This Month in Astrology – Archive May to November 2016

Relationships, sharing time with others, and learning are favored in many ways all month, dear Aries, but the positive benefits are pronounced from the 1-12. There is incredible cooperation between your relationship and spirit sectors during this period, making it an excellent time for collaboration, particularly with a partner. It can also be a good period for PR, publishing, legal matters, learning, and sharing ideas. Being generous with your optimism, time, and energy will help maximize the benefits of this energy. For some of you, there can be love connections with people far away.

Mars in Aquarius has been a particularly productive and positive influence for you since Uranus entered your sign in 2010-2011 and is active from November 9th to December 18th. This is a time when your innovative and enterprising qualities are in full play and perhaps acknowledged by others. Take advantage of Jupiter's involvement on November 30th to December 1st for brilliant ideas and new enterprises. There is courage to pursue something you've never tried before.

You're ready to branch out and try new things from the 9th forward and will stop at nothing to pursue a cause you deem worthy. Debates can become exciting - sometimes too much so - but the important thing is that you're feeling passionate about learning, sharing, and expanding your knowledge and interests. There is quite a bit of experimentation going on in your life this month. But while you're looking to mix things up in many of life's departments, your approach to love and pleasure is likely to be a little more serious and reserved from the 11th forward. In fact, you can find much to love about your work and may feel particularly excited about setting goals for yourself and reaching or surpassing them. This desire only builds in the coming weeks, peaking in December and January, and you're getting a pleasant taste of it now. Love is a little more weighty now. You're thinking about the practical side of your interactions and seeking out relationships that are mutually beneficial. Your approach is less scattered and more deliberate. Partnering up with someone for business is not out of the question now. The 25-26 can be most excellent for promoting yourself or your work, and perhaps for such a pairing. However, there is some danger of overdoing and overreaching now as Jupiter and Pluto form a challenging aspect. Keep this in mind and your expectations in check, and you'll do just fine.

You value your independence, but you're finding ways to enjoy and benefit from some level of collaboration with others. Friendships can be in good stead this month. The freer you are to do your own thing in your relationships, the better.

Despite the excitement of new enterprises and the spirit of innovation this month, you are in a good position for learning your next move through observation. Draw on patience and employ strategy in your business affairs especially. The New Moon on October 30th gave you a shot in the arm for making positive lifestyle changes, and this energy is with you for much of November, so take advantage. 

This is a big relationship month for you, dear Taurus. Even if your relationship situation remains virtually the same on the surface of things, this is a time for revelations and contemplations about your needs and wants, intimacy, and whether or not you’re growing and evolving through and with significant others in your life. The New Moon on October 30th launched a cycle that serves to motivate you throughout November to improve relationships or to seek out a lasting bond with someone.

You’re also getting super serious about your work or your major long-term goals. One of the most active periods of the year for goal chasing begins from the 9th forward and lasts well into December. Luckily, your drive matches your ambition, and this peaks towards the end of November. Opportunities to advance and truly get somewhere are likely now and into next month. Your enterprising spirit is through the roof – you are not so content with doing the same old, same old, as comforting as that may be.

Until the 12th, you’re in an exceptional position to improve working conditions and health or nutrition. Research can be fruitful. 

Venus’ move into your adventure sector on the 12th is a big deal because Venus is your sign’s ruler. The areas of life ruled by the house in which Venus transits take on more importance in your life. Venus did well in your intimacy sector, but now you’re ready to chase your needs and desires rather than only contemplate them. This influence helps you get along well with others. While your professional interests are in strong force, Venus here gives you an extra edge on a personal level. You might thoroughly enjoy long-distance exchanges and new or renewed studies and personal interests.

The Full Moon on the 14th is in your sign, but it’s a little scattered in its influence. You can come to significant personal epiphanies and realizations now, although it might take some time to sort out your strong feelings or to integrate them into your life in useful ways. 

Work you’ve done in the past benefits you this month and the next, or you are cruising along primarily because you are drawing upon your knowledge and you’re shining for it. Ambitions are pressing from the second week of November forward — mostly pleasantly so. Mars at the top of your chart does very well this month – it gets into few and only minor skirmishes, and is in mutual reception with innovative Uranus. This translates to an easier time pursuing your goals with few obstacles standing in your way. There should be some caution with urges to buck authority, but all in all, this is a good time for striving to improve your performance, meeting or exceeding your goals, and proving your leadership qualities.

There can be some tension or difficult decisions, with Jupiter and Pluto pitting work and travel or familiarity and adventure against one another. The danger with this aspect is overdoing – thinking that you can take on everything you want to do and also manage everything you need to do. If you act confidently yet moderately, however, you’ll do quite well for yourself.

Throughout November, there is planetary representation in your partnership sector, dear Gemini, and relationships are in high focus. Until the 12th particularly, you have divine energy with you to enjoy, enhance, or begin a relationship. The two Benefics, Venus and Jupiter, are cooperating with one another and supporting your creative pursuits, negotiations, relationships, romance, contracts, mergers, children, hobbies, and partnerships. At the same time, your mind is on work and practical matters, getting fit (or fitter!), and taking care of important details.

Beyond the 12th, you're still interested in developing your connections, but you are becoming more focused and exclusive, and aiming to bond on deeper levels, not only on the surface of matters. Intimacy reaches tense but exciting levels on the 24-25. The trick will be to avoid going over the top with this. Relationships continue to be in stronger than usual focus all month, but there is something a little magical about the period until the 12th. Aim to take full advantage of opportunities to mingle, connect, share, and enjoy others' company. It's a great time for dating, entertainment, and hobbies.

From the 9th, a beautiful theme emerges that follows you well into December, benefiting your friendships, studies, and networking, and also supporting legal and travel matters. People are drawn to your innovative ideas and progressive methods now. Teaming up for learning and studying, or even traveling, can be in the picture and quite favorable.

Health, physical wellness, fitness, and nutrition are bigger topics than usual this month. In fact, the New Moon at the end of October launched an important cycle for beginning anew in these areas if you can benefit from doing so. Returning to past resolutions may be in focus now, or you may be excited about new programs and enhancements. Getting healthy can be fun and motivating, touching all areas of your life in positive ways. This is a good time for connecting with people who can help you on this path, particularly on the 2nd and 6th.

