Slip on that Technicolor dreamcoat — and a pair of Snapchat glasses while you're at it. January's new moon falls in quirky, geeky and completely magical Aquarius. If you were waiting for Mercury retrograde's smoke to clear before updating gadgets, this tech-savvy new moon sanctions a trip to the Genius Bar — and yes, the checkout iPad at the Apple Store. It's also time to make some wishes from the "rainbows and unicorns" category. Early this week, start dreaming the "impossible" dream. When the new moon goes down on Friday, write those wishes down and slip them under a crystal. (So very metaphysical...so very Aquarian.) Six months from now — during a powerful lunar eclipse in Aquarius on August 7 — pull out that paper and give it a read. Some of those "OMG...really?" visions will have sprung to life...and then some!
This new moon also kicks off the Chinese Year of The Rooster. Last year was a Monkey year and it was truly, ahem, bananas. Those sneaky tricks are now in the rearview as we embrace the more structured, orderly, and showy groove of the Rooster. This crowing creature's job is to rouse people from slumber, so here's hoping 2017 gets more folks woke!
On Sunday, motivator Mars does a costume change, doffing dreamy Pisces' tie-dyed caftan in favor of go-getter Aries' bright red power suit. Got goals? We know you do. And with Mars in this most potent position until March 9, let the resolution revolution commence! Mars in Aries is in it to win it. One catch: Competition could get cutthroat and tempers could flare if we forget to play fair.
Aquarius
January 20 to February 18
Hello, fresh start! Friday’s skies mark a new moon in your sign, Aquarius, making this the astrologically official start of a new year for you. Shake off the old, and bring in the new! Kickstart your 2017 resolutions by reinvesting your goals and even using this text service to keep you motivated. (Every little thing helps, right?) This new moon is extra powerful as it is connected to an Aquarius lunar eclipse on August 7 — the first one in your sign that we've had this decade! Change and growth are inevitable, Aquarius, even if you have to do something that scares you a little. Step outside your comfort zone and walk away from any unworkable messes. A new and improved path will unfold over the coming six months!
Also, are you ready for some much-needed play time? Since December 19, you’ve been in an ultra productive mode with motivator Mars in Pisces churning in your second house of work and money. But the workaholic vibe brings zero benefits to your fun-loving sign. Thankfully, Mars sail on to Aries this Saturday, activating your outgoing third house until March 9. Socialize often — and strategically, radaring in on the types of contacts you’d like to have in your professional and personal circles this year. There are only 24 hours in the day, Aquarius, so you might as well spend your with people who lift you higher.
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Pisces
February 19 to March 20
Channel your inner Elsa (or Anna…you decide) and let it go. What has passed its expiration date in your life? Friday's Aquarius new moon activates your 12th house of healing. These moonbeams help you find closure and move on from past pain. You are so ready to kick that bad habit — or a toxic relationship — to the curb, Pisces! This moon may make you feel like dramatically cutting ties, but make sure that clean break is actually warranted. Sometimes, a little space can do the trick. Self-care too, so indulge liberally in spa treatments this week. (Or how about a rebound vacation?) Remember: It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Just focus on making smarter choices and you'll get stronger day by day.
This weekend, you'll find your center again — ahhh. Has 2017 already been too much of a roller coaster for you? Action loving Mars has been percolating in your sign since December 19, so we wouldn't be surprised. But Saturday, the red planet moves on to Aries and your house of practical magic until March 9. After all those fireworks you'll have the focus to hit your to-do list and get rolling on your income and career goals! If you're revamping your budget for the year, try these creative ways to make ends meet and save serious cash. Before March, you could apply for a side gig or raise your rates. Tighten up your belt, even if that means you stop picking up the check for your friends for a little while. You’ll feel better once you've stabilized your own finances. Flex those self-sufficiency muscles!
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Aries
March 21 to April 19
So many goals, so little time! Instead of doing it all by your lonesome, start recruiting your dream team. Friday's new moon in Aquarius activates your teamwork zone. What could you outsource or share with a collaborator? Start working on your big plans now to see major results down the road. But be patient, Ram, because new moons are starting blocks. What you get in motion now will yield a bumper crop by the corresponding full moon (and a super-powered lunar eclipse to boot) on August 7. On a purely social note, this new moon could bring a wave of fresh faces into your life. Act like an extrovert — even if you have to fake the outgoing vibes until they feel real. (This has proven to work.) If you’re working on an online venture — or just thinking about it — shift into high gear. You might even attract some seed money over the coming six months.
