Virgo ( August 23-September 22)

Ruled by Mercury — the planet of communication — Virgos are known for their intellect, meticulousness, and no-nonsense attitude. This earth sign likes all things in their life to be neat — you’ll never find a cabinet drawer left open in their house.

Their consistency and diligence are key to their success — often stopping at nothing to reach their goals. Famous Virgos include Beyoncé, Blake Lively, Nick Jonas, and Nicole Richie.

No matter how much they wish they were, Virgos are not perfect. Worrying and obsessing about their perfection drives them — and they often focus on the potential pitfalls in their plans. Virgos need to let go and understand that not every situation needs to be analyzed and exacted.

Though at times they may come off as too hyper-focused and overly critical, underneath all that is a gentle person looking for stability and nurture.

Career

Virgos may be detail-oriented and on strict schedules, but their earth sign makes them nurturing creatures. Not only are they creative problem solvers, but they are also empathic — easily falling into care-taking roles. Suitable career paths include veterinarian, registered nurse, life coach, or teacher. They are also analytical, making them great candidates for jobs like computer engineer, researcher, accountant, and lab technician.

Love Matches

Virgo's love commitment, not only in their work-life but in their love life as well. They take the time to get to know the other person — never casually jumping into bed. At the end of the day, they want to come home to nurturing and safe arms. Not surprisingly, Virgos romantically match well with earth signs; Capricorn, Taurus, and water signs; Scorpio, and Cancer.

Virgo and Capricorn

This relationship is strengthened through sharing of common goals and interests. Security and material objects are important to both partners, and they work seamlessly together to achieve their goals. Particularly if the goal involves shared materials. Both need to know they’re in a secure relationship and not a simple fling. These mutual interests make this a mutually productive partnership. Above all else, loyalty is key.

Virgo and Taurus

There is much in common between these two, such as their dedication to goals and their taste for the finer things in life— often opting for luxury items. However, Taurus tends to be more indulgent than Virgo — opting for fine cuisine and vintage items. Though materialistic, these two work hard to be able to enjoy these comforts. Both also value steadiness and pragmatic thinking, but patience is what keeps them effective — making this relationship pretty solid.

Virgo and Scorpio

With Virgo being an earth sign and Scorpio a water sign, these two balance each other out quite nicely — think about how the earth needs water to nourish it. These two have a comfortable connection that doesn’t require a lot of guessing. Though both value privacy, they are open to asking important life questions and do so at a leisurely pace. Rest assured, Virgo and Scorpio’s relationship will have meaningful and deep conversations.

Virgo And Cancer

Virgos and Cancers are cautious when making life decisions, and love is no different. Both are timid about making the first move, so a romantic relationship may take time to develop between them. On the surface, these two may not seem to be a perfect match due to Cancer’s dynamic emotions and Virgo’s judgmental nature. But both crave stability and nurture in a relationship. These two are intuitive and know exactly how to care for one another. Finding a middle ground is the solution to a successful relationship.

In conclusion

There is always give and take in any relationship. But if you value loyalty, structure, and warm-heartedness, consider Virgo as a lover. And If you need help planning a trip, organizing your closet, or help to build that shelf— find yourself a Virgo friend.

Virgo Season: Everything You Need To Know About This Intelligent Earth Sign was originally published in Mystic Minds on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Do you spend your free time browsing local bookstores? Perhaps you just graduated with a degree in English — or maybe you’re just looking for a career change.

You can turn your passion for books into a career by securing a job in any of these seven fields.

1. Literary Agent

Literary agents work with authors — acting as middlemen between authors and book publishing houses — managing contracts, production, and sales. Agents are compensated for the sales they helped negotiate on behalf of their clients. Typically this is between 10 and 20 percent.

2. Librarian

If you enjoy constantly learning, you may consider this career path. There’s a lot of misconceptions out there about librarians. You may believe they simply spend their days organizing books and have a lot of free time to catch up on reading the latest best-seller— however, in this career, you are more likely to help others find books rather than entertain yourself, and you will most likely need a master’s degree.

3.English Teacher

If you’re a lover of classic literature, choosing a career as an English teacher may be for you. Most of us in English class were exposed to books like, Of Mice And Men, Romeo And Juliet, The Catcher In The Rye, and other classics. You may find great fulfillment in introducing the love of reading to your students.

