Astrology Report for July - By Admin on behalf of Mahala, on July 4th, 2014 - Guest article by Dorene Carrel.

            July begins in a fast-forward mode when Mercury in Gemini turns direct on July 1. Now there is more energy available for making progress with long-term goals and plans.  During the first half of this year, many of the faster-moving planets (such as Venus and Mars) have been in retrograde cycles, which has caused us to experience many delays, unexpected changes or a lack of momentum.  In mid-month Saturn turns direct, while the three outer planets turn retrograde.  This change may result in our feeling less encumbered and freer to move forward with our goals. In addition, Jupiter moves into Leo, which expands our urge towards leadership, self-expression and recreation.    

          We begin this month under a new moon in Cancer, which occurred on June 27, with a focus on our emotional/feeling side and issues connected to home, family and security.  Also still in effect is the ongoing Uranus/Pluto square, which will be activated this month by the Sun, Mercury and Venus. Although the momentum for change and transformation will continue, this month there is less intensity and more ease. 

          The Sun in Cancer will form a t-square with Uranus/Pluto from July 4-8.  During this period we can become more empowered to meet our needs for security and emotional contentment.  Releasing elements of the past can be a key factor. We may also be learning how to balance our needs for both closeness and independence in relationships.

          On July 8 a water Grand Trine with the Sun in Cancer, Saturn in Scorpio and Chiron in Pisces will increase awareness of what we need for our own emotional/physical and financial well-being.  We can use this week to receive or provide support and healing. Water tends to favor inner attunement and reflection before taking outer action.  Pay attention to your dreams and visions.         

          The Full Moon occurs on July 12 at 20 Capricorn.  This lunation serves to activate the ongoing Grand Cross, with hard aspects to Mars, Jupiter, Uranus and Pluto.  We may now receive clarity on constructive actions that will bring about desired life changes.  Capricorn favors the use of patience, discipline and faithful application of steady efforts on a daily basis.  The Sabian symbols for these degrees, “A relay race; the value of competition in developing group-consciousness” and “a famous singer is proving her virtuosity during an operatic performance,” suggest having an appreciation for the collective talents already developed that contribute to our society’s evolutionary growth.

          On July 16 Jupiter leaves Cancer to enter Leo, which will create a significant shift over the next year.  Expansive Jupiter is very comfortable in Leo, since both represent the creative fire element.   As Leo is also very heart-centered, this transit can help us to discover and express our true passions. We are also called to take a leadership role in some life area, for ourselves or others. We may feel very expansive and creative on July 23-24 when the Leo Sun aligns with Jupiter. Jupiter will travel through Leo until August 2015.   

          Saturn in Scorpio turns stationary direct on July 20, ending almost five months of retrograde motion.  On July 21, Uranus in Aries turns stationary retrograde. When planets station, their energies become stronger.  The combined energies of these cycles, representing stability vs. change, can ideally create new constructive outlets for revolutionary ideals and ideas.  This period could prove challenging to the status quo for situations still resistant to needed change. Mercury in Cancer makes challenging aspects to Pluto and Uranus from July 21-24. This combination does not favor cooperation and better results can be obtained by taking a unique or intuitive approach.        

          The New Moon occurs on July 26 at 4 Leo.  This lunation aligns with Jupiter in Leo and makes a challenging aspect with Mars in Scorpio.  This combination brings a new sense of vitality, optimism and faith, as we can view our lives from a more expansive viewpoint.  A challenging square from Mars can be combative, but also encourages us to use physical activity to release pent-up energies.  The Sabian symbol for this degree, “A formally dressed elderly man stands near trophies he brought back from a hunting expedition,” suggests that we can continue creating and evolving our passions and talents into higher levels of service. 

          August brings a lucky Venus/Jupiter alignment.  Blessings to all for a joyful summer!

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Mahalas Astrology