It's eclipse season, stargazers — and September wastes no time letting us know that it's time to get down to business. On the first, a solar (new moon) eclipse in Virgo reminds us to streamline, simplify, and add more self-care to our schedules. Swap those wine slushies for green smoothies and find your fall fitness fix. But all things in moderation, please. Messenger Mercury will be retrograde in Virgo until the 22nd, so trying to be "perfect" could make everyone cranky. Worse, when we hold ourselves up to a harsh light, we tend to project those critical vibes onto others. Rewind and be kind to Numero Uno. The rest of the world will benefit. A lunar (full moon) eclipse on September 16 will bring maximum feels. This one lands in creative, compassionate Pisces, so keep the tissues handy: Emotions will pour out. Let 'em flow. This cathartic release will provide killer material to channel into song lyrics, poetry, a painting, whatever.
September is also relationship revolution time for us all! On the 9th, expansive, abundant Jupiter shifts gears, exiting Virgo and heading into Libra — the sign of committed partnerships — until October 2017. This will be a golden era for both Cupid and the muse, as Libra loves romance and the arts in equal measure. But here's where it gets a little wonky: Jupiter is a gambler and a free spirit at heart. While we'll feel the urge to merge, we'll also need more autonomy to help our relationships thrive. Come together — but hang on to your separate interests, too. This could be the blessed end of the portmanteau (Kimye, Hiddleswift...enough already!) as new ways of pair-bonding emerge that don't involve sacrificing one's identity. Who knows — with daring Jupiter here, by next fall, open relationships, throuples, and long-distance dating could almost feel humdrum.
Virgo
August 23 to September 22
Happy birth month to you! September is Virgo season, which makes you zodiac royalty until the 22nd. And thanks to a rare solar eclipse in Virgo on the first, the month will be off to a galloping start! Invest in something you've always dreamed of doing — a class, experience, an important vacation. You are also hosting lucky Jupiter in your sign until September 9 as it wraps up a tour through Virgo that began in August 2015. Translation? Strike while the iron is hot...make that scorching. Those plans you've been sidelining, the dreams deferred — NOW is the time to leap. But do look before you make like a gazelle. Mercury is retrograde (in Virgo, no less) until September 22, insisting that you move forward with a plan. And maybe hold off until the 22nd before making any huge announcements. First, get your bearings. Then, post to Instagram. Life doesn't have to feel like a reality show, Virgo, with an audience tracking your every move.
Romantically, September could also bring happy surprises. On the 16th, a lunar eclipse will rock your relationship house. This could speed up a connection that's been puttering along at a slower pace. If you're ready to bounce from a bad romance, it could be done and dusted in the blink of an eye. But if things have been going really, really well, you might just put a ring on it — or add bae's key to your ring.
Now, back to Jupiter. On September 9, you'll bid the red-spotted planet adieu as it floats off to Libra and your sensible, but sensual, second house. After a whirlwind 13 months, you're ready for a more grounded groove. Turn your attention back to practical matters, especially organising your finances. Jupiter can help you expand your earnings, but it can also make you prone to retail therapy splurges. Create a budget so you can save and play guilt-free! You could land a new job or a plum assignment with the new moon on the 30th. Negotiate the pay you deserve!
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Libra
September 23 to October 22
This will be a September to remember, Libra — and possibly one for the highlight reel of your life! On the 9th, Jupiter, planet of abundance and good fortune, embarks on a 13-month tour through your sign. This once-per-decade gift from the heavens could bring huge and exciting changes to your life. Some of them could even happen at a faster pace than you feel "ready" for. Don't resist! Traveling, studying, writing a book, or starting your own business — Jupiter could inspire any (or all) of these pursuits. But first, spring free from restrictive circumstances. Freedom and independence are a must when Jupiter comes to town. If you don't leave a job or relationship, you'll definitely change the terms to make them more favourable for YOU. With charming diplomat Venus (your ruler) in Libra until the 23rd, you'll easily win people over. Try to negotiate new boundaries, but if that doesn't work, you might have to bounce.