4. Proofreader

In proofreading, articles and books are reviewed and edited before they are published. This career is best if you are extremely detail-oriented and possess excellent spelling, punctuation, and grammar skills.

5. Book Sales

Whether you prefer a small local bookshop or a large chain like Barns & Noble — working in a book store can be a great fit for a bookworm. You can find not only bestsellers but also unique titles no one has heard of before. You may find a lot of satisfaction in helping customers find their next adventure in a book.

6. Audiobook Narrator

Get lost stories by narrating them. If you’re a regular chatterbox and also enjoy reading — this makes for a wonderfully easy career. Plus, you get to become a character — or several.

7. Book Reviewer

Why not get paid to express your opinion? Book reviews can make this into a career or side hustle. Online Book club pays you to read and post your thoughts on a book of your choosing — the book is even free! All you do is download the book to your device of choice and post your review

Careers For Book Lovers was originally published in Writers’ Blokke on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Listen to the secret whispers of the night
Call out to the feeble stars who cast light
Yellow roses overlaid stained glass windows
Follow the forgotten path the wind blows
Eager to know what Spring will bring
You must wait first for the nightingale to sing

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Nightingale was originally published in The Lark on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Catching my breath outside a red door

Waverly Place — building 224

You’re a walking masterpiece — tattered and torn

Swept up in a thunderous storm

Bless your ethereal eyes for such a sight

Curse these hours of dwindling daylight

I’ll build us a castle with champagne glasses

I’ll shatter too if it crashes

Cheers to you, my Cheshire king

Here’s to you reigning supreme

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Cheshire was originally published in The Lark on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Veganism has gained popularity in recent years — possibly due to the abundance or availability of meat and dairy-free alternatives. Buying vegan products has never been easier. Brands like Beyond Meat and Gardein can be found in almost any grocery store. A lot of people have chosen to sub cow milk for soy, almond, or oat.

Though many people have heard of veganism, not everyone knows what it means. People often confuse vegan with plant-based.

Vegan vs Plant-Based

First and foremost — unlike being plant-based, veganism is not a diet. It is a conscious lifestyle.

A lot of what you hear about veganism is shown through social media. You may see a YouTuber saying they eat vegan but are still buying leather and products that are tested on animals. Vegans abstain from using animal products — including material made and abstain from products tested on animals.

An individual who consumes only plants like fruits, vegetables, and nuts is considered plant-based. They also tend not to be concerned if they are buying makeup tested on animals or buying those new leather boots.

Why I Became Vegan

The decision to adopt a vegan lifestyle came to me six years ago. I had been vegetarian a few months earlier, which I found easy — but like many others, it made me wonder what it would be like to never eat cheese. Animals are the main reason people become vegans. As far as I was concerned, the idea of animals being beaten, electrocuted, gassed, or murdered was not appealing. Throughout my life, I have considered myself to be a selfless and thoughtful person. For so long, I put myself above the suffering of animals? There would certainly be outrage if we treated dogs and cats as pigs and cows. To hit a puppy with a heavy brick of concrete would be unthinkable — unfortunately, that is a fact of life for piglets.

I began watching factory farm videos on YouTube and followed vegan influencers such as Essena O’Neill. That same day, I went grocery shopping for fruits and vegetables. It wasn’t until a year later that I started buying vegan meats and cheeses. It’s funny to think that I once thought that ditching dairy would be difficult. However, my morals outweighed my desire to consume them.

Truth is, cows are forced into pregnancy until their reproductive capacities have been exhausted. Sunshine rarely touches their faces, nor do their hooves feel the grass. In addition to dark, filthy conditions, their babies have been taken away — never to be nursed or nurtured by their mother.

Joaquin Phoenix gave an emotional speech at the 2020 Oscars where he used his platform to inform the world of the cruel reality of factory farming and our own personal issues with gluttony and superiority. Here’s an excerpt from his Best Actor speech:

“I think that we’ve become very disconnected from the natural world, and many of us, what we’re guilty of is an egocentric worldview — the belief that we’re the center of the universe. We go into the natural world, and we plunder it for its resources. We feel entitled to artificially inseminate a cow, and when she gives birth, we steal her baby, even though her cries of anguish are unmistakable. Then we take her milk that’s intended for her calf, and we put it in our coffee and our cereal. And I think we fear the idea of personal change because we think that we have to sacrifice something, to give something up, but human beings, at our best, are so inventive and creative and ingenious. And I think that when we use love and compassion as our guiding principles, we can create, develop and implement systems of change that are beneficial to all sentient beings and to the environment.”

