Illustrated by John Lisle.Photographed by Christine Hahn. Hang on to your asteroid belts! This Tuesday, the first eclipse of 2016 rocks the skies, ushering in surprising developments and flinging open windows of opportunity for a brief, yet magical, period. And oh, the places we may go! Jet-setting Jupiter is sitting across the table from the eclipse, reminding us to cast a wider net in all that we do. This will be a solar eclipse, meaning it arrives with a new moon, and by extension, brings a flurry of fresh starts our way. Since eclipses reveal shadows (literally and metaphorically), it's hard to predict what might pop up — especially since this solar eclipse falls in dreamy, esoteric Pisces. A few possibilities: Divine creative downloads, spiritual awakenings, a sudden interest in yoga and meditation, the desire to extend the olive branch to a frenemy, or even to bolt from a situation that fails to thrill anymore. Bonus: Seeds we sow with this new moon eclipse come to fruition with a lunar (full moon) eclipse in Pisces on September 16, quadrupling the power of our crop. Plant wisely!
On Saturday, love planet Venus drifts into Pisces' poetic seas until April 5, making life feel a lot like a fairy tale. Reality? Thanks, but nah. A sweet escape is what we'll crave now, even if we know that vibe can't last forever. Then again, maybe it can. Venus in Pisces helps lovebirds drop their guards and get real about feelings. Before getting swept away in this rapid rush of spring fever, do run the background checks on anyone with bae potential. Red flags are not to be ignored.
Pisces
Major news, Pisces! This Tuesday, a solar (new moon) eclipse rocks the skies — and it just so happens to fall in your sign. Talk about a spring awakening! The new moon in Pisces is your astrological New Year, refreshing your feed and getting you pumped to try new things. Having it arrive with an eclipse is like a triple shot of motivation. And since eclipses bring a wild-card element, you might be shocked by how easy it is to just flow into a new activity, relationship, or life path. What interests you could be surprising, too. Don't be so insistent that you know what you want. This eclipse may illuminate a fascinating new hobby or interest, something that never popped up on your radar before this week. Keep your mind and heart open.
On Saturday, the world throws rose petals at your feet as love planet Venus makes her annual stopover to Pisces until April 5. What — and who — do you desire? Time to make that wish list, Pisces, and even post it somewhere that you can see it on a regular basis. That includes your dating profiles or in conversations with your sweetie. With Venus in your sign, you can be diplomatically direct. There's no need to put up with unwanted behaviour, but you also can't expect anyone to read your mind. Some Pisces might even feel like taking a break from the dating scene and maxing out those single-life credits. (Another day, another right swipe.) Regardless of your relationship goals, give yourself adequate “me time,” because this Venus cycle makes you highly artistic.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Aries
Change is in the air, Aries, which means certain things have to end before others begin. With Tuesday's solar eclipse in your 12th house of transitions, you could see the writing on the wall. Letting go is the only way to grow right now, but don't panic! A better fit is just around the corner. And you don't have to drop it like it's hot. Since this solar eclipse arrives with a new moon, you have a six-month window to gracefully say your goodbyes as you scout out new opportunities. A helpful mentor figure could pop up out of the blue. Seek Yoda figures like coaches, therapists, and older friends who can advise you from their experience. All in all, you'll want to lighten your load. Dive into a decluttering mission, hauling last year's skinny jeans and fringed suede to a charity shop and clearing your calendar of unfulfilling obligations.
