invest in going forward. Consider your recent thoughts, hopes, opinions and acquaintances, with an eye to narrowing options. The sun syncs up with Jupiter on the 8th, offering you a chance at getting on the same wavelength with someone and being seen for who you really are. Keep an open mind and speak up. Other individuals can inspire and inform you, so make the effort to connect one-on-one. The new moon of September 14th falls in your interpersonal angle, indicating that a new partnership — romantic, business, creative or some other sort—may be in the pipeline. Or you could soon take things to the next level in an existing relationship. It’s a good time to go public with something you’ve been working on. Mercury’s direct turn on the 15th will help you mend fences if you had a misunderstanding recently. Be the first to extend the olive branch so you can smooth over rough patches and resolve your differences. Hours later, an alliance between the sun and Uranus facilitates one-on-one interactions. Dialogues can give you information and insights. This is an opportune time to meet new people, so make an effort to connect. You could also see a person or a relationship in a different light now. Venus’s run-in with Jupiter on September 17th may generate creative work or spur you to learn a lot from your colleagues. Struggling with a relationship problem? Honest communication and an open mind can help you solve it. But you might go overboard with what you consider friendly criticism. If you think of yourself as trying to be helpful, that can make you oblivious to how your words really sound. The annual opposition between the sun and Neptune in Pisces occurs on September 19th, and it can prevent you from seeing a relationship clearly or keep others from seeing the real you. While your empathy can help bridge the gap, don’t sacrifice who you are to be who someone wants you to be. You’re probably not up to asserting yourself, so postpone confrontations and negotiations. If you experience a spiritual or artistic bond with another person, enjoy it without projecting into the future. On the 20th, a sun-Pluto confab highlights the value of connecting with people who have your back. Quality time with a friend can strengthen your relationship, or you might encounter someone who has a powerful influence on you. Once the sun sneaks into your depth-and-merging realm on September 23rd, you’ll do a deep dive into a relationship, private matter or passion project. The month that follows puts you in touch with what’s going on inside you and beneath the surface of things. On the 29th, the full moon can generate an influx of income or a mood-driven shopping spree. New developments with your work can pay off. If you’re not making great use of your talents and skills, it’s probably time to look for other job opportunities. That afternoon, a Venus-Uranus dustup implies anxiety, distraction and indecisiveness can interfere with everyday pleasure. Building some breaks into your routine could be the answer.

ARIES

March 21–April 19

Venus wraps up her six-week retrograde on September 3rd, reviving your creativity and love life and putting pure joy within your reach. Let your inner child out to play! Jupiter does a U-turn the next day and will be backpedaling for the next four months. A source of income may dry up temporarily, and you might scale back your spending. Belongings and money have had an easy-come-easy-go feel since May, but they won’t flow so freely now. Try to get a better understanding of your personal values and priorities, defining what’s most important to you. What do you truly need and want more of? That answer will enable you to channel the flow appropriately when Jupiter gets back in gear. The sun’s vibe with Jupiter on September 8th hints that your hard work is paying off. Maintain your humility, doing what needs to be done, and utilize your full range of talents to do the best job possible. That approach may earn you more notice and money than overt self-promotion will. The bonus: Turning your energy toward accomplishing tasks will make you feel better about yourself. The new moon on September 14th can inspire you to launch a job search; start a new diet or fitness regimen; get on a different schedule; initiate a positive habit; adopt a pet; learn a skill; or improve your time management and work ethic. After Mercury goes direct on the 15th, scheduling snafus, delayed projects, crossed wires on the job and overlooked details will soon become a thing of the past. If you’ve been researching something during the last few weeks, you’ll be able to analyze your findings now. As the sun clicks with Uranus hours later, your recent efforts could increase your bank balance—and once again, taking care of business can give your self-esteem a nice boost. If you devote energy to tackling necessary duties and improving your physical health, your sense of wellbeing can surge. But on September 17th, a Venus-Jupiter skirmish could trigger a spending spree that’s meant to sate your appetite for pleasantly pretty things. If money’s tight, keep in mind that the object of your desire might not be worth as much to you as you imagine. Do give yourself permission to enjoy life, though! Attraction, creativity and playfulness can all fill you with confidence. Just don’t fall into the trap of waiting for an even greater payoff. Savor the moment instead. With the sun going toe-to-toe with Neptune on September 19th, you’re liable to run out of steam at some point. When that happens, take a break. You might also doubt your abilities and take the wind out of your own sails. Don’t let perfectionism deflate your spirits. Good enough truly is good enough. Then on the 20th, the sun’s synergy with Pluto encourages you to put your shoulder to the wheel. If you plug away at a long-term goal that day, you can make remarkable headway. After the sun crosses your one-on-one angle on September 23rd, some of your focus will shift from productivity to relationships in the month that follows. Your connections with other individuals are front and center, and partnering with people will boost your energy. You can learn about yourself by noticing what roles you play in your close bonds. It’s a good time of year to consider how you’re faring as a significant other, best friend or business partner. The full moon lands in your sign on September 29th, calling for you to put yourself first. Spell out what you need, and if that doesn’t work, grab some alone time to decompress. If you’re feeling so over someone or something, this is your chance to let go and move forward. That afternoon, a Venus-Uranus spat hints that erratic confidence and funds could get in the way of personal pleasure, but flexibility and insight into your true values will serve you well.