It may not be possible to go vegan overnight, but by making small changes like participating in Meatless Mondays and simply adding more vegetables to your meal, you can not only benefit animals but your health too.

The sun is the center of our galaxy so it’s no surprise that Leo ( July 23 — August 22 ) is ruled by this star. Leo’s mission is to spread love, positivity, and glamour.

This fire sign is represented by the king of the jungle, the lion. Suitable for Leo who is brave, beautiful, and a natural leader. Leos make for great celebrities — often craving extravagant parties, designer brands, and drama-filled relationships. Some famous Leos include Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry, and Cara Delevingne.

Leos, who governs the heart, are dedicated to their lovers and friends and love to see them succeed. However, like the lion, these prideful creatures can feel threatened if they think they are being outshined. Leaving them jealous and suffering from a bruised ego. If not careful, Leo’s arrogance creates a threat to their happiness.

Leo In Love & Relationships

To charm a Leo, you need to treat them like royalty. As we know, they crave a lot of attention and never tire of compliments. To ensure they feel appreciated, express your excitement about spending time with them. The Leo is also a style icon-so dress to impress.

They are at the top of their game in romance. Leos enjoy making grand gestures and proclamations of love through gift-giving.

They don’t shy away from PDA either — expect lots of kissing and hand-holding. Leos are most compatible with their fellow fire signs, Sagittarius and Aries, as well as the air signs Gemini and Libra. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have chemistry with a Leo. If you are a Taurus or Scorpio, you may not be able to tame this lion’s heart.

As a friend, Leos are one of the most honorable and considerate people. They know how to keep a secret and love supporting their friends on pretty much anything they do.

They will be the first to toast you with a glass of champagne on your achievement. But rest assured, they’ll be there to help clean up bottles and mess. They are natural-born cheerleaders — often posting affirmations and inspirational quotes on social media. If you require a pep talk, find yourself a Leo.

Leo Moon

While our Sun sign represents your true identity, our Moon sign represents our emotions and sense of self. If your Moon is in Leo, you may let your emotions overtake your logical side. This may be why you are more sensitive even with your Sun in Leo.

On the brighter side of the moon, Leos are generous, loyal, and possibly the most romantic among the star signs. They are guaranteed to bring positive energy to everyone.

Leo Rising Sign

The rising sign, also known as the ascendant, represents your physical body and sense of style. There is something visually appealing and eye-catching about Leos. Perhaps their confidence and versatility make them look good in any outfit.

You may be able to spot a Leo by their hair, which tends to be thick and lustrous. Aside from having great hair, they have a smile that lights up any room and makes everyone around them feel like a close friend. Leos don’t lack in style either. You’ll typically catch them wearing something luxurious and designer. Their must-have items include lots of jewelry and statement prints.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of your zodiac sign, Leos make excellent lifelong companions. Whenever you need some encouragement, a boost of confidence, or /a memorable night out, you can count on a Leo.

Cancer Season: Everything to Know About the Intuitive Water Sign

It’s A Leo’s World And We’re Just Living In It was originally published in Mystic Minds on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

She handed him her crown

She gave him her throne

He kissed her hand goodbye

In the promise of a swift return

Day turned into night

And night into day

Once was a golden sky

Now washed with a murky grey

Her rich hair grew long

Her milky skin became sallow

Her lover would never return

And in return — she turned to stone

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Stone was originally published in The Lark on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Having an idea of how images and symbols represent your zodiac sign can help you create a design that suits you. It doesn’t matter what kind of style you prefer: florals, minimal, intricate designs, there is a way for you to incorporate your style.

Here’s what I think would complement your sign.

Aries (March 21 — April 19)

Energetic, bold, and always searching for excitement in life. You need something that represents your adventurous side.

Taurus (April 20 — May 20)

Taurus is anchored by earth and ruled by Venus, the planet of love. You need something to complement your loving and earthly side.

Gemini (May 21 — June 20)

Known for being one of the most playful and social creatures, you need to look to your spirit animal.

Cancer (June 21 — July 22)

As a water sign ruled by the Moon, you require something calming and personal. Your inner feelings will guide you in picking the perfect tat.

Leo (July 23 — August 22)

Charismatic and confident, you need a statement piece that will make all your friends applaud.

Virgo (August 23 — September 22)

Intelligent, committed, and logical. You should tap into your creative side and choose something grand and geometric.

