July astrology; US Pluto return and Jupiter retrogrades

 

The US Pluto return

While this aspect is only found in the US natal chart, it nevertheless affects the entire country and whatever affects the US has a ripple affect across the world. Pluto moved to 27 degrees or the same degree as Pluto in the US chart June 22nd, and the second Pluto return will be exact July 11^th. The closer we get to this date, the stronger the energy becomes. The Pluto return will determine the future and the direction of the US for many years to come.

Pluto rules that which lies beneath the surface which is now rising to the top and making itself known.  Pluto rules power, control, decay and destruction, upheaval of governments, terrorists and criminals, extremists, and resources. No country or society will experience a Pluto return before approximately 248 years which is how long it takes Pluto to circle the zodiac and return to its original placement at the birth of the country.

Pluto is known for tearing down and destroying to create something new. Power can be unlocked, taken, abused and mishandled. It can also be relinquished. Pluto rules the shadow side of things and the darkness that is generally hidden until something causes it to surface. 

  Pluto falls in the 2^nd house of the US chart which rules money, finances and most importantly values. All of the above will be tested at this time and the US must determine what we value the most and the least.

Abortion is undoubtedly the most significant event with the Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe vs. Wade on June 24^th even though 70% of American’s disagreed with this ruling. Pluto has to do with control, and the three Trump appointed SCOTUS members and other Conservatives clearly exercised their control with their vote. Whether or not their ban will last indefinitely is another question as it appears the decision will be reversed or in some way changed after Pluto enters Aquarius in 2023.

 The January 6^th committee has uncovered a great deal of information about those who tried to overturn the election through a coup and the actions they took to accomplish this. None of this is surprising as Pluto rules extremists and those with agendas to push their point of view. The Pluto return will certainly not be just one event but many including all of the above mentioned issues and more before it is over. This period could mark the ultimate end of Democracy in the US or it could survive and be stronger. Either way, over the next few years the US as a nation will be reborn based on where the collective places its true values which depends on the majority making their voices heard.

In his January retirement speech Supreme Court Judge Stephen Breyer reiterated the fact the US Founding Fathers described America as a ‘Great Experiment.’ Benjamin Franklin said ‘it’s a Republic if you can keep it.’  The Pluto return will show us that we can take nothing for granted, and we have a Republic only if we can keep it.

The US is due for a cosmic makeover during 2022 through its Pluto return.  We are at a turning point in history, and what the outcome will be depends on all of us.

Jupiter turns retrograde

The planet of luck and gain turns retrograde July 28-November 23^rd. While retrograde it will move back into Pisces October 29^th where it will remain until December 19^th.

When Jupiter turns retrograde it does not mean we will be without luck or gain, but may focus more on inner growth than the outside world and in some cases you may hardly notice Jupiter’s reversal. Jupiter’s retrograde is not a negative aspect as it helps us work on issues concerning personal happiness, money, growth and success so that when it turns direct again we can approach things from a new angle, having had the time to make any necessary corrections.

If you have been working at accomplishing something with no real structure or plan for getting there this will be the time to step back and look at the bigger picture and how you will approach things. It does not necessarily mean loss, but is more akin to working smartly and directing your actions along the most profitable and fortuitous lines.

Many things can be affected by a Jupiter retrograde. In addition to money and finances Jupiter rules courts/judiciaries lawyers, foreigners, and foreign places, education, religion, medicine, and spirituality. All of these things can shift in some way and we will see these matters play out and change in the world and our personal lives.

Jupiter turns direct at 28 degrees of Pisces November 23rd. If this is hitting something in your personal chart in a positive angle, you could experience a burst of optimism, opportunity or some type of gain.

Jupiter is Pisces represents all things spiritual, creative and compassionate. When Jupiter is in Aries we are more focused on our own hopes and desires so the planet of luck will swing between these two poles this year. Jupiter returns to Aries December 20-May 17^th, 2023.

Mars squares Pluto

The month of July will begin with Mars square to Pluto which started late June but is exact July 1-2^nd.  Mars-Pluto transits are difficult on both an individual and collective level. Personally, this can create a form of agitation that can lead to arguments and accidents. Pluto rules bullies and those who try and push their will on others, so power struggles are possible. Of course with Pluto there is always the potential for creative change (with a great deal of work) as all energy is neutral until directed.

