“Morning Traffic” painting by Patricia A. Griffin
Overview
Each month is a gemstone to me. This is one of the ways I viscerally experience the world. This June was the regal Emerald, a green stone of great wisdom and heart love. Photosynthesis this June was as exorbitant as I have ever witnessed it where I live in the northwest corner of Wyoming. Shades of chlorophyll so varied that its range of expression dazzled us beyond imagination. Now July is here as Peridot, another favorite stone, green but lime green, tinged with yellow. A stone of creativity. Too soon it will be August, blessed August, and gold Citrine will take hold of more of the land and vegetation. Perhaps those of you in desert country feel the summer months as Garnet, Ruby, or Fire Citrine. Or my water friends — as Sapphire, Aquamarine, Tourmaline. Each month, a gem. Holiest of wonders.
The meaning of this New SolLunar Cycle is deeply linked to Venus — a planet aligned with Emerald — turning retrograde as she does every eighteen months on July 22 – September 3. Venus governs the heart chakra, helping us know and live our deeper loves and longings. The retrograde period is a chance to reevaluate our relationships including the one we have with ourselves, and to revitalize and reinvigorate our lives with what brings us joy. New creative surges can happen, expanding love interests, exquisite self care, making sure you caretake your self as much as you nurture others. That way all will remain healthy and happy. May you experience this miraculous gift in a myriad of blessing-ways.
The exact moment of this New Moon takes place at the last degree of sidereal Gemini but quickly enters Cancer. This creates an interesting dynamic which can involve important completions/transactions occurring at the same time a new Cycle begins, with a focus on home, family relationships, ancestors. As the two evolutionary planets of Pluto — physical transformation — and Neptune — spiritual evolution — influence both the Sun and Moon, this four-week period encourages us to leave behind old comfort zones, habits and behaviors that may be holding us back and explore new concepts of how to create stability, safety and connection within our communities of relationship. Cancer is associated with the home ground of Earth — may you spend many hours reveling in and in the consumption of the abundant flowering of vegetation as we head into the first harvest of Lammas on August 1, which miraculously is also the Full Moon!
Thank you, Patricia A. Griffin, for allowing me to use your beautiful work for this post. Patricia’s paintings uniquely convey the individual encounters and stories she has with her animal subjects out in the wild and I am honored to post her work. Please view her various subjects and themes here.
Sidereal Astrology Mentoring and Readings
My posts are based on the true astronomical alignments of the planets with the constellations, also referred to as the sidereal zodiac. I use the phases of the Moon as the scaffold for my posts because the Moon functions like an energetic portal mediating between the heavens and our wondrous Earth. My entries are based on the aspects occurring each week as they crescendo, crest and dissipate over the course of their influence. As you work with and within the natural flow of time and the supportive cosmic energies that each unique SolLunar Cycle brings, life can flow with more ease, grace and understanding.
I delight in mentoring students—individually, with families or groups, and via workshops and conferences—who want to learn more about how to use sidereal astrology as a helpful tool for insight and awakening. Consider booking a mini-reading with me for $44 or $88, the numbers of living your Mastery on Earth. In these short readings, I discuss key personal transits that are happening for you in 2022 and beyond. Send me an email if you are interested in those options, or a full Natal Map, Update, Relationship Map, Young Adult or Child’s Map. Thank you!
@2023 Lyn Dalebout ~ EarthWordSkyWord.com ~ All Rights Reserved
New SolLunar Cycle in sidereal Cancer
At the New Moon, you are sprouting like a seed with new creative inspiration. Receive your unique insights by sitting in meditation or just be open to new possibilities arising within you from the sea of infinite creation.
New SolLunar Cycle in sidereal Gemini/Cancer trine Neptune in Pisces opposite Pluto in Capricorn: Mon July 17: 12:31 pm MT
The exact moment of this New Moon takes place at the last degree of sidereal Gemini but quickly enters Cancer. This creates an interesting dynamic which can involve important completions/transactions occurring at the same time a new Cycle begins, with a focus on home, family relationships, ancestors. As the two evolutionary planets of Pluto — physical transformation — and Neptune — spiritual evolution — influence both the Sun and Moon, this four-week period encourages us to leave behind old comfort zones, habits and behaviors that may be holding us back and explore new concepts of how to create stability, safety and connection within our communities of relationship. These same themes are amplified by the concurrent event of Venus turning retrograde on July 22. Cancer is associated with the home ground of Earth — may you spend many hours reveling in and in the consumption of the abundant flowering of vegetation as we head into the first harvest of Lammas on August 1, which coincidentally will be the Full Moon!
This crescendos Sun July 16, crests Mon July 17, dissipates Tue July 18.
Mercury in Cancer square Jupiter in Aries: Mon July 17
This communicative aspect might include negotiations, and it can lead to abrupt eruptions of truth-telling. You may need to handle a logistical challenge regarding some event.
