Maximise the weekend rest time! On Tuesday, life takes off at a gallop — and not just because we'll all be feeling the industrious energy of autumn. On Tuesday, go-getter Mars switches from hedonistic Leo to hardworking Virgo. Even the slackers could suddenly start producing results with the red planet here until October 22. Earth sign Virgo is also a big fan of selfless service. Scout out a volunteer opportunity or get into some autumn activism. With rights being challenged at every turn, sadly, there won't be a shortage of causes to get behind. Choose consciously-farmed, sustainable sourced, and eco-friendly goods. Green is the new black!
On Wednesday, 2017's only full moon in Pisces will fuel our fantasies. Brace yourself: This energy can be both enchanting and infuriating. Pisces is the sign that rules illusions, escapism, and even addiction. While we may feel a strong emotional pull toward situations, there is also a tendency to romanticise or even delude ourselves. This is not the week to play with fire or say "just this once" about a known vice — whether it's one more drink or that Tinder date who keeps ghosting after you sleep together. Use these moonbeams to reflect, meditate, and surrender. You could have a life-changing epiphany simply because you quieted your mind. Fortunately, Mercury also wraps up a retrograde this Tuesday, putting the kibosh on all the mixed messages that have been making heads spin since August 12. Facts will emerge — some shocking, even — that help us all get a clear read on befuddling situations and decide how best to respond.
Virgo
August 23 to September 22
Unmute yourself, Virgo. Your words carry weight and you can move the masses to action this week! It all starts on Tuesday, as your ruler, mouthy Mercury, tumbles out of retrograde and restores your gift of gab — and your general allure. That same day, high-octane Mars cruises into Virgo for seven weeks, getting you pumped about your personal ambitions and ready to take charge! Mars only visits your sign every other year, so don't waste this cosmic gift on questions like, "Should I or shouldn't I?" Without risk there can be no reward. Step forward and make a move to advance your ambitions. Since people will follow your lead, lend your energy toward a cause that's worthy of your support this autumn. One catch: Frenetic Mars energy moves at a supersonic speed and you could stress yourself out by trying to take on too much, too soon. Pace yourself and follow the 24-hour rule, giving yourself a night to sleep on it before making any major and life-altering decisions.
Though you'll shine as a solo act this week, Wednesday's full moon in Pisces could bring a milestone moment for a partnership. A casual dating situation could become Instagram official or you could leap to the next level with your S.O. Some Virgos may decide to move on from a situation that's just not doin' it for ya anymore (or say goodbye to the ex who resurfaced during Mercury retro). This full moon will certainly help you clarify what direction to move in. Single Virgos, don't wander around in a tech trance. You could miss a worthy candidate who's trying to catch your eye!
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Libra
September 23 to October 22
Although autumn is synonymous with fresh, ambitious starts, you've got some cleanup work to do first. After all, it's tough to create anything new if your life is cluttered with outdated ephemera from the past. Starting Tuesday, as motivator Mars storms your 12th house of transitions, you'll have all the momentum you need to Konmari the hell out of your life. Start with your physical space, gathering up things you no longer use to donate to charity, recycle, or sell on consignment. Revel in the empty space that you clear up and don't race to replace anything. Minimalism (to a degree, at least) becomes you, Libra. Have you been hanging on to a toxic friendship or holding a torch for an ex? Make it your mission to let go while Mars hovers here until October 22. That could involve a few ugly cries and therapy sessions, but the sooner you deal, the sooner you'll heal. Helpful mentors and supportive people are all around you, Libra, so reach out for a hand whenever you feel stuck. With Mercury correcting course after a three-week retrograde, friends who went MIA could show up with a shoulder to lean on.
