In the spirit of fresh starts I thought I’d try something new this month. Here is my take on the top 7 astrology events in July.* These are ranked according to my thoughts on astro significance, rather than date order.
**update July 22: I’ve added a new post on the Sun in Leo, which includes info for late July and the energy peak August 8 – 10. Pop over here for that one.
1) Jupiter in Leo, July 16
This is a huge deal and you will see LOTS written about it as we get closer to this date. Many astrologers, including myself, will discuss the shift in energy this will bring.
In one word, Jupiter in Leo is sunshine. It’s heat, hope and confidence and helps you look to the future.
Since mid 2013, Jupiter has been in an introspective water sign (Cancer), encouraging all of us to look inwards, and deal with private or personal matters, especially those to do with home and family. In Leo, Jupiter looks outward, seeking connection and looking for new ways to express light and essence.
Jupiter in Leo opens new doors and will create a fresh set of opportunities. Leadership, creativity and trusting your instincts will all be part of this.
This sign change also begins the larger shift from water to fire that will continue in the coming months. In December Saturn enters Sagittarius (another fire sign), and in 2015, Venus will retrograde in Leo. Going forward there is more energy, courage and boldness emanating from the cosmos and it all starts with Jupiter moving into Leo this month.
Think big, dream big, do big. Reconnect with forgotten dreams and start to reconnect with the wider world in new ways.
Find out what Jupiter in Leo or Saturn in Sagittarius might mean for you in a year ahead astrology chart consult.
2) Mars in Scorpio, July 26
Finally! After 6+ months in Libra Mars changes signs and shifts focus. New passions and desires will emerge as you start to reconnect with interests and goals that are different from the obsessions of the past 6 months.
Mars leaves a sign he’s considered weakened in (Libra is one of his detriment signs) and enters one of the signs in which he’s considered dignified or strengthened (Scorpio). This is quite the contrast which will help stir your inner warrior to action.
Mars in Scorpio is focused and controlled, but powers towards goals with precision. There is a layer of secrecy or mystery here and you may prefer to work in private or away from prying eyes. Digging into issues regarding truth, trust and loyalty may lead to discovery and profound change.
Mars in Scorpio invites you to dive into the belly of your being, make peace with what you really want and then do something about manifesting a personal or intimate goal.
3) Sun conjunct Jupiter in Leo, July 24 – 26
This may be one of the happiest alignments of 2014! It has sparkle, brilliance and shine. The Sun and Jupiter are both regal planets and together they can inspire you to express the best of who you are. This is an expressive, get-it-out-there pairing so plan to share, give or reward those around you.
Abundance and generosity are Jupiter’s buzzwords, and when emphasised by the Sun these qualities go to new levels. Jupiter represents mercy and grace and so bestowing what kindness you can on those you interact with now will be inspiring for all.
This aspect almost demands a celebration so consider hosting an event or gathering with friends, family and loved ones. It’s also a great day to set visions and intentions for the future, both short and long term.
As a personal side note, this aspect was one under which I started my business 12 years ago. My personal mission around arguing for joy has a bit of a Jupiter in Leo tone to it (which yes, I do have in my own chart!). I’ve touched on these thoughts here.
4) Sun square Uranus, July 8 – 9
Early in the month the Sun squares off to Uranus. This pairing holds some friction, but friction creates heat which in turn leads to action. Ultimately this combination can help you do something about a personally meaningful need, even if said actions may be out of character or considered unconventional.
The Sun and Uranus celebrate differences, so forget conformity and follow your own heart. One of my favorite quotes, by Ralph Waldo Emerson, aptly summarizes the revolutionary spirit of Uranus:
‘Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail’
5) Mars conjunct North Node, July 14
The future seems within reach when a planet combines with the fated North Node, which represents the future. New possibilities emerge as Mars channels a taste of the future for you. Dare to dream!
North Node triggers show us what’s possible when you get outside your comfort zone. Reaching for the future you imagine will mean leaving behind a past that’s safe and familiar, but on days like these you may find the courage to push ahead. Try something new and pay attention to bright ideas or stimulating encounters. Through these kinds of experiences a flash of your future will be revealed.
6) Mercury opposite Pluto, July 22 + square Uranus, July 25
Mercury moves through the ‘Zap Zone’ of the Uranus/Pluto square towards the end of the month. Truth and new honesty will be required as Mercury faces off with Pluto and secrets may be revealed. When Mercury touches Uranus expected the unexpected. Be flexible and spontaneous as anything can – and often does – happen. Be curious about what’s different.
7) Venus opposite Pluto, July 28
Love and money matters have a secret or hidden quality. Power themes may emerge so be firm without crossing into controlling territory. This potent energy will highlight any simmering concerns so try to bring whatever is in your heart to the surface consciously.
An opposition aspect acts like a see saw and you may swing between protecting and nurturing family (Venus in Cancer) with obsessing about work, career or security (Pluto in Capricorn). Compromise will support togetherness but if you have a suspicion there’s something going on you don’t know about it, honour it and dig for the truth.
*I am writing this on July 8, so I focussed on the month ahead and ignored the first week including last week’s Sun opposite Pluto angle.
What are your hopes and goals for July? Do you have new opportunities or life areas opening up in line with Jupiter’s sign change?