Alas, letting go will stir up some painful emotions. With the Virgo sun lingering in your 12th house of endings until the 22nd, let yourself mourn any losses and linger with the goodbyes. Be warned: If you're clinging on, two eclipses — on the first and 16th — could pry something outmoded from your grip. Mercury will be retrograde until the 22nd, too, so use that time to sort, declutter, and say farewell to that which you've outgrown. Libra season begins on the 22nd and you'll want to celebrate your birthday with a lighter load. This next year of life is meant for adventure and discovery, so the less you have anchoring you down, the better. Circle the 30th as your astrological New Year, when 2016's only new moon in Libra kicks your ultra-fresh start into fifth gear.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Scorpio
October 23 to November 21
Summon the Scorpio squad! With the sun in Virgo and your collaborative 11th house until the 22nd, there's strength in numbers this September. Whether you're charging towards a professional goal or stocking the fall entertainment schedule, you'll be happiest when collaborating with other savvy souls. Does your crew need an upgrade? The solar eclipse on the first could present you with promising candidates. Look to the past, too, because Mercury will be retrograde until the 22nd, uniting you with your favourite people from back in the day.
Romantically, you'll be in your element after the 23rd, when amorous Venus makes her annual stopover to Scorpio until October 18. You'll be magnetic, confident, and basically irresistible — so don't let this cosmic blessing go to waste. If you're not into dating apps, ask friends to play matchmaker. In an LTR? Make your wishes and desires known instead of expecting bae to read your mind. (Just because you're psychic, Scorpio...) There's no room for subtlety when Venus visits your sign. Be bold! Another powerful day for amour is the 16th, when a lunar eclipse in Pisces rocks your fifth house of romance. Chemistry that's been bubbling since March could erupt into exothermic passion. There could even be surprises, like proposals or pregnancies — protect according to your current baby-making desires...or lack thereof.
Now, for the most unusual news of the month: On September 9, nomadic Jupiter slips into Libra and your soulful, transitional 12th house for a year-plus tour. For some Scorpios, this may be the perfect time to take that "gap year" and live the bohemian life in a remote Costa Rican surf town or do a stint teaching English on another continent. This is a time for healing and getting more deeply connected to your psyche. You could start working with a great therapist or start a serious yoga practice (and maybe go to teacher training). Keep a lighter schedule so you can dream, be creative, and enjoy romantic pursuits. When Jupiter lands in Scorpio on October 10, 2017, life will take off at a manic pace again. Catch a breath while you can!
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Sagittarius
November 22 to December 21
September's ambitious starmap puts success in your crosshairs. With the Virgo sun lighting up your career zone until the 22nd — boosted by a solar eclipse on the first — you're on the express elevator to the top. Motivator Mars is buzzing through Sagittarius until the 27th, keeping you pumped and productive! But as you speed along, make sure you aren't cutting corners or stepping on anyone's toes. Until the 22nd, Mercury will also be retrograde in your career house, insisting that you do everything by the books. Polish up your professional presentation — both online and IRL — and be willing to play the game. You want powerful people as allies, not competitors!
Thankfully, your solo missions could turn into squad goals on the 9th, when your ruler Jupiter switches signs, heading into Libra and your teamwork and technology zone until October 2017. Since last August, the red-spotted planet has also been in Virgo, making a total workaholic out of you. Are you exhausted yet? We understand. As Jupiter floats into Libra, life starts to feel fun again. You'd rather celebrate victories with friends by your side than stand in the spotlight alone. With abundant Jupiter here, you could make big money from an online venture (Hello, future Instagram influencer!) or by learning new digital skills.
Romance...who has time for time that? You barely do, but don't ignore Cupid's calling. Digital dating could bring the right right-swipe after the 22nd or you could find amour via the introduction of mutual friends. Your home life could get a little jolt from the lunar eclipse on the 16th. If it's time to move or set new house rules, you'll have no choice but to deal.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Capricorn
December 22 to January 19
Keep on stre-e-e-e-tching those summer-vacation vibes, Capricorn. September's stars are high season for travel, even if everyone else is in back-to-work mode. A Virgo solar eclipse on the first could bring a surprise opportunity to hop on a 747 — in pursuit of a job or a red-hot, long-distance romance. (You might not even have to pay for your own plane ticket!) With the sun lingering in Virgo until the 22nd, mingle multiculturally, whatever your coordinates. Friends from all walks will make your social life richer. Your love life, too, as you could fall head-over-ankle-boots for someone of a different background. Coupled Caps, do take a holiday (or at least a weekend trip) in early September! There's one catch: messenger Mercury is retrograde in Virgo until the 22nd, making you prone to foot-in-mouth blurts. Think before you speak or crack a joke, Capricorn. And when you're traveling, confirm all reservations, because this planetary transit can cause chaos with scheduling and booking. Another reason you'll need the escape? Stressful Mars is hunkered down in your 12th house of healing until the 27th. You just won't be able to force much productivity. However, this is an ideal time to reflect, rejuvenate, and recharge your batteries. Now, off you go to the DR or the SoCal coast!