Another prompt for self-care comes on Wednesday when the full moon in Pisces lights up your sixth house of wellness and daily routines. How can you streamline and simplify your life so as to reduce stress? Running around like a headless chicken is no way for a pleasure-loving Libra to live. You may have to cut back on commitments so you have time to cover the basics like cooking healthy dinners for yourself and getting a few solid workouts in every week.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Scorpio
October 23 to November 21
Feeling down on your fellow humans, Scorpio? With Mercury retrograde for the past few weeks, you may have weathered some disappointments. But no need to start pricing out future starter flats on Mars (unless, of course, interstellar life is your goal). This Tuesday, Mercury halts its reverse commute and resumed forward motion. The same day, excitable Mars sails into Virgo and your 11th house of teamwork and technology until October 22. People will always work your sensitive nerves a little, Scorpio, but you'll be far more forgiving over the coming seven weeks. Rally the troops for a collaborative mission or go on a dedicated scouting mission to find your soul squad, exploring new social activities and scenes. Your autumn is going to be active and lively. Just know this: Many people will come and go, but a few will stick around as forever friends. This Mars cycle could spur you to develop a digital venture like creating an app, positioning yourself as an Instagram superstar, or selling your DIY wares on Etsy.
On Wednesday, it's Cupid FTW! The annual full moon in Pisces rocks your fifth house of romance, glamour and fame. An attraction that's been brewing could reach the tipping point, bringing some butterfly-inducing developments for your love life. If you're already attached, you could take a major step with your S.O. like planning your first baecation, flat-hunting, or even making babies. Your individual talents will be illuminated, too, so don't hold back with the self-promotion! Waiting to be discovered is so last century...
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Sagittarius
November 22 to December 21
Get your affairs in order, Sagittarius. You'll be back to work in a big way this Tuesday as motivator Mars zooms into Virgo and your 10th house of ambition and success until October 22. The rev-you-up red planet only visits your sign every other year. Capitalise on its momentum by streamlining your Q4 career goals. Instead of scattering yourself in your usual ten directions, focus on one or two missions you'd like to savage by the end of the year. Now for the real challenge: Don't try to pull it off all by yourself. Seek out experienced guides and support staff or partner up with someone who already has a few feathers in their fedora.
With Mercury snapping out of retrograde on Tuesday, a moment of truth will be unavoidable. But don't be coy and suggestive like Archer Taylor Swift. The direct hit will get your point across the fastest. Be clear, but also compassionate. The offending party might not realise the depth of their "crime." Wednesday's full moon in Pisces throws a homecoming party for you. Reconnect to your inner circle, especially if you drifted during the retrograde. These moonbeams could illuminate powerful women worth having in your corner this autumn and also bring an excuse to get closer to the ladies you already love. Consider hosting a gathering at Chez Archer.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Capricorn
December 22 to January 19
Let someone else be "the company man" this week. Starting Tuesday, go-getter Mars liberates your indie spirit as it zips into Virgo and your worldly, adventurous ninth house until October 22. Sitting at a desk could prove challenging during this cycle. You'd rather be out scaling mountains, bantering with thought leaders, and exploring the cultural offerings of a distant metropolis (or three). Maybe you should use those annual leave days already and sate your wanderlust with a getaway. This Mars cycle inspires you to incorporate more freedom into your career, creating a job that allows you to travel or make your own hours. Is that still a distant dream? The ninth house rules higher education, so let Mars motivate you to fill out applications for specialised trainings or degree programmes (possibly of the online variety) that can turn your fantasy into a reality.
On Wednesday, the full moon in Pisces and your zone of local activity could make life a bit more interesting close to home. You could meet a kindred spirit at your favourite neighbourhood venue who shares your broad-minded view on the world. A loose collaboration could become an official partnership over the coming two weeks. Is it time to update your commuter plan? This full moon could find you test-driving hybrids, investing in noise-cancelling headphones (subway chatter, begone!), or signing up for a frequent-flyer programme as you shuttle regularly between two cities.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Aquarius
January 20 to February 18
Are you in or are you out? As passionate Mars storms your intense and erotic eighth house from Tuesday until September 22, there's no room for half-stepping or lukewarm attractions. If you're not feeling it — mind, body, and soul — something has to change. Warning: Mars can make you hotheaded and rash. Maybe you don't have to ghost your entire life and start from scratch. What if you tried to communicate your desires first? This could have surprisingly sexy results over the coming seven weeks and will also be easier after Tuesday, when expressive Mercury pivots out of retrograde. But if you've tried numerous times to turn lemons into lemonade, let Mars jailbreak you from the unrewarding situation. Your sultry side will be in full, magnetic effect so you won't have a shortage of wannabe replacements looking to fill the vacancy.