Work and services can also be a major theme in November, and the focus is on improvement. You are taking more interest and pride in your work. You might thoroughly enjoy doing some form of research and analysis, making lists, and gathering information that helps you get a handle on your daily affairs. Some of you will be taking on new work projects or responsibilities now.

If you are in need of a fresh start of sorts when it comes to a partnership, look to the weeks following the New Moon on the 29th. However, be certain that you're building upon realities rather than wishful thinking or false promises. Certainly, you'll be willing to put in the necessary work.

November can be an especially expressive, creative month for you, dear Cancer, but you're also in a strong position for making lifestyle changes, improving your habits, and finding more meaning and happiness in your work.

There is a happy theme that connects your home and family sector with your work and health sector in positive ways, running until the 12th. There can be positive developments on the domestic front -- it's an excellent time for connecting with family and doing something productive together. You may be enjoying your work and home life more than usual, and combining it in satisfying ways, such as by working from home or putting better systems in place that improve your ability to do so. You'll find family members more cooperative, in general.

Mars in your partnership and then intimacy sectors this month can certainly heat up and animate your closest relationships. While there can be some difficulties with an overbearing or controlling partner to deal with for some of you, this is a good time to make changes and put some of the building tension to rest. This period favors confronting problems head-on with direct and assertive Mars involved. From the 9th forward, you're in a particularly good position to observe and strategize your next moves. With Uranus in Aries a long-term guest in your career and reputation sector, you've been doing a lot of feeling things out in the career department, not always acting deliberately or with forethought. Mars' special relationship (mutual reception) with Uranus and its placement in your perceptive and strategic solar eighth house can help you to make considered plans and moves.

Your intimate life is guaranteed to heat up this month, and this will continue well into December. Venus moves into your partnership zone on the 12th, and this certainly helps to smooth over your interactions. You'll find much to enjoy about your relationships. It's a particularly smooth move as Venus serves to replace Mars here, entering this sector only a few days after Mars has left it. However, with intense Pluto a long-term guest in your partnership sector, there is always something serious or heavy to deal with, even when happier, lighter planets are transiting this area of your chart. This is likely to occur around the 24-25 when problem areas are magnified. If you've been dealing with control issues in a relationship, they're liable to surface then. You have a lot of work to do in the months ahead along these lines, so don't put pressure on yourself to resolve everything immediately, but certainly take some steps towards that goal.

Around the Full Moon on the 14th, there may be some drama in your social life, but once the dust has settled, you'll be in an "eyes wide open" state that allows for better decision-making. This is a time for confronting feelings and problems.

Work and the practical side of life take on increasing importance as November advances, although they're active areas all month. This a brilliant time for list making, getting organized, and taking care of business. The focus should be on improving your daily life and habits, and you'll have plenty of opportunities and motivation to do so. You may be tempted to take on a little too much, however, after the New Moon on the 29th, but if you can tame this tendency, you'll be in great shape for getting your life into better working order.

A strong domestic theme continues this month, dear Leo. The New Moon on October 30th encouraged a homebody streak and will color most of November. You'll want to improve living conditions and enjoy life at home or with family now. However, there are also powerful relationship and communication themes to the month that deserve special attention.

There is planetary representation in your sector of romance and creativity all month, making this a great time for exploring creative pursuits or hobbies, enjoying romance and recreation, and sharing your creations with others. The period from the 1-12 is particularly strong for all of these things. There can be playful or flirtatious communications, creative writing, and intellectual games enjoyed now. Discussions with children or a lover open up. Artistic talents are in focus. While there can be quite a bit of frivolity now, this may very well be precisely what you need at this point in your life!

The Taurus Full Moon on the 14th illuminates a career or reputation matter. This is a time for seeing your goals more clearly, or for reaping the rewards of hard work you've done in the past. If you've been focused too heavily on your personal life, this might also serve as a wake-up call to pay more attention to your responsibilities to the outside world! Recognition for your talents and skills can act as a pleasant motivator to perform at your best. Around the same time, Venus moves into your work and health sector, and you'll be deriving more pleasure from your work. However, this can reach a near-obsessive level around the 24-25, competing with your equally compelling desire to learn and pursue your personal interests. The danger here is thinking that you can manage it all without compromise. Try not to burn yourself out.

From the 9th, partnerships heat up. This is a time for facing conflicts head-on. Passions rise, but so do tempers! There is more assertiveness in your relationships now. Issues that have been buried or working under the surface now emerge for handling. While these matters should be addressed, focusing some of this excess energy on shared activities can be helpful for taking the pressure off from time to time. Considering Mars' special relationship (mutual reception) with Uranus in your sector of adventure and spirit this month and well into December, this might involve travel, new experiences and activities, or learning new subjects with someone special.

With Neptune a long-term guest in your solar eighth house, there is little that's clear about shared finances and intimacy in recent years, but with Neptune's direct move on the 19th after a period of retrograde, you'll feel somewhat less stuck or in the dark along these lines. Neptune does align with the Moon's South Node in this sector, however, and you'd be wise to watch for the tendency to gloss over important details regarding debts, support, and the sharing of money and resources.

The New Moon on the 29th can rekindle or cement your commitment to enjoying yourself and exploring romance or creative avenues. It's important to watch that you don't put yourself into debt or ignore other commitments in the process. If you keep things moderate, this is a wonderful time for personal enjoyment and discovery.

A theme of learning and busy-ness in November suits you very well, dear Virgo. The New Moon on October 30th occurred in your sector of communications, motivating you to turn over a new leaf. This cycle colors most of November and awakens a desire to learn new things, update current projects, and pursue your personal interests. There is a scattered feel to this area of your chart, but the New Moon’s connection with Neptune encourages a creative, spontaneous flow to your work and projects that adds to the enjoyment. You are communicating with special style and flair. Although you may be exceptionally busy, this doesn’t always feel chaotic. However, if you’ve been a little too focused on personal interests at this time, the Full Moon on the 14th will serve as a healthy reminder to aim for a better balance. You may need to pull yourself out of your books and projects and get out and about from time to time in order to set things right.