In the collective this aspect will make itself known as it squares Pluto in the US chart with the Pluto return only days from being exact. This may be the most significant aspect connected to the Pluto return this month, so we can expect major events in the US (and the world). This is a volatile aspect indicative of upheaval, violence and potential police action and political change. As it falls in the 2^nd house financial markets could be affected in some way. Politics will also come into play and there could be some type of turning point reached. Pluto rules power, subversive elements, death and destruction of the old to name a few.

By July 2^nd, Mercury squares Neptune increasing stress and confusing the issues so it is important to be aware of what is really happening in your life and on the world stage. These aspects deals with fog and confusion, lies and misinformation and it can be tiring and can be draining. This aspect ‘sets off’ the natal Mars square Neptune in the US natal chart along with the current Neptune opposition in the US chart as well. Typically, this has dealt with race relations, extremists, religious viewpoints, and laws or courts. This aspect will be important in the days leading up to July 2^nd and it is important to keep our feet on the ground and thinking clear.

The Mars-Pluto aspect will affect you to a greater degree of you have Cardinal (Cancer, Aries, Libra and Capricorn) planets at 26-28 degrees in your personal chart.

When Mars enters Taurus in a few days the energies will calm down once again.

July 4^th, Mars enters Taurus

Mars is considered the planet of action, sex, war and men to name a few, and rules how we act and direct our energies. As Mars changes signs, we all take on some of the energy of the sign Mars enters and it will remain in this sign until August 20^th.

Mars in Taurus will be a considerable energetic shift from Mars in Aries. Taurus is an Earth sign ruled by the planet Venus, so our energies and action will change considerably. Energies will slow down as Taurus is much more laid back, and while Mars is in Taurus we will think through our actions and much more than we did with Mars in Aries.

Mars is considered to be in its detriment in Taurus which means it operates in a weaker manner, or is prone to misbehave at times. Mars is not as comfortable in this sign as it was in Aries, where it was considered to be ‘at home.’ This does not mean Mars in this sign is bad however, it just means we will approach things differently and in a slower, if not more determined approach.

Mars in Taurus will be in Venus’s sign, so our actions will be driven by financial decisions, beauty, values and we may all be a little more focused on pleasures and love.

Mars in Taurus is typically a slow, laid back, plodding kind of energy as Taurus is a plodder. Remember the childhood story of the hare and the tortoise? Well, Taurus is the tortoise that eventually reaches its destination through persistence and patience.

There is an earthy type of sensuality with Mars in this sign, and after all Taurus is ruled by Venus. We will be more inclined to look for material and physical comforts and attracted to beautiful things of lasting value as Taurus likes fine things and luxury as well as value for the money. In terms of sex, Taurus prioritizes sensuality and beautiful surroundings over everything else.

Change comes slowly for Taurus as it is a fixed sign. Holding on to anger can be a problem with Mars /Taurus and many will try and keep the peace, holding onto things until they reach a boiling point and then explode.

With Mars in Taurus stubbornness and inability to bend may be a problem and once a decision is made and action taken the decision seldom changes.

Enjoy the energy and laid back sense of approaching things as summer seems the perfect time for Mars to enter this sign. We could all use a little relaxation and pleasure!

Mercury enters Cancer

Mercury also enters Cancer on July 4^th where it will remain until July 19^th.

Mercury is the planet that rules all of our speech and communication whether it is writing, talking with others, making a sales pitch or talking with loved ones. Mercurial energy will change from fact oriented Gemini to the most emotional and sensitive of signs, and our communication will become much more emotionally driven.  Those who are born with Mercury in Cancer are typically able to sway others through their ability to emotionally inspire, convince or speak to another’s emotions.

When Mercury is in Cancer we intuit our feelings and conversation much more than during other times. The keyword for Mercury in Cancer is “I feel” as opposed to “I think.” Cancer is ruled by the Moon, the luminary that governs our inner emotions so while Mercury is in Cancer, it is in the Moon’s natural sign. During this time we will be more concerned with our emotional life and the emotions as well being of family members and those closest to us.

The emotionality of Mercury in Cancer will be something we will need to watch as this can lead to extreme emotional displays, reactions, and feelings that can get deeply hurt. The key with Mercury in this sign is to learn to think things through rather than react spontaneously and emotionally to what is said.

We may be concerned over issues regarding home and family members as well as our own emotional lives as we will delve deeply into what is working and what is not working in our inner lives and relationships with those closest to us.