On Saturday, amorous Venus sets sail for Fantasy Island, flowing into poetic Pisces until April 5. Summon your inner Rumi and write a love note instead of holding your cards so close to your vest. Life takes on a fairy-tale quality. You'll flow to the deeper end of the pond. And while the people you meet there will be fascinating, a few, uh, complex characters may also be splashing about. Careful not to get sucked into a rescue mission. Being needed is one thing, but tending to a needy narcissist will zap your joie de vivre . If they've got 99 problems, grab the oar and paddle away — fast! This Venus phase is also prime time for purging the memories of a bad romance. Burn the old T-shirts, delete the texts, and clear the space for someone new. If you need to mourn, a few ugly cries will be cleansing.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Taurus
Squad goals get a surge of momentum this week, thanks to Tuesday's solar eclipse in Pisces and your 11th your house of groups and teams. To capitalise on this, however, you need to keep Team Taurus tight. Is there a weak link in the chain? People like this can hold you back now. Either deliver a final warning or give them their walking papers. Still searching for your true tribe? This eclipse may illuminate a group where you fit like a glove. You might meet through a creative pursuit or even online. The 11th house is the tech sector, making this eclipse the perfect launch date for an online or digital scheme. Future YouTuber, street style blogger, Instagram celebrity...just picture it, Bull, then hit record or start uploading!
On Saturday, you'll lighten up in love when Venus switches sign, heading into Pisces and your offbeat 11th house until April 5. Someone from the friend zone could grab the leading edge now. For a change, you'd rather just keep things casual. The intellectual connection makes you swoon, too, so nothing wrong with strategically cruising the IT department. Online dating could serve up a sexy right swipe. If you're in a relationship, make a point of partying more as a pair for the next few weeks. Being out and about together, even hosting an event for your mutual friends, seals your bond.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Gemini
Success is in your crosshairs this week, Gemini, and it's time to make a bold move towards your dreams. Tuesday’s solar eclipse in Pisces electrifies your 10th house of ambition, bringing tons of momentum your way. A game-changing opportunity could flow in, one that allows you to work directly with the influencers in your field. Or, you could be motivated to set off on a fresh path or project, bring you major industry cred within the next six months. Eclipses bring stellar opportunities, but you need to jump on them. Don't waste time deliberating or looking a gift horse in the mouth. If you're still figuring out what to do "when you grow up," see if you can shadow as a volunteer assistant to people whose careers intrigue you. This will be priceless training, even if you aren't actually paid anything cash-wise.
On Saturday, lovestruck Venus flows into Pisces and your traditional 10th house until April 5. While you love a good rapper or indie-rocker, don't be surprised if the suit-and-tie types make you swoon. An office romance might heat up or you could feel the sparks with someone you meet at an industry event. (Who knew trade shows could be so entertaining?) Mixing business and pleasure could be a prosperous formula for coupled Gems. Put your talents together FTW. Proceed with caution when dipping the pen in the company ink. A hasty fling that compromises your standing at the office would be a really bad idea, especially if it happens after a beer-fuelled happy hour. We know this is obvious, but when the love goggles go on, it's easy to forget — especially since Venus is in Pisces, the zodiac's denial queen.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Cancer
Choose your own adventure! An unexpected travel plan could emerge this week, thanks to Tuesday’s solar eclipse in Pisces and your worldly ninth house. Eclipses bring sudden options, ones you have to jump on or you might miss out. Should your boss tap you to cover her for that trade show in New York or London, don't start stressing about your cat's separation anxiety. Hire a petsitter and go! (Fluffy will be fine.) Even if traveling isn't involved, you could hear from a long-distance contact about a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Leap, Cancer! The fun begins when you take a risk. It's okay that you're not a seasoned pro. What you don’t fully understand, you’ll figure out along the way.
Speaking of freedom, cosmic coquette Venus heads into your indie-spirited ninth house from Saturday until April 5. Don't be surprised if you're suddenly craving more breathing room in your relationships. Venus in Pisces revs up your wild side, too, and boundaries could dissolve, which might not be the worst thing for your guarded sign. While you’re normally a one-on-one kinda girl, you could enjoy sampling a multi-pack of options or simply revelling in your single status for the next few weeks. Looking for love? You could find it while traveling or with a cutie from a different culture. A couple’s vacation could be heavenly for Cancers who are involved, especially if you're collecting a new passport stamp as a pair. Ah, memories. Make a point of being more outspoken and honest in all relationships. Diplomatic Venus helps you woo with your words — and keeping it real will be a huge relief...and release.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Leo
The allure of your purr is nothing to be messed with this week, Leo. On Tuesday, a solar eclipse in Pisces and your seductive eighth house could draw some playing-for-keeps types your way. They might show up for pleasure or for biz, as the eighth house governs both sex and financial investments. Offers that come in this week won't last forever. Look before you leap, though — some digging can reveal hidden flaws or give you the certainty you need to move ahead. Make sure these plans are not just a flash-in-the-pan interest, either. Once you're in, you'll be all the way in — and backing out will not be easy.