Keep your mind on your money near Tuesday as 2017's only full moon in Pisces lights up your income zone. Your hard work of the past six months has set you up for some sort of reward — or at least an epiphany about what's next. If you're not getting the praise and profits you'd like, be proactive. Set up a performance review with HR or consider signing up for a training that can bump you into a higher pay grade. If you've been saving up responsibly, this full moon signs off on a luxe splurge that will place you among the ranks of stylish Insta-girls.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Pisces
February 19 to March 20
Switch on your soulmate searchlight, Pisces. This Tuesday, make-it-happen Mars embarks on a romantic voyage through Virgo and your seventh house of relationships. You'll have surplus energy for Cupid's casting mission through October 22 and your proactive approach could draw in a keeper. The only catch? Mars can make you impatient. And, with your propensity for romanticising, you could rush to foist S.O. status onto someone undeserving of the title. Keep your criteria strict and your standards realistic. Everyone has a good side and a bad side. The question is, can you deal with their "for worse?" Coupled Pisces could find this Mars cycle electrifying and agitating at once. If you've been too accommodating, warrior Mars helps you speak up for your needs. Your partner might be surprised to see your assertive side emerging, especially if you've kept it hidden. But keep at it and you'll soon be a pro, discussing your needs with grace instead of frustration and anger.
Speaking of your needs, on Wednesday, the annual full moon in Pisces pushes you into the public eye. Give yourself full license to let your hair down and keep it real. Like signmate Kesha, you could become a brave voice of justice or inspire your friends to get more involved in some form of activism this autumn. Your efforts of the past six months could attract a fanbase and draw public praise. Modesty is overrated, especially with a full moon in your sign. Own it, Pisces, and look for ways you can build upon your success before 2017 is through, even making an epic change to your day-to-day life.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Aries
March 21 to April 19
Where, oh, where has your gym bag gone, Aries? You could be scrambling to find it starting Tuesday as your ruling planet, energiser Mars, barrels into Virgo and your sixth house of wellness until October 22. This cycle, which happens every other year, will get you motivated to take the best possible care of your health. And why shouldn't you? Your body is your soul's address here on Earth. Though fierce Mars can inspire a challenge, avoid a deprivation mindset at all costs. Instead, find a fitness regime that's competitive and fun. Revel in recipes that use fresh produce and muscle-building proteins, without being bland or basic. (Acai bowl, anyone?) This Mars cycle gets you fired up about your career and you could take some bold strides towards your ambitions. You may have to pay some dues in that "lather, rinse, repeat" kind of way. Stay humble, but driven. Those repetitive tasks help you master a skill, while proving your devotion to the heavy hitters who may later open doors on your behalf.
With Mercury turning direct on Tuesday, you'll feel back to your live-out-loud brand of self-expression. Step back into the office like it was the first day of school: new outfit, new attitude...bam! On Wednesday, the full moon in Pisces and your 12th house of healing and release can help you cut ties with a situation that hasn't been serving you. No need to drag that baggage into a new season, Ram. Letting it go can happen one of two ways: By cutting this situation out of your life or by forgiving the offending parties and working to make amends. Just make sure that everyone is invested in repairing the rift. If you're legit going to move on, it can't just be you, Aries!
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Taurus
April 20 to May 20
Get ready to have a moment. White-hot Mars blazes into Virgo from Tuesday until October 22, setting your fifth house of fame on fire. Treat the next seven weeks like an extended photo op. This flamboyant and fashion-forward phase only comes every other year. Whether that means a savage power blazer or an adult spin on the backpack is your call, Bull. Position yourself as a leader in your chosen corner of influence. You might even be tapped to speak publicly or be the lead presenter for a client pitch. Say "yes," Taurus, even if you feel daunted. Practice makes perfect.
If you've been hovering on the periphery of a group, you could finally go "all in" with the official (or unofficial) membership package. There's strength in numbers, at least if you have the right allies at your back. Do you feel like your friends are scattered between different squads? Take it upon yourself to be the glue, organising a weekend group hang that brings everyone together. Not sure how they'll all get along? That's actually the best part, so stop stressing and just observe! With Mercury snapping out of retrograde (at last!) this Tuesday, communication should be far more seamless among your people. You should also feel greater confidence stepping into a leadership role, both in your public and private life. Take charge!
