There is a lot of debate on whether cusp signs truly exist in Astrology and what that means for individuals born on a cusp. You’ve probably heard someone say they are a Libra-Scorpio Cusp rather than saying they are a Libra. Or heard someone say they don’t resonate with the typical characteristics of their zodiac sign, but they do with the sign next to theirs. Cusp signs come into play when you are born within the last or the first few days of a particular sign’s dates. They signify someone who can be either one sign or the other, and there is a fluidness about which sign they claim. So what is the truth? Can you truly be two signs at once?
Are Cusp Signs Real? What Cusp Signs Actually Mean
Well, technically speaking, no, cusp signs do not exist. This is because Astrology works in degrees, and the degree in which the sun was at the time you were born is either in one sign or the other. There is no “Libra-Scorpio degree” or a separate zodiac sign for people who are born on the cusp. However, it is also evident that individuals who are born within this cusp-frame do indeed have personality traits of their bordering sign and often have a different experience than those with the sun sign they are do. This is called the Cusp-Sign Theory, which debates the validity of being two signs at once.
When you break down the personality of those who fall under ‘cusp signs,’ you can see there is definitely a different energy they bring forth, often a combination of the two signs they are on the cusp on.
The best thing about Astrology is that it’s all about what works and resonates with you. If you were born on the last day of Scorpio Season, yet you strongly identify with Sagittarius traits, then maybe look into your entire birth chart to see where this might be coming from. You may be tapping into your Mercury or Venus sign, which is never too far off from your sun sign as well. So, technically, there are no cusp signs in Astrology, but there are different personality traits that people carry when they are on the border of another sign however, and there is no denying that.
Therefore, it’s important to look into what those traits are, and what type of characteristics you resonate with and can learn more about in yourself. There is no right or wrong here, and below, we will talk about what it means to be born on such a date.
Cusp Signs Dates
1.ARIES-TAURUS CUSP (Apr. 16-22): The Cusp of Power
Individuals born within the Aries/Taurus degrees have an air of power to them. They are headstrong, willful, and, yes, stubborn. These are the type of Aries that are also a little more grounded than the typical fire sign and may also have more of a need for stability, being less impulsive than the Ram is. Those born on the last few days of Aries Season also typically carry more of the Taurean's physical traits as well. The Tauruses born on this date are more fiery and passionate than their fellow earth signs.
2.TAURUS-GEMINI CUSP (May 17-23): The Cusp of Energy
Tauruses who are close to the Gemini degree are typically more outgoing and social than most Taurus are. These are people who are more inclined to communicate and are gifted with their charming self-expression. The Cusp of Energy resonates with the fact that these individuals work at their own speed and own timeline, using their Taurus head-strong traits with their Gemini traits or curiosity.
3.GEMINI-CANCER CUSP (Jun. 17-23): The Cusp of Magic
The Cusp of Magic explains the Gemini-Cancer combination that can sometimes be apparent in individuals. These are the alchemists in Astrology, people who know how to work with the different resources available to them to create something magical. These are also more emotional Geminis than this typical Mercurial sign, and they align with the head and the heart. The Cancers born within these dates are more self-expressive than the typical Crab and come out of their shell more often as well.
4.CANCER-LEO CUSP (Jul. 19-25): The Cusp of Oscillation
The Cancer-Leo Cusp can feel a little more challenging to the individuals who are born within these dates because Cancer and Leo energy is drastically different. These individuals can feel all over the place at times, but these are also Cancers who are more confident and self-empowered. Those who are the Leos in this time frame tend to be more emotional as well. Mood swings can be more likely with this combo, and they strive to maintain balance in life.
5.LEO-VIRGO CUSP (Aug. 19-25): The Cusp of Exposure
The Leo-Virgo Cusp is one of light and energy. These are the powerhouses who stand by their word and who know how to show up. Leos born on these dates get the best of both worlds to where they still have the regal flair of a Leo but with the intelligence of a Virgo. There is no denying that Virgos, born in August, and Virgos, born in September, have a different vibe. August Virgos tends to be more outgoing with a luxurious flair, and these cusps tend to have a lot going for them in life.
6.VIRGO-LIBRA CUSP (Sep. 19-25): The Cusp of Beauty
The Virgo-Libra Cusp is the Cusp of Beauty. These individuals are physically beautiful and exude this type of feminine energy as well. Virgos born within these dates tend to overthink less and can be more open-minded on matters thanks to Libra’s laissez-faire attitude seeping in. Libras born within this cusp don’t differ too much from their charming Libra qualities but do typically have a stronger gift and need for organization than most Libras do.
7.LIBRA-SCORPIO CUSP (Oct. 19-25): The Cusp of Drama
The Cusp of Drama explains the Libra-Scorpio Cusp, and that’s because these are two very different signs, and when they come together, there can be somewhat of a clash. Libra loves, and Scorpio feels, so there are a lot of emotions within these individuals, and a lot is going on internally with them. This cusp seems to have a more dramatic life than most, and they always keep things interesting.
