2012 MamaScopes: Libra

In 2012, both your independence AND your closest relationships are spotlighted. On the “me-first” side of things, Saturn is completing a three-year visit to Libra, pushing you to reinvent yourself until October. It’s time to take your dreams and personal needs more seriously. This can be hard for you, Libra, as you’re an accommodating sign who tends to put others first. But Saturn is challenging you to toughen up—and that means as a parent, too. If you’re more of a friend than an authority figure, make a shift. Set clear boundaries, follow up actions with consequences (or give rewards as positive reinforcement), and trust that “the kids are alright.” In fact, the experts say that boundaries make children feel safe, because they know what’s expected of them and where they stand. Don’t say “yes” when you mean “no.” Your kids might not always LIKE you, but the love is unconditional.

Speaking of love, your relationships are ripe for a revolution. Changemaker Uranus is in Aries this year, making you itch for more excitement. If you’re in a longtime relationship, it’s easy to slip into a rut, especially when juggling family and other demands. Make an effort to break out of this blasé routine—Libras need romance to stay happy! Uranus rules technology, so single Libras should definitely try online dating. Or, get involved in a group working toward a cause. (Who knew there were hot, eligible dads on the school fundraising committee?)

Lucky Jupiter is in your eighth house of intimacy and long-term finances until June—two areas where you’re ready to evolve. This is a good time to spice up your sex life, or even to pursue couples’ therapy if you’ve been having a hard time seeing eye-to-eye. There could be some old trust issues for you to overcome, and this is a good year to finally address those emotional blocks from your past. If you don’t have any financial plans in place, start stashing away funds for retirement, college or a home. You could buy or sell real estate during this phase, move, or possibly even get pregnant.

Seek new horizons in the second half of the year, perhaps through a trip or even going back to school. Could an advanced degree boost your earning power? Maybe so! It would also set a great example for your family. You might take on learning a foreign language with the family, then traveling to a country where it’s spoken. That would be an unforgettable cultural immersion experience that will teach your kids to be “citizens of the world.” If you have a toddler, hop on the message boards and blogs to find the best educational toys. And even though the pros are divided around children using iPads and computers, there are some great apps out there that stimulate young minds. Everything in moderation, Libra.

To stay fit and active, look to water sports, as Neptune (ruler of the seas) is in your health sector from February on. Swimming lessons, boating, even aqua aerobics could be fun ways to exercise. Make sure to drink more water, and if you’re coffee-crazed, swap a cuppa joe for green or herbal tea. Try to swap some of your ingredients for organic or locally-grown ones. Wondering which fruit or veggies are the most chemically-tainted? Google the “dirty dozen” for a list of the 12 most pesticide-laden produce picks. For even more tips on greening your household, your office and even your pet products, go to the Environmental Working Group’s site. What you put in your MIND is just as important as what goes into your body. Neptune rules the subconscious, so check out hypnotherapy DVDs (you can even fall asleep to them) and listen to inspiring metaphysical audiobooks. You might turn to spirituality for stress management now, even meditating or going to yoga class. Getting involved in community service as a family is a perfect way to impart good values to your children. Show that you “walk the talk” by volunteering alongside them at a community garden, a beach cleanup or a soup kitchen.

2012 Mom-tra: “I’m strong enough to handle anything, all by myself.”

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