TAURUS

April 20–May 20

With your ruler, Venus, getting back in gear on September 3rd, your mood should improve—and so should relations with family and roomies. If you’ve been mulling over your décor, you’ll soon feel surer of your aesthetic judgment. But when Jupiter shifts into reverse in Taurus on the 4th, your confidence may waver, and you could feel less lucky. The planet of growth still has your back. Review your progress since May and notice any blessings in disguise. Ponder the direction you’re heading in and ask yourself if your aspirations reflect your personal standards or those of society. Your inner wisdom overrides external circumstances now, so seek paths that feel true to you. A sun-Jupiter confab on the 8th will help you express your individuality freely and push you out the door to have fun. Show off a little and spend time with loved ones doing what makes you happy. On September 14th, a new moon alludes to the prospect of a new love affair or a fresh infusion of romance and passion in a current one. You could also get interested in a different source of pleasure like a hobby or start a creative endeavor. Mercury’s course correction on the 15th can lift a creative block or give you a stronger idea of what will make you happy. That night, a sun-Uranus coalition frees you to be yourself and enjoy life in whatever way you please. Expressing your feelings and your individuality will be exhilarating and can give you a sense of progress. Play around with different ways of motivating yourself. Venus’s scuffle with Jupiter on the 17th tempts you to overindulge in simple comforts like sleep, food and drink. Plus, the pleasures of home could compete with loftier aspirations. You probably hope you can pull off having it all. Should you get cozy in your nest or spread your wings and fly free? Curl up with someone familiar or explore new possibilities? Let the wave of enthusiasm carry you for a bit, but try not to lose sight of the shore. A sun-Neptune opposition on September 19th can generate confusion over friendship or fitting in with a group. If you’re yearning for validation and not getting it, take the pressure off. You do you — and don’t focus too much on feedback. Boundaries could be an issue if you’re not clear on who you are and what makes you happy. Don’t lose yourself by going with the flow. A sun-Pluto alliance on the 20th can inspire you to take chances, have an adventure or express yourself powerfully. Your joie de vivre can push you out of your routine. Look for challenges that change your perspective. Once the sun arrives in your efficiency corner on the 23rd, it’s time to get down to business. Now you have the vitality and focus to write a long to-do list and start checking stuff off. This is your month to get organized, focus on the tasks at hand and channel your energy into doing things well and improving your health. The full moon lights up your spiritual sector on September 29th, serving as a reminder to tune into the needs of your soul. Try not to neglect your inner life while you’re devoting so much drive to being productive in the outer world. This lunation also offers an opportunity to forgive and forget so you can heal. Surrender to the divine will of the universe, releasing whatever (or whomever) you’ve been holding onto that’s not good for you. Pay attention to your intuition, dreams and imagination and trust their messages. Venus feuds with Uranus in Taurus several hours later, which could generate an impulse to rebel against family or fight your desire to stay home. Or you could grow impatient with peace and quiet and feel an urge to rock the boat. Give yourself an out from a social or family event if you need it.

