Valentine’s And The Astro-pocalypse: Your Sun Sign Survival Guide
With Mercury in retrograde until February 21 and a whopping 7 planets compounding their influences in Aquarius, this Valentine’s is destined to be a celestial doozy. Here are the do’s and don’ts for each sun sign to ensure a smooth ride and some welcome surprises.
1. Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Do: Watch Your Words
When Mercury is in retrograde all manner of communications can get bungled, and not just in the electronic sphere. During a retrograde period conflicts typically arise due to crossed wires and carelessly-uttered words, so make sure you think before you speak.
Don’t: Let Your Temper Get The Best Of You
As the young, fiery ram of the zodiac you’re quick to anger, especially if you feel you’ve been wronged or misjudged. This month take a deep breath and pause before reacting to what you may feel is an offense, but is actually just an honest mistake.
2. Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Read More »No one loves love more than you, Taurus. When Cupid comes calling you pull out all the stops to shower your sweetheart with gifts and affection. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t lavish some of those pleasures on yourself this year, especially if you’re single.
Don’t: Indulge False Sweethearts
There may be someone on your radar–or vice versa–this Valentine’s, but proceed with caution before committing to a romantic evening with them. You or they may be acting out of loneliness or opportunism, which hardly lays the foundation for a positive romantic start.
3. Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Do: Focus On Friends
Relationships have never been your sole focus, Gemini; in fact, you’re known for lavishing friends and family with the attention you would otherwise devote to a partner. This year, regardless of whether you’re single or attached, spread your special brand of Valentine’s cheer beyond the bedroom.
Don’t: Make Multiple Commitments
You’re a highly social sign, Gemini, and can’t fill your calendar with enough to-dos–the FOMO is just too much. This year, however, try to be more selective and devote yourself fully to one activity and person, rather than try to juggle everyone’s demands.
4. Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Do: Speak Up
Romantically you tend to let your partner take charge, Cancer, but this year you may have to be a bit more assertive than you’re used to. Share your ideas and inspirations this Valentine’s, and don’t be afraid to go it alone if your intended company can’t oblige.
Don’t: Take Anything Too Personally
As with your fellow water signs Scorpio and Pisces, you’re naturally sensitive to both the actions and thoughts of those around you. Valentine’s can be an emotionally prickly time for some, especially those who are unattached. Try not to let the negativity affect you, but do Valentine’s your way.
5. Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Do: Go All Out
The only thing you love more than the spotlight is turning it onto your nearest-and-dearest, Leo. This Valentine’s don’t be afraid to make those sweeping, awe-inspiring gestures that are the lion’s trademark. Your winsome confidence can do no harm this month, so long as you’re acting out of genuine love.
Don’t: Let Your Pride Get The Best Of You
If you find yourself unattached or are unsure about making the first romantic move, now is the time to go for it. Don’t let fear of rejection or loneliness prevent you from opening up; just remember to speak from the heart.
6. Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Do: Leave Room For Spontaneity
Your wellbeing often relies on a sense of order and control, Virgo, but neither of those qualities make for an especially fireworks-filled Valentine’s eve. Don’t be afraid to lighten up and loosen the reins! By letting go–just a little–of your need to plan everything down to the last detail, you can open yourself up to an unexpectedly exhilarating Valentine’s.
Don’t: Sweat The Small Stuff
With Mercury in retrograde, plans may very well fall through due to a number of factors ranging from miscommunication to reservation glitches. Don’t let any momentary upsets get the best of your Valentine’s, but actively choose to work around them.
7. Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Do: Turn Up The Charm
Your Venus-ruled sign adores all things pertaining to love & beauty, and your charms hardly need a designated Valentine to hit their intended target(s). This year let the world see you at your luxurious, charismatic best, as your infectious joie de vivre is sure to be the best gift of all.
Don’t: Overspend
This might seem counterproductive to the above, but watch your wallet this month, especially around Valentine’s when the urge to treat yourself will be at its strongest–and costliest.
8. Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Do: Be Vulnerable
Scorpio is nothing if not a survivor, and you’ve spent years building up an impenetrable suit of armor to protect you from the worst of the world. This Valentine’s lower your shield a little and let your partner know how you truly feel about them, as well as the positive effect they’ve had on your life.
Don’t: Give In To Jealousies
You probably don’t need to be told your sign is notoriously prone to jealousy, especially when it concerns romantic partners. While you may be tempted to raise hell over what you perceive to be a slight or out-and-out infidelity, take a step back and only proceed after you’ve given the matter some rational consideration.
9. Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Do: Be Selectively Generous
While the independent archer’s motto could very well be “the more the merrier,” this year there’s someone special who deserves to be at the center of your attentions. This Valentine’s make them the focus of the evening, which will only return the good energy tenfold.
Don’t: Take Anything For Granted
You may receive unexpected tokens or gestures of affection, Sagittarius, and even if they don’t come from someone you’re interested in, be sure to thank them all the same. Remember, a kind gesture is never made in vain.
10. Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Do: Lighten Up
Much like your fellow earth sign Virgo, you have more than a little trouble relinquishing control. This Valentine’s give yourself permission to relax and have fun, as you may receive an unexpected–but much appreciated–reward.
Don’t: Be Stingy
Money is tight for most of us right now, Capricorn, but you above all deserve to splurge on yourself and, if you’re attached, your sweetheart. Don’t worry about spending a little more than you normally would to make Valentine’s Eve a night to remember.
11. Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Do: Think Outside The Box
You are among the most unique of the astrological signs, Aquarius, and tradition holds very little sway over you. Valentine’s isn’t just about romantic love, but the love we have for friends, family, and even neighbors and coworkers. Even if you don’t have a traditional Valentine this year, let the people in your life know just how much you appreciate them.
Don’t: Be Overly Negative
You often play the philosopher and social commentator when it comes to assessing worldly matters, which inevitably include Valentine’s Day. While it may be tempting to burst a few heart-shaped balloons with your wry observations about the real meaning of the hallmark holiday, just let others enjoy the day.
12. Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Do: Open Up Your Dream World
Pisceans are often said to inhabit two worlds simultaneously: the one we’re all confined to, and the one of their own internal manifestation. This can be both beguiling and frustrating for flesh-and-blood partners, so this Valentine’s invite your partner to share some of the delirious joys of your deep-sea soul.
Don’t: Be Overly Critical
While you don’t consider yourself a very materialistic person, you’re quick to notice when others fail to realize–let alone capture–the magic you see all around you. If your partner doesn’t get everything perfect this Valentine’s, let it go and be grateful for their efforts.