Thoughts of the past and trips down memory lane may be common as Cancer is typically drawn to the past. Cancer never lets go of the past, but relives it many times, depending on what occurred. Mercury in Cancer can be about learning to let go of the past, especially if it was difficult and painful.

Otherwise, this is a beautiful time to get your head aligned with your heart and in touch with your true feelings

Full Moon in Capricorn

This month’s full moon falls at 21 degrees of Capricorn on July 13^th. Capricorn rules the 10^th house of business and priorities, and this moon can have to do with personal security concerns. Capricorn’s planetary ruler, Saturn is all about reality and work. This is a Super moon so it will appear close to the Earth and Super moons can be associated with earth related disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, tsunamis and earthquakes.  During the June 14^th Super moon in Sagittarius we saw substantial flooding and damage at Yellowstone National Park. On June 22^nd just a week after the Super Moon a magnitude 5.9 earthquake in Afghanistan killed at least 1,000 people.

Capricorn is a practical sign and can be associated with a desire to feel useful or helpful. The Cancer-Capricorn axis rules the 4^th/10^th houses in astrology and represents the polarity between the need for nurturance and home versus our sense of duty, responsibility and our presence in the world of day to day work.

Venus is sextile Saturn and this can give us stability, but within hours after the peak of the full moon Venus enters its square to Neptune. With an aspect like this it is important to remain grounded as Neptune rules illusion, delusion and confusion, especially concerning relationships and money, and can cloud our viewpoints or we may not have all of the information we need.

This moon makes many aspects but the most significant include its opposition to Mercury and conjunction to Pluto. Moon opposing Mercury puts communication in the spotlight and can create problems with communication as well as young people. Moon-Pluto relates to deep seated emotional issues or intense thinking. Sometimes an aspect like this can relate to the past or those from the past and Pluto rules decay, power, bullies, extremes and at best change and transformation.

Mercury and Uranus connect offering the possibility to novel ideas, new approaches and brilliant ideas that may be manifested in reality at this time or we could have an epiphany or unexpected realization about something. This will be a significant Moon in the US and a heavy news period.

Venus enters Cancer

July 17^th Venus leaves thrill seeking Gemini for Cancer and love energies change once again. It will remain in the sign ruled by the moon until August 11^th.

When Venus enters Cancer relationships become more emotional and intense. Cancer is a water sign and rules women in general. Cancer can provide powerful emotional support to those in need. She is like a vast ocean, constantly churning, revealing what’s underneath only when and if she is ready to do so. When a Cancer feels threatened by others she simply retreats and finds comfort beneath the waves buried in the sand. You could feel this way during Venus’s stay in Cancer if someone you prioritize makes you feel unloved or insignificant.

If Cancer feels comfortable with you she will make you feel warm, happy and the sky is the limit in terms of how far she is willing to go to ensure your emotional happiness. As she is ruled by the moon however Venus is constantly changing, shifting and emotions can take some sharp turns and Cancer can retreat or even become irritable.  Cancer is deeply devoted but if triggered she can become irrational. If you are sensitive enough to other’s feelings you can avoid the emotional doldrums and upheaval that can accompany this sign.

Cancer rules the home, so this month many social activities will take place in, or will be centered around the home. Cancer is at her best in the home and has a deep love of family, food and the past.

This is a great time to spend time with family especially Mothers, Grandmothers, Aunts and Sisters or any important women in your life. Cancer likes to improve the beauty and comfort of home making it truly your own personal ‘castle,’ whether it is a mansion or a studio apartment.

Mercury enters Leo

July 19^th, Mercury enters Leo until August 4^th. Expect a huge Mercurial shift as the planet of communication enters the third sign this month which is somewhat unusual.

Mercury in Cancer is about emotional thinking. Mercury in Leo can represent emotional thinking as well but much more in a self oriented way. Speech and communication will take a turn toward being more dramatic and at times it may seem like grandstanding.

Leo is ruled by the Sun which represents us or our true inner self. Our perspective can become ego-centered or it can become focused on what our needs really are without being self centered toward others. Mercury in Leo is a time to be your own best supporter, as well as those of others. The focus of Mercury over the next 2 weeks will be on what brings us the most joy, happiness and fun.

