On Monday July 17 there is a new moon in Cancer, the zodiac sign associated with high sensitivity, a nurturing nature, emotional intelligence, and the capacity for giving support. Feeling emotions very intensely is hardwired into Cancer people, and can at times leave them struggling for perspective, or taking impersonal behaviors of others very personally. Cancer is a Cardinal Water sign, driven by the need to create emotional security, a sense of home, and a desire to belong. Symbolized by the Crab, many Cancers will hide their personal vulnerability behind a hard shell and give to others instead of asking others to fill their needs. Cancer season asks us to explore emotional intimacy and spend time with those nurture us.

This new moon takes place with the luminaries opposing Pluto and square Chiron, When the Sun and Moon oppose Pluto there’s a tendency for things that have been hidden to come into the open, and in the sign of Capricorn this will often happen within government, large institutions and corporations. Pluto retrograded into Capricorn on June 11, 2023, and will stay there until January 20, 2024. This seven-month period is the completion of Pluto’s journey through Capricorn and the is part of a larger transitional cycle collectively, from a top-down, patriarchal, rule-oriented energy, to Pluto moving into Aquarius, a community oriented, egalitarian, free-spirited and revolutionary energy. When we enter periods of outer planets changing signs, there is often a great deal of chaos and things breaking down in order to make way for the new. This month, with the new moon making a square to Chiron as well, it’s likely that issues within medicine, the medical community and even alternative forms of healing will be in the spotlight.

On July 18, 2023, the lunar nodes change from Taurus/Scorpio into Aries/Libra, a cycle that happened in 2004-2005 and in 1986-1987 and will last until January 2025. The Lunar Nodes symbolize the potential for growth in the collective. The focus during this coming period will be integrating our personal desires and drives (Aries) with our need for harmony, equality, and relationships (Libra). Working on trusting your instincts, your capacity for leadership, and taking initiative while including those around you is what matters in these coming months.

Is there a member of your family that annoys, confuses or upsets you? Cancer season is a great time to improve family relationships by signing up for a Chart Comparison with that person. Learn more.