Don't worry, Capricorn: You're not losing your competitive edge. Quite the contrary! On September 9, lucky Jupiter lands in Libra and your 10th house of success until October 2017. This once-a-decade gift will bring major leaps in your professional life. P.S.: It's fine to wait until the Libra new moon on the 30th to kick those into gear. Plus, motivator Mars will make its biennial visit to Capricorn from September 27 to November 8. Life will just take off at an insanely fast clip. Remind yourself of that if you start to get antsy while your feet are in the sand earlier this month.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aquarius
January 20 to February 18
Are you over all this intensity yet, Aquarius? Damn. If anyone deserves a break from it, you do. With Jupiter in Virgo and your plumb-the-depths eighth house since August 2015, the past year hasn't exactly been a picnic in the park. In fact, friends may be wondering exactly where you disappeared to! Tell them the truth: You've been doing "inner work." But you'll be happy to hear that this mysterious phase is coming to a close. On September 9, intrepid Jupiter springs into Libra and your worldly, adventurous ninth house. The world is your oyster again! Pull your suitcase and passport out of cold storage, because the lure of distant lands will soon be too hard to resist. When the sun heads into Libra on the 22nd, you could be booking flights and reserving Airbnbs. Great day for your getaway? The new moon in Libra on the 30th!
You'll have to push through one last bit of the aforementioned intensity. The sun and Mercury retrograde are lingering in Virgo and your eighth house until the 22nd, putting the finishing touches on that prolonged Jupiter phase. Use the time to "reflect and protect." You've learned some huge lessons in the past year — and some of those situations are not worth repeating. How can you shield yourself better for the future? Maybe you cut up the debit cards and work with a cash-only budget or create a zero-tolerance policy for inconsiderate dates. With Jupiter moving into Libra, you'll be ready to take chances that are positive, not destructive — like going back to school, starting your own business, or traveling to a new corner of the world.
Romantically, you'll need a partner who is also your best friend. That way, you can relax and let your hair down. You're kind of over the brooders and the mysterious types. You'll find more happiness with an expressive optimist who wants to tag along on your adventures. You could even meet your match while traveling this month — or share an epic voyage with your S.O. after Mercury snaps out of retrograde on the 22nd.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Pisces
February 19 to March 20
In September, there's no such thing as "too close" for you, Pisces. With planets pulsing through the relationship houses of your chart all month, you're ready to pair up for business, romance, or a creative collaboration. The question is: with who? Opposites definitely attract while the sun sails through Virgo until the 22nd. With Mercury retrograde until that same date, you might just reconnect with a past love. The solar eclipse on the first will kick-start a whole new chapter in relationships for you, too. You could meet your match out of the blue and things will heat up, fast. If you've been sweeping issues under the rug, you will have no choice but to deal. Ignoring them won't make them go away. And while you may start off feeling like the victim, talks could reveal that YOU are the one who needs to be better about striking a compromise. Eat the humble pie, Pisces, because your willingness to give an inch will breathe new life into this important bond.
On September 9, abundant Jupiter slinks into Libra and your erotic, intense eighth house until October 2017. Ready for a sexual revolution, Pisces? Your mojo will return with a vengeance and the next 13 months could be the steamiest you've had in over a decade. Coupled Pisces could get engaged, married, or merge in other permanent ways. Easy, though! If you're in a relationship that's way past the honeymoon phase, you could be tempted to stray. A read of Esther Perel's Mating In Captivity could spare you an affair. Turn some of that antsy energy
There's plenty of momentum for your professional life this month — a welcome distraction from all the romantic goings on. Red-hot Mars is power through your career house until the 27th, giving you the competitive edge. Take the lead, setting up pitch meetings, presenting your boss with big ideas, and writing up your own business plan. On the 16th, a rare lunar eclipse in Pisces puts you squarely in the spotlight. Let your talents be seen! Surprising doors will open, ushering in opportunities you didn't even see coming. Score!
