Self-Care for Your Zodiac Sign
It is widely believed by many that your zodiac sign can have a large influence on factors such as basic character traits, emotions, behavior and thought patterns. Even if you’re not someone who believes in or follows astrology and astrological signs, many say that knowing more about your own zodiac signs can provide insight into not only who you are, but it can also help you improve current and future relationships, provide guidance on career choices, help you learn more about your strengths and weaknesses, and gain an overall deeper understanding of yourself. Along with gaining an overall/general understanding of yourself, you can also learn more about specific areas, such as self-care. Each zodiac has different traits, needs, and interests, which means self-care can be highly personalized based on the sign.
There are 12 zodiac signs in total, all representing the four elements (air, fire, water, and earth). What month and day you were born then determines which zodiac or astrological sign you will fall under. As a water sign (specifically a Cancer), I’m usually told that it is why I’m more of a sensitive and emotional person who values creating a comfortable and cozy environment. As someone who does tend to lead more with emotion and enjoys their time at home, I would have to say this is a pretty fair description.
So, what is the best self-care routine and ideas for your zodiac?
Aries: March 21 – April 19
This fire sign is, well, fiery and full of energy. As an Aries, you are motivated, ambitious and determined to get things done. Use this energy towards doing a high-intensity workout, such as running or boxing, which will help release stress and clear the mind. However, these energetic individuals could also benefit from the occasional practice of slowing down, as well. Try planning a relaxing spa day or engaging in an activity that encourages creativity and another way to release stress.
Taurus: April 20 – May 20
This sign is no stranger to self-care, as they are known to enjoy relaxing in serene environments and feel content when being pampered (I mean, who doesn’t?). Lean into this and draw yourself a nice bath, light some scented candles, get a massage, or indulge in your favorite meal/treat. While this earth sign may embrace relaxation, they are also ambitious, resilient and not afraid of hard work.
This is why another way to practice self-care is sleep – but more importantly, the quality of your sleep. Practice good sleep hygiene by trying to go to bed at a reasonable time and create an optimal sleep environment (dark/cool bedroom, avoiding blue lights, and/or considering using a white noise machine).
Gemini: May 21 – June 20
Gemini – also known as the “social butterflies” of the zodiac. These air signs are known for their sharp minds, communication skills and their innate curiosity. Thriving on mental stimulation and social interaction, try combining the two and plan a game night with friends! Other ideas include trying a new hobby, doing a puzzle or going on an adventure to somewhere new. This sign is also known for stretching themselves too thin, so it is important (just like Aries) to practice the art of slowing down. Try a creative yet relaxing activity, such as writing or drawing, or settle into your favorite chair with a calming cup of tea and a good book!
Cancer: June 21 – July 22
These zodiac signs are intuitive, sensitive and nurturing. Self-care for this water sign involves creating a comfortable environment, which can be done by organizing your space in a way that feels both calm and safe and then curling up with a good book or movie and a cozy blanket. Cancers also tend to let their emotions run high (and often), which is why practices such as journaling and/or meditation can help both ground them, as well as becoming an outlet to express their thoughts and feelings. Being natural caregivers, they can also tend to put others’ needs first before their own, so it is also important to truly take this time to pamper yourself with a relaxing bath and a home-cooked meal (or takeout).
Leo: July 23 – August 22
Next up is Leo! This fire sign is known for their ambition, bravery, and magnetic personality. They also tend to have a flair for the dramatics, which makes sense, as their interests usually revolve around creative pursuits (such as performing arts and/or fashion). This is why doing something that helps channel that inner creativity, such as dancing, painting, or pottery, can be a great self-care tool. Leos thrive on activities that make them feel both confident and loved, so planning a glamorous spa day for themselves and/or planning activities with friends and family is also a great way for this zodiac sign to take care of themselves.
Virgo: August 23 – September 22
Logical and known for their analytical minds, these earth signs excel at managing complex tasks and noticing details others may have missed. For Virgos, one self-care tool is to tidy up their surroundings. While sounding like a chore to most, the act of decluttering and organizing can help the (generally) overthinking Virgo to feel calmer and in control. It could also be a good idea to try and ground yourself. Despite being an earth sign, the overthinking and constant analyzing can keep these signs mostly inside their own heads. To combat this, try activities such as yoga, meditation, or gardening outside (weather dependent, of course).
Libra: September 23 – October 22
These air signs are all about balance and achieving harmony, also known for their diplomacy and being great meditators. These signs also value beauty, which is why surrounding themselves with nature, art, music, etc., can be a great way to practice self-care, as well as engaging in activities that promote inner peace, such as Tai-Chi or meditation. For this zodiac sign, relationships with others are crucial and bring them joy, so make fun plans with a friend or even engage in conversation with a loved one over the phone.
