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Jupiter Is Leaving Pisces Behind and Entering Aries

Photo-Illustration: by Preeti Kinha; Photos: Getty Images

If you aren’t yet familiar with Jupiter — you know, the largest planet in our solar system — allow me to introduce you. In astrology, this gas giant is referred to as “the Great Benefic,” which means it brings luck, fortune, abundance, and expansion wherever it goes. Jupiter is associated with higher learning, cultural intrigues, and spiritual enlightenment, too. Sounds great, right? Well, too much of a good thing can still be too much.

Jupiter is notoriously “extra.” In fact, this planet is the perfect embodiment of the gambling spirit: Its overt optimism can quickly transform into reckless decadence.

And this week, the planet is at the center of a powerful celestial shift guaranteed to cause ripple effects for … well, everyone. On Tuesday, May 10, at 7:22 p.m. ET, Jupiter moves into the sign of Aries and stays there until October 28. What does it all mean?! Keep reading.

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The Before: Jupiter in Pisces

How Jupiter expresses itself — both its positive and negative attributes — is filtered through whatever zodiac sign it occupies. And, for the first half of 2022, Jupiter has been cruising across Pisces’s otherworldly landscape. We’ve seen the implication of Jupiter in Pisces in some really literal ways: We’ve talked about vibe shifts, embraced psychedelics, and dissolved all pandemic protocols to see reality through rose-colored glasses. We’ve listened to new dreamy, nostalgic bangers on the radio (see: Harry Styles’s “As It Was”) and swooned over the pregnancy announcement of the Pisces mermaid herself (hi, Rihanna). In short: Jupiter in Pisces has served us lo-fi romance and mystical blessings. Pisces is the sign of peace, love, and “sweep it under the rug” — Jupiter just made it larger than life.

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The After: Jupiter in Aries

But now, Jupiter is about to sing a different tune. For the first time since 2011, Jupiter is entering Aries, heralding a catalytic energetic shift. While Pisces (the last sign of the zodiac) is all about release and surrender, Aries (the first sign of the zodiac) is about initiation and action. A fire sign, Aries is known for its swift impulsivity and “leap before you think” approach to life. So, if these past few months have been like a deep trance, don’t be surprised if life suddenly feels like a fire alarm going off in the middle of the night. Jupiter in Aries is big “wake the fuck up” energy. We should all expect to receive some serious wake-up calls in the next few weeks.

It should also be noted that Aries is associated with “me.” As in, you. Aries shifts our interest away from the collective and community to focus more on individual needs. Perhaps you’ve been compromising too much of yourself for others’ happiness? Or maybe you feel like others’ apathy is holding you back, and you’re finally ready to push forward and try something new? Or, you could feel inspired to really focus on your physical health. Aries is associated with embodiment. Fundamentally, Aries is about embracing self through independence, autonomy, and personal agency.

Keep in mind, there is an aggressive machismo to Jupiter in Aries, which has the tendency to escalate situations. With the planet of expansion moving into this combustible sign, make sure you’re not making mountains out of molehills. Remember that leadership isn’t just about ruthless action, but rather, inspiration: How can your individual choices inspire others to make brave, courageous choices?

At the end of the day, there’s nothing more admirable than the raw humility of trying something new. My hope for you, dear reader, is you celebrate this magical, rare transit by trying the damn thing. As the first sign of the zodiac, Aries reminds us that we’re all beginners, so don’t be afraid to embrace the unknown. Whether you’re learning a new hobby, applying for a position in a totally different industry, or switching up your approach to dating, Jupiter in Aries is a celebration of the novice. You can recover from failure, so don’t live with regret.

Jupiter Is Leaving Pisces Behind and Entering Aries