Your sector of family and home is activated all month so that a domestic theme weaves its way through November. The period from the 1-12 is particularly favorable for developments at home or with family. At this time, a mutual reception between Venus and Jupiter encourages warmth and cooperation on the home front, as well as work or business in the home or related to real estate and domesticity. You may be investing more resources into the household and bringing more harmony, beauty, and comfort into your home life.

Venus enters your solar fifth house on the 12th, shortly after Mars leaves it. This serves to soften your approach to your children or a love interest. From November 12-December 7, you’re in an especially charming cycle. You don’t need to do much to attract romantic interest, although you can certainly take advantage of the positive vibes by mingling instead of hiding out! There can be a special enjoyment of creative projects, hobbies, and recreation now. This is excellent for you, but it can reach near-obsessive levels around the 24-25. Watch for going overboard with money and pleasure-seeking now. Tensions in or about love can also surface at this time, particularly if you are putting all your eggs in one basket. Aim for moderation now. Neptune’s alignment with the South Node also warns of falling back or depending too much on others, and particularly a partner. This is a time for embracing your independence, whether or not you’re partnered up. More good things will happen in your life if you’re creating your own happiness rather than waiting around for others to bring happiness to you.

From the 9th and well into December, you are in an excellent position for attention to work and health, however, which can benefit you greatly. This is one of the best periods of the year for making positive, healthy lifestyle changes. Mars and Uranus are in a special relationship (mutual reception) at this time, and there can be an exciting spirit of innovation and progress regarding self-improvement, health programs, and work development.

November is an important month for taking charge of your money and resources as well as the practical side of your life, dear Libra. Even so, it's also a brilliant time for diversifying, sharing, and connecting with others. You're in excellent shape for communicating your ideas and plans with a distinctive flair. You're attracting quite a bit of attention for your unique perspective.

Your ruler, Venus, forms a special relationship (mutual reception) with Jupiter in your sign from the 1-12, and this can bring many blessings to you. Although this isn't the best time for consistency or focus, it's a great period for learning, teaching, and connecting with others in happy, supportive ways. You'll find that others follow your lead and go along with your plans without too much ado. Your words are particularly appealing and charming. Your input and intelligence are sought and more fully acknowledged and appreciated. It's a strong time for presenting or publishing your ideas. You can have many projects going at once, but you're likely to enjoy this extra busy-ness.

You also benefit from a Mars-Uranus boost to your relationship sectors from the 9th forward. Mars and Uranus are also in a special relationship, and while Mars can be a little too brusque or impatient at times, it's cooperating well with other planets this month. Desires are strong but realizable now. Relationships have a lively quality to them, and you're likely to get the feeling that you're headed in the right direction both romantically and creatively. You are courageous about seeking out what you want in your relationships, and this confidence is attractive.

Venus moves into your home and family sector on the 12th, just days after Mars leaves this area of your chart. You'll begin to see a marked improvement in your relationships with family and increased harmony in your home life with these shifts. You can take particular pleasure in domestic activities during this period, but do watch for this going a little too far around the 24-25. There is a tendency now to think that you can have it all or do it all when compromise serves you much better.

The New Moon on the 29th has similar themes, but the subject is different. This is a time for new beginnings with a communications project or course of study, and the weeks following this New Moon are great for enjoying your personal interests. However, there is a tendency to overcommit and then feel overwhelmed. Tame this, and you'll be in an excellent place. One of the major keys to enjoyment in November is moderation.

The period from the last week of October to three weeks into November is typically “your time,” dear Scorpio, when the Sun returns to your sign, and you begin a new solar cycle. This is a time for shining! While there may be some things you’re putting behind you, you’re looking forward now. You’re more noticeable and even more magnetic than usual. 

This year, the New Moon that occurred on the 30th was particularly supportive, particularly of your ability to express yourself and appeal to your “audience.” This theme sticks with you at least until the 29th of November, and in many ways all year, particularly if you were born between October 25th to November 4th. It would behoove you to seek out opportunities to showcase or present your ideas and creations. Artists can be in a special position, but all Scorpios can benefit. Romantic life can sizzle. Although this time of year is best for developing the self, some romantic attention can certainly be a fun distraction.

There is also a very happy money and family or home life theme in your life in November. Something is happening in your money sector at every point this month, but the best period for building a nice feeling of security or for enjoying the fruits of your labor is until the 12th. Many of you will be investing in or putting money into improvements of the home. Most family businesses can thrive now.

Another excellent theme this month runs from the 9th forward, and then well into December. It also involves home and family and increased feelings of safety and security, but it also pulls in work and health matters. Some of you may be focusing on, developing, or starting a home office.

Improving your work and services can be fun, exciting, and productive as well, benefiting you for years to come, although other life departments are competing for your attention. A difficult theme entering your life this month is manageable and ultimately rewarding but can introduce some challenges. This theme runs until August of next year and involves your ruler, ambitious, intense Pluto, in a tense aspect with Jupiter. You can feel a little haunted by past mistakes, worry, and fear during this period. You can also feel a strong desire to produce, but it’s imperative that you keep things at least somewhat moderate or else life will become far too chaotic to get anything substantial done.

Venus in your communications sector from the 12th forward brings more warmth and charm to your conversations, speeches, and writing engagements, and perhaps love into your life through connections made online, in the neighborhood, through the pursuit of your studies, and even on the phone. You’re in love with learning, personal interests, and sharing your ideas in November, although this is sometimes at the expense of your work and health. While it’s hard to do with Venus and Pluto converging in the last week of November, you may need to slow down a little just to make right in other areas of life! Make an effort to fill your work and health responsibilities as well as your responsibility to yourself and your emotional health, and you’ll be in great shape. Certainly, you have significant powers of communication on your side in November.

Your social life should be in good shape this month, dear Sagittarius. Your sign is well-represented all month, and while you're technically in a period of relative slumber until the Sun enters Sagittarius on the 21st, you're certainly attracting positive attention. Until the 12th, you have excellent planetary support for personal appeal, friendships, networking, team efforts, group associations, hearty health, beauty, body ego, and style. Others thoroughly enjoy your company and want to be around you. Your dreams and plans are received well.