GEMINI

May 21–June 20

After Venus does a 180 on September 3rd, it will feel easier to get along with people and express your affection. Trying to put your desires into words but struggling to connect? This is a welcome development after her six-week retrograde phase. Jupiter turns retrograde in the last house of your chart on the 4th, so you won’t have quite the same tailwind for the rest of the year. Use this period to reflect on what you’ve learned about yourself lately. What lessons have you gleaned about surrendering your will and seeing where life takes you? A new spiritual dimension may have come into your life, and you should try not to lose hope if it seems like you’re drifting now. The sun’s harmony with Jupiter on September 8th increases the appeal of chilling at home and enjoying a whopping dose of peace and quiet. Indulge in at-home spa treatments, quality time with your couch or meditation. Or get in touch with your emotions by journaling or confiding in a wise soul. A new moon at the base of your chart on the 14th foreshadows a possible change in your living situation or your family. It also invites you to start a new self-care ritual or do something else that will enhance your comfort and emotional wellbeing. With Mercury pivoting forward on the 15th, you may still feel a bit nostalgic, but you won’t have as much trouble putting your feelings into words. If crossed wires caused problems on the home front, sort things out and get back on better footing. And if you’ve been introspective lately, insights into yourself or your backstory will start to make more sense. That night’s sun-Uranus summit spans your foundation angle and your release corner, beckoning you to let go of the past and contemplate who you want to be going forward. This is an excellent time for staying in and sifting through memories or mementos to gain insight into what brought you to where you are now. Try to be conscious of what’s going on inside you and how you might be undermining yourself unintentionally. When Venus in your thinking-and-talking corner tangles with Jupiter on September 17th, an optimistic mindset and pleasant interactions could spur an empathic desire to help others who may be less fortunate than you. You might build someone up in your head, though, if fondness veers into fantasy. Aim to love with true acceptance, not hopeful illusion. Your view isn’t objective under this influence, and you may need a reminder that nothing is quite as it appears. On the 19th, the sun glides into its annual standoff with Neptune. If you’re feeling uncertain about your direction in life, you’ll be tempted to lie low and not take on any daunting challenges. Aim for a good balance between resting on your laurels and imagining yourself accomplishing something you’ve dreamed of. As the sun forms a coalition with powerful Pluto on the 20th, relaxing in the comfort of your own space can rejuvenate you, while quality time with someone you adore can strengthen your bond. When the sun blasts into your joy zone on September 23rd, you’re inspired to be yourself and enjoy life to the fullest. This is a month where you should play as much as possible and feel free to march to the beat of your own drummer. Express your creativity and quirks and draw energy from doing what pleases you. The full moon of September 29th might spell drama in your squad or call your attention to a friend in need. Do your best to balance group interests with your need for self-expression. That afternoon, guard against an unconscious urge to rock the boat. A Venus-Uranus battle is likely to disrupt your interactions and could make you seem impatient, rash or disagreeable at moments.

CANCER

June 21–July 22

As of September 3rd, Venus is resuming forward motion in your worth zone after her six-week retrograde. Money will start to flow more freely, and you shouldn’t have as much difficulty using your resources and figuring out what’s most important to you. Then Jupiter goes off the grid in your network sector on September 4th. This four-month retrograde could narrow the wide array of people coming into your life and slow the progress of a group endeavor. You might feel less enthused about recently conceived hopes and less supported by your friends. But it’s the perfect time to examine which new contacts, friendships, group ties and social media accounts are a good fit for you and which aren’t going to mean so much over the long haul. With the sun and Jupiter in cahoots on September 8th, you’ll benefit from feeling like you’re a part of something bigger than yourself, and that experience can enhance your perspective. When the new moon rises in your thinking-and-talking corner on the 14th, the time is ripe for gathering info, planning a daytrip, reaching out to a sibling, launching a community effort, filling out paperwork, connecting with people and coming to a decision. Then Mercury straightens up its act in that same part of your chart on the 15th, clearing up garbled messages. It shouldn’t be such a big ordeal to make yourself understood now and to get around town. (Your commute may have been a headache these past few weeks.) Thanks to the sun gelling with Uranus in your humanity house that night, group communication, brainstorming and networking are all highly favored. Express your ideas and views to people, and reach out to kindred spirits who share your interests and objectives. There’s a good chance you’ll meet someone new; it’s more likely to be a platonic connection than a romantic one. Venus’s run-in with Jupiter on September 17th can pit your personal desires against group interests and regard for the greater good. You’re allowed to want what you want, but don’t try to finagle your way with others, who are liable to have their own priorities. There’s a chance this transit will inspire you to be extra generous with friends or with people in general. On the 19th, the sun’s yearly opposition with Neptune can make you gullible, so if you’re unsure of what to believe, put off decisions and agreements. You’re in a curious mood but need to be okay with not having conclusive answers at the moment. The sun’s synergy with Pluto on September 20th can empower you to forge strong bonds with other individuals. Make a point of reaching out to people, initiating dialogues and listening closely. Under this planetary pairing, you could meet someone who has a powerful influence on you and perhaps even transforms your life. As the sun dips down to your foundation angle on September 23rd, your home life will take up a bigger slice of your attention in the month to come. You’ll require downtime in the privacy of your own space so you can unwind and tune into your own frequency. It’s the time of year when you check in with yourself and sift through your innermost thoughts, feelings and memories, taking stock of where you are in your life and how you got to this point. A full moon lights up the pinnacle of your chart on September 29th, which may bring a goal to fruition or stir up melodrama with a parent or boss. You could be pushed onto center stage, so be prepared to prove yourself and perhaps take on a higher-profile role. Several hours later, Venus’s quarrel with Uranus in your network sector suggests that you may or may not get what you want from friends or a group, and possessiveness or greediness could be a problem. Flexibility is key.