On Saturday, sex kitten Venus slinks into Pisces and your eighth house of seduction until April 5. Enough with the winter hibernation, Leo. Under this Venus spell, you could very well become the lustiest lady in town. If your mojo is still in slow-mo, get moving. Exercise — at the spin studio if it ain’t happening between the sheets — will wake up that slumbering libido. Since Venus also governs money, you could make a mint from your creative work or from selling your "not me anymore" Zara and designer gear online.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Virgo
A relationship revolution begins this week, thanks to Tuesday’s solar eclipse in Pisces and your seventh house of partnerships. These motivating moonbeams could shuttle you back out to the playing field or get you pumped to pair-bond with bae at a deeper level. The law of opposites attract is at play, and the eclipse could reveal your perfect complement — for business, pleasure, or a combo platter of both. But love isn't going to happen while you're lounging on the couch watching (and re-watching) season 5 of Girls . Make a point of getting out more this week, especially under Tuesday's enchanting eclipses.
Not that the eclipse is your only window of opportunity. On Saturday, lovebug Venus swoops into Pisces and your seventh house of committed relationships until April 5. Double bonus! You'll be quite the magnetic one now, and could even have a few solid options to choose from. Partnerships of all variety could veer in the “exclusive” direction. There could be a key exchange, co-signed lease, or a monogamy commitment on the table — just go next level as you see fit. And if you can’t really see a future together with your amour du jour , get ready to deliver the friends speech. Thankfully, Venus is the planetary diplomat, so you'll be able to let 'em down gracefully.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Libra
Ready, set, organize! This Tuesday, 2016's first (solar) eclipse arrives with the new moon in Pisces and your sixth house of daily habits. Clutter and chaos can no longer coexist with your desire to get ahead. Time to get your space and systems set up for productivity. You might even hire a professional space organiser for a consult before you race to Ikea for bookshelves. An exciting work opportunity, even a promotion, could land in your lap. The squeaking wheels gets the oil — especially under the brief, but magical, window for action that an eclipse brings. Don't be shy about self-promoting or pitching now. The people who would hire or promote you also need to know that you're interested in landing the gig.
On Saturday, radiant Venus joins the Pisces party in your sixth house of healthy living. Instead of high-intensity relationships, how about high-intensity interval training? Your HIIT 'em up style (#sorrynotsorry) is a great strategy for getting back into your body and feeling more like a minx. And you never know who will sidle up to you at the smoothie bar post-workout. If you're in a relationship, let bae be your gym buddy. Spring training together will rev you both up with sexy serotonin and endorphins to enjoy in bed. Who knows, you might actually, and literally, enjoy dates on the run.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Scorpio
Did Cupid miss the mark on V-Day? Quit cursing the guy, Scorpio! He's back this week and he's completely in your corner. On Tuesday, a solar eclipse in Pisces electrifies your fifth house of amour and kicks your spring awakening into high gear. A soulmate could pop up — when you're totally not looking or prepared with your hair and makeup done. Consider that a good thing, because this person will fall for your refreshing realness. Already a smitten kitten? Make a bold move to advance your attraction to the next phase of the game. Under these fertile moonbeams, pregnancies are a strong possibility (protect accordingly...or not) — and so are proposals. The fifth house also rules fame (hello, Oscar-winning Scorpio Leo DiCaprio) and you could be swept into a project that brings serious recognition near the Pisces lunar eclipse on September 16.