The momentum keeps crescendoing on Saturday as your ruling planet Mars blasts into Aries until March 9. The red planet has been chugging along through Pisces and your foggy 12th house since December 19 making it hard for you to focus and stay on track. Splash some water on your face and wipe the sleep from your eyes. That fire is back in your belly and your charms will be in full swing — is there anything you can't do?! This mojo reboot helps you prioritize personal passions. Like these savvy Instagram stars, use social media to start a buzz on your own behalf. A word to the wise: Mars can be aggressive, so temper your enthusiasm. If people start backing away or ignoring your texts, take it down a notch or two. There's a good chance you've just been coming on too strong.
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Taurus
April 20 to May 20
Grab your climbing gear, Taurus: You're headed up the ladder. Friday's new moon in Aquarius and your ambitious 10th house propels your ascent. Even if you think your lofty goals aren't doable in their current form, don't give up. You may have to simplify them down to a more basic 1.0 plan. (Try running them through these three simple steps.) They key lies in creating a solid foundation and you can build upon for basically forever. Are you feeling a bit "meh" about your work? Network for new leads — nothing wrong with talking shop during your weekend celebrations. If your skills need a refresh, enroll in classes or ask a pro to take you under her wing.
Before you start toasting the year of the Rooster this Friday, you may want to plan more toned down Chinese New Year festivities. You’re about to go into a lower energy cycle, as go-getter Mars exits your social 11th house and heads into Aries, your restful 12th until March 9. Big bashes could deplete you; no apologies if you just want to stay home and binge-watch Netflix. Did you know that you process the most emotional baggage during your sleep? If you're not waking up rested, get some support for working through those issues — from a solid friend group to an amazing therapist. Facing your fears, hang-ups and limiting beliefs courageously is the fastest way to heal them. Write, dance, stretch, primal scream, find ways to rejuvenate! Whatever it takes for release.
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Gemini
May 21 to June 20
Reach for the stars, Gemini — especially if they happen to be hanging in an unexplored galaxy. Friday's new moon in Aquarius and your expansive ninth house could propel you out of your comfort zone. What still unchecked on your must-try list? A trip to Iceland? A Southern Italian cooking class? Weed yoga? (Not even kidding.) Your indie spirit leads the way, so allow it to open doors, take you to distant lands, or just have mind-opening experiences. Get your passport stamped, or turn that brilliant idea into a moneymaking venture — this new moon might just spur you to become your own boss.
On Saturday the collaborative juices flowing as energetic Mars roves through your team-oriented 11th house until March 9. You're always down to pair off, but why stick to twosomes when a squad of six can get so much more achieved? Warning: Enthusiastic Mars could leave you overloaded with "too much, too soon." If you’re getting overwhelmed by the group dynamics or things are moving too fast, take a moment to center yourself and consider if everything is working for you. (And even do this root chakra meditation to ground yourself.) The 11th house is also the tech zone and with impulsive Mars here, pause before you post. The last thing you need is a Twitter war with a random person you hastily dragged. Mars has been in Pisces and your career zone since December 19 and work has been extra demanding. Now it's time to combine work with play. Drinks with a client? Make sure you expense that!
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Cancer
June 21 to July 22
The heat index is rising, Cancer — dayum! Friday’s new moon in Aquarius lands in your smoldering eighth house, revving up your erotic mojo. Has your relationship been getting more and more intense — in a good way? Take a big next step, or up the oomph factor with these sexy hacks if you're long distance. If the one you adore keeps dodging the commitment convo, you may have to make things super clear with an ultimatum this week. Honestly Cancer, life is too short to get strung along! These moonbeams will also pave the way for impressive moneymaking opportunities. Start that side hustle and you could see some big rewards by the corresponding full moon (a potent lunar eclipse) this coming August 7.
On Saturday, energetic Mars blasts into Aries and your achievement-oriented 10th house until March 9. Here's more momentum for that empire-building. Your biggest career dreams are within reach, Cancer, so try these strategies for lining up that promotion. ('Tis the season.) Breaking down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps makes them easier to accomplish. Think big, but stay diligent! Before you put your nose to the grindstone, enjoy a little "grand finale" adventure with a quick weekend getaway. First stop, the beach or a city with a cool bar scene; next, the boardroom.
