Time to lighten up in the love department, everyone. This Wednesday, Venus joins her dance partner, Mars, in Aquarius, where she'll hover until the 3rd of January. Aquarius energy is free-spirited, experimental, and even a little rebellious. With the cosmic lovebirds rocking out here, we may all get a little freakier...or just open to untapped possibilities. Don't get hung up on having a type, because the stars could have a surprise in store. Couples might widen their horizons and do a little, uh, exploring now. Need to go on a relationship sabbatical? Aquarius energy can be more about "universal love" than fairy-tale romances. Get your fix from the company of great friends or even by getting involved in an activist mission — another passion the Venus-Mars merge in Aquarius can stir up.
The fact-checkers are out in droves this weekend as stern Saturn and the sun sync up in outspoken Sagittarius. In this post-truth world, it's hard to even know what to believe anymore. But before you engage in any deep, political discussions check your own sources. Did you get hooked by a fake news story — and can you debunk someone else's with legit facts? If you have a credible source backing up your assertions, speak up!
Sagittarius
November 22 to December 21
Double down on those dating apps, Archer. Variety is the spice of your love life as amorous Venus heads into Aquarius and your flirty third house from Wednesday until the 3rd of January. As the zodiac's official bachelorette, you'll have fun handing out roses as 2016 winds down. But hang on to that final bloom if you're single and give yourself a chance to sample a variety of options. Someone from the friend zone could reveal romantic promise or you could simply add a benefits package to your bond. If you’re coupled, keep things fresh by diversifying your date planning. You don't need to be the joint mayors of “the usual place” right now. Surf the local listings and cultural activity guides — and make a point of checking out new venues at least once a week.
This weekend, reserve some time for "me, myself and I." The self-authorised sun and ambitious Saturn align in your sign for the only time this year, helping you make progress on personal projects that you'd like to wrap up before 2016 is through. Too much social energy could summon your inner Grinch, so if you're planning to hang out with friends, squeeze in a disco nap or a trip to the spa before you brave the crowds.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Capricorn
December 22 to January 19
Find that slow-jams playlist and turn on the bedroom speakers. Venus downshifts into Aquarius and your sensual second house from Wednesday until the 3rd of January. Seduction is an art form that should not be rushed. Take your time and draw things out. It will only make it hotter when you finally do hook up. And good news! Instead of the heartbreaking rebels, you’ll be attracted to the stable types now. If you’re already attached, clear some space in the calendar to just chill together, analogue style, without the distraction of your Snapchat alerts and flashing screens. Talks could turn to finances, too, and how to better utilise the funds you have between you. With decadent Venus here, you might go in with your sweetie on a luxe purchase.
Devote the weekend to some epic recharging when the self-authorised sun links up with your ruler Saturn — and in your 12th house of escape and healing, no less. Doff the elf outfit and slip into the fluffy spa robe. Whether you’re drawing a bubble bath or lying down for a 90-minute massage, consider this recharging time preventative medicine. Once you’re thoroughly relaxed, give your space a deep clean, hauling out the old and outmoded before 2017. Just don’t race to replace it. Enjoy the magic of minimalism.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aquarius
January 20 to February 18
Glow on! Charming, radiant Venus makes her annual visit to Aquarius from Wednesday until the 3rd of January, blessing you with major magnetism. You’ll be in demand both romantically and with your 1,001 friends. Spread yourself around, but be careful not to give your sweetie the short end of the stick. Single Water Bearers could enjoy a dating spree — no rush to settle down now! If you’re already spoken for, give yourself a longer leash — not for cheating, but for exploring your autonomous interests. Momentum-building Mars sails through Aquarius until the 19th of December. With all that drive and creative energy, you could end the year feeling like a celebrity. Besides, a little distance won’t divide; it will create the oxygen needed to keep the flames burning bright.
Over the weekend, the self-authorised sun makes a direct connection with discerning Saturn in your teamwork zone. While you couldn’t care less about people’s judgments, you can’t deny that you’re influenced by the company you keep. Stock your social network with people who are on a similar flight path to the top — or whatever corner of the world you want to land in next. Tighten up the radius of your inner circle, too. That way, you’ll have time for rewarding connections instead of letting the divas dominate your schedule with outrageous demands.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Pisces
February 19 to March 20
Fairy-tale romance, Pisces? On Wednesday, Venus slips into your fantasy-fuelled 12th house until the 3rd of January. When it comes to love, you’ll gladly rock the rose-coloured glasses, which might help would-be suitors crack your defences. But don’t throw good sense out the window after dropping your guard. Run the background checks on your sweetie and remember to pace yourself. Music and dance can be a powerful bond for Pisces and you could meet someone at a concert or club this month. Attached? Before the Christmas break, slip off for a sweet escape. A few nights at a remote cottage or a beachfront hotel can rev up romance before you have to deal with all the family duties that lie ahead. Some old fears could be stirred, but diplomatic Venus helps you discuss them lovingly and proactively. Don’t sweep them under the rug. Dealing means healing.
