Raise your hand if you're ready to feel good — Or a whole lot better, at least. With retrograde season in full swing since mid-April, buried conflict has been resurfacing like the walking dead, forcing us to warrior up and protect ourselves. As painful as this process has been for many, there's a huge silver lining: Dealing means healing, as Beyoncé made apparent last week with gloriously cathartic visuals. This Tuesday, May 3, eternally optimistic Jupiter flows into a harmonious trine (120-degree) angle with the bright, illuminating sun. The WTF and the "why?!" will be answered as we glean the important lessons of our springtime angst. This cosmic mashup hands us the secret recipe for turning lemons into lemonade — and that means there's only one question to ask: What am I supposed to learn from this situation?
On Friday, the new moon in Taurus anchors us all into a grounded groove. The practical magic of these moonbeams will be a blessing. Whether we're starting from scratch or building with ample resources, operating from a plan is essential. Taurus is an earth sign, so think sustainable, environmentally friendly, and low-impact when drafting blueprints. Circle November 14, the date of the corresponding full moon in Taurus, for harvesting the seeds you plant this week.
Sunday is Mother's Day, so make that brunch reservation well in advance (especially with Mercury retro all week). But with four planets assembling into a combustible Grand Cross, the family friendly vibes could be countered with some cosmic friction. Keep the crazy-makers off the guest list and stick to an easier itinerary that doesn't involve anyone stressing out to prepare.
Taurus
April 20 to May 20
Creative blocks, begone! Your imagination is off the charts this week, Taurus — and like sign-mate Lena Dunham, you could have some game-changing visions percolating. No pressure to be like La Lena, though. It's your raw, unfiltered creativity that's being called out to play. Channel it towards painting, poetry, songwriting, or even your personal style. With the sun and ballsy Jupiter trading friendly fire on Tuesday, it's "the bolder, the better." The only hitch is that Mercury is retrograde until May 22, so save the mural painting and tattoo appointments until after then.
Cupid comes a-calling, too, as your unfiltered expression attracts people who appreciate you for you. The new moon on Friday also opens the book of love — and turns to a clean page, either with a new partner or a renewed spark with your long-term mate. Talks could even turn to proposals, pregnancies, or a shared creative project (time to start that band with bae?). But on Sunday, be warned: You could struggle to find your voice in a group if you start to second-guess your own vision and values. Forget about being agreeable or trying to find a middle ground. Embrace the spirit of diversity — and also be careful not to invalidate other people's opinions as you defend your own.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Gemini
May 21 to June 20
It's a three-hanky week for you, Gemini — no apologies for getting a little emo. You're just feeling the feels this week, as every sentiment is magnified by bountiful Jupiter and the sun. Summon your support circle near Tuesday, when this energy will be strongest; friends who always listen, but never judge. You've held a lot in and it's time to get it all off your chest. Bonus: When you drop the mask and get vulnerable, the people in your life will respond in kind. A few key friendships, especially with women, could deepen before the weekend.
Friday's new moon in Taurus and your transitional 12th house sounds the call for a decluttering mission. As you look around your space, you may notice lots of stuff that no longer feels like a reflection of you. Objects carry an energetic charge, so go to task packing up and pulling down pieces that might summon unpleasant memories or hearken an era that you've outgrown. As you clear a path for the new to flow in, you might feel a little lost about what's next. This new moon could bring a wise guide your way like a mentor, therapist, or coach, who can be your guide along the way. Ask friends for their recommendations.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Cancer
June 21 to July 22
Newsflash, Cancer: No one makes it to the top alone. So, if you've been putting pressure on yourself to figure it all out by your self, this is the week to flip the script. On Tuesday, the illuminating sun and lucky Jupiter join forces to expand your social network. Helpful people are all around you; in fact, some of them have been hanging in close proximity for a while. But your job is to be accessible, so they know you're even interested in chatting. Go out of your way to talk to coworkers you've never paid much mind to — or have been intimidated by — in the past. Attend industry mixers and join Facebook groups. Once you show interest, you'll be amazed by the flood of curiosity that comes back your way.
On Friday, the new moon in Taurus and your 11th house of teamwork and technology could bring another rush of popularity your way. This is also the time to start developing any digital dreams you've had whirring away in your mind. Do your research while Mercury is retrograde until the 22nd. Then, start picking out Wordpress themes or setting up photo shoots for new profile pics. If you have an idea for an online store or app or even a YouTube channel, talk to developers and videographers. This could bring a fresh flood of income by the corresponding full moon on November 14. Looking for love? Warm up those swiping fingers or ask friends to play matchmaker over the weekend.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Leo
July 23 to August 22
Started from the bottom, now you're here! This week is all about celebrating your progress, Leo — then figuring out where you want to go next. As you make your natural ascension to the throne, it's important to pause along the way and let an attitude of gratitude wash over you. What milestones have you met in the past six months that you've breezed right by? Even if those came packaged as a tougher lesson, take note of all the leaps and bounds you've made. Is there anyone you need to thank? Treat for lunch and send flowers or a card. You never know: That small gesture could open up conversations about collaborating on a new project.