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Leo
July 23 to August 22
It takes two to make a thing go right, yes, Leo? With Friday's new moon heating up your partnership zone, start cruising for a real commitment instead of another predictable hookup. Switch dating apps if you've already splashed around with plenty of fish and have tired of Tinder. Attached? Your romance could become a lot more official. Fallen into the "old marrieds" rut far too young? Book a session with a sex therapist. (Here's why it could be life changing.) Business partnerships, creative collaborations, and even stalled contract negotiations will pick up speed. Bottom line: This week is all about synergy. Pairing up now could lead to some dynamic duo rewards by the corresponding, powerful lunar eclipse on August 7.
Life gets a lot less intense this weekend — happy news to your ears. Since December 19, agitator Mars has been simmering in Pisces and your intimate, laser-focused eighth house. Maybe you got a teensy bit obsessed or tunnel-visioned, or stressed about the smallest things. Come Saturday, you’re so ready to chill the f*** out. With Mars soaring into Aries your wanderlust and independent spirit are activated. Unchain yourself from useless obligations, Leo, and set sail. Maybe it's time to scratch off that bucket list destination to Barcelona or Montenegro? Warning: Everyday constraints may feel chaffing between now and March 9. In both love and work, try to avoid knee-jerk reactions to being fenced in. Create shared adventures (a six-week backpacking trip with your S.O or best friend?) instead of pushing people away. Make your free-spirited attitude work for you by taking some calculated risks. Maybe it's time to launch that business or develop an online course to help pay the bills.
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Virgo
August 23 to September 22
Unfurl your yoga mat and create a workout mantra! Friday's new moon in Aquarius stretches into your sixth house of healthy living, launching a six-month phase of increased vitality. Dial back the decadence and mix in more clean eating with those pizza breaks. Find a gym you love and make regular workouts your positive new habit. Don’t aim for your perfection, Virgo — and avoid anything that triggers a body-shaming spiral. Instead, focus on the pleasure that comes from taking excellent care of yourself. Avoid anything that feels extreme, like a juice-only cleanse, say. You want long lasting results, not an ephemeral high. Friday also begins the Chinese Year of the Fire Rooster, which is associated with the Western sign of Virgo — an especially promising cycle for you. The orderly Rooster loves a routine, so this will certainly help you find one that sticks.
On Saturday, motivator Mars enters Aries until March 9, lighting up your eighth house of intimacy, mergers and joint ventures. Time to make it really official…or call the whole thing off? A partnership could become Barack-and-Michelle solid, for love or business even. On the flip side, a rift could find you parting ways — and not on the best of terms. Your own emotions could intensify, thanks to Mars in this possessive and jealous zone. Stop throwing shade and channel that aggressive energy into some lusty pursuits. With the red planet in your steamy eighth house, your libido is on fire. Refresh your lingerie drawer and update your bedroom game with some new positions. It’s called sexual healing for a reason, Virgo.
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Libra
September 23 to October 22
Is your love life ready for a makeover, Libra? (Or a few tantalizing tweaks?) La vie amour gets a much needed shot of cosmic mojo, courtesy of Friday's new moon in Aquarius and your passion sector. Single? Stop waiting for The One to right-swipe you and take the lead in your quest for romance. Take initiative and scout out some promising contenders yourself. Test out these first date convo starters if you're feeling shy. Fame could also come knocking under this new moon. Is the world aware of your total awesomeness? If not, be more proactive about promoting yourself. Start with your own social media (obviously) but see if friends might start a buzz on your behalf.
On Saturday, Cupid starts firing more arrows as fierce Mars burns it up in Aries and your relationship zone until March 9. Since late December, you’ve been ultra focused on checking things off your to-do list as Mars was buzzing in your efficient sixth house. But every good Libra knows what truly makes the world go round: people, not a stack of accomplishments. Turn your focus to your closest partnerships. Has your other half left you in limbo without a commitment? Feisty Mars can't deal with that grey area. Time to lay down the gauntlet: Are you in or out? If you're comfortably coupled, beware. Firecracker Mars might find you starting fights for "excitement" or sweating the small stuff. Find creative ways to release the tension. Start in the gym maybe, then move it to the bedroom — after you've shot over a daring sext. Meow! Single? Mars fills you with the right amount of swagger and confidence, making you absolutely irresistible to any potential prospects. Have fun — but careful not to come on too strong!
