For all the changes we may seek to make at the start of a new year, it can be just as fulfilling to sit with what we already have — or even decide to get rid of some of it. Cleanses of the juice variety aren't our thing, but we're wholly on board with detoxes of a spiritual nature. And after a year like 2017, everybody (and every sign) under the stars could probably use one of those.
Each sign of the Zodiac is in for a very different 2018, so it stands to reason that all 12 should focus their efforts on cleansing a different part of their lives. Ahead, we've recommended one thing that each sign should seek to let go of this year. If you find that your sign's suggested "cleanse" doesn't quite fit, check the cleanse for your moon and rising signs. You just might find the inspiration you've been seeking to make this year feel truly new.
Aries
Let go of excessive commitments — personal and professional.
The Aries stereotype holds that Rams refuse to let anything come before their high-octane moods, but ask a real-life Aries how that's been going lately and they'll probably tell you that their emotions have taken a back seat (if not a cozy spot in the trunk) to everything else going on in their lives. Put yourself (and your desires) back in the driver's seat this year by clearing your schedule of tasks that do not serve you and yours, Aries.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Taurus
Let go of all that clutter.
Be it your closet, shoe rack, makeup bag, or chair with an omnipresent pile of tossed items, somewhere in your home has become the dumping ground for accumulated stuff — the majority of which you do not need, Bull. As much as Taureans like to surround themselves with lust-worthy objects, you're still earth sign. You might not be a minimalist like your Capricorn cousins, but you, too, thrive when you have space to grow. No Bull does well when they're fenced in.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Gemini
Let go of your mile-long to-do list.
We get it, Gem — like any air sign worth their salt, you're a multitasker. But, if you aren't too careful, all that activity can stifle another signature trait of your sign: curiosity. Is there time in your daily schedule for the flights of fancy that so often lead you to your best ideas? Gems are often criticised for their aversion to structure, but this year you should ignore what the haters say and give yourself a free day every so often to just be your breezy, energetic self.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Cancer
Let go of your insecurities.
You aren't exactly the risk-taker of the Zodiac, Cancer, but the urge for a major change may be on your horizon this year. The only thing standing the way of your leap of faith is, well, you. Sensitive Crabs don't end up acting on their desires usually because they're too embroiled in considering all the ways their actions could go wrong — or how poorly they may be received. Aim high this year, Cancer. Then let your arrow fly with confidence.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Leo
Let go of toxic friends.
Leos tend to roll deep, but a wide social circle shouldn't come at the expense of your sense of comfort. If members of your posse have failed to show up for you when you've needed them or simply no longer align with your values, it may be time to reconsider your relationship with them, dear Lion. Don't cut someone loose just because you disagree about the Kardashians, but, rather, reflect on the differences you have with your friends that might be, in the end, unreconcilable.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Virgo
Let go of your same old routine.
Stay with us here, Virgo. You needn't cleanse any amount of structure from your life, but you should consider changing things up in order to open yourself up to greater spontaneity. When your life isn't planned down to the most minute details, you get better at thinking on your feet — and what Virgo would turn away an opportunity for self-improvement? Self-sufficient earth sign that you are, throwing out your planner will remind you that you really can rely on nothing but your own know-how.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Libra
Let go of self-denial.
The time to book a spa treatment, start a meditation practice, or simply stay in next Friday is now, Libra. You hate to RSVP "no" to just about anything, but this year, your bevy of fans — and the requests they so often make of you — can wait. Reconnect with yourself with some well-deserved pampering and actual alone time (put the phone away, Libra). Taking the time to recharge will eventually lead to greater perspective about how (and with whom) you should spend your time.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Scorpio
Let go of the needless secrets.
We'd never suggest that an enigmatic Scorpio should air their dirty laundry, but we would recommend you look out for the moments when your instinct is to hold back. Do you hesitate to open up with a new partner? Do you keep your parents at an arm's length? Identify when you are the most secretive and ask yourself: Would you actually benefit from saying a little more in these scenarios? Let more of yourself come to light this year, Scorp.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Sagittarius
Let go of excessive spending.
You probably haven't been splurging much on yourself, Sag, but it's likely you've been more than happy to pick up the second or third rounds (or even the whole tab) for you and your gang. Your generous spirit is one for the books — and you shouldn't stamp it out entirely. That said, it will not serve you to sponsor all of your social circle's exploits. The next time you reach for your wallet, make sure you're spending your money where it counts.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Capricorn
Let go of self-defeat.
You're an ambitious, results- and success-oriented sign who all too often forgets that failure isn't just an option — it can even be a valuable experience. When you do slip up, Cap, the first person you blame is yourself, to the point of total self-defeat. Sometimes problems and mistakes are beyond your control, but you can always decide how you react to them. Clear the negative language from your mental vocabulary, don't dwell on what you can't change, and focus instead on your next step.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Aquarius
Let go of your ego.
Even if you're still waiting to reap your rewards, you've been enjoying a period of luck for some time now, Aquarius. With that comes hard-earned success, recognition, and the challenge not to let those things go to your head. As the public broadcaster of the Zodiac, you're at your best with a rapt audience, but don't spend all that attention on self-promotion. Instead, sing the praises of others, as well, so that you never get too lonely at the top.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.
Pisces
Let go of the negative Nancys.
In Pisces people we tend to find both excellent listeners and insightful advisors. In other words, who wouldn't want you for a confidante, Pisces? The problem only arises when you ignore your own feelings in order to tend to those of others. It won't be in your interest to be every single person's shoulder to cry on this year, dear Fish. Turn on Do Not Disturb before bed and give any particularly whiny friends a stern talking to. You can still be the "helpful friend" without being an accessory to wallowing.
Illustrated by Abbie Winters.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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