Mercury/Leo is more expressive, playful and dramatic than any other sign. While Mercury is in Leo the way we speak or even write can be designed to get others attention or simply get some type of rise out of someone else. Our communication takes on leonine qualities and the way we present ourselves and our ideas will be far more bold, expressive and direct. At best self expression can manifest itself in a creative and dramatic manner meant to draw in those who are most significant whether in love, friendship or business.

At worst communication can be too dramatic in nature and lean toward emotional outbursts rather than a creative expression of what we want. Take care not to let your conversation become too over bearing, demanding or provocative toward others. They same goes for being overly exuberant in your expression of emotions. Think about what you really wish to convey before expressing it. As Leo is a fire sign it may be hard to tone things down and come across in a manner that doesn’t overwhelm others. We can also expect a certain amount of gas-lighting and attention grabbing maneuvers with Mercury in this sign. But, all in all communication should tend toward being positive, upbeat and a little more playful if not enjoyable. That’s not bad in these overly serious times.

Mercury and the Sun oppose Pluto

Mercury opposes Pluto July 18^th and it is joined by the Sun July 19^th, so we will be under the energy of both planets opposing Pluto for the next several days. Sun-Pluto combinations are connected with breakdowns, power struggles and change. Mercury-Pluto aspects lean toward obsessive thinking, arguments and in some cases problems with communication, wrecks and accidents. It is important to be aware of the powerful energies at play over these days which could lead to ego disputes and arguments, interactions with those trying to convince you of something. This is not the day to bring up contentious issues; it would be better to wait a few days and let this energy pass. In some cases the transit can result in endings or breakups if other aspects in the chart indicate it. This will certainly be another heavy news day and serious information will be released at or around this time.

The Sun enters Leo

July 22, the Sun enters Leo for the next month. While Cancer rules home and family, Leo rules the 5^th house of love and entertainment. While Cancer is about family get togethers and vacations, Leo is geared toward singles and fun. Now is the time to dip your toes into the water and enjoy it as the season is so fleeting. This time can be a much welcome break from the stress and seriousness of the world so grab your fun in the sun while you can.

Leo is ruled by the Sun which gives us life and warmth and at this time of the year is impossible to ignore. Leo energy is confident and bold and this can be a positive time of friendship, fun and/or summer romance.

Leo is a fire sign and fire signs are prone to action, movement and creation, and they seldom let grass grow under their feet. When the Sun is in Leo we often want to shine, be in the spotlight and receive attention, or even come across as dramatic. Leo energy is not afraid to be front and center or larger than normal life and extraordinary. Now is your time to shine in whatever endeavor you choose so the plunge and be bold!

Even those who like to typically remain behind the scenes could start to desire more recognition and praise for what they do. Shy people may come out of their shell a little more during the Sun’s time in Leo.

Leo is a regal sign that rules royalty, theatre and acting. With the Sun (and Mercury) in a fire element this becomes a take charge kind of energy. At best this energy can help you take command of your life, express yourself your way in an adventurous and striking manner and inspire more confidence. At worst its worst, Leo can be overly dramatic and too demanding of attention.

July New Moon

This month’s New Moon falls in the sign of Leo on July 28^th, the same day Jupiter turns retrograde. The lunar peak falls at 5 degrees of Leo. Leo rules the 5^th house of love, children and entertainment so this could gear up to be a great date night or social occasion.

The Moon gains support from its trine to Jupiter along with the Sun which is overall optimistic. Mercury however, squares Uranus so we can expect unexpected changes, news and a great deal of conversation. This is an aspect to use caution on if you are on the road as it can be accident prone, or you mind could be going in a million different directions and you could be scattered. Things may not turn out exactly as planned, but sometimes the most memorable experiences are unplanned.

The downside to this moon is that Mars has begun its conjunction to Uranus. While this aspect is not exact until July 31-August 1^st, the energy this aspect will produce has begun. It will increase in the coming days.

Mars conjunct Uranus

The month ends and August will begin with Mars conjunct Uranus July 31-August 1^st. Mars-Uranus is a volatile and unpredictable transit.  As it is in Taurus this will affect money, values and in some cases relationships. A relationship could end or begin under this aspect and if it begins there is not any guarantee of stability.

Epiphanies can occur and you could make sudden decisions or reverse direction in some way at this time. Uranus is not only the planet of unexpected events it is considered ‘the awakener,’ the rebel, and the planet that desires freedom to operate in its own way. Be aware this can be accident prone and you could encounter someone angry and looking to create a disturbance.

