astrologifs

Astrology GIFs for the Week of May 9, 2016

Photo-Illustration: Getty Images, BFA, Hubble Telescope

Early Monday morning, gracious Jupiter takes his gargantuan goodness out of retrograde, finally. Considering he’s the planetary placeholder for how we experience enthusiasm, broad-mindedness, and that bucolic “the hills are alive with music!” feeling, I’m sure we’re all ready for it.

Jupiter’s positive vibes aren’t going to make money rain down from the sky, of course. But we’re bound to feel more at ease, and maybe experience some relief from gray skies. In short, we’ll be optimistic and better equipped to cobble together workable solutions rather than gripe about our problems.

It helps that retrograde Mercury also dips into the bosom of the sun on the very day Jupiter moves forward. This powerful conjunction bodes well, encouraging fresh ideas and communication. We also gain insight on how to fix the issues that have erupted during this Mercury retrograde.

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

The first quarter-moon in sun-loving Leo on Friday will mean there’s plenty of fun for the weekend. As the moon moves into Virgo to hook up with jolly Jupiter on Saturday, you might also take that ebullient energy and put it to work by getting back into an activity you enjoy.

Read on for your sign’s Sky Code.

Taurus (April 20 to May 21)

Reserve the top of the week for the work that requires the most concentration and focus. As expansive Jupiter gains more speed and regains his post-retrograde swag, you, too, will likely feel your energy and enthusiasm perk up. After Wednesday, you’re likely to have less patience for being caught up in the professional grind. Find your groove with friends or family by dancing the night away or having sincere talks about what’s going on (or not going on) in your love life. It’s time to give and receive more attention there.

Gemini  (May 21 to June 20)

As bold Jupiter moves forward in fussy Virgo, you’ll likely find it easier to get more done around the house, whether it’s fixing that leaky faucet or a thorough purge of your closet. This is more than just spring-cleaning, however. It’s about getting your internal and actual house in order. You need quieter moments for that, and running the streets won’t be the best option. A new health or fitness regimen will help you feel more attuned and prepared for your upcoming birthday season.

Cancer (June 21 to July 21)

Fixate on how things are, rather than how they used to be or how you wish they might be. As once-obscured facts become known in your professional or personal life, and they most certainly will be as gassy Jupiter moves forward, you might be tempted to ignore them. Don’t. Take strong and clear action with what’s presented to you rather than spend time thinking (or overthinking) through what now is evident AND that you previously suspected. You don’t need to see an X-ray when you feel the pain of being stabbed in the back.

Leo (July 22 to August 21)

You’ll know your mojo is back when you feel a pressing need to buy new stuff. Go easy on the shopping and your budget. Your eyes might be much bigger than your wallet. However, there’s nothing wrong with the impulse to have something that shows off how you’re feeling. Also, remember that you don’t always have to buy something new to feel more like your old self. It might be a good idea to rummage through your old things to find an item that works for you now, maybe even better than it did before.

Virgo (August 22 to September 21)

What you seem to lack in faith and confidence will likely be balanced by an abundance of enthusiasm and energy, if you let it. If you feel giddy with excitement, don’t repress it too much. The charge from Jupiter’s move forward might take until midweek to pick up steam, but you’ll find your groove. Channel that energy into what feels good and not only what you feel obligated to do. Guilt is a poor motivator for excellence. Feeling great begets more greatness.

Libra (September 22 to October 21)

Although jolly Jupiter’s forward movement does much to lift your spirits, it might not be clear to others whether you’re in a good mood or not. You don’t have to bend over backward to let them know that you’re not a vicious bear, but you might have to admit, at least to yourself, that you’re not a social butterfly right now either. You may end up more content spending time alone or with those who know and understand you.

Scorpio (October 22 to November 21)

Your sharp powers of observation and attention to detail will serve you well in anticipating the needs of significant others, friends, or associates. However, you have to be careful not to be too presumptuous about announcing what someone needs before he or she’s shared it with you. You’d do better to ask, so the other person feels as if there’s an open exchange of goodwill rather than feeling like a charity case. It’s also a good idea to be ready to act when the green light’s given.

Sagittarius (November 22 to December 21)

Career issues and work projects that have been stalled get a boost from generous Jupiter moving out of retrograde. But you might venture toward one of two extremes, and both suck. You could become too meticulous about your work when it’s too soon to be sucked in that deep. On the other hand, you could run off half-cocked and attempt too much with little precision just to feel like things are in motion again. Take the middle path: Work with clear intention, but at a more measured pace.

Capricorn (December 22 to January 20)

Although some folks might feel like you’re speaking ancient Greek, others will get what you’re saying and want more. Your recent reclusive stints away from others allowed you to dive deeper into your own thoughts. Now, you’re in a better mind-set to share what’s been churning in you. The natural inclination is to work extra-hard to clarify what you’re saying with those who don’t get it immediately. Focus first on the enthusiasm from those who feel you. You’ve earned their respect and excitement.

Aquarius (January 21 to February 18)

Although you probably will feel better in your own space right now, your optimism is high. It wouldn’t be a good idea to drop major cash on lottery tickets, but you might feel bold enough to shuffle around your stock portfolio or appraise something that you always suspected had real value. You similarly might see better where you’ve been selling your own talents and abilities short. Ultimately, your slowly rising spirits lift the value of everything around you.

Pisces (February 19 to March 20)

It might be a good idea to slow your responses this week since you might be more sensitive to criticism or more insensitive in giving it. If you’re on the receiving end, then take that as a hint that it’s not quite the time to share your percolating opinions. It’s not that you’re wrong, per se. It might be that you haven’t yet crafted a fitting way to convey your ideas. The same holds true for criticisms you might have for others, especially SOs.

Aries (March 21 to April 19)

Although you love spontaneity (and spontaneity loves you back), preparation is key this week. Take a little time to ready yourself before acting. Similarly, you’re likely to be able to respond to things faster and better if you make improvements to your essential routines. Your enthusiasm for prepping might even translate to stepping up your foreplay with lovers too. Don’t worry: You’ll quickly find your way into the thick of action, but wouldn’t you rather feel more excitement than rush off to sparser results?

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 May 9, 2016