Photo-Illustration: by The Cut; Photos: Getty Images
In case you hadn’t noticed, the sun is getting lower and lower in the sky. (So long, brat summer; hello, [working title] fall.) And as of Sunday, September 22, the sun will officially reach the celestial equator — the cosmic midpoint here on planet earth — yielding equal parts day and night: the autumnal equinox.
Autumnal equinox corresponds with the beginning of Libra season (aptly symbolized by the scales, representing balance and harmony) and, from a mystical perspective, serves as a sort of otherworldly checkpoint. The autumnal equinox is a threshold, a gateway. At the autumnal equinox, we temporarily straddle darkness and light. Motion and stillness. Action and surrender. And the fact that this autumnal equinox corresponds with eclipse season makes this particular moment that much more dynamic.
So, what does this autumnal equinox mean for you? Behold, what each sign needs to know for this pivotal, transitional vibe season shift!
Usually you prefer focusing on your personal goals rather than wasting your precious time worrying about what others are doing, but with the autumnal equinox activating the area of your chart associated with partnerships, you’re beginning to redirect your gaze. Maybe your relationships can help you get where you want to go? Maybe cultivating and tending to these bonds is important in both short- and long-term ways? Alternatively, if certain relationships are draining your energy, this is an excellent time to reassess their value. For you, the autumnal equinox is all about creating space for the right people who truly align with your goals.
At the autumnal equinox, the sun moves into the area of your chart associated with health and habits, meaning it’s time to reassess how your daily actions influence your overall well-being. Though you’d rather be apple-picking or refreshing your Halloween decorations instead of, say, reorganizing your to-do list, remember that even the smallest changes can create a powerful ripple effect. Think of it as planting seeds for long-term growth: Nurturing yourself through mindful choices is a form of self-care.
Feel antsy? Of course you are, Gemini! You’ve been craving excitement and inspiration, and, for you, that’s what autumnal equinox is all about. (Hallelujah!) Now, you’ll be feeling an extra burst of energy to express yourself in new and imaginative ways. Whether you’re launching a creative project, flirting with the barista as you order an obligatory pumpkin-flavored beverage, or experimenting with fashion trends (Tabi shoes?), this your season to celebrate that signature Gemini play.
With the autumnal equinox shifting the sun into the area of your chart associated with home, family, and foundations, you’re directing your energy back into the places where it matters most. While you may be working hard toward your bigger ambitions, this is your invitation to pause and reflect on what’s driving those goals. Don’t be surprised if memories and nostalgia bubble up unexpectedly, prompting you to reconnect with your roots or redefine your sense of belonging. Frankly, this is exactly what you do best, so prepare to thrive.
If you’ve been feeling a bit weird and isolated lately, I have good news for you: The autumnal equinox will shift the energy back into a social, communicative area of your chart. This season encourages you to broaden your social horizons, so don’t be afraid to make some new friends, Leo! I know it can be a bit scary to put yourself out there, but this is an excellent time to align with people who share your goals and interests. Get out there and schmooze!
Yes, your birthday season is now in the rearview mirror (sad!), but a whole other party is just getting started. With the autumnal equinox activating the area of your chart associated with personal finances and values, this is an excellent time to really analyze your relationship with money. (Woo-hoo?) By reflecting on how you truly value yourself beyond material success, you can start to reshape your financial outlook. Consider how your spending aligns with your values and whether you’re investing in things that actually nurture your well-being. This is your moment to redefine what money really means to you.
Happy birthday! Bask in those solar rays of the autumnal equinox, illuminating your natural grace, charm, and beauty. J’adore. This is your time to step into the spotlight and embrace all the love and attention coming your way. Instead of focusing on others and how they perceive you, give yourself permission to simply exist. What brings you the most joy? What lights you up? Embrace your desires, take up space, and, when in doubt, don’t be afraid to get a little weird.
As the sun shifts into Libra and the autumnal equinox ushers in a season of balance, your gaze begins to direct inward. Over the next few weeks, you’ll be called to explore deeper emotional bonds, revisiting some potentially unpleasant memories from the past that are still (annoyingly) impacting you today. You’re one tough cookie, Scorpio — but don’t shy away from embracing true vulnerability (yes, even with yourself). It’s not every day you have the time and space to explore the nooks and crannies of your psyche, so lean in to the process and relish this quiet introspection … for now. After all, your birthday season is coming up next.
Sagittarius, as the sun moves into Libra and the autumnal equinox arrives, you’re fired up and ready to expand your horizons — socially, culturally, and intellectually. This season activates the area of your chart associated with friendships, communities, and networks, urging you to connect with like-minded people who appreciate your quirks and oddities. This is your chance to broaden your reach, Sag, so put yourself out there and make your presence known.
Capricorn, as Libra season kicks off with the autumnal equinox, your focus sharpens on career and ambition. But, like, duh! This is exactly how you thrive. With the sun highlighting the area of your chart associated with reputation, your hard work is guaranteed to catch the attention of key players — so don’t be surprised if an exciting career opportunity lands in your inbox. This is your moment to step into the spotlight, so stay alert and polish up that LinkedIn profile. Something major could be just around the corner!
As the sun lights up the area of your life connected to travel, higher learning, and new experiences, you’re feeling a strong pull toward broadening your horizons. Wanderlust and deep innate curiosity are fueling you right now, which means you’re ready to switch things up in a significant way. Embrace opportunities to explore new perspectives and environments, whether physically or intellectually. The weeks ahead will offer plenty of chances to expand your vision of what’s possible.
The sun’s movement into Libra is calling you to go inward and explore some deep, emotional experiences. As a water sign, you’re no stranger to this type of soul-searching … but that doesn’t mean it’s necessarily easy. This is a powerful time for self-reflection, reflection, and processing the past. Take this opportunity to examine (and perhaps re-examine) unresolved feelings or past wounds, and — when in doubt — share your thoughts with your closest companions. Authentic connection and deep conversations will offer clarity, healing, and closure right now. You got this.