This will certainly play out on the world stage in terms of the financial markets/money and resources and it will affect women and personal as well as collective values and how our values will play out in the world.

Mars and Uranus will fall within 1 degree of the North and South nodes which are mathematical points in the sky. They are nevertheless karmic in nature. The South node in Scorpio shows us where we have been and the North node in Taurus shows us where we are going as a collective.

Other aspects in July

July 2^nd, Mercury squares Neptune. This is a confusing transit prone to misinformation and misdirection. Since Mercury also trines Saturn, this will help give us stability and direction, but it will be important to be aware of the energies.

July 4^th, Mercury sextile Mars. This is indicative of a great deal of activity and communication that may involve friends and family members. A good transit to make a point on without coming across as overbearing.

July 8^th, Mercury squares Jupiter. This is basically a positive, laid back aspect as long as things aren’t overdone or blown out of proportion.

July 10^th, the Sun sextiles Uranus. This is a positive day for ideas, conversation and looking at things from a different or new perspective.

July 12, Venus trines Saturn. A great day for any business venture, meeting or financial matter.  The energy is positive yet reality based.

July 16^th, the Sun conjuncts Mercury. This can be considered willful energy and some will be operating from their egos.

July 17^th, Mercury and the Sun trine Neptune. This is creative and compassionate energy. Dreams may be vivid and some may experience a greater intuition today.

July 23^rd, Mercury trines Jupiter. This is positive, upbeat and hopeful energy good for any type of meeting or social activity.

July 24^th, Venus squares Jupiter. You may not have a great deal of will power today or drive to accomplish much. This is typically positive and geared toward relaxation or social activities.

July 26^th, Mercury squares Mars. This is irritable and accident prone energy. It could indicate planning or a brain storming session at best.

July 30^th, Mercury opposes Saturn. This can be slightly negative or serious energy. Many things may be analyzed but don’t take negative feelings too seriously. This may also be tiring.

July 31^st, The Sun squares Jupiter. This is overall positive energy and can help with overcoming shyness or can increase bravery and a desire for accomplishment although this is not a driving type of energy.

Happy Birthday Cancer and Leo!

Full moon in Sagittarius; Fact or fantasy

 

This month’s full moon falls at 23 degrees of Sagittarius, and it is considered a Supermoon. The peak of this moon occurs on June 14th, at 7:52 AM, EDT. When this happens the moon’s orbit is closer to the Earth than other times. When a Supermoon occurs, it is often associated with earth related disasters such as earthquakes, tidal waves, tsunamis and the like. After years of tracking super moons I have found however, at this time activity escalates and the full moon energy has more sway over us in general. The moon affects the tides and humans are 60% water. Typically, a moon like this can bring about water related weather conditions.

Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter and is typically a happy and upbeat sign with a love of adventure. It rules the 9^th house of travel, world outlook and the legal system. Sagittarius often approaches things from a visionary perspective.

This full moon squares Neptune. Things may seem cloudy and unclear and we could be deceived by others or ourselves so it is important to stay grounded. Gaslighting is a word that comes to mind with this aspect. It may also bring about a certain amount of intuitive abilities or perceptions but it may be difficult to judge fantasy from reality.

This full moon has a significant impact on the US, as it opposes Mars in the US chart and squares Neptune, setting off the powerful Mars-Neptune square in the US chart.. It is likely we could hear court rulings or something of a legal nature that will create controversy and a great deal of friction. As this moon opposes Mars it is prone to upset, volatility and even violence. The Moon squares the US Neptune in the 9^th house which concerns laws, and potentially foreign powers, education and world view or outlook. All things may not be clear and it looks to be a tumultuous period in the US on and around the full moon.

 

June astrology for 2022

 

As we begin the month the Mars-Jupiter conjunction from the end of May is still powerful. This aspect is a double edged sword in that it can motivate us to move forward with our own interests yet it is militaristic in nature and as a collective we are still reeling from the gun violence across the US in May. Mars is in Aries, making the planet of action very powerful and Mars rules guns. Jupiter is in Aries and whatever Jupiter touches it expands; positive or negative. We have seen a dramatic increase in mass shootings in the US with this powerful aspect. June promises to be a significant month as the United Sates experiences the second pass it its natal Pluto return in the US chart which will peak again on July 11^th. Between now and July 11^th, Pluto’s retrograde will be very powerful in the US chart, and many things will be revealed.