Over the weekend, your focus turns back to your career. Is there an ambitious goal you need to tick off before 2016 wraps? With the confidence-boosting sun and masterful Saturn aligned in your success sector, you could make major headway on that important mission. Has Beyoncé's "Daddy Issues" been a theme song this year? This weekend, you can start to make peace with a father figure — or find a way to honour his contributions to your life.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Aries
March 21 to April 19
Just buds...or is something more brewing? On Wednesday, you could be feeling the frisky vibes with a platonic pal as Venus moves into your friendly 11th house until the 3rd of January — and travels alongside her partner Mars until the 19th of December. Your sense of humour will be the most powerful tool in your amorous arsenal during this phase, so make 'em swoon with your witty one-liners. And stay open: A friend of a friend or a “random stranger” you meet at a Christmas party could turn out to be more than just a passing attraction. Keep the dating apps open as Venus and Mars are traversing this tech-friendly one of your chart. If you’re already spoken for, socialising as a couple helps to seal your bond. No matter your status, you'll be feeling a lot more experimental. Polyamory? OM-ing? Sploshing? Hey, ya never know.
Over the weekend, cast your eyes on distant vistas. With the sun and master-planner Saturn scheming in your ninth house of travel, it’s time to start investigating your next big pilgrimage. Not that you should hop on a flight immediately — unless you've been researching for a while. In that case, you could radar in on "just the thing." Your journey might even involve an educational component or teacher training...and definitely a passport!
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Taurus
April 20 to May 20
Who says business and pleasure can't mix? With your ruler, charming Venus, blasting into your ambitious 10th house from Wednesday until the 3rd of January, strategic socialising is the way to get ahead. Moreover, her dance partner, Mars, will accompany her through your 10th house until the 19th of December. Stock your party clutch with business cards, because you never know who you'll meet at that industry shindig or random dance club. You could find love through a work function over the next three weeks, but careful not to blur the wrong lines. Before 2016 wraps, get in the good graces with the office influencers — and create a healthy wedge between you and the office complainers and gossips. Venus is the celestial stylist: Gloss up your professional presentation with a few wardrobe upgrade and ask Santa to gift you a session with a headshot photographer.
Over the weekend, your inner Grinch could pop by for a visit. Answer the call. You’re on overload, Bull, and need to break off for some private time. Tend to your own needs and you’ll be back to your sunny self by Monday. With the sun and serious Saturn connecting in your intimate eighth house, you’ll crave more security from your relationships. Lay down the ultimatum with anyone who’s been waffling. But before you deliver the "all or nothing" speech, vow to make good on your words. Sometimes, the only thing that wakes ‘em up is the sound of your heels clicking out the door.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Gemini
May 21 to June 20
Say oui to "we," Gemini. This Wednesday, love-planet Venus cruises into Aquarius and your worldly ninth house until the 3rd of January. A festive foreigner rolling through your town could be the holiday hottie you've been waiting to meet. If you’re vacationing over the coming three weeks, your sojourn could bring a seductive surprise. Coupled Geminis, start pricing out Airbnbs and Caribbean resorts. A getaway for two is just what the love doctor ordered. A shared adventure can be the glue that binds you together. One catch: Mercury will be retrograde from the 19th of December 19 to the 8th of January, so you might even take this trip before the Christmas holidays to avoid overcrowded venues and cheesy tourist types harshing your vacation buzz.
Over the weekend, relationships are a hot topic again as the expressive sun and long-term planner Saturn sync up in your seventh house of relationships. When it comes to partnerships, you can run hot and cold — but not when you’re truly into someone. An attractive opposite could steal your heart or win your loyalty for a creative collab. If you’re ready to move on from an unsatisfying connection, this weekend could bring a sad, but necessary, farewell. Just remember: When one door closes, another one opens.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Cancer
June 21 to July 22
This Wednesday, Venus — the planet of amour — slinks through Aquarius and your erotic eighth house until the 3rd of January. For the rest of 2016, you'll be in your sultriest element, drawing admirers like moths to a flame. Flattering? Yes, but during this intimate Venus cycle, you need someone who shares your preference for rolling in the deep. Skip the peacocks and find out what that enigmatic artsy type is thinking. A few cat-and-mouse games can stir up the intrigue as long as you don't play too hard to get. Already attached? Keep a firm privacy policy in place. Sharing secrets with your S.O. brings you closer and you'll enjoy more "just the two of us" time behind closed doors. Your bond could become more exclusive as 2016 winds down. Think: flat hunting, ring shopping, or meeting the parents.