There is a wonderful theme emerging from November 9th forward (until December 18th) that involves communications, learning, connecting, and commuting. Mars spends time in your communications sector every two years or so, and in recent years, it's in mutual reception with Uranus, a long-term guest in your romance and creativity sector. Additionally, Mars is in a mostly happy relationship with other planets this month, not to mention with your own sign. What does this mean for you? While you can be a little rushed at times, you are communicating with extraordinary magnetism and sizzle, saying what's on your mind and enjoying the responses you stimulate, and learning things at a rapid pace. This transit benefits your creative projects, dating life, and relationship with children as well. There can be innovative new projects. You are anxious to put your ideas into action. People are enjoying your conversation, writing, and creations. Intellectual games can be exciting and are favored, and hobbies are satisfying now. You are more courageous with your ideas and art, and you're ready to share them. The lines of communication open with love interests, children, and friends.

The more challenging themes in November involve impracticality and perhaps some laziness when it comes to paying attention to important details. You might also be going a little too hard in your social life or going overboard in a business or with spending, to the detriment of other areas of your life. Watch carefully for obsessive attention to certain pursuits. While it can be tough to do right now, aim for moderation. A deadline or important responsibility can need your immediate attention around the Full Moon on the 14th. The 24-25 is tricky, but you'll be in great shape if you avoid launching a project too soon or spending too much. The tendency is to invest too much of your energy and resources into new beginnings before doing the necessary research.

The Sun moves into your sign on the 21st, launching an important month for turning over a new leaf. The New Moon in your sign on the 29th is good for new plans, but the tendency is to overlook details, so watch for false starts or committing to impractical ventures. You're shining brightly in your communications most of November, so take advantage! While a little rocky, the last week of November is about opening your heart to a new year and perhaps a new image, attitude, or look to go along with it.

All month, you benefit from work behind the scenes and rest or moments for reflection and repose, dear Capricorn. However, you're in excellent shape for these things in particular until the 12th. You may be doing quite a bit of work in relative solitude, or you complete a project and is ready to make its debut. Attempts to bring more spiritual rewards and imagination to your career and your long-term goals are successful now. Love is quiet and perhaps involves some level of sacrifice or increased privacy.

From the 12th forward, however, you enjoy Venus as a welcome guest in your sign. This is a yearly event that serves to boost your appeal and bring positive attention your way. This comes shortly after Mars has spent time in your sign, and because Mars can be a little gruff and unpolished, this further emphasizes the soft appeal of Venus. There is considerably more gentleness in your approach, and your diplomatic qualities are highlighted. You can attract what and who you want quite easily with this transit. Venus meets Pluto in your sign on the 24-25, and while this can supercharge the benefits of this transit, it comes at a time when Jupiter is challenging Pluto - the first of three such transits that span now until August 2017, pointing to possible excesses and immoderation. While it can be beneficial to pay attention to your image and reputation, resist the urge to overdo maneuvering these things. Work on self-control instead. Finding a balance between attention to your personal and professional lives is necessary now for optimum success.

There is also an exciting theme this month that positively links money matters with home and family. From the 9th and well into December, you can be working hard at improving your home life, and the money, energy, and resources you invest into your family and home can be well worth it. It can also be a good time for making important purchases or investing in property. This is an opportune period for improving a business and pursuing profits or increased income. You may be working at home or on the home with great success. You are interested in building for the future.

The 2nd and 6th are strong days for networking and meeting with people who can help you achieve your goals. The Full Moon on the 14th brings feelings to light quite dramatically. This is a playful, expressive, and creative time. Romantic relationships get a boost. The New Moon on the 29th brings your strong attention to rest, repose, and healing, launching an important period of looking for answers within.

Friendship is in high focus all month, dear Aquarius, but is especially favorable until the 12th. Venus and Jupiter are in a special relationship during this period, linking your sector of friendship and wish fulfillment positively with your sector of higher learning and spirit. This is a wonderful time for networking, connecting, traveling, learning, and publishing. It's also favorable for a financial boost. Friendships may be made with people far away. Teamwork can go particularly well.

Mars moving into your sign on the 9th can feel like a nice rush, although it can overstimulate you at times, particularly if you don't have a goal to work towards. However, Mars is in great shape now and is in a special relationship with your ruler, Uranus. This is a potentially brilliant period for pursuing your plans and dreams, communications, learning, and reaching out to others. You can be excited about your projects and personal interests, and making happy connections through these things. Even though your independence is in strong force, you're fully enjoying connecting with others, learning, and sharing here and there. Opportunities to learn, teach, share, travel, or publish are emerging now.

With so much going on socially, you may think there's little room for career matters. However, the New Moon that occurred on October 30th powered up your career or life path goals and may have dropped an opportunity or new responsibility into your lap. This is a professionally busy time, and your life is full. You may need to do some juggling now, but you're up to the task! Look for opportunities to connect with people who help you achieve your goals or who support your ambitions and make you feel better about your performance and capabilities, particularly on the 2nd and 6th.

You are especially valued for your unique vision and perspective, gaining new friendships through this highlight. When Venus enters your privacy sector on the 12th, however, there can be times when you crave and seek out some form of retreat. It's good for you now, and it also helps you sort through your feelings, preparing you for a more visible, active time for expressing your feelings when Venus transits Aquarius (from December 7th to January 2nd).

Even so, love can be a little complicated later this month. A lot is going on below the surface, and there can be times when you're not always aware of how your feelings are affecting your actions. This can lead to quite a bit of restlessness and uncertainty. There can be tremendous urges to experience new things, but a part of you that only wants to hide away. 

The Full Moon on the 14th illuminates a family matter. You may need to pay particular attention to your domestic life or family relationships at this time. There can be a scurry of activity on the home front. The New Moon on the 29th can motivate you to start a new project, join a group, or reach out to an old friend.

There is activity in your career, reputation, and responsibility sector throughout November, dear Pisces, and this benefits your professional or public life. However, the period from the 1-12 is particularly favorable for your image as well as support from others to pursue your goals. There can be a turnaround in a reputation matter after a period of misunderstanding. Brand new beginnings and projects related to business and finances are best left for the weeks following the New Moon on November 29th, but your efforts to connect with others and to seek out advice can be very fruitful now. 