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aries
March 21 to April 19
When you compare, you despair, Aries. That's a mantra to keep in mind this September, when your inner perfectionist starts obsessively checking Hadid-Jenner feeds instead of bowing to the beauty of your own unique individuality. With the sun and Mercury retrograde in Virgo until the 22nd, it would be easy to go there. But you don't have to! Surround yourself with confidence-boosting friends and pour your attention into projects. From a DIY decor hack to a special assignment you take on at work, being productive will buoy your spirits and get you back into leader (not follower!) mode.
Move your body, too, as a motivating solar eclipse on the first helps you find a fun fall workout obsession. A job offer could also come near this eclipse, so have your LinkedIn and CV ready to circulate. Another major career boost comes from September 27 to November 8, when your ruler, go-getter Mars, zips into Capricorn and your 10th house of success.
Now for some news we're sure you'll like hearing. On September 9, lucky Jupiter zings into Libra and your seventh house of relationships, putting Cupid squarely in your corner. Partnerships of all manner will be blessed by Jupiter's beams during this 13-month cycle. And since the red-spotted planet is also free-spirited, you won't have to sacrifice your individuality to be part of a pairing. Quite the contrary: Opposites attract and you could happily align with a complementary force who easily picks up where you leave off. Jupiter is the globetrotting nomad which could bring a cross-cultural connection or a long-distance relationship. Coupled Aries should definitely start planning overseas travel with your S.O. — a trip to take before October 2017. Your relationship could also benefit from a little more autonomy. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, as long as you don't spend too much time apart. With Venus heading into Scorpio on the 23rd, you could attract the playing for keeps type. Same during the new moon on the 30th. But if it's time to let go of an outmoded relationship, the lunar eclipse on the 16th could speed up the goodbye. It's sad, but you've gotta make way for the new.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Taurus
April 20 to May 20
Summer vacation extender? Check! With the Virgo sun swirling through your playful, passionate fifth house, you'll be the first to remind everyone that autumn doesn't actually start until September 22nd. Don the entertainment-director's hat and rally your squad. There should still be enough sunshine left for another beach weekend, bike rides, picnics...
This solar cycle will warm up your romantic forecast, too! The solar eclipse on the first could bring a surprising connection. You didn't see it coming, but who cares? Run with it, Taurus, because eclipses deliver gifts out of the blue. Sparks might even fly with someone from your past, as Mercury will be retrograde until September 22. Don't re-open that chapter, however, if you know it's just going to lead to unrequited obsessing. You'll get some help from cosmic couple Venus and Mars this month, too. Mars is slinking through your sultry eighth house until the 27th; Venus will purr in your relationship zone from the 23rd on. Batting your lashes is kind of a big deal, because you could draw in a contender who wants to play for keeps. Already attached? Don't be shy about discussing "next steps" this month — but don't apply pressure. It's probably best to wait until Mercury is no longer retrograde on the 22nd for discussing major moves like marriage, kids, or moving in together.
Give your body some love, too! On September 9, athletic Jupiter zips into your sixth house of healthy living until October 10, 2017. This year-plus phase will get you pumped for fitness and fresh food. Celebrate your body type and find a workout that feels fun and energising. This Jupiter cycle will be great for work, too. You could leap up the ladder or even be tasked with more independent assignments. Freelance living? Maybe it's worth giving it a go.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Gemini
May 21 to June 20
In September, the Gemini social butterfly will flutter between the party scene and the safety of your cocoon. Until the 22nd, the sun and Mercury retrograde are nesting in your domestic fourth house. You'll need to tend to matters under your own roof. Warning: Mercury's signal-scrambling backspin could stir up tension with relatives and roommates. And if you're ready to move, the solar eclipse on September 1 could speed your departure to new digs. Try not to take everything so personally though. (Easier said than done...we know, we know.) You'll be extra sensitive until the 22nd and may need a bit more space to just chill and journal about your emotions. Female friendships will be a blessing, you could reconnect to a GFF from your past.