In June, Mercury finally turns direct and then repeats its cycle through Gemini. The Sun travels through Gemini into Cancer. Venus, the planet of love, money and values transits through Taurus and then into Gemini. Saturn begins its long 5 month retrograde and Pluto turns retrograde along with Neptune, slowing things down just a bit as Neptune and Saturn turn retrograde, joining Pluto (retrograde). Now, the details.

Mercury turns direct

Mercury is the planet of communication, and it turns direct on June 3^rd in the early morning hours. While this is positive news, it is also the ‘stationary retrograde,’ until June 9^th, which means we are not out of the woods yet, and could still experience another change in direction, unexpected news and more glitches and breakdowns. Mercury will begin to actually move forward June 9^th when things will begin to pick up once again.

Mercury squares Saturn

From May 30^th-June 8th, Mercury is square Saturn. This is a very serious minded aspect and can be prone toward negativity and feeling tired. We will feel the energy both before and after the above mentioned dates. Watch your conversation and the way you approach things. Expect to go back over past issues of a serious nature and reconsider many different things. It is likely we will hear significant news pertaining to world events during this time, and as a collective reconsider certain things such as gun laws and censorship.

June 14^th, Mercury re-enters Gemini

Mercury entered Gemini April 29-May 23^rd, before retrograding back into Taurus. It will re-enter Gemini again June 13^th-July 5^th. Gemini is all about communication and thought, and it is an Air sign ruled by Mercury. Mercury is considered ‘at home,’ in this sign, meaning Mercury works well in Gemini. Mercury rules both Gemini and Virgo.

This will be a significant energy shift from grounded Mercury in Taurus. Gemini is about free flowing thought, communication, and weighing out different ideas and patterns of thinking. Mercury-Gemini may seem scattered at times, but that is because Gemini likes to take in so much information and is not interested in details so much.

Air signs and Gemini are intellectual as opposed to emotional so communication may seem lacking in emotion, and more centered around facts, concepts and ideas. To some, this may come across as cold but Mercury in this sign is more concerned with facts and ideas as opposed to emotion.

We may go back and reconsider some of the things and ideas that occurred during Mercury’s first transit through Gemini,  At this time we may fine tune the things we dealt with earlier, or discard them and move on to something else if they do not seem doable or they are lacking in some way.

Saturn retrogrades

Saturn turns retrograde June 4^th in the late afternoon hours. This occurs less than 24 hours after Mercury turns direct amping up the Saturn-Mercury energy that has been with us for quite a few days, making this aspect even more important.

Saturn is retrograde about 5 months every year and this is part of the normal cycle. It won’t turn direct again October 22, at 18 degrees of Aquarius. Unless this aspect is hitting something in your chart it should not come across like a jolt, as its affects are powerful yet subtle.

Saturn's retrograde can be a pivotal time when many changes occur, especially if it is hitting something in your personal chart. If this is the case you can expect some sort of change, depending on what Saturn is aspecting in your own chart.

When you experience a Saturn transit, you generally get three passes and the retrograde pass is always the most challenging. Hard Saturn transits are associated with delays, slowdowns, endings and various difficulties. During its retrograde you may have to work harder to get what you want.

As Saturn deals with our structures in life we may be concerned with basic security issues while Saturn is retrograde both individually and collectively. Retrograde Saturn is a period where some things may slow down a bit and like any retrograde planet is time to reconsider and sometimes back up to take a good luck at what we are working on and where we are going in life. During this 5 month period we may receive new information about something significant or find a solution to a problem that has been plaguing us which is the benefit of the retrograde. Retrograde Saturn is a time of working out issues especially in terms of business but could include any area of life depending on where it is in your chart. This is a time of doing the hard work to accomplish what you want, and at times it can bring personal and spiritual growth as a result of dealing with hard to solve problems.

Venus in Taurus and Gemini

As we begin the month, Venus has just entered its cycle in Taurus which will go through June 22^nd.

Venus is at home in Taurus which is one of the signs it rules, the other is Libra.

Venus in Taurus will be a significant change from self oriented Venus in Aries. Over the next few weeks there will be a greater focus on love, money, luxury items or beauty, beautiful things, relationships and values. Venus is happy and lavish in this sign and you may feel a desire to surround yourself with richness on many different levels whether it is art, clothes, jewelry, calming music or rich food. Go ahead and enjoy Venus in Taurus which relates to the most basic of comforts: touch, smell, sensuality, beauty, comfort and food. Venus in this sign takes us back to the basics of life and we can indulge and luxuriate in the simpler things that make us the happiest on an inner level.