Seeking out new studies or advancing current ones can be very successful this month. The 2nd and 6th are good for networking and gaining new insight or advantages through your friendships and teamwork. There can be lively exchanges of ideas and beliefs. You're in the position to learn a lot from your dealings with acquaintances. The Full Moon on the 14th ironically brings you back down to earth if you've been focusing too heavily on outside interests and neglecting your daily affairs. It's important to get on top of errands and paperwork in order to bring a better balance to your life now.

From the 9th, there is a pleasing exchange between Mars and Uranus. There is a definite move towards behind the scenes activities and less decisiveness now, but you can be quite busy and actively working on new and innovative business ideas. You might also get the chance to work through some annoying personal problems. While there can be problems getting to the root of irritation or anger with Mars' transit through your solar twelfth house, you can find much to enjoy as you attempt to understand your inner workings now. There can be wonderful "aha!" moments. Your actions in the real world may not seem as effective or they could go unnoticed, but self-knowledge helps you a lot and prepares you for the exciting transit of Mars through your sign from December 18th to January 27th. It's also a time for rediscovering the joys of doing things simply for the intrinsic rewards. This can also be a good time for recycling old ideas into innovative new ones, and for discovering your talents and perhaps even resources that you never knew you had.

Venus in your friendship sector boosts your popularity and increases enjoyment of your social life, and is in particularly good shape from the 19-21. You can thoroughly enjoy contributing and sharing now. Even so, Neptune's alignment with the South Node this month may point to some tendency to isolate yourself when you're experiencing problems. Watch for maintaining your more superficial connections and avoiding intimacy in your deeper relationships. This can alienate special people in your life, and might even lead to estrangement, so be careful with this tendency. While you can have no problem connecting with acquaintances, classmates, and so forth, you may be shutting out people closest to you on some level. You can make a million excuses to yourself for not reaching out, but even if you need some independence, you can keep up communications to let important people in your life know that you still care about them. Fortunately, Neptune turns direct on the 19th, and this helps bring you out of your protective shell. You'll also find that people begin to understand you better as you become clearer within yourself. You might also discover new and improved ways of presenting yourself to others. Little tweaks and adjustments can go a long way towards more rewarding relationships.

October is a gentler month for you, dear Aries. A major focus this month is your relationships, companionability, and intimacy. Even so, it's one of your more ambitious months of the year. Your competitive, enterprising nature comes to the fore, and you readily throw yourself into pursuing your goals. This can be a time of increased activity in your career, but you may also feel a strong desire to take the lead and act independently. In your personal life, however, you're in an entirely different frame of mind. Collaboration and cooperation are in focus.

You bring more energy and innovation to your working life this month. You're self-motivated and prefer not to answer to others. Working independently and at your own pace makes the most sense now if you manage it. You may be arousing opposition or generating competition. You may want to make it clear that you're most interested in besting yourself than beating out the competition. You have more courage to get something off the ground, and you're up for a challenge. You're keeping things fresh and stimulating your creativity by making small changes. This is a time when you don't accept stagnation, so take advantage.

The year ahead is strong for connecting with partners, counseling, advising, and getting legal help. This month, you get a big taste of this energy. The 4-5 is particularly strong for useful advice and the power of teaming up and combining your talents with someone. You might benefit from keeping someone's confidence around the 10-11, or you may receive recognition for work you've done in the past. Healing activities are in focus.

The 15-16 can be tricky. The Sun's annual opposition to Uranus, currently in your sign, occurs around the time of a Full Moon in your sign. This tends to highlight your needs for both partnership and independence and the disruptions in your life that occur as a result of this inner conflict. You may need to find the right balance, which is not easy. Innovate rather than react. Surprising events and emotions are quite likely now.

There can be a clearer window into a financial or intimate matter around the 26-27 and a chance to take charge and start fresh on your findings after the 30th. The 29th highlights decisions related to relationships, money, publishing, and higher education and seeing these things from a particularly practical perspective.

You’re particularly motivated to do a good job this month, dear Taurus, and you might thoroughly enjoy helping out others. You’re more conscientious as a result and take pride in solving problems, acquiring or honing skills, and taking care of business. Even so, you’re also quite committed to exploring beyond your routines in October, and if opportunities don’t naturally arise to do so, you’ll create them!

This is a great month for picking up new practical skills, finding new work, or throwing more of yourself into your current job. It’s also a fine time for improving your daily habits and health. You’re eager now, and it shows. Others appreciate your efforts. A pleasant or helpful connection may be made on the job or while fulfilling your health goals and daily routines. The 15-16, however, can be a little disruptive on the work front. You could be feeling that you are at the mercy of others’ schedules, unreliability, or rebellion. There could be something from your past that re-emerges, and a personal truth coming to light. You may very well discover what you’ve been missing in your life, and this sets you on a path towards is discovery. However, be cautious about following sudden impulses.

October is very strong for getting others into your corner. You’re diplomatic and accommodating. For many of you, it’s quite easy to find a companion for even the smallest of activities. You might often find yourself in the position of peacemaker or mediator. These traits are especially prominent until the 18th.

You are more attached than usual to your opinions, beliefs, traditions, and ideas this month. This can certainly contribute to some problems in your relationships, as you may create a stir from time to time. However, you may very well need the courage to assert yourself. There is good energy with you for pursuing new interests. Competitive activities can be attractive now.

Relationships come into stronger focus in the latter part of the month. The need for companionship might increase now. There can be more seriousness in your relationships, and perhaps some jealousies to deal with. Being realistic about your financial situation is necessary around the 29th. Knowing where you stand is empowering; avoiding problems only serves to undermine you. A loan might come through, but whatever does emerge now comes with increased responsibility. The New Moon on the 30th helps you start fresh in a partnership or brings a new relationship into your life.

This is a potentially active relationship month, dear Gemini. You're very focused on connecting on all sorts of levels and quite successful at it. You're also quite willing to take care of others. You're expressive this month - very happy to be the center of attention - but you're also very accommodating and perfectly willing to let someone special take center stage as well. 