Career-wise, circle September 16 on the calendar. That day, a glowing lunar eclipse in Pisces and your 10th house of success will put your talents in the spotlight. You could be tapped by an influencer to support a project — or be pegged as one yourself! Your hard work of the past six months could bring a huge win. Promote yourself unapologetically, Gemini, and ask friends to start a buzz on your behalf.
Now for the celebratory part. (We saved the best for last.) On September 9, daring, adventurous Jupiter sails into Libra and your fifth house of fame, self-expression, and romance! Until October 2017, you'll enjoy this golden era of creativity and love. The only requirements? Opening your heart and simply being yourself. You've never lived by other people's rules, and this cycle is no exception. This Jupiter cycle could bring pregnancies, engagements, or other Cupid-fuelled milestones. With motivator Mars pulsing through your relationship houses all month, you'll feel ready to leap into something more long-term — or out of something that's just not doin' it for ya anymore. When the sun heads into Libra from the 22nd on, things could really take off. New love or a renewed chapter with your S.O. begins with the new moon on the 30th. Pucker up!
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Cancer
June 21 to July 22
FOMO alert! Your social schedule shows no signs of slowing down this September, Cancer. In fact, you could easily overbook yourself, thanks to the sun trailing through Virgo and your garrulous third house until the 22nd. Mercury will be retrograde in Virgo until the same date, bringing happy reunions with friends from back in the day. You might even revive a winning collaboration or get the band back together. But watch your words! This Mercury retrograde will be a double-whammy when it comes to communications. That snarky email could land in the wrong inbox — and the Twitter drags? Just don't stoop to that level.
With a busy summer in your rearview, you may be feeling cheated out of a proper summer vacation. Get ready! On the 16th, the Pisces lunar eclipse could bring a chance opportunity to travel. You'll have to move quickly, but it will be worth it. Home life could change dramatically in the year ahead, too: On the 9th, worldly, expansive Jupiter moves into Libra and your domestic quarters until October 2017. Some Cancers could relocate, perhaps moving from a studio apartment in the heart of the city to a two bedroom in an outer borough — or vice versa. Living abroad for a year is a possibility, or doing regular apartment swaps with friends in other cities. You might even set up a home office for greater freedom.
Romantically, the last third of September will be rich. Venus swings into Scorpio and your true love zone on September 23rd, raising the BPM of your heart. For a change, you won't mind pursuing your romantic interest. Clear signals could get a romance in high gear. More motivation comes from mojo-booster Mars, who heads into Capricorn and your committed relationship house from September 27 to November 8 — for the first time in two years, at that! Your engines will surely be revving. Save your final rose for someone who can go the distance with you. Coupled Crabs will enjoy this sexy and adventurous upswing, too. Do something daring together before the month draws to a close.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Leo
July 23 to August 22
September's star-switch heighten your focus. While you've enjoyed a playful summer, you're ready to roll up your sleeves and get back down to business again. A Leo without a purposeful project is not a happy sight, after all. On the first, a solar eclipse could bring word of a job opening, or you could be tapped for a really cool assignment that builds your professional cred. September's second eclipse — a lunar one in Pisces on the 16th — could bring another big payout in the form of a commission check, sale, or even an inheritance. Mercury will be retrograde in your money house until the 22nd, so look to the past for fresh income streams. An old colleague might have the perfect, and profitable lead to share!
But while you're hustling away, think: Work hard, play hard. On September 9, you become the reigning monarch of social butterflies as big, bold Jupiter flings into your garrulous third house until October 2017. Pairing is caring during this 13-month phase. You'll succeed as a solo star, sure, but even more so if you team up with a kindred spirit and turn it into a tag-team effort. Your friend group could swell — so much so that you may choose to host a weekly or monthly gathering just so you can see everyone! Writing projects could become a huge hit, as could any social-media efforts you make. Hello, Snapchat superstar or professional YouTuber? It could happen soon, Leo.
Romantically, this Jupiter phase makes you quite a flirt. You'll be feeling the power of your purr while Venus tours Libra until the 23rd. After that, the sun will be in Libra and there's a Libra new moon on the 30th. All this energy could make your head spin, because admirers will pop up left and right. Hang on to your final rose until you're utterly sure. With red-hot Mars in your romance house until the 27th, you could be in hot pursuit of a certain someone, too. Just make sure you don't add too much pressure to romantic situations, whether single or spoken for. You'll catch more flies with honey...
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
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