While the thump thump of the heart will never lose its lead role in the orchestra of love, a stronger supporting role than usual will be played the mind this year. That's because Jupiter, the planet of optimism, is entering heady Aquarius in January where it will meet up with the Moon's North Node on February 13. This uncommon conjunction of generous Jupiter and this karmic point can be a key to making meaningful connections. If you are in a relationship, this is a reminder that common intellectual, social and/or political interests may be the glue to keep you together as a happy couple. If you're single, the chance of meeting someone of a like mind is increased. Joining a group or becoming more active in one is an excellent way to expand your social network. When we are joined by shared beliefs partnerships grow wider and become more flexible. Rather than being boxed in as a couple isolated from the rest of the world, concerns about others, alliances with organizations and meaningful friendships provide the breathing room required to keep love alive.

Jupiter also joins spiritual Neptune and compassionate Chiron in May and December, underscoring the importance of placing romance in a larger container. Recognizing that your happiness is a contribution to the community will bring you plenty of support from others. This may require giving up some old ideas about relationship that are bound up in fear, control and jealousy. Aquarius is open-minded, as are Jupiter and Neptune, so the freer you are in your head the more space you will find in your heart. Respecting the individuality of your partner may be a difficult test at times, yet it can make the difference between simply going through the motions in an empty shell of a partnership or experiencing a living and loving alliance that renews itself on a daily basis.