Good experiences on the job are likely this month. You are finding new ways to get along with others, and people are valuing your services. A relationship-oriented aspect occurs on the 10-11, when your ruler, Mercury, aligns with your partnership ruler, Jupiter, in your sector of romance and play! This is an opportunity period for getting closer to someone. Enjoying art, play, entertainment, and leisure activities can be rewarding now. This is a good time to get your feelings out into the open. Even so, Venus moves through your sector of work, health, and service at this time (until the 18th), and you have your eye on improvements surroundings these themes. Confidence builds after the 18th, and you draw people in more readily. They also have your full attention now. 

Communications of all kinds are emphasized, but especially those involving creative contacts, children, and romantic interests, and they are generally favorable. It's also a good time for self-promotion efforts, particularly through your creativity and clever ideas.

While there is much focus on getting along with others in October, you find it very easy to throw yourself into your own special projects and interests. It's difficult to find you in a state of boredom this month. Research and analysis can be fruitful and enjoyable. You are inclined to want to investigate matters. You might find yourself drawn to push the usual boundaries, which can be profound in healthy ways but could lead you down the wrong path if you're not mindful of your limits. The tendency is to push yourself too far now. Keep this in check, and it's all good.

The 15-16 can point to startling revelations, discoveries, and feelings surrounding your social and romantic life. These will get you thinking and possibly moving towards positive change, even if at first there can be a little chaos. There's a wildcard factor active now as Uranus is at its closest approach to the earth at the time of a Full Moon. It's an inventive and creative time but might also feel like a whirlwind.

The last week of the month is particularly strong for ideas and plans surrounding work and health. There can be a significant realization of responsibility, or a sense of joy in committing to someone or something, around the 29th. This occurs at the time of a Balsamic Moon, however. Realizations no less important, but the need to finalize an important matter at a later date arises. 

Family and home life are in larger focus for you this month, dear Cancer. The domestic side of you is in swing, but you're also expressing some interest in branching out and taking a few personal risks. You can bring special creativity and warmth to your personal life in October.

There can be a competitive feel to your partnerships as Mars moves in opposition to your sign all month, and you may be putting more energy into your relationships than usual. Watch for a tendency to instigate or rile up a significant other, or to treat a partner as a rival. There can be a tendency for you or a partner to be touchy or for arguments to emerge seemingly out of nowhere. You're at your best when you work with someone towards a common goal. The best way to use this energy to your advantage is to allow others to inspire and motivate you. Team up and take action so that excess energy is turned outwards. This can be a passionate, revealing time.

Helping you out is Venus in harmony with your sign until the 18th. This position does wonders for your personal appeal. Relationships can be formed or enhanced on the 5th.

The 10-11 is an opportunity period for family relationships, good news about home or real estate, improved living arrangements, and personal magnetism. Creativity soars and relationships may reach a whole new level. New long-term endeavors might get their start now.

Disruptions and surprises around the 15-16 tend to have to do with your career, home life, reputation, or long-term goals. There can be sudden revelations and decisions. While this may lead to better conditions, do watch for a tendency to break all the rules without thinking of the consequences.  Stay open and flexible, and try to take changes of plans in stride.

Improved working conditions are possible from the 18th forward. You might thoroughly enjoy the work you do or the services you provide. You get along well with the people with whom you share your day. There can be increased respect for your work and efforts. The Sun's move into your romance and creativity sector on the 23rd is quickly followed by Mercury the next day. Your social life is busy and active. Leisure time is particularly satisfying.

You can be super-motivated this month to reach health and work goals, dear Leo. You'll stop at nothing to improve on past performance. You tend to want to set your own pace and goals, and you thrive on the small challenges you create for yourself now. You'll do best if you pursue your goals in a structured or organized manner. 

You're particularly interested in efficiency and innovative methods and can be impatient with frivolities while Mars visits your solar sixth house - all month and then until November 9th. A potential problem is pushing yourself too hard, as you are not always aware of the long hours you put in. Challenge yourself but don't stress yourself out for best results now. There is a fine line between determination and obsession.

This is also a time for thoroughly enjoying the comforts of home and the familiarity of family and loved ones with Venus in your solar fourth house until the 18th, after which you're open to getting out and about, showing off a little, and taking more personal risks.

You can discover powerful new programs or methods for improving your health or work this month through research and word of mouth, particularly around the 10-11 and 14th. This is also a good time for reaching out to others, sharing ideas, writing, and scoping out various prospects and ideas. Your ideas or work may gain some recognition now. Putting your feelers out makes a lot of sense this month. There can be some disruptions or surprises on the 15-16 surrounding matters of travel, publishing, and studies. You could come to a sudden awareness of a new perspective on a project. If plans change suddenly, try to remain as flexible and open-minded as possible, as changes can lead to improvements or discoveries that you might not have made otherwise. However, try not to make decisions blindly now.

Not long after Venus moves into your creative, expressive solar fifth house on the 18th, the Sun and Mercury transit your domestic solar fourth on the 23rd and 24th. There can be wonderful discoveries and realizations about your home, family, or living arrangements in the last week of October. The desire to reach out to someone you love is big. There can be a meaningful conversation or news that makes you quite hopeful about a family situation, or that serves to motivate you to push forward with domestic plans. 

You are likely to devote a lot of your energy to creative works, a romantic pursuit, or hobby this month, dear Virgo. There can be a competitive feel to your relationships now. Your ambition is stimulated, and you’re playing to win! Even your more casual pursuits tend to have an edge to them in October. This can be a favorable time for competitive sports or games and increased physical activity.

The month is strong for gaining your footing, building your resources, and developing your talents. There can be competing energies between the drive for security and a need to put yourself out there. For the most part, however, you can make this work. You have the power of words and a charming manner on your side with Venus in your communications sector until the 18th. As well, there is a fuller appreciation for your surroundings and personal environment and increased contentment as a result. You might choose to write out your wishes or feelings with great success during this period. Small gestures and reaching out to others can be especially rewarding. The 10-11 is an opportunity period for finances, gifts, bonuses, family relationships, recognition for your work or natural talents, and stellar money-making or project ideas with long-term appeal and profitability.