This builds Sun July 16, crests Mon July 17, dissolves Tue July 18.
Sun in Cancer trine Neptune in Pisces: Thu July 20
Ease and flow come with this aspect as you use the power of your imagination to visualize outcomes, see new possibilities, have insights pour in from the higher dimensions. It’s all about aqua reverie so enjoy water activities in pleasurable ways.
This builds Wed July 19, crests Thu July 20, dissipates Fri July 21.
Mars in Leo opposite Saturn in Aquarius: Thu July 20
Luckily the above aspect softens the harder edge of this tense standoff. This aspect happens once every two years. Both Mars and Saturn can be pushy and push us to take willful actions, stand up for what we want or feel is right, and both like to be in charge. This serious dynamic means serious business. Polarizations might arise between people and parties but can also lead to bottomline negotiations.
This crescendos Mon July 17, crests Thu July 20, dissolves Sun July 23.
Sun in Cancer square the Lunar Nodes: Fri July 21
Aspects linked to the Nodes often involve completing a project, rounding the bend so you can finally see what is next. Take an important step toward your future goals. The blessing of the Sun provides illumination to help you see more clearly what is taking shape, lighting your path with optimism.
This builds Thu July 20, crests Fri July 21, dissipates Sat July 22.
Venus in Leo turns retrograde: Sat July 22 – September 3
Sacred Venus — a planet aligned with the Emerald — turns retrograde, as she does every eighteen months, on July 22 – September 3. Venus has been seen at dusk as the Evening Star for the past nine months and will re-emerge this fall as the Morning Star for the next nine months. Nine months, a time frame linked to humans giving birth, right?
The shadow period of this cycle actually began on June 19 in sidereal Cancer. Cancer is a sign of history, memory, ancestors and this transit is providing a chance to both clear things from the past as well as embrace the gifts of one’s history and ancestors. It can be a time you are considering a new housing arrangement, making a move, leaving a home. I have already observed the unexpected passing of friend’s pets and parents which often occurs under the energies of Cancer and will probably continue during this entire cycle which completes early October.
When Venus turns retrograde on July 22, she is aligned with the regal star of Regulus, linked to leadership of great integrity and calling forth the desire to live more fully in one’s heart truth. Venus governs the heart chakra, helping us know and live our deeper loves and longings. The retrograde period is a chance to reevaluate our relationships, including the one we have with ourselves, and to revitalize and reinvigorate our lives with what brings us joy. New creative surges can happen, expanding love interests, exquisite self care, making sure you caretake your self as much as you nurture others. That way all will remain healthy and happy. May you experience this miraculous gift in a myriad of blessing-ways.
Sun in Cancer opposite Pluto in Capricorn: Sat July 22
This annual aspect is expectedly intense and driven and sometimes brings unexpected changes that are ultimately in your best interests. For example, for those of you who have a hard time taking it easy, you might get sick which requires you to rest and thus avoid further health complications. Deep releases and cellular restructuring are at work when Pluto takes center stage.
This crescendos Thu July 20, crests Sat July 22, dissipates Mon July 24.
Mercury in Cancer trine Chiron in Pisces: Sat July 22
This aspect makes fixing everything easier, be that a water leak, a recent relationship riff. Float on the river, sit by a mountain stream and receive messages with the heightened intuition it brings to all.
This builds Fri July 21, crests Sat July 22, dissolves Sun July 23.
Mercury in Cancer square Uranus in Aries: Sun July 23
This can manifest as accidents or things suddenly breaking in the home. That’s part of how Uranus rolls — underlying tensions can be building then the trigger or shock of Uranus leads to a breaking point. Mercury rules vehicles and technology. Consider taking a different route if you get the vibe or research upgrades to equipment.
This builds Sat July 22, crests Sun July 23, dissolves Mon July 24.
Lunar Highlights
Moon/Mercury conjunction in Cancer: Wed July 19
This combo is good for focusing on family logistics, home projects or reaching out to chat with your people.
Moon/Pallas Athene/Mars conjunction in Leo: Thu July 20
This highly-energized, creative aspect leads to an well-organized adventure, like a several day hike, or planning one for future summer fun. Kids are especially rambunctious under the Leo Moon and the adults are more likely to dive in, too!
First Quarter Moon
At the First Quarter Moon, you are called to action. The need to move forward with your recent insights can come via making a conscious choice or by challenging circumstances that require you make a move.
First Quarter Moon: Moon/South Node in Libra square Sun in Cancer: Tue July 25
This poses an interesting dynamic in that First Quarter Moon often marks taking a step forward, but the emotional Moon sits on the South Node linked to the past. It can feel you are standing at the crossroads of big changes, much like moving into a new home while also packing up the old one. Feeling nostalgic or teary is possible.
This builds Mon July 24, crests Tue July 25, dissolves Wed July 26.