With Friday's new moon electrifying your career zone, you'll be inspired to dive into a bigger pond — even if that means being a guppy amongst whales while you learn the ropes. A leadership position may also call your name, so step up to the plate if you're inspired to don the captain's hat here. Create a few tangible goals that you can start on now and give yourself until the corresponding full moon on November 14 to bring them to fruition. This new moon could also bring an important man into your world. Pay attention to the intriguing dudes in your orbit this weekend, because one could be a future BF or business partner.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Virgo
August 23 to September 22
Ready, set, expand! This week's planets take you on a fantastic voyage — to a new part of the world or an undiscovered part of your own personality. It begins on Tuesday, when lucky Jupiter in Virgo forms an auspicious angle to the sun in Taurus and your adventurous ninth house. Step out of the safety zone. Try an activity that's always piqued your interest — but maybe is something you're not sure you'll rock on the first try. Letting yourself fumble and get a little messy is the path to growth now, Virgo. Since Jupiter is retrograde, you could also pick up a hobby or talent that you shelved prematurely. That half-written manuscript or unfinished collage awaits your masterful touch.
Friday's new moon awakens your wanderlust again. Time to start planning your next (or first) international vacation, Virgo. Ask friends to share their travel stories, peruse blogs, and make a Pinterest board. Do wait until your ruler Mercury snaps out of retrograde on the 22nd before you book anything, though. Opportunity could knock from a far-flung location or you may start considering a job that lets you travel — or even relocate by the corresponding full moon on November 14. On Sunday, pay attention to power dynamics. You may have the best Mother's Day plan, ever, but if others in your party aren't down to participate (or worse, feel excluded from having a say), it's better to compromise than push your agenda. Or squeeze in some special one-on-one time with your mom instead of trying to cater to everyone in the fam.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Libra
September 23 to October 22
Bring it in, Libra. This week could feel like one long Oprah moment — and there won't be any complaints from you. On Tuesday, truth-bearer Jupiter and the illuminating sun will join forces in the most intimate parts of your chart. Forget about looking good and saving face. It's when you drop the mask that people can really relate to you. Down the cup of courage and open up about your true feelings. You may have to revisit a conflict with a friend or loved one, because you swept your real sentiments under the rug. Unless you really get honest about what bothered you, this drama will be on constant replay. Fortunately, this week's bright starmap can help you speak from the heart in a way that really heals the rift. Tip: Use "I" language instead of the accusatory "you." Saying, "I feel hurt," just lands better than, "You hurt me!" Get it?
Friday's new moon in Taurus is bringing sexy back for you. A surge of spring fever could strike, but you’re also craving intimacy and connection with someone who feels safe. So, when you feel the crackle of attraction, remember to pace yourself, because it takes time to tell if that sexy someone has character to back up the charm. Also, the first step to embracing your erotic side could be reconnecting with yourself. Budget for an underwear drawer upgrade; sign up for a burlesque workshop or sexy pole dancing class. There's nothing quite so seductive as someone who feels comfortable in their own skin.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Scorpio
October 23 to November 21
People are your passion this week, Scorpio — surprise, surprise. As someone known for slinking around in dark glasses and observing the world from a cool distance, you may be surprised by how open you are to others. Just go with it. On Tuesday, a lucky trine (120-degree angle) between the sun and mind-opening Jupiter could plop you down in a fascinating new scene. Be a social explorer, Scorpio, and let yourself dabble in new groups and activities throughout the week. Bonus: Even if you don't vibe with everyone in the room, there could be one special soul who stands out in the crowd. Introduce yourself and something exciting is bound to unfold, be it for business, pleasure, or a creative collaboration.
One-on-one relationships get an energising boost when on Friday, 2016's only new moon in Taurus, rocks your seventh house of partnerships. An attractive "opposite" type could step forward and make you swoon. Seek a complementary force instead of a clone. If you're in a relationship, this new moon has you asking, "What's next for us?" This could be the hot topic of the weekend, one that might even turn to walks down the aisle or key exchanges. Just try to approach it from a calm, creative stance instead of stressing about the future. Appreciating what you have in the moment is equally as important as fixating on a goal. That said, you will need more of an exclusivity clause if you're going to relax and unleash your seductive powers.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Sagittarius
November 22 to December 21
Goals, goals, goals! You could achieve a major one on your list this week, Sagittarius, as the sun (in your hardworking sixth house) syncs up auspiciously with your ruling planet Jupiter in your 10th house of success. Keep your eyes on the prize and your attention on the key decision makers. If you don't have a natural in with the movers and shakers, humble yourself and play the happy helper role. Your diligence and dedication will earn their trust. Other Archers may be ready to step into a more prominent leadership position. Throw your name in the hat, Sagittarius, and start campaigning for the post. If you've thought of starting your own business, Tuesday's stars could be your prompt. But handle all the research and number crunching while Mercury is retrograde until the 22nd, so you can start off on a solid note.