Planets are moving beyond your sign, and Mercury is the last to do so on the 7th. This feels comfortable. While a congregation of planets in your sign is useful for personal initiatives, you often fare better when the focus is on your projects, loved ones, and work. There is also a pleasant feeling of moving forward, slowly but surely, this month.

The 15-16 can stimulate sudden decisions and epiphanies, as well as the need to liberate yourself of certain obligations and burdens. This period could stir up old financial or relationship problems. The tendency now is to react quickly, but you might want to get in touch with your heart’s desire before taking action.

Home life improves from the 18th forward, although it’s not without its fair share of responsibilities. There can be progress made on the home front, and if you are working at or on the home, you are more interested in applying yourself to something that will have value over the long-term. Work done now can be especially fruitful down the road, although brand new beginnings are best saved until after the New Moon on the 30th. Focus on identifying priorities in the days leading up to this lunation. As well, there can be valuable insight or ideas surfacing on the 26-27 about projects, interests, and studies that help clear the path for new beginnings.

The month ahead is a strong yet gentle one for you, dear Libra. You're in the driver's seat. Yes, this is true in a general sense, but with the Sun in your sign until the 23rd, you're feeling super confident and changes made now seem to have visible, quick results. The biggest area of passion and possible upheaval this month is likely to involve your private world, family life, and home matters. You're ambitious about these things now, desiring to make deep changes that will last. There can also be bigger emotions felt at home than elsewhere - tempers may be prominent. The trick is to avoid impatience and impulsiveness. Strategize for best results. You may want to rule the roost now, and this can be successful as long as you're a gentle leader! 

While you'll be pursuing personal interests and craving more independence this month - and you're quite successful on these fronts - this can also be an important time for house cleaning of some variety. This can be either (or both) on figurative and literal levels. Home renovations or small improvements are possible now. You're looking for more efficiency and functionality. Acknowledging and resolving problems with family or people you live with can be in focus. Look for the root of issues instead of seeking out cosmetic fixes. There may be bigger demands on your time and energy on the domestic front.

From the 7th, you can be far more sociable, communicative, and clear in your decisions. The tendency to focus (and perhaps dwell) on the past lifts. You are forward-looking and while you tend to enjoy collaboration by nature, you're in the mood or position to make executive decisions from the 7-24.

The 10-11 is wonderful for communications and opportunities to learn, teach, and advance. Family, work, and health matters can get a nice boost. Your personal appeal is strong. It's a superb time to make a presentation or ask for what you want. You're given the benefit of the doubt. While the nature of a Full Moon is emotional, the Full Moon on the 16th is good for seeking out harmony. Getting there may involve some ups and downs. Until the 18th, you're attracting attention as well as support, gifts, and company. 

There is sweetness to your approach from the 18th forward. The last week of the month finds you seeking out predictability, comfort, and security. The culmination of a financial or business project, or new opportunities revolving around personal income, can be in focus on the 27-28, launching one of the best periods of the year for money matters. A good idea can blossom now.

October begins quietly and picks up pace as it progresses for you, dear Scorpio. All month, however, at least one major player is in your sign, so you are never without special attention and initiative, but until October 23rd, there is a withdrawn quality to your personality. This is all good – it’s a natural time of the solar cycle for you to reflect and move a little more slowly than usual. This allows you to catch up emotionally with recent events and circumstances. 

With Mars in your communications zone all month long, you are certainly not idle. In fact, you might often be meditating in motion. You can also feel especially passionate and ambitious about your projects, contacts, ideas, and studies. There can be a significant intellectual competition. You’re mentally wired, and you want to put ideas into action. You might feel impatient with idle chatter or with others’ slower pace or minds, making it imperative that you find ways to move at your own pace or work independently. You need something for yourself right now – as much as you like people, you have your limits! The inner entrepreneur can emerge this month. With the Sun’s position in your privacy sector and Mars in your communications sector, you may be giving off a “leave me alone” energy. While you do prize time to yourself now, it might be a good idea to let key people in your life know that it’s not about them. Helping you along in this respect is Venus in Scorpio in your sign until the 18th. Your image improves, people love your sense of style, and a partner can be entirely on your side.

The 10-11 is one of the better opportunity periods of the month, and for you, this is about new information about a previous mystery, creative insights, and personal punch. Your appeal is high, and people thoroughly enjoy your art, craft, or ideas. Other opportunity days include the creative and romantic 1st, the persuasive 5th, and the passionate (although extreme) 18-19. The 15-16 can bring difficult situations to a head related to work or perhaps more aptly, overwork. 

From the 18th forward, you are attracting the good things in life. It’s a good time to get comfortable with the world of the five senses. The 23rd forward is even more powerful with the Sun “emerging” in your solar chart and a personal new year begins. The 27-28 is powerful for personal impact. Your need to be heard is significant, and you can pretty much count on others listening. Finally, a New Moon occurs in your sign on the 30th, and personal new beginnings are favored.

There is a social theme to the month ahead, dear Sagittarius, but your practical affairs are in good shape as well. Career matters fly along rather smoothly. Ambitions to improve your standing, security, and comfort levels are increasing.

Your ambitious and enterprising qualities can fuel motivation and determination this month, in fact. You are capable of quite a bit of work if you can foresee an improved financial position or a more secure state of being. While some of you may find yourself in the position to defend your values, possessions, or money, this energy might also translate in more positive terms - you could be working exceptionally hard at making your life better. Watch for possessiveness, but build your resources now. 

The 10-11 is excellent for learning something valuable, making a friend, thinking in big terms, expanding a project or business, and making long-range plans. You're likely to feel in an exceptionally generous and possibly philosophical mood. It's a good time for making connections through networking or group associations. Negotiations should go very well. Purchases for family or the home that enhance the enjoyment of domestic life can figure strongly now.

Your love life and feeling nature are likely on the private side until the 18th. You may be looking back rather than enjoying the present or looking forward to the future on romantic levels. You might often find yourself in the position of supporter, helper, and confidante. The 15-16, however, can bring surprising, revealing, or startling feelings to the surface or events to your life. There could be a sudden decision to break out on your own, away from a friend, or into a new relationship. A rush of unavoidable feelings can prompt a complete turnaround.