Mercury/Venus retrograde conjunction in Leo: Thu July 27
This conjunction brings very focused energy and important communications and insights. Pay attention to the messages that arrive today, helpful clues to assist you on the path to new discoveries. Deal with your mail or email.
This builds Wed July 26, crests Thu July 27, dissolves Fri July 28.
Sun in Cancer quincunx Saturn in Aquarius: Fri July 28
This often leads to the need to adjust or tweak a plan in some way, possible due to events affecting friends — Aquarius — or family members — Cancer. Or you can feel torn between who you want to spend time with.
This crescendos Thu July 27, crests Fri Jul 28, dissipates Sat July 29.
Grand Trine in Fire: Moon in Sagittarius/Jupiter in Aries/Mars in Leo: Sun July 30
This harmonious aspect is fabulous for a grand summer adventure and brings enthusiasm, courage, endless energy, and possibly, burnout or sore muscles by the end of the day.
This crescendos Sat July 29, crests Sun July 30, dissipates Mon July 31.
Lunar Highlights
Moon in Libra opposite Jupiter in Aries: Wed July 26
Feeling happy and exuberant regarding relationships is part of this dynamic, even going overboard with a gift or complements. It is good for communicating your needs in current negotiations.
Moon in Scorpio square Mars in Leo opposite Vesta in Taurus: Fri July 28
This square can create tensions or decisions involving financial issues. Issues of control can arise in relationships.
Moon/Pluto conjunction in Capricorn: Mon July 31
This brings emotional intensity, drive, determination along with the occasional cleanse to your body/mind/spirit. A good day to fast or a juice cleanse if that is something you feel drawn to do.
Full Moon in sidereal Capricorn/Cancer
The Full Moon is the birth point of the current SolLunar Cycle. This can be a time of celebration or crisis, depending on your life circumstance. Feel the joy and relax into new discoveries and directions.
Lammas, Festival of the First Harvest and Full Moon in sidereal Capricorn/Cancer square Jupiter in Aries: Tue August 1: 12:31 pm MT
Lammas, the festival of the first harvest of summer, marks the halfway point between Summer Solstice and the coming Autumnal Equinox. It is traditionally honored by making, breaking bread with others. Wonderfully this year this holy day coincides with a Full Moon! When the always amped-up energy of any Full Moon is connected to Jupiter — the planet of expansiveness, exaggeration, joy — things can get extra wild in any number of ways, regarding weather events, with your relationships, or your energy matrix. Symptoms can become exacerbated or you can have tons of energy.
This crescendos Sun July 30, crests Tue August 1, dissolves Thu August 3.
Mercury in Leo opposite Saturn in Aquarius: Tue August 1
This serious aspect can create mental strain for some, like seeing the glass as half empty or completely dry. It can make you further procrastinate and feel guilty or help you reluctantly bust through and get ‘er done, completing tasks you have been avoiding.
This builds Mon July 31, crests Tue August 1, dissolves Wed August 2
Mars in Leo trine Jupiter in Aries: Tue August 1
Counter to the above aspect, this lucky one helps circumstances to move in your favor. Your attitude is optimistic that things will work out. Play and adventure are also the themes associated with this lovely fire trine.
This crescendos Sun July 30, crests Tue August 1, dissolves Thu August 3.
Juno in Gemini sextile Uranus in Aries: Wed August 2
Time for travel and exploration with beloveds under this exciting sextile. Branch out and date a different type of person than your previous choices or entertain partnering in a business adventure that has grabbed your attention. It creates sense of cooperation, ease and breakthroughs in relationships.
This builds Mon July 31, crests Wed August 2, dissipates Fri August 4.
Sun in Cancer square Jupiter in Aries: Sun August 6
Under this triggering aspect something can rapidly take off or quickly go wrong, like a fire erupting. Some might want to temporarily put the brakes on a plan or relationship while the other person wants to move forward now, even giving an ultimatum.
This builds Sat August 5, crests Sun August 6, dissolves Mon August 7.
Lunar Highlights
Moon/Saturn conjunction in Aquarius: Thu August 3
A day for following through on commitments or setting parameters regarding projects or relationships.
Moon/Neptune conjunction in Pisces: Fri August 4
This pairing is romantic and creative.
Moon/Chiron conjunction in Pisces Sun August 6
This can bring unexpected emotion and tears or you feel concerned about yours or someone’s health. Chiron is a shaman and can bring mysterious healings after a symptom is acknowledged. Ask for help.
Moon/Jupiter conjunction in Aries: Mon August 7
This is like big puppy energy, happy, exuberant, sometimes a bit much!
Last Quarter Moon
With the Last Quarter Moon, you release what has been and simultaneously prepare for what will be as new desires perpetually arise in the next SolLunar Cycle.