8.SCORPIO-SAGITTARIUS CUSP (Nov. 18-24): The Cusp of Revolution
The Scorpio/Sagittarius combo brings forth great power. With two transformative signs mingling, these are individuals who make great strides in life and who can do great things in this world. With Scorpio's determination and Sagittarius’ larger-than-life mindset, these are people who walk into a room and are instantly noticed. Their energy is very strong, and they go through many transformations in life.
9.SAGITTARIUS-CAPRICORN CUSP (Dec. 18-24): The Cusp of Prophecy
The Sagittarius-Capricorn Cusp tends to be common in teachers, philosophers, or guides. These are people who have learned many life lessons and also learned the importance of sharing their wisdom with others. The Sagittariuses born within these dates are a little less impulsive than most Sagittariuses. The Capricorns born within this timeframe are more intrigued with the spiritual side of life than the typical serious Capricorn is.
10.CAPRICORN-AQUARIUS CUSP (Jan. 16-23): The Cusp of Mystery
The Capricorn-Aquarius Cusp doesn’t differentiate too much from their typical sun sign traits because these signs are both ruled by the same planet, Saturn. These are hard-working and intelligent people who also tend to have a gift with money, time, and creating new systems. There is an air of mystery to these individuals as well, and they often surprise people with their interests, talents, and tastes.
11.AQUARIUS-PISCES CUSP (Feb. 15-21): The Cusp of Sensitivity
The Aquarius-Pisces Cusp is one of the more common ones, and these individuals often align strongly with their Piscean traits. Being on the border of an air sign and a water sign brings a heightened sensitivity and an awareness of the world around them. Aquarius is aligned with the collective consciousness, and Pisces is the compassion that heals the collective. These are people who typically make great friends and confidants and who you want in your circle.
12.PISCES-ARIES CUSP (Mar. 17-23): The Cusp of Rebirth
The Cusp of Rebirth signifies the Pisces-Aries Cusp and that is because Pisces is the last sign on the zodiac wheel, and Aries is the first. There is a transformative energy in the middle of these two signs, and their traits often differ drastically. However, the Pisces born on this cusp have an additional flair and charisma to them, and the Aries born on this cusp are more connected to their emotions than most Aries. People born within these dates are often changing, and moving through culminations and new beginnings in life.
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Tayler Barakat is a Mystic who has studied Astrology for over a decade. She does intuitive astrology and tarot readings for people all over the world, and her work focuses on healing and empowering individuals. Follow her on Instagram @taylerbarakat_ and check out her website www.listentothevirgo.com.
Devale Ellis On Being A Provider, Marriage Growth & Redefining Fatherhood
In this candid episode of the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker talked with Devale Ellis, actor, social media personality, and star of Zatima, about modern masculinity, learning to be a better husband, emotional presence in marriage, fatherhood for Black men, and leading by example.
“I Wasn’t Present Emotionally”: Devale Ellis on Marriage Growth
Devale Ellis On Learning He Was a ‘Bad Husband’
Ellis grew up believing that a man should prioritize providing for his family. “I know this may come off as misogynistic, but I feel like it’s my responsibility as a man to pay for everything,” he said, emphasizing the wise guidance passed down by his father. However, five years into his marriage to long-time partner Khadeen Ellis, he realized provision wasn’t just financial.
“I was a bad husband because I wasn’t present emotionally… I wasn’t concerned about what she needed outside of the resources.”
Once he shifted his mindset, his marriage improved. “In me trying to be of service to her, I learned that me being of service created a woman who is now willing to be of service to me.”
On Redefining Masculinity and Fatherhood
For Ellis, “being a man is about being consistent.” As a father of four, he sees parenthood as a chance to reshape the future.
“Children give you another chance at life. I have four different opportunities right now to do my life all over again.”
He also works to uplift young Black men, reinforcing their worth in a world that often undermines them. His values extend to his career—Ellis refuses to play roles that involve domestic violence or sexual assault.
Watch the full episode below:
On Marriage, Family Planning, and Writing His Story
After his wife’s postpartum preeclampsia, Ellis chose a vasectomy over her taking hormonal birth control, further proving his commitment to their partnership. He and Khadeen share their journey in We Over Me, and his next book, Raising Kings: How Fatherhood Saved Me From Myself, is on the way.
Through honesty and growth, Devale Ellis challenges traditional ideas of masculinity, making his story one that resonates deeply with millennial women.
For the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker peels back the layers of masculinity with candid conversations that challenge stereotypes and celebrate vulnerability. Real men. Real stories. Real talk.
Want more real talk from xoMAN? Catch the full audio episodes every Tuesday on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and don’t miss the full video drops every Wednesday on YouTube. Hit follow, subscribe, and stay tapped in.
