Admit it: When reading your favorite magazine or website, you regularly check your horoscope. There’s no shame in it, everyone looks for reassurance when the best day to ask for that raise will be to better the odds.

So why not look to our astrological signs for some insight into our sleep behavior as well? The moon pulls the tides and changes the landscape, and Emergency Room medics report feeling that “a flood of admissions, notably among patients suffering psychotic episodes, sporting strange injuries or going into labor under unusual circumstances” happen when a full moon is present. Why couldn’t our planetary alignments do the same to our nocturnal behavior?

If our astrological signs do have an effect on our sleep, then surely there are solutions to be found as well. Based on the time of year you were born, here are our suggestions on how to get the best sleep possible each night.

Aries (March 21–April 19) – As the first sign of the zodiac, it’s no surprise that Aries personalities aim to be ahead of everything (and everyone) in their lives. It’s also no surprise that the same daytime energy the ram has to apply to all their endless accomplishments also keeps them up at night. Plenty of exercise and an organized “To-Do” list to check off can help Aries finally wind down.

Taurus (April 20–May 20) – The bull is ruled by Venus, the planet of luxury and beauty. This spills into their sleep habits as well, as Taurus people love to catch their ZZZs in comfortable, attractive places often. Maybe a little too often… Heading to bed an extra hour (and only taking one nap during the day) may help the bull find time for other enjoyable activities.

Gemini (May 21–June 20) – Possibly the most notorious for insomnia, Geminis are the sign of communication and ruled by Mercury. This means that their thoughts of conversations had and emails sent will keep them up for hours or days until they finally crash and burn, sleeping on whatever surface they can find. Astrospeak suggests trying a cooler temperature could help the twins find a good night’s rest.

Cancer (June 21–July 22) – Ruled by the nocturnal moon, Cancer’s sleep behavior ebbs and flows like the tides and has nights of rest accompanied with sleepless phases. The phrase “don’t go to bed angry” especially applies to Cancers, as personal relationships have a deep impact on their overall well-being and nighttime thoughts. Successfully resolving conflicts would be a good practice to perfect. And a comforting blanket can give some extra comfort at night.

Leo (July 23–August 22) – These big cats are the kings (and queens) of catnaps. The energetic fire in Leos can sometimes require a little beauty rest before pouncing off to the next royal affair. Fulfilling their social needs could help the lion feel energized during the day and content with how their precious time is spent during the night. Are you in a relationship? Cuddling up can add some extra comfort.

Virgo (August 23–September 22) – During the day, Virgos like to bring order to their routine and make the most of their time. Sleep may be booked on their schedule but stressing about their chore list may interfere with that plan, something a Virgo cannot accept. A nice and tidy checklist may be just the anecdote to their Mercury-worrisome mind.

Libra (September 23–October 22) – The scales always need to be balanced to stand upright, and this is true throughout the night. Relaxed days mean short nights, and long laborious days require deep replenishment at night. Venus is an influencing planet in Libras, so being surrounded by a pleasing décor and plush accents should make them comfortable.

Scorpio (October 23–November 21) – “Obsession” is the scorpion’s key word. Scorpios can have droughts of insomnia that begin with a small thought that trickle into an all-consuming state of being. Learning to relax can be a challenge at times, but meditation during the day can be a good way to learn how to cope with and let go of these obsessive thoughts.

Sagittarius (November 22–December 21) – Ever the wanderer, the stag can often spend more time daydreaming of adventures than actually dreaming. With so much energy and a long bucket list, Sagittarius would benefit from plenty of outdoor recreation and traveling to satisfy his curious side and find some peace of mind at night.

Capricorn (December 22–January 19) – Nobody loves to sleep as much as a Capricorn. Staying true to his element, a Capricorn easily burrows deep into his nocturnal cave and hates getting anything less than 12 hours of sleep each night. In fact, oversleeping could be said to be his downfall. A good diet and moderate physical activity may help the goat find enough energy during the day.

Aquarius (January 20–February 18) – Always afraid of missing out on anything, Aquarians struggle to soothe their busy mind and satisfy their social cravings. But dreams are a perfect incubator for ideas, so sleep should be welcomed with creative arms. Keeping away from gadgets, regular yoga, and a journal kept beside the bed might ease any worry of missing something important.

Pisces (February 19–March 20) – The ever nimble and emotional fish will ride whatever wave they’re swept up in – from dry spells of insomnia due to mania to drowning crashes of exhaustion caused by depression. But dreaming is the best way for Pisces to feel refreshed, and lack of them can take a toll on their energy. Dealing with daytime emotions with honesty and intention can help the fish find peaceful seas as they drift off to sleep.

Of course, everyone’s personality is unique, and horoscopes may identify some traits but can also be a broad generalization that doesn’t address your individual needs. And while seeing how your unique personality can contribute to your unique sleep behavior, there are still some signs of having a sleep disorder that you shouldn’t ignore. Always feeling tired no matter how much you sleep, having intense headaches that won’t go away, regular loss of memory or extreme emotional instability could all indicate issues from Insomnia to Obstructive Sleep Apnea. If you’re finding that your sleep behavior is more severe than your horoscope predicts, then seeing a sleep specialist could greatly benefit your daytime personality.

Luckily, the experts at Alaska Sleep Clinic are well-versed in all things sleep related, from recognition and diagnosis to prescription and treatment. If you live in the Anchorage, Alaska area, then be sure to give our specialists a call for a free 10-minute consultation.