Last Quarter Moon: Moon/Jupiter/Uranus in Aries square Sun in Cancer: Tue August 8
Time for time off, if that’s what is calling to you. Let go of pre-scheduled activities and appointments and make space to just be, be in the flow, flow with your being. This aspect also brings surprises, sudden shifts in mood, a willingness to take a risk.
This builds Mon August 7, crests Tue August 8, dissipates Wed August 9.
Mercury/Pallas Athene conjunction in Leo: Tue August 8
If you need a day to organize your life, a move, or make future plans, this is your day. Plan playdates and adventures for your children given the influence of Leo
This crescendos Mon August 7, crests Tue August 8, dissipates Wed August 9.
Venus retrograde in Cancer square Uranus in Aries: Wed August 9
Remember how powerful Venus is right now during this retrograde, helping steer you to a life based on the heart-line of your desire and creativity. Uranus encourages experimentation, suddenly veering in a new direction.
This builds Mon August 7, crests Wed August 9, dissolves Fri August 11.
Juno in Cancer square the Lunar Nodes trine Neptune in Pisces: Thu August 10 – Fri August 11
This can bring harmony to key relationships — Juno — and encourages dreaming into new realities and possibilities — Neptune. But it also marks key turning points in current relationships, like completing a divorce or moving on. Engage with water environments, flowing, being, allowing.
This builds Mon August 7, crests Thu August 10, dissipates Sat August 12.
Sun/Venus retrograde conjunction in sidereal Cancer: Sun August 13
As Venus crosses the Sun, she now becomes the Morning Star, not yet visible but will be soon in the near future. Venus’s retrograde through Cancer, a sign of history, memory, ancestors, is providing a chance to both clear things from the past as well as embrace the gifts of our history and ancestors. Your dreams may reflect these shifts. Very important encounters are happening with others, including family members, people from your previous lives as you attend events like reunions.
This crescendos Fri August 11, crests Sun August 13, dissolves Tue August 15.
Mars in Leo trine Uranus in Aries: Wed August 16
Even though this aspect is exact at tomorrow’s New Moon, I wanted to report on its energizing, positive influence helping us complete the current cycle. It can bring a feeling of liberation after a job well done. Congratulations!
This crescendos Mon August 14, crests Wed August 16, dissipates Fri August 18.
Lunar Highlights
Moon/Vesta conjunction in Taurus trine Ceres in Virgo: Thu August 10
Earth signs like Taurus and Virgo call up the desire to be on the Earth, work with dirt, earth and vegetation, and to focus on food. Indulge your sensual self.
Moon/Juno conjunction in Cancer opposite Pluto in Capricorn: Sun August 13
Acknowledge recent changes in relationships, including grieving recent passings. What do you desire in your relationships going forward? May it be so.
Blessed New Moon ~ Wed August 16 3:38 am MT
RESOURCES FOR PERSONAL AND PLANETARY WELL-BEING
ENDEAVORS TO NURTURE
AMANZI:WatertoSchools
My dear friend, Julia Heemstra, has launched her cutting-edge humanitarian organization, AMANZI:WatertoSchools bringing water and opportunities to the schools in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, her childhood home where she grew up. Julia is one of the most focused, passionate, optimistic beings I know, as an elite athlete, as a bringer of wellness and mindfulness to all ages, and now with her collaborative organization, Julia continues to expand her lifelong commitment to humanitarian service.
PLANT BASED DIET
The reality and urgency of our current planetary crises is real, as our youngest citizens know in their bones. Please educate yourself about how plant-based eating is a central component in how you can help personally restore ecological balance as well as create greater health and vitality for you and your beloveds.
The Game Changers: This inspiring movie and storytelling about vegan super-athletes and warriors educates us about the many benefits of a vegan diet and addresses the ‘meat protein myth’.
COWSPIRACY, What the Health and now SEASPIRACY are must-see movies for all humans who care about personal health, animal well-being, social justice, climate change, the health of our Earth. Become educated about the important information shared by these courageous and visionary filmmakers and activists and considering eating mostly plant-based, if not becoming fully vegan in your consumer choices.
30 Day Vegan Challenge by Collen Patrick-Goudreau
JIN SHIN JYUTSU
Health is in your Hands. Here’s a helpful tool to help you maintain health, calm, balance during these stressful but extraordinary times. I am a proponent of Jin Shin Jyutsu and have been a practitioner since 1983. This beautiful, easy-to-use book and card set teaches you the ancient Art of Jin Shin Jyutsu, the Art of Self Healing. JSJ’s premise is that by applying the jumper-cable of your hands to various points on the body, you can clear your own stress on a daily basis, freeing up stuck energy that leads to patterns of dis-ease, while activating the renewed flow of qi and vigor on all levels, physical, mental, emotional, spiritual. Explore JSJ and teach yourself and those you love this simple tool for centering and radiant vitality.