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Scorpio
October 23 to November 21
Does your home feel like a castle? Friday's new moon in Aquarius nests in your domestic fourth house. Even if you share space, you need at least one little corner you can call your own. Create that Scorpio sanctuary and add some new touches to your casa. Perhaps it’s time to DIY a reclaimed wood fireplace or better yet, marble wallpaper to flaunt your love for luxury? If you're thinking of upgrading, scout the real estate listings. Your dream home could be tucked right under your nose. This energy also has a strong maternal pull; a mother figure or powerful woman could take on a bigger role in your life the next two weeks.
On Saturday, go-getter Mars zooms into Aries and your sixth house of wellness until March 9. For the next six weeks, your workout mojo will be popping — and you’ll want to go that extra mile when it comes to nutrition like signing up for an organic food delivery box. Mars can be fierce, so don't go overboard, Scorpio. In your quest to turn over a healthy leaf, you could overextend yourself. Accident-prone Mars could lead to a workout-related injury if you don't follow the rules or stretch before a vigorous cardio class. Remember, this is about feeling great, not competing with the front row fitness bot. Aim to make today’s pigeon pose (or lifting session) a little better than yesterday’s…and you’re off to a good start. Remember to treat yourself along the way. Moderation is key.
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Sagittarius
November 22 to December 21
It’s showtime, Synergy…uh, Sagittarius! Friday’s Aquarius new moon is chatting up a storm in your communication house, sparking unity with like-minded people. Not sure where to find them? Well, there is an app for that. Already scored a stellar squad? Join forces on a project or a protest; your combined efforts could yield unprecedented results by the corresponding full moon (a potent lunar eclipse) on August 7. This full moon also energizes your inner media maven. Sign up for that workshop in memoir-writing, social media marketing or producing a YouTube show. You never know, Sagittarius: What starts as a side hustle could soon see you as the queen of your own publishing empire.
Hibernation time is ending early for you, Sagittarius — effective this Saturday. Since December 19, energy planet Mars has been in sleep mode for your sign, lingering in Pisces and your domestic fourth house. Maybe you've been moodier and less social than usual. If you’ve been practicing the Danish trend of hygge, trade the slippers for your dancing shoes — and the fluffy robe for some date night sequins. From Saturday until March 9, Mars blazes in fellow fire sign Aries and your fifth house of celebration and celebrity. Those awards show red carpet fetes and NYFW shows are a-calling, Archer. Use this powerful period to move a stalled creative project forward — like that abandoned manuscript — or redouble your efforts in a romantic relationship. Take some fashion risks: If anyone can pull off mermaid lips, it's you. The spotlight may soon be on you, so why not leave an unforgettable imprint?
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Capricorn
December 22 to January 19
Money, money, money! Friday's new moon in Aquarius lights up your second house of finances, launching a six-month cycle of prosperity. Breathe a giant sigh of relief, Capricorn, and then dig in to your action plan. What do you hope to accomplish in early 2017? Use the moon’s mojo to move your ambitions forward — whether you're angling for a new job or promotion; or becoming a savvier saver. Efforts you make now could yield a high ROI by the corresponding full moon (an electrifying lunar eclipse) on August 7. Remember: You want people watching you so don't shirk the bosses' eyes, engage them in your process and wow with what you produce.
On Saturday, Mars decamps to Aries and your domestic fourth house until March 9. Take a breather from the social butterfly routine and return to your cocoon. How can you make your casa a little more blissful? Tackle a new decor project or relocate social gatherings to your place. Just don’t bite off more than you can chew, despite the confidence spike Mars brings. Renovations may go awry, your DIY wallpaper plan may prove harder than you thought, or the construction crew might show up early — or worse, really late. Tensions with your fam could escalate, especially with the women. (Uh, how are things with your sister?) This is not the time to push it, Capricorn. Instead focus on self-care and exercise to release that draining energy. Your bathtub will be your BFF. Add some aromatherapy candles and epsom salt to your soaks to ease muscle tension and help your go-getter sign finally relax.
Illustrated by Alia Penner.Photographed by Jason Rodgers.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
What 3 Soothsayers See In America's Future — & What They Think We Should Do