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Gemini
May 21 to June 20
Tired of feeling misunderstood? Ever since Mercury turned retrograde on August 12, you may have struggled to get your point across. A couple of key friendships even feel strained — and you haven't exactly been in the mood to iron it out. But it's time to break out the olive branches. On Tuesday, Mercury makes a U-turn, resuming forward motion and helping you repair rifts with your inner circle. Pro tip: Ask questions, listen, and let people get their feelings off their chests then explain yourself. You might even need to mend fences with a colleague. On Wednesday, the full moon in Pisces brings its healing beams to your career house. Restore the coworker camaraderie — but keep your eye toward the future. A bigger, better opportunity may be heading your way, one that helps you establish yourself as an industry insider.
Does your home feel like your haven, Gemini? If not, you'll want to do something about that, stat. Motivator Mars embarks on a seven-week journey through your domestic zone from Tuesday to October 22. Finding your little patch of peace could prove challenging. You might even have to take home on the road or couchsurf with friends and family while construction is being done. Ready to redecorate, relocate, or set up your space to cohabitate? Make-it-happen Mars gives you plenty of fuel for the mission. Just make sure you don't bite off more than you can chew. Rome wasn't built or designed in a day!
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Cancer
June 21 to July 22
Embrace the power of partnership, Cancer. This Tuesday, motivator Mars zips into Virgo and your house of dynamic duos until October 22, a cycle meant for pairing up. While these connections will probably fall into the platonic category, some Crabs could start a project — or a band — with your S.O. over the coming seven weeks. Kindred spirits will be everywhere you turn, ensuring an active social calendar. And with Mercury ending its retrograde on Wednesday, too, you're ready to invite some fresh faces into your circle. Dynamo Mars will give you the gift of gab and swagger to match it. Make those bold claims, but don't let your mouth write a check your ass can't cash. No, you shouldn't downplay your talents. Just make promises you're sure you can keep...and wow people by over-delivering.
A moment of truth arrives on Wednesday when the full moon in Pisces activates your outspoken ninth house. Whether you're standing up to a bossy friend or copping to a crush, you simply can't hold in your true feelings. Nor should you! Although your honesty could rock the boat for a minute, when the dust settles, you'll all feel much freer around each other. An unexpected chance to travel could crop up or you could hear about an exciting long distance opportunity. Dig up your passport and get your suitcase out of storage. You could be packing at a moment's notice within two weeks of the full moon. On that note, how about organising an Airbnb weekend with your girls?
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Leo
July 23 to August 22
Sweet relief! This week, life settles down a bit for you, Leo. And frankly, you're ready for a little more serenity. On Tuesday, Mercury retrograde ends — truly a blessing for you, since the backspin was happening in your sign since last Thursday. The scrambled signals (and your insane schedule) begin to clear up and you'll regain clarity about how best to utilise your time. Also on Tuesday, energiser Mars leaves Leo and moves on to Virgo until October 22. You've hosted the red planet since July 20, which has certainly poured some rocket fuel into your tanks. But a human can only sustain that high-octane energy for so long before it burns out your circuits. With Mars flowing through your second house of practical magic for the next seven weeks, put on your project manager's fedora. What time, money, and resources will it take to pull off your Cirque du Soleil-sized plans? Get a realistic picture and make your decisions from there. And if you want to be a lady of leisure this fall, that's okay, too. After the busy summer you've had, you've certainly earned it!
On Wednesday (er, hump day), the full moon in Pisces lands in your seductively intimate eighth house helping you feel the power of your purr. If your mojo's been in slow-mo, this full moon will reboot it — maybe with a partner or maybe just because you gazed at your reflection in the mirror. Bring some movement into your week: Go dancing, take a yoga class, invite a date on a bike ride. Feeling grounded in your own body makes it way more enjoyable to get physical with someone else. Coupled Leos could take a bold leap together, one that might even entwine you financially or by contract. Heads up: You may feel some intense emotions arise near this full moon, like jealousy or possessiveness. Vent to a levelheaded friend instead of acting on raw emotion. There may be a reason you're feeling this way, but with hazy Pisces moonbeams in the house, there's a strong chance you're overreacting.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.Related Video
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