Feeling a little...ungrounded? With last week's crazy-making Aquarius lunar eclipse, we wouldn't be surprised. Bottled up thoughts surfaced that launched us out of our bodies and into the abyss of feels. Whether it was a ripple of WTF, a serious ugly-cry, or a full-on wave of anxiety, raise your hand if you're ready for some balance. Good news: This Monday, the quarter moon in earthy, rooted Taurus helps us get our Toms back on solid ground. Step one: Slowwwww it way down. Rome wasn't renovated in a day, so stop trying to achieve those Pinterest goals and find something to be grateful for now. Process-driven Taurus energy reminds us to enjoy the journey instead of rushing towards the destination.
Creative solutions flow in on Thursday, but we may have to work with limited resources. Decadent Venus clashes with "bigger, stronger, faster" Jupiter warning against excess. Curb the retail therapy urges and see if you could source your materials from the "free pile" or barter services instead of paying cold, hard cash. Warning: This cosmic coupling can drop a rose-coloured filter over life. Romanticising is fun, but make sure you're also grounded in facts and figures.
Leo
July 23 to August 22
Keep your aim high, Leo — despite the distractions your birthday season is bringing. Monday's quarter moon in your 10th house of prestige and professional honours may reveal a growth opportunity for your career. But this could come with a steeper learning curve, so you can't coast through the comfort zone. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making any major leaps. Don't just do it for the ego boost or name recognition. Make sure this goal will also feed your soul. If you've been barreling down the success superhighway, use this week to fine tune your trajectory. In this case, you might even sacrifice a few perks so you can have more time to yourself.
Thursday's friction between diplomatic Venus and forthright Jupiter could bring a difficult conversation to the surface. It's just not working for you to feign happiness or pleasure anymore, but you're also a little worried about hurting people's feelings. Don't sugarcoat your words if you want to resolve this, Leo. But, instead of hurling accusations, simply share your perspective. For example, "I would like to try something different," will yield better results than, "I'm not into your ideas." It might take a few days to hash out a win-win, but gracious honesty paves the way for creative solutions to emerge.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Virgo
August 23 to September 22
It's a one-minute updo kind of week as activity and adventure call your name. It starts with Monday's quarter moon in Taurus and your worldly ninth house. Are you playing too small of a game? Looking through life in a narrow, fearful way? Nothing like travel to shake that up, Virgo. With your birthday season but a week away, a journey to a new corner of the globe could be a perfect way to treat yourself. Research obsessively. Quarter moons are about balance. If you've spread yourself too thin, pause to prioritise. Bowing out of an activity can feel like a risk, but squeezing too much into your schedule can also compromise the quality of your work. Single out what you're best at, then go forth and slay.
On Thursday, you may have to be the rational one in a group. A plan could go off the rails as people keep adding their preferences and the expenses keep climbing higher. Rein your squad in and suggest a simplified remix that still ticks enough of the boxes. Are one or two people being difficult? You might have to give them an ultimatum near the weekend: Cooperate or hit the door! It's a little hardcore, sure, but their unhappiness could sink team morale.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Libra
September 23 to October 22
Staying calm, cool, and collected is the preference for most Libras, but this week, fire up your intensity level a little. If you don't, people could mistake your chill vibe for a lack of interest. Monday's quarter moon in Taurus and your passionate eighth house reminds you that the squeaky wheel gets the oil, Libra. If you truly know that something (or someone) is meant to be in your life, make some noise. Putting yourself out there can be scary — and since this is a balanced quarter moon, you don't have to hire a skywriter or get all crazy. Initiate a hangout or jump into a competition. Small acts can move the needle in major ways this week...and things could get sexy in the process.
On Thursday, expansive Jupiter nudges your ruler, creative Venus, bringing another reminder to go beyond the status quo. Polish up presentations and your social media profiles with snappier photos, fonts, GIFs, and graphics. And just because you can show up to a meeting in yogawear doesn't mean you should. Treat the world like your catwalk and rock fashion-forward pieces near the end of the workweek. Image may not be everything, but don't underestimate the power (and profitability!) of a standout visual cue.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Scorpio
October 23 to November 21
When it comes to love, you can be a little "all or nothing," Scorpio. But Monday's quarter moon in your relationship house helps you strike a calmer balance. Although the urge to merge can feel overwhelming — and you hate the uncertainty that comes with the dating game — this week could reveal the benefits of pacing yourself. For one thing, you'll get to know what people are really all about. And secondly, a better option could arise. If you're happily hitched, put more energy into nurturing your relationship. Handle the practical aspects, but make sure your shared calendar has enough fun, bonding activities on it, too.