On Saturday, sultry Venus follows suit, sashaying into Pisces and your fifth house of passion, glamour and starpower until April 5. Forget about hiding out behind a wide-brimmed fedora and aviators. This attention-getting Venus cycle wants you sashaying and chante-ing like Scorpio RuPaul. (Or, you know...something like that.) Forget about settling! It’s first class all the way for you now, Scorpio, so hold out for someone who wants to pamper you — and give yourself some of that love as well. Venus is the celestial stylista and you could lock in your spring style before the month is through. Think: edgy with an air of mystique
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Sagittarius
Home sweet home? On Tuesday, a solar eclipse in Pisces rockets through your domestic sphere and could bring some rapid developments. As a result, you may decide to relocate, renovate, or bring in a new roommate. If you're shopping for new digs, the eclipse could beam on a hot listing, although it might wind up in an unexpected part of town or come with another element of surprise. (Inspect thoroughly!) No matter the case, make sure your space is functional for your current needs. Set up a home office or workout area — or reconfigure the rooms. You could hear game-changing news from a female friend or relative, too, so be ready to play Best Supporting.
Your nesting instincts get another prompt from the stars on Saturday, when creative, romantic Venus hunkers down in Pisces until April 5. While you love a wild night on the town (PDA and all), the next few weeks are more about playing house. Tuck away for some private entertainment — Netflix and chill or an overnight trip to a ski lodge (with an in-room hot tub, here's hoping). Ready to set up the cohabitation station or exchange keys? Venus signs off on these plans, too. Just go easy with all the nurturing so you don't wind up going from "hot mama" to the “mother hen” category. Single? Give the guy- or girl-next-door type a chance to win your heart. Turns out, they're not so boring when you get 'em behind closed doors.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Capricorn
New you, new crew? On Tuesday, a solar eclipse in your house of communication and friendship brings a happy boost for your social life. Your spring calendar could fill up quickly with weekend trips, festivals, and yoga retreats. Dive in! Just don't spread yourself too thin. This eclipse could also bring in someone with BFF potential and you'll want sufficient time to nurture that bond. Work-wise, an opportunity that requires a little more commuting could crop up. Bi-city living might just be your thing — which might also mean that you need to go test drive a more reliable car. A sibling or coworker may have unexpected news, something that requires you to jump in with support or negotiate a compromise.
On Saturday, Venus beams into Pisces and activates a code orange flirt alert. You'll have the gift of gab between now and April 5 — careful not to lead people on and break their hearts. Hookups and casual scenarios may hold more appeal than an LTR. Enjoy this refreshing window of exploration. In a few weeks, you'll be back to your "let's talk about the future" self again. Already attached? Lighten up and focus on being bae's best friend. It's corny, but true: The couple that plays together, stays together. Field trip, anyone?
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Aquarius
Ready to make it rain, Aquarius? Tuesday’s solar eclipse brings happy news for your bank account. This new moon eclipse will take place in Pisces and your second house of income. A job offer could come out of the blue or you could make the clear decision to transition into a new field over the coming six months. Budget-wise, the eclipse could bring a wake-up call. Keep a tighter reign over your spending, making sure to also set aside an amount for savings each paycheque. Don't forget the income column! This eclipse will spur creative ideas to make some cash on the side. P.S. The big idea might be so obvious you've overlooked it. What's that thing your friends always ask of you; the gift that comes so naturally you never thought to charge for it before?
On Saturday, "McLovin'" Venus flows into Pisces and your decadent second house. You want romance with all the traditional trimmings — rose petals, candlelight dinners, walks in the park. And you're fine with pacing it, too. This slow-jamming Venus cycle can make you feel a little old-fashioned. Tap the brakes and take your time. Though you love the rebels, your tastes could run to the nice boys and girls your mama would approve of now. Invite a little more luxury in your life. Skip the thrift shops and save up for an investment piece; a wardrobe staple that will last for years to come instead of fading and shredding after a few wash cycles.
Illustrated by John Lisle. Photographed by Christine Hahn. Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The Tragic Story Behind The Real St. Valentine
How Fat Tuesday Became The Biggest Party In Christendom
The Gritty Symbolism Of Ash Wednesday, Explained