LEO

July 23–August 22

After rolling retrograde in your sign since July 22nd, Venus shifts into first gear on September 3rd. You’ll feel increasingly capable of projecting the image that you want to in the days to come. And as your desires begin to gel, you’ll have more and more power to attract what you want. On the 4th, Jupiter goes rogue in your achievement angle for the next four months, so you’re likely to lose steam in your pursuit of big goals for the rest of 2023. But are you charging ahead in the right direction? Pause to review your aspirations and revise them so that they’re truly yours. Your ego could be deflated by a temporary lack of recognition, but it’s time to define what success means to you. Your ruler, the sun, forms a coalition with Jupiter on the 8th, enabling you to use the resources you have in a quest to achieve an objective. Put your talents on display and use all the assets at your disposal — including confidence and contacts — to make headway. The new moon of September 14th pushes you to create a budget, set financial goals, open up a new stream of income, work on improving your self-esteem, reorder your priorities and indulge your five senses. Then mental Mercury wraps up its three-week retrograde period on September 15th — a welcome development that will improve your financial judgment and iron out the kinks in money matters. If you’ve held off on negotiating your pay or asking for a raise, you finally have a green light to talk. When the sun collaborates with Uranus that night, you can once again tap into your personal talents and resources in order to make progress towards a goal. You’re likely to have a strong urge for self-sufficiency and independence now and can use it as motivation. As Venus in Leo goes up against massive Jupiter on the 17th, you may be tempted to oversell yourself or cross the line with an authority figure. Feeling confident is a plus, but if your ambition gets out of hand, you might need to dial it down around people you’re required to answer to. Still, that doesn’t mean you should downplay your magnetism; it can help you draw positive attention your way, especially since Venus is picking up speed. The sun and Neptune will be at loggerheads on September 19th, as they are once a year. During their opposition, you may be clear on your bottom line and then get thrown off course by another person and their priorities. Table negotiations and binding commitments for the time being; what someone has to offer is still to be determined. The next day, a positive encounter between the sun and Pluto signals that you can get a job done by working with what you already possess and going out and getting anything else you may need. Assess what is most important and what must be accomplished. Be strategic and methodical in your approach. Your brain and your interactions receive a jolt of energy when the sun saunters into your cognition-and-communication camp on the 23rd. You’ll be able to put a lot of yourself into everything you say and may notice an upswing in the rhythm of daily life. Neighborhood activities, learning, short trips, writing and conversation are all favored in the month that follows. A full moon illuminates your expansion corner on September 29th. This is the best lunation in all of 2023 for you to drop a personal belief that has been limiting your growth. An urge for adventure could inspire you to take a leap of faith, and you might complete a course of study or jet off on a big trip. Several hours later, Venus’s tiff with Uranus could generate impatience to achieve what you want. Or an authority figure might react unexpectedly to their perceived image of you. Your inclination to socialize can give you an urge to shirk responsibilities. For best results, juggle!