astrologifs

Astrology GIFs for the Week of February 8, 2016

Photo-Illustration: Kelly Chiello and Images by Getty Images, Hubble

As I said last week, this month in ancient Roman times was dedicated to purification, especially by fire and smoke. Although it’s rare to have Mardi Gras, Ash Wednesday, and Valentine’s Day happen the same week as a new moon, we can use this opportunity to reignite our commitment to what we hold in high regard, washing away what keeps us from the purity of that devotion.

In fact, the fun-loving trine between sensual Venus and happy-go-lucky Jupiter on Fat Tuesday can transform into the religious traditions of Ash Wednesday for some, or a more grounded appreciation of the good things in life for others. For instance, one person might trade in bar-hopping for yoga classes during Lent while another could decide to study red wine for 40 days by tasting every possible variety. Both ways show devotion.

The devotion that we express on Valentine’s Day must also be pure and sincere. With the power of a new moon, it’s time for the coupled to give full-hearted expressions of devotion rather than what’s expected or obligatory. This doesn’t mean that you have to go big or hard. Just keep it real, even if it’s only a small piece of chocolate sent with a charming handwritten note. If you’re single, there’s still a chance for romance because no one should know how to love you better than you do. Take the opportunity to woo yourself. If you’re not great at it just yet, then this new moon is your chance to get better.

The planetary weather report: Use these guidelines to unlock the stars, not to be locked down by them.

To help the new moon work its creative magic, clever Mercury regains the ground it lost during its retrograde and slips back into innovative Aquarius again on Saturday. We might also find it easier to surpass the inhibitions we had last month to see fresher possibilities.  

Read on for your sign’s Sky Code.

Aquarius (January 21 to February 18)

You’re likely to have a syrup-slow flow into the workweek, especially if you had the recommended dose of partying last weekend. Of course, Mardi Gras festivities won’t help you get in a serious groove. Even if you’re not in a party mood, use the sweet, graceful vibes to catch up with friends or treat yourself to your favorite dinner. After Wednesday, you’ll find your rhythm. Once Mercury heads back into your sign on Saturday, you’ll be able to get a head start on the next week and see where projects and tasks need to go.

Pisces (February 19 to March 20) 

There’s a lot brewing beneath the surface that you want to express to others, but you just can’t. A large part of it isn’t easy to put into words, so you’re off the hook there. But this new moon has you sensing that your life, as you know it, is about to change … again. A number of the changes will be positive, but since you’re unsure of the how, you feel anxious. Use the smooth vibes of this week to focus on and appreciate the good already in your life. This will build positive momentum.

Aries (March 21 to April 19)

You’re more likely to see the reward for your graceful actions over the last few weeks, whether you’ve been attempting to network or score more dates. As an Aries, you like to have an objective in mind and go all out for it. However, this week allows you to stay concentrated on your goals … and have fun while doing it. The two aren’t always mutually exclusive, so enjoy it. As chatty Mercury moves into lively Aquarius, however, don’t let this quick progress make you lose focus. Keep the lines of communication open since that’s what has gotten you this far.

Taurus (April 20 to May 20)

This week, you strike a sweet balance between finding your chill and then rediscovering an edge that doesn’t cut folks at the quick. Keeping this calm around you requires that you focus on what better serves the whole, rather than agonizing over the trivial things that annoy you about certain people. We all have our quirks, and crackerjack Mercury’s move into idiosyncratic Aquarius on Saturday will illuminate how to capitalize on yours for everyone’s benefit.

Gemini (May 21 to June 20)

You might have to play the student more than the teacher this week. It likely won’t be a comfortable position for you, because you probably know more than the person who’s attempting to school you. However, letting people teach you more about how they think and understand the world will help build trust and goodwill between you. Your brain and brawn won’t mean much if you can’t count on others to be there when you need them. You don’t have to make your learning dull, though. Get to know your colleagues doing something fun, like playing pool or over lunch.

Cancer (June 21 to July 21)

You care for key people in your life deeply and wholly, and you don’t have time to half-ass it. You need to dole out your feelings and finances carefully, because not everyone will appreciate you. This is probably why you keep a guard up with strangers. Fortunately, now you’re better able to reap the benefits of having set clear boundaries with some who were demanding too much of you. Feel free to enjoy receiving their generosity in return.

Leo (July 22 to August 21)

Your generosity in word, deed, or dollars could go a long way toward doing good, especially for those closest to you. With all this talk of purging lately, you likely feel lighter and when that happens, you’re able to do what Leos do best — shine. Although people tend to think your shine is only for your ego, they also don’t get that it brightens up others, too. However, remember, like the sun, shine because that’s what you do, not because you feel obligated or expect anything in return.

Virgo (August 22 to September 21)

Your ability to deliver top-grade work, whether professionally or in personal relationships, increases this week. You could almost become spoiled by how effortless it is to see it, believe it, and achieve it. However, there’s an important lesson to remember about this in the weeks ahead: Stay connected to the pleasure of giving your very best. The process of creating remarkable things and experiences can be as enjoyable as the product, if you let it. Resist the temptation to tweak your work to be even better when you feel it’s already damn good.

Libra (September 22 to October 21)

As the old song goes, “When you’re smiling, the whole world smiles with you.” You might have a few occasions this week to feel that’s true. You feel content, especially in familiar haunts, without feeling like there has to be a lot more. Similarly, you’re more comfortable by being around a few familiar folks than craving the wildness that usually comes with Mardi Gras. Enjoy the quieter time. Once gabby Mercury moves back into social Aquarius on Saturday, you’re going to want to turn the volume up again.

Scorpio (October 22 to November 21)

You’ll find it easy to turn on the charm without anyone feeling too much heat. Use your mellower setting to carve out time to catch up with close ones or schmooze with associates before busy Mercury returns to networking Aquarius on Saturday. You’ll still have tons of charisma once that happens, but you’ll likely be interested in sticking to more familiar terrains and topics. Perhaps you’ll express your opinions with even more passion and conviction. Be careful, though, that your charms don’t quickly turn into barbs then.

Sagittarius (November 22 to December 21)

You’re still more inclined to please yourself than appease your accountant or budget, especially at the top of the week. You might not feel depressed necessarily, but you do have a strong need to stay inspired! Stick to activities then that give you something to think about or teach you to enjoy your life more. For instance, if you go out on Mardi Gras, use it as an opportunity to savor your favorite liquor. You’re going to have a better time sipping and appreciating than drinking until you’re mindlessly drunk.

Capricorn (December 22 to January 20)

There’s probably a lot you can and want to give now, perhaps even as a legacy. You don’t have to be a septuagenarian with a huge bank account to think about leaving something to be remembered by. In fact, thinking about your legacy when you’re young is one way to ensure that you have something to pass along when you’re old. You can use this new moon to look into long-term ways of building your financial prosperity. However, don’t forget that some of the most lasting legacies are forged by how you invest time, energy, and love into people.                                                 

Samuel F. Reynolds is a professional astrologer in New York City and the founder of the Zodiac Lounge.

GIF reporting by Leah Rodriguez.

Astrology GIFs for the Week of February 8, 2016