Feeling lucky? Jupiter is on the minds of many astrologers I read lately, because it has just stationed direct after a months-long retrograde period.

Generally, Jupiter retrograde doesn’t result in chaos the way Mercury retrograde can. Jupiter is a benefic, a planet that brings opportunity everywhere it goes. When Jupiter is retrograde, some of those opportunities may be less obvious or on hold and it’s a good time to assess how any expansion-related projects are going — things like higher learning, new languages, and travel are classic Jupiter topics.

That said, just because Jupiter is generous and easygoing doesn’t mean that opportunity rolls in effortlessly. I read this in Mystic Medusa’s Friday email last week and thought it was absolutely brilliant:

When Jupiter Vibe first kicks up, it does not feel “lucky” or like obstacles being removed. It spins up into towering dissatisfaction with all limitations. It’s maddening. Grooves you were fine with two weeks ago feel like ruts, to be busted asap.

I have found this to be so true lately, so this was really gratifying to read.

If this resonates for you too, I’ve found it helpful to consider my natal Jupiter as a starting point for how I can work with the energy of this planet. Jupiter is the planet of luck and of natural acquisitions, and so one’s learning style and knack for finding opportunities are influenced by natal Jupiter sign.

Jupiter through the elements

Water signs: Jupiter in Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces

While Jupiter is most at home in the fire sign of Sagittarius, it also has a home in Pisces and so works quite naturally with the water signs. These Jupiter natives are incredibly compassionate and have a lot of love to share with the world. Sometimes the act of harnessing that power might come down to communication, whether through the sharing of memories, of feelings, or of beliefs. Your power card: Nine of cups.

Fire signs: Jupiter in Aries, Leo, or Sagittarius

Fire is the most optimistic of the elements, and Jupiter is the most optimistic of the planets, so when these two combine you get an unstoppable sense of faith in one’s convictions. It’s hard to keep these enthusiastic folks down for long. The key to success with a fiery Jupiter is actually in harnessing enough of the earth element to stay grounded and focused on your goals; fireworks are great, but you can’t be burning out all the time. Your power card: Four of wands.

Earth signs: Jupiter in Taurus, Virgo, or Capricorn

Jupiter being the party planet, you might think it wouldn’t be happy in the sensible earth signs, but this is where it’s important to remember the benefic influence — it actually brings out the best in any element, earth included. Practical, pragmatic, and yet ambitious, Jupiter in earth signs can make and execute on a plan like no other element. They get a tremendous amount of work done and actually seem to enjoy the process. If your Jupiter is in earth, it’s a gift in a real sense that heightens the (often literal) value of what you produce. Your power card: the Eight of pentacles.

Air signs: Jupiter in Gemini, Libra, or Aquarius

Jupiter might actually have the most fun in the air signs, as it’s inclined to be slightly more outgoing like its fire sign siblings but also enjoys the natural connectivity of the air element. These people are constantly learning new things, and are quick to apply what they learn to their world. This can go in a lot of surprising directions. Your power card: the Fool — jump in and see what you can learn.

Not sure where your natal Jupiter is? Learn this and all your natal planetary placements by looking up your chart.