Overview

In 2011, your ruling planet Mars takes you deeper into the realm of relationships and dealing with others, as it transits the “we” side of your solar horoscope. Your energy, focus and motivation gradually lift as the year progresses. If you imagine yourself climbing higher over the course of 2011, you’ll see how each month creates new foundations and security on which you can succeed in the future.

Work and health routines are in focus April 3 to May 12 and September 20 to November 12, when Mars specifically energises chart sectors relating to daily routines, wellness and worldly affairs. Hard work and reorganisation are in order through April and May, so make the effort to streamline daily life then. Colleagues acknowledge your leadership abilities then and taking charge helps you move forward.

Mars gives you energy through April and May to get back on track with wellbeing matters, so make this the period in which you devote extra time to exercise and eating well. It’s through September to November that your earlier efforts at work and regarding your health pay off, as Mars helps you achieve new goals then. Mars in your career sector at this time makes it an ideal period for jump-starting your professional plans or implementing new work strategies. You may prefer to work independently at this time.

You can expect a full schedule and busy daily life from January 22 to June 5 as lucky Jupiter transits your sixth house of health and work. This once-in-12-years cycle helps open doors for you at work and at home. Life gets busy as opportunities for new roles and experiences are abundant. Daily work responsibilities are likely to increase, so if there’s something new you’d like to try, now’s the time. Jupiter in your sixth house also means health is in focus, so if you’re overdue for routine tests or a general check-up, don’t let a busy life continue to be your excuse. Jupiter rules the liver and, while here, reminds you to cut back on alcohol, sugar and fats.

Planet of ideas and business, Mercury, has an extended visit to your career sector in 2011. The entire period from July to September is full of new connections and possibilities where work and your worldly roles are concerned. Mercury retrogrades (moves backwards) through your career zone from August 3 to 25, when it pays to double-check details and review career options. Crossed wires can cause tension with co-workers, with your boss or around work projects through this time. Ideally, you’ll catch up on unfinished business now, leaving the initiation of new work projects till after the retrograde is over at the end of August.

Your ruler Mars makes a number of significant connections with planetary heavyweights in 2011. Exceptional energy flashpoints include:

• February 21, Mars/Neptune. Sacrifices at home/with family are needed as you strive to make your domestic dreams a reality. Spirituality and passion fuse when you remove yourself from the spotlight of public life.
• April 4, Mars/Uranus. You’ll personify the archetype of the rebel as Uranus electrifies your spirit. Expect the unexpected and be prepared for last-minute changes to schedules and routines. Be spontaneous!
• May 1 and 2, Mars/Jupiter. You’re full of energy and will get much more than usual done. Your only caution: don’t over-estimate what can realistically be completed in a given timeframe. Self belief grows, helping you take healthy risks.