Over the weekend, the sun and stern Saturn align in your sixth house of healthy living. Have those first mince pies of the season turned into a few too many hand-in-the-cookie-jar indulgences? We're not suggesting you miss out on seasonal treats; just think about adding more green smoothies along with those eggnog lattes. Earmark weekly exercise classes to keep your energy and productivity levels high. Then, review your end-of-year goals: What accomplishments will bring the greatest ROI? Prioritise these. Then, put the rest on hold until 2017. With focus, you could wrap the year with an impressive feather in your fedora!
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Leo
July 23 to August 22
Did Cupid fall into a carb coma over the past few weeks? Not to worry, Leo. This Wednesday, love-planet Venus cruises into Aquarius and your seventh house of committed relationships until the 3rd of January, reawakening your love jones. While you'll enjoy dressing up and turning heads on the street, this Venus cycle could also find you crushing on the "committing kind." Already involved? Your relationship can deepen immensely under this Venus spell if you put in a little effort to keep the spark lit. Fill your shared calendar with seasonal soirees, cultural activity dates, and creative projects that play to both of your talents.
Over the weekend, the expressive sun and serious Saturn host their annual meetup, gathering their forces in your fifth house of fame and public image. Is it time for a little rebranding, Leo? Scroll through your social-media profiles and do a wardrobe inventory. Are you putting your best foot forward? With Saturn parked in this position until December 19, 2017, you want to be taken seriously at first glance. A few sophisticated upgrades may be in order, as long as you don’t lose your rock-star edge.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Virgo
August 23 to September 22
Who says you can't be a healthy hedonist this holiday season? On Wednesday, decadent Venus cruises into Aquarius and your sixth house of healthy living until the 3rd of January. What will it get you glowing with vitality for those family portraits and party Instagrams? Forget about fixating on makeup and hair. Just get your body moving. The sexy endorphins that come from a post-workout rush will have you beaming like the top of the Empire State Building. Make room on your plate for more lean, green food, too. You are what you eat: the true beauty secret. While you’re at it, turn your bedroom buddy into your fitness buddy. Then, enjoy more satisfying marathons between the sheets.
Over the weekend, scan the four walls that house you. Could they use a fresh coat of paint or more sophisticated (or colourful) art? Maybe the rent creep is getting a little too high for your liking with all the YIMBYs overtaking your neck of the woods. If you’re burning through your salary to cover all your monthly bills, consider a few cutbacks. It might be time to get a flatmate or to start shopping around for a more affordable apartment. Has a relative been overstepping bounds? This weekend is when you put ‘em in check — before you gather for family celebrations later in the month.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Libra
September 23 to October 22
Oh, you pretty thing! This Wednesday, radiant Venus — your ruling planet —sashays into Aquarius and your passionate, glamorous fifth house until the 3rd of January. You'll definitely turn some heads during this three-week cycle, but don't rush to settle down until you've tested out Cupid's sampler platter. If you're in a relationship, the holiday season could herald a romantic milestone — even a proposal or pregnancy if you're ready to take that leap. Venus is the cosmic creatrix, so make room for the muse this December. Just get thee to the bedroom...or the studio! And pull out that selfie stick selectively. This Venus cycle can vault you to celebrity status, so don't be shy about posting pics and promoting your talents. The camera loves you, Libra.
Over the weekend, snap the red velvet rope into place. With the expressive sun and serious Saturn in your friendship house, you'll want to be discerning about the company you keep. Small talk is a time suck you just don't have time for. But your BFF, sister, or S.O. may be craving your undivided attention — and this is a prime opportunity for bonding with your biggest supporters. Your mind is sharp, too, so keep a capture tool handy. Ideas could spring forth for a project — along with a savvy plan for how you’ll pull it off.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
Scorpio
October 23 to November 21
Sensitive Scorpios need home to feel like a sacred oasis, a place to shut out the world and recharge. This Wednesday, aesthetic Venus decamps to Aquarius and your domestic fourth house until the 3rd of January. Give your nest a proper feathering: rotate the art, update your duvet cover, and ask Santa for booming Bluetooth speaker so you can pipe your playlist into your bedroom (and as background ambience during your long soaks in the tub). With Venus in this feminine zone, plan more GNOs before 2016 is through. You never know: a female friend could wind up playing Cupid by connecting you to one of her friends. Attached? Hunker down and play house together. Staying in doesn't have to be boring: In-between Westworld marathons and bedroom marathons, how about co-hosting a holiday party for your mutual friends?
Although the year is winding down, you want to end it in good graces with your boss and colleagues. This Saturday, the sun syncs up with serious Saturn in your income zone, helping you sharpen your Q4 game plan. Are you ready to reach for a higher rung of the ladder? These tips, like printing out hard copies of your CV and practising the "shine theory," can help you get there at record speed. Give your budget a thorough once-over. You may need to scale back your spending this season, but no shame in that. Just be creative. For example, you could pool funds with siblings for a group gift so you can give your mom something truly meaningful this year. Get it organised this weekend.
Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn.
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