The second half of the week is all about opening your heart and expanding consciousness as philosophical Jupiter nudges loving Venus. For a change, your guarded nature will go on hiatus and you'll see the best in people. Look out, Scorpio. Those warm-fuzzy vibes could practically make a professional cuddler out of you. (It's a thing.) But, don't mistake affection for true love. Some people are great in the moment, but just don't have the follow-through. You could uncover an amazing TED talk or find a great teacher at a local studio. Who knows? This might be the prompt you need to sign up for an intriguing retreat.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Sagittarius
November 22 to December 21
Stress check! Monday's quarter moon in Taurus shines its balancing beams on your sixth house of work and wellness. Have you piled so much on your plate that you're in a constant state of panic? Dial it down, Archer — and haul ass to yoga to release some of that anxiety. Or have you found yourself on the other end of the spectrum, falling into summer slacker mode? This quarter moon can bring a wakeup call of motivation. Getting started is the hardest part. Pick one project or errand that needs to get done, like, yesterday. Once you have that in motion, the kinetic energy will keep on propelling you forward.
You're a trusting soul, but this week you'll need to do some stronger screening when it comes to your social life. On Thursday, your ruling planet, openhearted Jupiter, in your 11th house of friendship gets checked by Venus in your eighth house of secrets. If you're too open, a shady person could infiltrate your friend group — and her hidden agenda could disrupt the good vibes. Or you could fall head over platform sandals on the first Tinder date, projecting all sorts of qualities onto a perfect stranger. Don't be so charmed by a big personality or an aura of cool, Sagittarius. It takes to time see if people are really that amazing. Remember: everyone has a shadow side. Wait until you've seen people in a range of situations (and moods) before handing them the keys to the kingdom.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Capricorn
December 22 to January 19
Put yourself out there, Capricorn — and do it with a little more gusto than usual. Monday's quarter moon lights up your fame zone and helps you create a buzz for your talents or a project you want to push into the public eye. A social media post could go viral or you could drum up support with your sheer enthusiasm. Romantically, don't play it so cool — but don't veer to the opposite extreme and hand your beating heart to someone you basically just met. Quarter moons are times for taking a more measured approach. For best results, reveal obvious interest while also pacing yourself.
A power couple fantasy could come alive near Thursday when expansive Jupiter in your 10th house of prestige throws a challenge to Venus in your relationship house. For business or pleasure, is it time to elevate your standards? You could meet someone near the weekend who shows you what the next level could actually look like. Or maybe you find real life relationship role models — a couple whose bond is mutually supportive. This should give you more than just a ray of hope, Capricorn. Keep those standards high! Already attached? Use the weekend to tackle a shared goal. Who knows? You might even start a side hustle in your shared flat.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Aquarius
January 20 to February 18
Where and when do you feel most at home, Aquarius? Last week, a lunar eclipse in your sign shook up life as you know it. You may be feeling unrooted, wondering what your next move in life should be. Whether it's a major shift or a minor tweak, you need to create a safe landing pad for yourself. With Monday's quarter moon in your domestic zone, you could literally decide to relocate to a place that feels more like "you" or at least add more of your personality to your space. But you might also realise that you need to spend time with family or your closest friends to regain a centered perspective. Nothing wrong with taking a quick trip back home or inviting your mum or sister to come visit for a few nights. You may be independent, Aquarius, but that doesn't mean you have to figure everything out all alone.
And just because someone shows up to have your back, don't feel compelled to immediately return the favour. Give yourself a minute to regain balance first! And on Thursday, when optimistic Jupiter squares off with romantic Venus, curb the urge to play life coach for your love interest or BFF. Just because you can see what's best for them doesn't mean they're ready to hear it. At times like these, the best help you can give them is to be understanding of what they're going through — even if you wish they were in a different place right now. Turn the attention back to your own interests. This is the perfect weekend to sign up for a workshop, so jump into an athletic adventure or even go on a two-day retreat. Feed your mind, and your soul will flourish — it's the Aquarian way.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Pisces
February 19 to March 20
Bottling up your feelings, Pisces? Unleash! Monday's quarter moon in your communication house helps you express yourself in a clear and centred way. No need to add a million poetic metaphors or a long backstory. Make your point quickly and clearly. (Bullet points help.) These moonbeams help you nudge budding friendships along. Make room in your schedule to bond with people you'd love to have in your inner circle. And if you've been neglecting an amiga who is already in your squad, cook her dinner and make amends. Then vow to stay in better touch going forward.