From the 18th, Venus in your sign enhances your image and acts to showcase your more lovable qualities. It's a time for attracting positive attention. From the 23rd, life is a little quieter as you find more time to slip into the background to enjoy private moments and times for rest and reflection. The 26-27 can see an idea or plan blossom. You might gain insight into an old issue, and this pushes you forward. New opportunities can emerge that turn your attention behind the scenes. The 29th is a time for seeing your capabilities clearly. There could also be a major revelation about your finances, a love relationship, or friendship. 

You can be quite headstrong and independent this month, dear Capricorn. Your ambitions are stimulated. While you have a strong sense of the rules, the enterprising side of your nature emerges powerfully this month, and you could find that you're challenging traditions and attracted to shortcuts.

You are at your best when employing strategies, but with Mars in your sign all month, you can be impatient with too much talk or long-drawn-out explanations. You'd rather get things done and deal with the details after the fact. As long as you are determined to make the most of this period, it's a great time for standing up for yourself and for new initiatives that require action and courage more than plans and deliberation. You can't force confidence - confidence builds as self-mastery skills increase. This is why truly confident moves have fantastic results now and rash or pushy moves seem to have consequences.

Taking away some of the edge of Mars in Capricorn is the transit of Venus through your social sector until the 18th. You naturally gain approval from others now. You're independent this month, but you are wise enough to value the group and cherished friends' input. Diplomacy has its distinct benefits. Your style, gentleness, and artistry are particularly attractive to others during this cycle. The 10-11 is especially favorable for friends, teams, groups, networking, communications, and business income. There can be good news or connections made that advance your career or goals. There can be recognition for your performance or accomplishments.

The 15-16 can stimulate unexpected events or surprising feelings in your personal life. Home and family matters may reach a turning point. Venus in your soul sector from the 18th forward points to a private period for your love life or affections. It can also lead to benefits from working behind the scenes or special enjoyment of solitude and times for extra rest and healing. You may be seeing a relationship in a new light, perhaps through a more spiritual lens.

From the 26-27 forward, you're in an excellent position to work with a business plan or new idea and run with it. The 29th is good for practical grounding. Personal responsibilities become clear, and your stronger understanding of where you stand makes planning all the better. This is a fabulous time to rid yourself of something that has been weighing you down.

October holds the potential for a nice balance between work and play, dear Aquarius. While in many ways you're open to exploring, expanding, and experiencing new things, you have a lot of "work" to do on the inside. You can be very contemplative this month. You'll benefit greatly from actively seeking out ways to heal and de-stress. 

This can be a period when you don't jump to assert yourself, as you first consider how this might impact others' lives and your own. There can be some bottling up of anger or desires. There may very well be a solid reason for working behind the scenes now. As well, this can be a good month for cleaning up the past in order to begin anew later (Mars will transit your sign from November 9-December 19). Parts of you are on a symbolic retreat, and this is good for you. If you've been overdoing things, you can really feel it now. 

Venus works some of its magic on your reputation and/or career and relationships with elders, bosses, parents, and teachers this month until the 18th. This is a solid time for a better image, support or sponsorship from a higher-upper, more enjoyment of your professional life and responsibilities, and true confidence in your performance.

The 10-11 is a beautiful time for learning or expanding a project, as well as activities related to promotion, publishing, education, communications, the law, and travel. There may be an opportunity for an experience that you've never had before, particularly related to studies. New ideas flow well. This can also be an almost magical time for financial and business matters.

The 15-16 can be disruptive but revealing as the Sun opposes your ruler, Uranus, and Uranus energy is particularly strong and potent. It's a time for seeing yourself better through relationships with others and the world as a whole. Changes of plans can lead to new discoveries, perspectives, and insight that truly improve your life, so don't dig in your heels too much. There can be an epiphany or moment of truth that can be a little uncomfortable but ultimately relieving. Be slightly more vigilant when it comes to communicating and commuting. 

From the 18th, your social life gets a nice boost. Friends and acquaintances are more likely to appreciate and value you. From the 23rd, you're in a more ambitious phase of the year, and this continues into November. The last week of the month is powerful for revelations about professional and life-path goals. Ideas bloom. The 29th brings clarity about a friendship or long-term goal. You have an easier time putting something behind you now. Social or romantic opportunities may be found through associates, group associations, friends, and networking. A question of accountability or commitment involving a friend or business goal can be in focus. The New Moon on the 30th gives you a boost to pursue your ambitions.

You can be very active with friends and groups this month, dear Pisces, but you're also easily absorbed in your private life, ideally finding the right balance between the two. You might find that you achieve the most or are the most motivated through your involvement with a group or team. You may be more active with friends and associates, perhaps actively working towards a cherished cause or dream. 

This is also a time when you're not particularly content with simply dreaming, wishing, and hoping for better circumstances. You'll want to take solid action towards realizing your goals and making improvements. There can be strong focus on new technology in October. You're inventive and drawn to endeavors that are progressive and unique.

This is also a potentially strengthening month for close relationships. You're clearer about who you care about and who has your back. Venus moves in harmony with your sign until the 18th, boosting your personal appeal. It also has the effect of stimulating your taste for the exotic. You might thoroughly enjoy cultural activities, studies, debates, and sharing your ideas with others. You are in an unusually good position to soothe and help others to heal around the 10-11. This can be a good time for taking in a show, throwing yourself into a creative project and sharing time with others. Sharing your feelings or intimate matters can be fun and rewarding. You might open up a topic that is usually taboo or left unspoken. Healthy, frank discussions boost your relationships.

The 15-16 can bring surprises with money and relationships. Ownership, sharing, power, and money matters can be at the root of challenges or the need to make changes becomes evident. Look for ways to innovate, update, and improve for best results. Accept that change is inevitable and understand that being proactive about it is in your best interests.

From the 18th forward, professional relationships can improve, and so can your reputation or image. Someone who's in the position to help further your goals, promote you, or help you find a direction or calling can take special interest in you. Express your faith in yourself now for best results. The last week of the month stimulates your adventurous side. Even so, this can also be a time of increased professional responsibilities.