The planet of love, beauty and values enters Gemini June 22-July 16^th. Expect a major energetic shift when this occurs as Gemini is far different from Taurus.

Venus in Gemini is concerned with conversation, ideas, truths, and she does like to be bored in this sign. Venus in Gemini can be as sensual as any other sign, but you must bring conversation, adventure and fun to the picture to make this work. Manners count as does intelligence and ideas, most of all.

Venus in Gemini enjoys many different types of people and can flit from one group to another with little notice, and often expect their partner to be able to travel with them at the speed of light if necessary. Routine situations can be quite dull and boring, as are dogmatic, predictable people and routines.

Venus in Gemini is light and airy, and there is no greater turn off for those with Venus in this sign than people who are emotionally heavy and limiting, or jealous and possessive so check these feelings at the front door if you want this energy of this sign to work well for you.

Typically Venus-Gemini looks for friends first, and isn’t going to jump into an exclusive relationship overnight. Gemini is a mutable sign, so it's subject to changeability at the drop of a hat.

Venus in Gemini has a bad rap astrologically for being fickle. As Gemini is a changeable sign, she (or he) can change her mind if things aren’t working. The dark side of Venus in Gemini has the potential to leave lovers in the lurch, but is there any Venus that could be exempt from this if there is a good reason? Gemini can be more unpredictable than some, especially if things become too intense or dull. This could of course leave some people feeling duped, which again contributes to Venus's placement here being considered fickle. Venus in Gemini is actually looking for their ideal partner they can communicate and have fun with. Should they be lucky enough to find this, there is little chance they will leave.

Full Moon in Sagittarius

This month’s full moon falls at 23 degrees of Sagittarius, and it is considered a Supermoon. When this happens the moon’s orbit is closer to the Earth than other times. When a Supermoon occurs, it is often associated with earth related disasters such as earthquakes, tidal waves, tsunamis and the like. After years of tracking super moons I have found however, that at this time activity escalates and the full moon energy has more sway over us in general. The moon affects the tides and humans are 60% water. Typically, a moon like this can bring about water related weather conditions.

Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter and is typically a happy and upbeat sign with a love of adventure. It rules the 9^th house of travel, world outlook and the legal system. Sagittarius often approaches things from a visionary perspective.

This full moon squares Neptune. Things may seem cloudy and unclear and we could be deceived by others or ourselves so it is important to stay grounded.

This full moon has a significant impact on the US, as it opposes Mars in the US chart and squares Neptune, setting off the powerful Mars-Neptune square in the US chart. Mars also squares the US Sun in the days prior to this moon which involves the US President. It is likely we could hear court rulings or something of a legal nature that will create controversy and a great deal of friction. As this moon opposes Mars it is prone to upset, volatility and even violence. The Moon squares the US Neptune in the 9^th house which concerns laws, and potentially foreign powers, education and world view or outlook. All things may not be clear and it looks to be a tumultuous period in the US on and around the full moon.

The Sun enters Cancer

June 21^st, the Sun enters the sign Cancer at 5:14AM, EDT and summer is finally here! This is also the Summer Solstice, which is the longest day of the year.

Whatever your age, this marks the start of the short 3 month season of warm beaches, outdoor events and gatherings, sunshine and romantic summer nights.

From June 21-July 22 Cancer will rule the sky and the focus will be on our emotions, home and family.  Cancer’s planet is the Moon which rules women, our emotions, feelings and family or those who are like family.  The Cancer season is all about summer, family get-togethers, family vacations and getting in touch with what we really need on an inner level to feel happy and secure. 

Look for a huge energetic shift as the Sun in Cancer is much more about our feelings and what really lies in our hearts as opposed to our intellect and ideas when it was in Gemini. Cancer is the most sensitive sign in the zodiac, and like the Moon, feelings are always shifting and changing. The Moon changes signs every 2 and a half days and those born under Cancer are dramatically affected by the changes. The moon represents our instincts and feelings that are not bound up in logic or reason.

Cancer is part of the water element and not only are water signs more sensitive and emotional than others they are typically in touch for their deepest feelings and inner psyche. Cancer can come across as moodier than others but they are also intuitive and perceptive.  Cancer is a caring and giving sign typically, and you may find yourself feeling more protective and comforting toward loved ones during this time, or spending time with a friend over a cup of coffee talking about their concerns.  