Libra (September 23 — October 22)

You embody everything balanced and beautiful. Your tattoo should match that same energy. Look for something elegant and inspiring.

Scorpio (October 23 — November 21)

Loyal and brave, you should get something to match that fiery side.

Sagittarius (November 22 — December 21)

The wander. You constantly crave adventure and freedom. Explore your wild side to find what you’re looking for.

Capricorn (December 22 — January 19)

The hustler. You’re always on a mission to achieve personal goals as well as working on several hobbies. You need something to represent your strength and grounded energy.

Aquarius (January 20 — February 18)

Perhaps overly eccentric and offbeat in every detail of life, you should opt for something colorful and exceptional.

Pieces (February 19 — March 20)

Imaginative and gentle. You should get something equally as dreamy and fantastical.

The best tattoos are those that are meaningful to you and express your personality. Stay true to yourself and you can’t go wrong.

Taking some time to pamper yourself goes a long way, and right now, it’s more pertinent than ever. Self-care has been gaining in popularity since the Covid virus hit last year. There is no reason why you can’t recreate the relaxing atmosphere, soothing aroma, and exquisite beauty experience of a spa day in the comfort of your own home. Because sometimes a basic shower routine just won’t cut it.

Get ready to indulge in some much-needed escapism with these spa-like essentials. Here are five easy and affordable suggestions.

Dress The Part

Spend the day in an outfit that makes you feel cozy and comfortable. To get into the spa experience, grab a big, plush robe and plush slippers.

Add a simple homemade mask to your ensemble. Mix mashed avocado and honey to moisturize and heal your skin.

Hang Eucalyptus

Stepping into a steaming hot shower can help release all the tension you’ve built up after a long day. Hanging a bundle of eucalyptus from your showerhead can create an enchanting mood. The steam and the calming scent will add to your relaxing atmosphere. These bundles can last anywhere between two and four weeks, depending on size.

Eucalyptus has been shown to help relieve upper respiratory issues. You may have noticed this plant’s essential oil is often found in chest rubs and humidifiers.

Use Lavender

Lavender in particular is believed to help promote calmness and help reduce stress and anxiety. This magical plant can be added to a lot of places around the house, including the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, and even the garden. This plant can also be made into oil. Try adding this heavenly scent to your pillow for a peaceful night’s sleep or apply it to your neck throughout the day.

Use Candles

Lighting is everything. Dim the lights and light a few candles to create a calming spa experience. Choose a relaxing scent like vanilla or jasmine. This blend of soothing scents and peaceful energy will put your mind at ease.

Drink Up

Stay hydrated with water or tea. In spas, you’ll usually find lemon or cucumber added to water. Add your favorite fruits or vegetables to a large pitcher of water so you can enjoy your refreshing drinks all day.

Tea is another great option. Herbal teas such as chamomile, lavender, and peppermint contain no caffeine so you won’t have the jitters.

Creating a similar calming atmosphere at home is more attainable than you think. But spa memberships can set you back a couple hundred dollars or more. Yikes!

Try out these at-home spa tricks instead. Your wallet and health will thank you.

Cancer (June 21- July 22)

Cancer is a cardinal water sign, represented by the crab. They are vastly known for being highly sensitive and intuitive. Cancer is ruled by the moon, which represents self-care, security, and maternal energies.

A person born with a Cancer sun and Cancer moon is highly likely to be empathic and can easily detect the true emotions of those around them.

Good luck getting these homebodies to venture out. Cancers are usually domestic. Their favorite thing to do is create a safe, cozy environment for themselves. A night spent reading in bed is much more preferable than a night out on the town.

When it comes to friends and family, Cancers are extremely compassionate and are eager to take on the role of caregiver. But that doesn’t mean it’s not difficult to deal with the crab.

You may have trouble convincing a Cancer to talk openly about their problems and feelings. Avoid being overly bold or brash. This tactic may come across as threatening. To build a lasting relationship, you need to establish trust and empathy. Cancers crave loyalty, commitment, and emotional intimacy, especially from their romantic partner.

If you’re lucky enough to snag yourself a Cancer, be prepared to experience some serious romance. Cancers are enticing and flirtatious creatures. During the early stages of a relationship, they will also tell you what they want and need.

To have a successful relationship, you must be able to communicate well and express yourself confidently.