Green is the new black on Friday, when the new moon in Taurus activates your earthy, nature-loving side. Invite friends (or a date!) on a nature hike, wander through a farmers' market, or head to the nursery to pick up some kale starts. Since this new moon illuminates healthy routines, this is a great time to take your workouts al fresco, too. Tune up your bike, look up outdoor yoga classes, or grab a jumprope and head to the park. Who knows? You could spark up a spring fling while you're getting your cardio on. Cleaning up and organising your workspace is another must, so use the weekend to get systems in place that fuel your productivity.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Capricorn
December 22 to January 19
Lights, camera, action! This week's starmap could catapult you into the public eye — and even onto the world stage. On Tuesday, global Jupiter in your worldly ninth house forms a supportive alliance with the sun in your fifth house of fame. You work hard to master your craft, Capricorn. Now, some well-deserved props are coming your way. Present, pitch, perform. Luck is on your side. If you're still green around the gills, this cosmic coupling inspires you to grow and stretch. Sign up for that teacher training or the seminar (in Bali or Hawaii, even). so you can get the skills you need to build your professional cred. Some Caps may be tapped to travel for work or interface with an office in another city. The London office is calling, so answer!
Friday's new moon in Taurus brings a surge of spring fevered energy to your love game. You could meet someone who gives you major butterflies or rev up a renewed chapter of romance with the person who already shares your bed. Wedding or baby fever could strike some Caps, too, or you could be inspired to kick off an amazing creative project. But don't rush off to start planning right away. You have until the corresponding full moon on November 14 to let this all unfold. Meanwhile, enjoy the courtship rituals or the creative process. The journey is as important as the destination.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aquarius
January 20 to February 18
Seduction is in the air this week, Aquarius, and you're feeling it on a soul level. On Tuesday, ballsy Jupiter in your erotic eighth house swipes right for the sun in your sentimental fourth. Their combined powers make you quite the minx, but you'll only want to aim those charms and someone you know you can trust. If an existing relationship has grown a little stale, take it upon yourself to spice things up. Or maybe, the two of you could use a little alone time. Rose petals scattered on the bed or an overnight at a posh hotel — it's time to hang the Do Not Disturb sign and enjoy some spicy pillow talk. You might even need to get real about a few resentments you've been holding in. Better to sound them out than to become bitter and detached, Aquarius.
On Friday, the new moon in Taurus energises your domestic zone and could bring some changes under your roof. Maybe it's time to find your new digs or call the U-Haul and evict a toxic roommate. Redoing your bedroom might suffice, however, so start a Pinterest board and do some weekend window shopping — but wait until Mercury turns direct on the 22nd to actually pick out paint colours or a select your warm-weather duvet cover. An important female could enter your life now, too, like a (wo)mentor or a future confidante. Get some quality time in with the girls this weekend, too.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Pisces
February 19 to March 20
Take a chance on romance! This Tuesday, venturesome Jupiter syncs up with the sun and puts you in the pursuer mode. Did someone just turn your head? If you see something, say something, as this starry transit will make you bolder and more outspoken than usual. You might even discover simmering feelings for a friend or coworker. If blurring these lines won't wreak havoc on your universe, it would be worth it to make a move and see what comes of it. Coupled Pisces, put more playtime on the shared calendar. An adventurous plan could take flight — and even send you off on an exhilarating weekend getaway.
Friday's new moon in Taurus could bring a kindred spirit your way. Break away from your innermost circle while socialising this weekend, because you could meet a new BFF who shares one of your more out-there obsessions. They could become your 2016 festival buddy, a bandmate, or a collaborator on a community activism project. If you have an idea for a blog, book, podcast, or another media project, this new moon hits the go button. Circle November 14, the date of the corresponding full moon, for bringing your works of art to life. On Sunday, you may feel stretched in a thousand directions, so don't overdo it trying to show your appreciation for mom. Maybe she doesn't need a spa date, brunch, museum trip, and five-course dinner all on a single Sunday. The point is that you spend quality time together, even if that's only for a few hours instead of the whole day.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aries
March 21 to April 19
Work, work, work, work, work. Literally, Aries. With the sun and bountiful Jupiter in cahoots this Tuesday, you could tap into a wellspring of fresh opportunity for your career. If a business idea has been bubbling in the back of your head, this is the week to start researching what it would take to legit bring it to life. Happily nestled into your 9-to-5? Maybe you'll spearhead an independent project or a new company division. Think like an "intrapreneur." With Friday's new moon in Taurus and your second house of income, you'll be motivated to thicken up your wallet one way or another. Work with what you have already, too. Where could you trim the fat from your expenses to preserve a fatter stack? If it's all Greek to you, start upping your financial literacy by working with a planner or using the tools on a site like learnvest.com.
On a personal note, this week's planets are advising you to stop and smell the roses. You might realise that you've overlooked a blossoming attraction with someone who's been hovering in your periphery every day. Coupled Rams could renew appreciation for the steady supporters in your life. Stop chasing unicorns and you'll see: At the end of the day, it's the people who accept you for you who are the true gems to treasure.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
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