Cancer can come across as having a hard edge at times, but you have to remember that the crab is protected by a hard shell to fend off predators. Sometimes Cancer can put up a wall to protect themselves. To get to the innermost feelings of a Cancer, trust has to be built and they seldom read like an open book unless you have earned their trust.

While Cancer is a loving and warm sign, moodiness and too many ups and downs can sometimes get in the way of saying or accomplishing what you want to achieve. We will be operating from more of an emotional place than logical, and our feelings and judgment may be colored by our inner emotional reactions to things.

Cancer does not let others close until they feel a sense of trust toward the other person so don’t be surprised if some seem to back off a bit this month. In the end however, if you really connect there is no sign more loyal and protective than the crab, and their intuition about what is happening is generally spot on.

Neptune retrogrades

June 28^th, the planet of illusion, delusion and confusion turns retrograde through December 4^th. Neptune retrogrades every year and its affects are subtle but powerful. You will experience this transit to a greater degree if you have planets in mutable signs; Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius or Pisces at 24-26 degrees.

Hard Neptune transits often coincide with over idealized relationships, or relationships with those who are really not available for a variety of reasons. We may feel we have met our soul mate or the most perfect partner in the world to wake up and find things were not as we had believed, or been led to believe which leads to discouragement, depression and disenchantment.

This will bring about a greater sensitivity on an inner level and we may be able to pick up on those things we don't perceive when Neptune is direct. We are more likely to be listening to our own inner voice during this time and creativity and psychic or intuitive abilities may be increased.

Often when Neptune retrogrades we find out that our dreams are not based on reality and this generally occurs during the retrograde of a harsh transit in our charts. This can not only affect relationships but many other areas of our lives depending on what area of the chart Neptune is transiting. If you do not have a hard Neptune aspect, you need not be as concerned.

While Neptune retrogrades this typically brings about a period of listening to our own inner voices more than other times. As Neptune rules the subconscious, now is the time to become aware of those hidden thoughts or feelings in our mind that play out in a detrimental way in our psyche so we can correct them and move on.

The New moon in Cancer

June’s new moon falls at 7 degrees of Cancer on June 28^th, the same day that Neptune retrogrades. Cancer is the significator of the 4^th house of home and family, and its planetary ruler is the Moon. The Moon is connected with home, family and our emotions. Of course, many will be preparing for the 4^th of July holiday and visiting or inviting relatives to the home. Mars will sextile Saturn which gives us the extra energy to take care of things we need to do, and Saturn relates to the past and those from the past. Emotions may fluctuate but for the most part, this should be pleasant for many.

 

Other significant aspects in June

June 11^th, Venus conjuncts Uranus. With this aspect we can expect the unexpected in terms of love, social events and finances. This is a day to plan things loosely and situations can change on a dime. Try something different and take advantage of social opportunities that come your way. This often affects the financial markets and if a change is to be expected it would likely occur on June 10^th which is a Friday.

June 16^th, the Sun trines Saturn and squares Neptune. While Sun-Saturn can give us some grounding, Sun square Neptune can be fraught with confusion and lack of clarity. This can also seem somewhat tiring and discouraging. Make sure you have all the facts before making any important decision, and better still just wait for a few days until the energy levels out.

June 18^th, Venus sextiles Neptune and squares Saturn. This is prone to disillusionment in terms of love and money. While Venus’s square to Neptune could be pleasant, its square to Saturn can make social matters and love difficult. Venus rules women in general, so this is not a positive aspect for women. The sextile to Neptune could create confusion and a lack of clarity so use care.

June 20^th, Mercury sextiles Jupiter. This is generally a positive transit and can be good for social interaction, meetings, sales or anything of the sort, and is generally considered hopeful.

July 1^st, Mars squares Pluto. While this aspect officially occurs in July, we will certainly feel the energy of this aspect as much as a week before and certainly in the several days before. This is a volatile aspect prone to power struggles and those who force their will on others. This is a bad time to bring up contentious issues, better to let the energy pass. Pluto does have the power to regenerate and it is possible to create change with a great deal of hard work.

This is a significant aspect in the US chart as it will square Pluto only days away from the next US Pluto return. This typically points to volatility, violence, financial instability of some sort and serious political issues that could be divisive in nature. It is best to use caution over the next few days.