Cancers are more likely to choose a partner who can identify with their values and emotions. In general, Cancer requires more affection than the rest of us, but you must practice patience. Work on building trust and respecting boundaries. Given time, you’ll develop a nurturing and sacred relationship.

Vibe Check! Here’s How Each Sign Will Match With Cancer:

Cancer and Aries

Cancer and Aries; when opposites attract. Often, this relationship can be characterized by endless caretaking or by relentless demands. Cancer represents the mother, while Aries represents the child. In a more positive light, these two can find a place where they can be honest with one another; there are no false fronts or exhausting facades.

Cancer and Taurus

These two are extremely compatible. They both benefit from consistent and reliable relationships. The Cancer and Taurus will find a lot of emotional security in each other. When it comes to sex, neither of them is holding back. Both signs are very sensual in bed and enjoy the emotional aspects of sex.

Cancer and Gemini

These two signs can learn from each other. Geminis are excellent at communicating thoughts and emotions, while Cancer may struggle with this. The Gemini can help the Cancer come out of its shell much faster than usual. As long as the Gemini reassures their love for the Cancer, and the Cancer is clear with communicating, these two can make it work.

Cancer and Cancer

Believe it or not, two Cancers can be a strong relationship. Both are intense, needing constant affection. Reading each other’s moods will be an easy task since Cancer is an empath. These two will be very much in sync with each other. Both enjoy the domestic life and taking care of family. Meeting each others’ sexual needs will be a breeze. Both are attentive lovers, easily making each other feel at ease and safe. This makes for a very loyal and secure couple.

Cancer and Leo

Leos demand attention from their partners and love being their partner’s favorite. With its caring approach to everything in life, cancer fulfills this requirement quite well. Cancer’s nurturing nature makes Leo feel loved, cherished, and cared for. These two also value family and warm home life. There may be bumps in the road due to Leo’s possessiveness over their partner. In addition to Cancer’s preference for quiet time, Leo’s constant expression may also be a drawback.

Cancer and Virgo

Cancer and Virgo are a very complimentary match, in which both bring out each other’s best traits. Having so much in common, they will intuitively understand one another and can support each other. Cancer’s mood may sometimes be unpredictable, but Virgo has great patience when dealing with instability. This will be a comfortable relationship filled with routine and order, where both partners enjoy pleasing one another and are very affectionate.

Cancer and Libra

Some key differences make this relationship rocky. A Cancer is a homebody at heart, whereas a Libra need to get out and socialize regularly. In the end, the Cancer wants a connection on an emotional level, while the Libra wants a connection on a mental level. Libras may have difficulties coping with Cancer’s mood swings, which can damage the harmony of their relationship.

Cancer and Scorpio

These two water signs complement each other well. Both prefer intimacy and privacy over excessive socializing. Their communication is excellent, and they often do not need words to understand each other. These two may have conflicts throughout their lives because Cancer aims for home autonomy, whereas the Scorpio aims for continual independence.

Cancer and Sagittarius

This is another challenging pairing. Cancers seek security, whereas Sagittarius seeks freedom. These two approach life differently as well; causing major conflict. Cancers tend to be thoughtful thinkers and homebodies. The Sagittarius, in contrast, is blunt and always seeking adventure. While communication between these two is less than desirable, their sexual compatibility is a match made in heaven.

Cancer and Capricorn

Both these signs find difficulty expressing their feelings to one another. Cancers are attuned to their emotions while Capricorns are more analytical. Though the chemistry between you two is electric, a lasting relationship may not be in the cards.

Cancer and Aquarius

There is no difference between the two in their ambition, their desire to get things done their way, or their dislike of conflict. Despite this, the Cancer may find their relationship stressful due to the lack of intimacy, whereas the Aquarius is more concerned with freedom. These two can have a great relationship if they can find a balance between their wants and needs.

Cancer and Pisces

There is no doubt that this is one of the best matches. Both are deeply romantic and sentimental, and both intuitively understand each other, supporting each other through compassion, love, and stability. Pisces also takes sex very seriously, which will provide the Cancer with a high level of comfort and security and deepen the emotional connection.

Final Thoughts

People unfairly perceive Cancers as emotionally intense, but they can be some of the most meaningful and deep relationships you’ll ever have. With them, you will always have a safe place to land and be cared for like no other. You won’t regret giving them a chance.

Cancer Season: Everything to Know About the Intuitive Water Sign was originally published in Mystic Minds on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.