While Libras are very social, they also need time by themselves to recharge. So don’t forget to take time for yourself to participate in activities you truly enjoy and don’t forget to indulge in some pampering (getting a pedicure, doing a face mask, taking a hot bath, etc.).
Scorpio: October 23 – November 21
Scorpios are known for being insightful and intuitive. These water signs are also often mistaken for fire signs, due to their passionate and intense nature. Scorpios are also known for being deeply in-touch with their inner selves, so activities such as meditation, journaling and/or shadow work can be a great tool for self-care, as it can allow for deep reflection and promote healing. Another way for this zodiac sign to practice self-care is to get out outside and connect to nature. Spending time in nature can be especially grounding for Scorpios, especially if it is near water, such as a walk on the beach or even just sitting by the river and meditating.
Sagittarius: November 22 – December 21
This fire sign is always on the quest for something, whether it be knowledge or adventure. They are known for their magnetic and playful personality and associated with flexibility, as well as adaptability. As this zodiac sign thrives on adventure, planning trips and exploring new places is a great way for them to practice self-care and bring them joy. This desire for adventure and exploration goes along with participating in outdoor activities, such as biking, running, hiking, etc., - anything that can help them recharge and free. Their fuel for knowledge also means that another good self-care practice is something that helps to stimulate their minds, such as reading a new book, doing crosswords, signing up for a class, or engaging in a philosophical discussion with someone else.
Capricorn: December 22 – January 19
Capricorns are determined, hardworking visionaries – determined to overcome anything that might stand in their way, as well as help others come up with a solution to a problem. This earth sign is grounded, practical and honest (i.e. doesn’t sugarcoat anything). Setting (as well as accomplishing) goals is highly fulfilling to this zodiac sign, so this can also serve as a form of self-care. On the other side to that, as Capricorns are so dedicated to their goals and getting things done, they may struggle to take a break, even on their days off. Another good self-care practice for this sign would be to try to really take time off and relax. Even if scheduling in some downtime, it is important to take some time to recharge and de-stress, such as getting enough sleep, taking a hot bath, or catching up on a TV show you’ve been meaning to watch.
Aquarius: January 20 – February 18
This air sign is intellectual, free-spirited, and curious. They are referred to as “the most humanitarian” sign of the zodiacs and interested in creating large-scale impact. As the free spirit of the zodiac, engaging in activities that promote creativity and allow them to think “outside the box” creates fulfillment for them. This can include creative writing, attending a new and interesting class, joining a book club, trying new technology, or anything puzzle-related. Other self-care activities could encourage freedom of expression, such as dancing, or non-structured exercise, such as cycling outside. These types of activities both help release tension and allow them to express themselves. Last, but not least, is connecting with like-minded souls (people who share their passions). Participating in group activities and/or attending workshops can give them a sense of belonging and help recharge these zodiac signs.
Pisces: February 19 – March 20
Pisces are water signs, known for their dreamy and empathetic nature. They also have a vivid imagination and are interested in activities that help spark their creativity. This is why creative outlets like painting, music and/or writing poetry can help them with healing and self-reflection. Also, as a water sign, Pisces feel a lot of peace when they are by water, so spending time swimming, taking a long bath or even just sitting by the water is a great way to cleanse their energy and create a sense of inner-calm.
Pisces are also known for their impressive ability to tune into others’ emotions, which is highly indicative of their empathetic nature, but can also become overwhelming, as they tend to absorb the emotions, as well. This is why one self-care activity that is beneficial for this zodiac is to unplug from the external world and take time for themselves. Take this time to practice a gentle yoga routine, do some aromatherapy, listen to music, or take a nap. This time alone and away from people/social media can be very rejuvenating.
Knowing more about your zodiac sign can help you learn more about yourself, such as personality traits and how you interact with others. While astrology can be fun, a disclaimer should be said that astrology isn’t scientifically proven. It can also lead to generalized assumptions about yourself (and others) based on the zodiac sign and relying on your astrological sign or horoscope too much can make it more difficult to think critically and in real time about life decisions. Ultimately, everyone will have different perspectives on zodiac signs and how they may or may not impact your life.
However, no matter what you believe in and whether you choose to follow self-care ideas based on your zodiac, self-care in general is crucial to your overall well-being and mental health. Focusing on what works and feels best for you is the most important part – and do something that you enjoy!
Staff Blogger: Mollie Clupper
Mollie Clupper works for MHA as a Communications and Support Specialist. Using her own experiences, she wants to help bring awareness and end the stigma surrounding mental health. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, drinking coffee, and spending time with loved ones.