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6 Tabletop Sex Positions That'll Unlock You & Bae's Most Primal Desires
Something I will never tire of is finding new ways to bring new layers to intimacy. A wall you use as momentum, a bathroom sink to help you keep your balance as he worships you on his knees, a shower that is usually for cleansing but evolves into a sacred ritual of shared intimacy.
My favorite kind of sex is the kind of sex that prioritizes pleasure and connection. So, technically and thankfully, I can say most of my sex life has been quite pleasurable throughout the years. But the memorable encounters for sure take the cake. One such encounter actually took place on a kitchen counter, and with it unleashed inhibitions in ways I never anticipated while unlocking levels to top-tier sex. And that, that involved a kitchen counter.
Why Kitchen Counter Sex Just Hits Different
What is it about having your hips pressed into the edge of a kitchen counter that lets out something so primal in you? The cool-to-the-touch feel of the countertop against exposed skin as you rise to meet him again and again. The urgency in every movement. The playfulness of repurposing an everyday space for something far more erotic. If you’re looking to bring that energy into your own sex life, keep reading for positions and tips to explore.
1. The Bounce House
They don’t call it Bounce House for nothing. In this position, the penetrating partner lies flat on their back on a sturdy table or counter while the receiving partner straddles them, knees bent and facing away. With their hands gripping the edge of the surface for support, the receiving partner slides or bounces at their own pace, owning the rhythm, the motion, and the view.
According to sex therapist Michael Aaron, Ph.D., who spoke with Women’s Health, the receiving partner placing their legs between their partner’s creates a tighter sensation, while staying fully astride allows for more bounce and range of motion. Either way, this one puts the receiver in full control, and you know we love a good woman on top position. Pleasure and power? Say less.
2. The Bicycle
Well, you know what they say about riding a bike. In the case of this table top position, it's the receiving partner who is the rider...but not in the way you think. While lying back on a sturdy surface or a table, the receiver will bring their knees toward their chest, bending them as if in a cycling motion. The penetrating partner stands at the edge of the surface, grabbing the receiver's ankles, and guides themselves inside, slowly so as to savor the moment. This angle puts everything on display for the penetrating partner while allowing for deep, connected thrusting for the receiver.
To take things up a notch , the receiving partner can touch themselves or flex their thighs to control the depth or the rhythm. Because, who says only one person gets to have control?
3. Counter Offer
How could we be at the table and not use it to eat? Enter: Counter Offer. In this oral-focused sex position, the receiving partner perches on the edge of a counter or table, lying back or sitting upright with legs parted or bent for comfort. The penetrating partner kneels or stands between their thighs, depending on the setup and the kind of attention they’re ready to give. No doubt, this one’s all about access and intention.
With the vulva front and center, the height makes it easier to maintain eye contact, use hands freely for things like breast play or incorporating toys, and take their time with every moan-inducing taste. And that’s on five, six, seven, ATE.
4. Standing Doggy
Standing Doggy is what happens when a classic like doggy style gets an upgrade. Instead of being on all fours on a bed, the receiving partner bends over a hard surface like a table or counter, keeping their hips aligned at its edge. The penetrating partner stands behind and enters from the back, using the angle to go deeper and create a strong, steady rhythm. This one offers maximum control and visual appeal, especially if the penetrating partner reaches around for a little extra clitoral stimulation throughout thrusting.
This angle can get intense quickly, so bonus points if the receiving partner engages their pelvic floor muscles or shifts their weight to adjust how the pressure hits, especially if your goal is to hit that G-spot sweet spot.
5. Top Shelf
Men's Healthcalls this one "Yourself on the Shelf," but we like to call it "Top Shelf" because it's giving full view, full grip, and climax potential that's hard to top. The receiving partner sits on the edge of a sturdy table or counter while the penetrating partner stands in front of them and slowly slides in, thrusting while keeping them in position. From there, legs can wrap around their waist, arms can encircle their back, and the closeness at peak ecstasy? Chef's kiss.
If you have the core strength, add lifting to the menu for the final strokes leading to orgasm. Otherwise, allow the surface to the heavy lifting and enjoy the pleasure.
6. The Thumper
What better way to remind yourself that you're both the snack and the entrée than with a little tableside service courtesy of The Thumper? This position has the receiving partner kneeling on a sturdy table or counter (keyword: sturdy), hands gripping the edge or braced in front for support. The penetrating partner can then either kneel behind them (if there's room for two), or stay anchored on the ground with both feet planted on the floor (similar to the previously mentioned Standing Doggy). It all depends on the mood.
Kneeling on the table offers just the right amount of leverage for deep, steady strokes. The receiving partner can play with tightness by either keeping their knees closer together for a snug grip, or open their knees wider to invite more access, depth, and stretch. The Thumper is versatile that way, and the most important thing? The receiver gets to be the main course. Yum.
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