By Jenny Blume

 

In terms of Western astrology it’s been a rollercoaster few years, but the celestial ups and downs should even out as the year unfolds. A tension-filled square between Pluto and Uranus has been exerting a powerful influence since mid-2012, but after a final square off in March, some of the pressure should ease.

This particular celestial dance actually began back in the mid-60s with their conjunction, bringing issues around freedom, change, power and equality to the forefront of consciousness, so it’s all part of a much bigger picture. If your sun, moon or any personal planets fall in the middle degrees of any cardinal sign – Aries, Cancer, Libra or Capricorn – you’ve probably been copping the full brunt.

Action-oriented Mars normally races through the sky, but this year he’ll be hanging around in freedom loving Sagittarius for five months – an unusually long time. Faraway places are likely to exert a powerful pull from March until late September, along with adventurous, outdoorsy pastimes and foreign people and philosophies (that’s good news for the travel and feng shui industries).

After Easter, many of us will be pushed us out of our comfort zones, and quite literally, out the front door.

Saturn’s two-year journey through Sagittarius will keep large-scale global and environmental issues in the spotlight for the entire year, but in a case of celestial synchronicity, Jupiter’s Virgo transit (until September) should help us to stay grounded as we’re drawn to a simpler lifestyle… natural foods, old-style crafts, farmers markets, alternative therapies and community events.

Jupiter’s shift into luxury-loving Libra on September 10 will shift the mood as it draws many of us towards life’s finer offerings – delicious food (watch that sweet tooth!), the arts, live entertainment and a good dose of romance. It bodes well for singles, especially when we factor in the chatty, flirtatious Monkey, who’s set to dominate the year. Dating websites, jewelry stores, fashion departments and romantic restaurants should do a roaring trade.

If you’re ready to embrace a more active, outgoing and romantic lifestyle, the stars will be working in your favour. Wishing you all a happy, healthy and prosperous 2016!

 

ANNUAL FORECASTS

Sun sign forecasts are, of course, very general in nature (personal astrology readings are a whole other story!) but for a glimpse of what’s in store, find your sign below. More comprehensive sun sign forecasts will be available in Woman’s Day and then on my website from late December/January. Seasons refer to the southern hemisphere.

ARIES

March 21 – April 20

Balancing work with family commitments and your hectic social schedule might prove challenging, but as Mars awakens your pioneering spirit, anything outdoorsy or adventurous should help you to unwind. If restless feelings are intensifying, consider studying or try to get away. Finances are still a hot topic, but don’t sacrifice happiness along the way.

TAURUS

April 21 – May 21

You’re a talented person, but those pent-up feelings need a release. Solution? Find a creative outlet and pour it out. Achieving financial stability could become a holy grail, but as luck would have it a payout or inheritance might help you on your way. Family expansion could become a hot topic, while winter could heat things up on the romantic front.

GEMINI

May 22 – June 21

After a volatile year some Geminis might still be spinning, but as your old mojo returns, it’s onward and upward. Workwise, the Easter eclipse could propel you into top gear, in fact, Jupiter’s lucky rays could shift you almost seamlessly into a more satisfying job. Music should prove therapeutic, along with earthy pursuits like cooking and gardening.

CANCER

June 22 – July 23

Cosmic forces are coaxing you out of that comfort zone and into the public arena. Community events, training courses, family functions and fitness regimes will keep you on the go. April’s stellar lineup could bring a victory at work, while autumn could bring a financial solution resonates for all. If your love life needs a pick-me-up, plan a holiday.

LEO

July 24 – August 23

Been partying like it’s 1999? Don’t stress, the January 10 new moon should get you back on track. You’ll be searching for excitement this year, so why try a competitive sport or set a money-making idea into motion? As your confidence increases, you might even take on a more public role. February could weave a magical lover’s spell, so take advantage.

VIRGO

August 24 – September 23

With family dramas, whirlwind romances, home overhauls or relocations on the cards, 2016 might end up a milestone year. June’s high-energy stars could attract a rare opportunity, and by next spring your hard work should pay dividends. Just don’t overdo it: with Jupiter stimulating that obsessive streak, pacing yourself is the key to happiness and good health.

LIBRA

September 24 – October 23

Decisions, decisions. Your compassionate side wants to help others, but go-getter Saturn wants to conquer the world. Teaching or inspiring others could become a passion, along with fitness kicks and health-related goals. Family finances might inflame old arguments through autumn, but with Mars spurring you into action, a dream could move closer.

SCORPIO

October 24 – November 22

You’ll have excess energy to burn this year, so start searching for an outlet. Not only will your fitness feel the positive effects, your finances might also reap rewards. April could bring promotions at work, while August’s fortuitous sky could boost your bank balance boost. As your social circle increases through autumn, your dating pool will expand.

SAGITARIUS

November 23 – December 22

Freedom or responsibility? Saturn believes in tradition and stability, but Jupiter wants to run free and experience life. Some Sagittarians will retrain or switch careers in their quest for satisfaction, while others may feel a yearning to travel or relocate. Relationships could come under pressure as cards are laid on the table, but true love will win the day.

CAPRICORN

December 23 – January 20

Offload some emotional baggage! After a roller-coaster year, forgiveness could become a hot topic. Autumn brings festivals, food fairs and live shows, while winter’s expansive stars might send you on a trip away. Some Capricorns might discover a talent for trading or restoration, while on the job front, upgrading your skills might be a smart idea.

AQUARIUS

January 21 – February 19

Feeling social one day and craving solitude the next? Satisfying both sides might prove challenging as life becomes busier, but exercise should restore your equilibrium. Investment strategies might chop and change, but if you’ve put in the hard yards, June should bring sunnier skies. With a little luck and hard work, spring could usher you into a golden era.

PISCES

February 20 – March 20

With two eclipses in your sign, it’s the year of new you! Things may start on a slow note but the March eclipse will fire the starter’s gun. Family dramas, fitness kicks, hot dates, home overhauls, job offers … holding back the tide may prove impossible. Autumn’s unsettled stars could trigger a reappraisal, not only of your job but of your long-term goals.

 

About Jenny

Jenny’s lifelong passion for astrology, design and feng shui has led to a successful career as a writer and consultant. She writes weekly starsign columns for publications including Woman’s Day and Real People, and offers private consultations in Sydney and northern NSW.

For personal astrology readings, space clearings and feng shui consultations phone 0411 631 940 or by email jennyblume@iprimus.com.au

www.jennyblume.com.au