On Thursday, no-limits Jupiter in your possessive eighth house tussles with ardent Venus in your passionate fifth. Jealousy alert! The green-eyed monster could rear his head, causing you to misread the motivations of your mate or a date. You know what they say about assumptions, Pisces. Do your research before drawing conclusions. By the same token, this planetary pairing could make you jump the gun in love or heap a little too much pressure onto bae. You may be a hopeless romantic, Pisces, but pacing yourself is still a smart strategy.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Aries
March 21 to April 19
You're here, you're there, you're everywhere — help! Life's been feeling a little too manic for your liking lately, Aries. And even if all the options on your plate are good ones, you may be verging on overload. This Monday, hit the brakes and prioritise. Are you rushing to hit a milestone in record time? Maybe that's not really necessary, Aries. The quarter moon in Taurus helps you figure out what's really urgent and what might need to be put on the back burner for a while. Pro tip: Put the profitable missions at the top of the list, followed by the passion projects. If you don't have enough scratch to pay for your next IKEA trip, it's going to be hard to focus on anything creative. A straight-up conversation with a colleague could give you renewed inspiration — and stability — on the job.
The second half of the week is all about rebalancing relationships. On Thursday, an emotionally-charged clash between sensitive Venus and outspoken Jupiter could reveal some buried resentment. If you've been feeling unappreciated or put-upon, it's obviously time for a shift. But don't play the blame game, Aries. With your take-charge M.O., people tend to get comfortable leaning on you. Let them know what support you require. Odds are, they'll be happy to give it to you.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Taurus
April 20 to May 20
You have needs, Taurus! And no more ignoring them as you tie yourself into knots making everyone around you happy. With Monday's quarter moon in your sign, you need to get yourself back to equilibrium. And that means saying "no" when you're exhausted (or just because you feel like it) and asking others in your squad to step up. Believe it or not, your relationships will improve when you start being a little more demanding. Did one of your personal projects get pushed to the back burner? Carve out time to work on it again. Maybe you just need a "me day" of unstructured wandering, lounging, and exploration. If you can't take a day off during the workweek, clear your weekend calendar of all obligations, then go do you. This isn't a luxury, Bull, it's a matter of self-preservation.
On Thursday, a helpful person could show up like a gift from the Goddess. It might not seem like this person is actually available for support, but as the expression goes, "If you want something done, give it to a busy person." Or consider shelling out a little cash to have someone (a TaskRabbit, maybe?) help you build that IKEA bookshelf that's been in the box for two months or to deep clean your flat. You might have to sacrifice a brunch, but the relief this creates will be worth the price of your Bellini and avocado Benedict.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Gemini
May 21 to June 20
Shield your field, Gemini! And while you're at it, light up the sage wand and set a few crystals out here and there. This Monday, a quarter moon in Taurus and your 12th house of illusions and blurred boundaries implores you to set smarter limits with the people in your life. You're a trusting soul who can get swept up by a charismatic personality. But this week, you need to look beyond the surface. Are people being flaky or unreliable? Does something they're claiming not quite add up? Inconsistencies are a red flag. Find out what they're hiding and then make your final call. If an energy vampire has crept into your squad, feel no guilt about leaving them out of plans. You only have so much spare time, Gemini. Spend it with people you adore.
On Thursday, a decadent mashup of Venus and Jupiter amplifies your urge to splurge. If you don't have a ton of disposable income, don't give in to any retail therapy urges. And even if you do, you might not have the clearest judgment in the second half of the week. Put it on a Pinterest board and see if you still love it after next Monday's eclipse. Romantically, you may have to curb a little bit of your enthusiasm so as not to force a situation. That pressure can actually cause the other person to back off. Or, it may be you who has the wandering eye...and then some. Willpower, Gemini! A moment of pleasure isn't worth the ensuing complications.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Cancer
June 21 to July 22
Have you convinced yourself that you're not a "joiner," Cancer? Or maybe you've become a little too swept up in the politics of your squad. Whichever way you swing, Monday's quarter moon in your 11th house of groups helps you find a savvier balance. You can participate without having your entire life overtaken, Cancer. Dip a toe into a scene that's been calling you for a while. Return a few times before deciding whether or not to apply for a formal membership. That way, you'll know that it's more than just a passing fancy. When it comes to an existing affiliation, sit on your hands so you don't raise them to volunteer for yet another duty. Someone else will step up to the plate if you give it a minute, so don't rush in to save the day. Making sacrifices will kill your enjoyment in this activity.
Enjoy some quality time in your shell near Thursday as creative Venus in Cancer mashes up with can-do Jupiter in your domestic zone. With your nesting instincts revving you could have a brilliant idea for redoing your bedroom or make a spontaneous plan to host weekend guests. But don't bite off more than you can chew. Instead of redoing your entire bathroom, maybe a bright shower curtain would suffice? And be clear about how long you're down to have people crashing, so no one overstays their welcome! Romantically, this energising alignment can inspire you to talk cohabitation or at least clear out a drawer just for bae. Single? The "mum-approved" type could woo you this weekend.
Illustrated by Alia Penner. Photographed by Jason Rodgers.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?