Life

This Is The Self-Care New Year’s Resolution You Need To Make, Based On Your Sign

by Alli Hoff Kosik
Yana Paskova/Getty Images News/Getty Images

Given the sad, sad state of the world around us these days, I couldn't think of a better time for self-care to take center stage. And while sometimes I worry that the concept is going to prove itself to be a short-lived trend or a snappy buzzword, I think I can speak for many of us when I say that if it's a trend, at least it's happening at the right time. We need to keep these vibes going into the new year, people, so I've done a little research on Cafe Astrology to help figure out what self-care resolution you need to make for 2018, according to your sign.

If there's one thing we've learned about self-care, it's that the concept is different for everyone, and with the sudden uptick in interest in the topic, it seems like there are infinite suggestions available for those of us looking to focus more on taking good care of ourselves. I, for one, have been a little overwhelmed by all of these resources. Breaking it down based on zodiac signs is a great way to streamline all of the recommendations and help all of us figure out (specific) ways that we can make self-care a focus in the new year.

Aquarius

It's a new year, Aquarius, and I'm giving you full permission to embrace your intellectual tendencies by resolving to read more often. Swap out your devices for a book for an extra hour or two each week and see how much calmer and more fulfilled you feel.

Pisces

Stop living in autopilot, Pisces! Choose one part of your daily routine to focus on each week in 2018 so you're not letting life pass you by (cliché, but true).

Aries

You approach life head-on, Aries, and your tendency to be high-energy and assertive probably means that you're constantly plugged in. You'd hate to miss any opportunity to impress the boss that comes through your inbox or to risk FOMO because you're a few hours late to the party on a group text. This year, I challenge you to unplug your devices for one (waking) hour of each day. You might be surprised by how good it feels to disconnect and retreat from the fast pace you usually thrive on.

Taurus

Like the bull that symbolizes your sign, Tauruses have a reputation for being stubborn and hot-tempered — but according to Cafe Astrology, when left unprovoked, you actually tend to be pretty calm and peaceful. Minimize your potential to be triggered by bad vibes and do a serious social media purge. Unfollow or de-friend anyone who might be particularly good at triggering that inner bull.

Gemini

Gemini, you're so flexible and adaptable that you might often find yourself totally losing track of who you really are. Tuning into your inner child on a regular basis is a great way to get back to you. Set aside an hour every week to do something you loved doing as a kid, even if that something is as simple as digging into an ice cream sundae.

Cancer

Texting is the go-to mode of communication for most of us, but Cancer, you might really benefit from making a few more phone calls (yes, actual phone calls) in the new year. Cancers tend to retreat into their own little world, so being intentional about getting on the phone and having a real talk with someone who matters to you is a good way to hop out of your comfort zone and make sure you're caring for yourself with some good, old-fashioned conversation.

Leo

You're generous with your time and kindness, but are you being kind enough to yourself? Probably not. Leo, figure out how you might be able to better track the nice things people say to and about you in 2018. Jot down meaningful compliments in a notebook or keep a running list in your phone. I'm not suggesting you become obnoxious or anything, but I do think it might be time for you to recognize yourself and all the great things you do.

Virgo

As a card-carrying Virgo myself, I think I can speak for my fellow late August and early September babies when I say that we can be a little (read: a lot) critical — both on others and ourselves. Taking a few minutes each day for mindfulness, meditation, or non-judgmental thoughts is a surefire way to get out of this intense mindset.

Libra

You're pretty sociable, Libra, and I'm worried you don't spend a lot of time thinking about the things you're actually feeling. Consider picking up a journaling habit in the new year. You probably have artistic flair on your side, which means you can get a little extra creative with colorful pens and doodles in the margin.

Scorpio

There's nothing wrong with being focused and determined — they're actually really great qualities — at least, not until you find that your focus and determination is keeping you from trying new things and being open-minded. Consider switching up your commute route or taking the long way home from your friend's house a few times a month. It's a very small tweak you can make to your routine that will serve as a good reminder of how very OK it is to take your eye off the ball for a few minutes now and then.

Sagittarius

Sagittarius, you're so darn happy and outgoing all the time that I'm guessing you rarely make a priority of down time. This year, resolve to declare yourself a comfy nook that will serve as a great spot for reading, binge watching, and straight up chilling. Setting aside this space will remind you that you're worth a little extra time for yourself.

Capricorn

I'm not telling you to go out and blow your hard-earned savings, but Capricorn, I think that 2018 might be the year you learn to splurge. Allowing yourself to indulge in the occasional manicure or shopping trip might feel new and different for you, but it's also going to feel like the kind of treat you deserve.