This Month in Astrology – Archive May to November 2016

This time of year generally brings a bigger focus on home and family life for you, dear Aries, as the Sun moves through your solar fourth house until the third week of July. This year, Venus and Mercury are here as well (until the 12th and 14th, respectively), and you're likely to feel especially domestic. It's a time for making memories with family and special people in your life. It's certainly a more introspective time for you, and your ruler, Mars, in your solar eighth house all month reinforces this theme even further. Even so, as July progresses, you'll focus more and more on ways to have fun, break out of routine, and express yourself in special ways.

New insights, ideas, and plans emerge on the 4-6 related to your personal or domestic life. You are taking more pride in your home and/or family, and it shows. It's a strong time for talking through problems with people you love, or those you live with. You might arrive at an interesting and useful view of your personal history. You're less concerned with public approval or meeting societal expectations this month, and this can be very strengthening - you need this now. You are more interested in making creative changes in your personal world. Career and responsibilities do need some attention, of course, and they're likely to emerge around the 6-7 and 19th. Your know-how can be in demand, particularly around the 18-20.

There can be good news or more clarity in your financial life this month. Work moves along more smoothly. Energy levels increase. For some of you, your intimate life is also picking up speed, or you have a stronger sense of who you want, and what you want from your relationships.

As the month advances, you emerge from your shell. More and more, you are working with what inspires you and gives you energy. This is a wonderful month for rebuilding your strength and confidence. It's a charming, attractive period for you, particularly from the 26-31, although also a potentially impulsive time as well. Watch for speaking before thinking on the 29th in particular. Surprises are in store, and they're pointing you in new directions. New hobbies, creative outlets, and love interests are possible now. This is a time for making pleasant connections.

The first half of July is especially strong for communicating, learning, and collaborating, dear Taurus. The fog over a relationship is lifting, and increased clarity about where you stand with others is empowering. You can begin the month quite busy and in demand, but mostly pleasantly so. You may be dealing with more than the usual emails, texts, paperwork, phone calls, and errands. It’s not always easy to concentrate, but you’re keeping busy and mentally stimulated now.

The 4-6 can be a great time for birthing ideas, especially revolving around information systems, communications, and learning. You could begin fresh or doors can open to you related to connecting and commuting – a new way of communicating or transportation can emerge now. Relationships with siblings, classmates, friends, and even neighbors can improve.
Opportunities arise to get out and about and in contact with interesting people. While you can enjoy this in many ways, as July advances, you’ll begin craving a more focused and slower pace. Home and family are a stronger focus. Increased pride in your domestic life can stimulate you to make pleasant changes and improvements. Love can be found very close to home, perhaps even in the neighborhood.

Matters concerning higher learning, travel, or legal affairs can reach a head or turning point around the Full Moon on the 19th. This is also a great time for solid progress with a home, real estate, or financial matter. An unexpected opportunity for travel may present itself, or new opportunities to further your education could arise. The people that you meet tend to stir you into new ways of thinking. You can take an idea to the bank or a project comes to a satisfying conclusion.

You may be turning to a partner to take the lead this month, or you are attracted to especially confident people. Relationship ups and downs are possible, but you can also feel more involved and in the know, which is a good place to be. Changes in your family dynamic or home life are necessary, and may be a long time coming. Watch for temper tantrums or communicating impulsively around the 29th, but be sure to embrace change, progress, and improvement from the 26-31.

Inspired business ideas, new interests, and increased motivation to take care of health and work are themes this month, dear Gemini. You have a strong need to settle in, address comfort and security issues, and enjoy the more predictable side of your life in the first half of July. A desire to build your "nest" is with you, and opportunities to do so abound. While finances are subject to ups and downs, you're nevertheless likely to come out ahead. There is more pride in what you own and what you make, so that it's a good period for thinking about ways to improve your business and/or home life, for asking for a raise, and for taking care of valuables. Patience is a real virtue now.

The 4-6 is especially strong for insight into money and business matters, as well as for wiping the slate clean and moving forward with a new and improved plan or budget. This is also a strong month for improved motivation for pursuing work and health goals. Blocks lift and projects are moving ahead. 

Venus, Mercury, and the Sun move into your communications sector on the 12th, 14th, and 22nd, respectively, gradually stimulating a need to branch out. More transportation options might open up, and for some, you enjoy, or create, more free time to get out and about. Relationships with siblings, acquaintances, classmates and neighbors improve and can be a source of happiness. There can be more success with studies or new interests that inspire you. Opportunities to find love may very well come through schools, your own neighborhood, the phone, or online with your ruler, Mercury, and Venus, the planet of love and your romance ruler, aligning in your solar third house. 

Even so, competitive or independent activities are generally favored over cooperative ones this month. Work can be demanding but also motivating. Conflicts with co-workers may arise, but if you tame impatience and attempt to work independently at your own pace, their likelihood decreases. The 26-31 is strong for making friends and enjoying new experiences and interests. However, watch for impulsive communications on the 29th.

This is a month for moving your personal projects and interests ahead, dear Cancer. You can pretty much count on increased vitality and personal appeal. While you may have been making everyone else in your life happy lately, now it feels quite natural and necessary to take care of your own needs. Clashes in values or conflicts over money may be issues in July, but money matters improve overall. It's a strong month for making an investment or for clearing some debt.

July is an important period for personal influence, goal-setting, and finances. The New Moon on the 4th launches a period of increased personal power and charisma. You are bolder than usual and motivated to pursue what you want, and to prove your value as well. There may be job offers and opportunities, and some of you could be receiving significant gifts or bonuses. Generally speaking, things are playing in your favor. 

The 5-6 can bring a great idea to fruition. Illumination of an important idea or plan can come now. You're in a solid position for setting a new goal or for beginning a new project, as well as for presenting an idea. 

This is a strong period for educational matters, communications, learning, and publishing. People are not only hearing you, they're "getting" you, making it easier to express yourself without the need for many disclaimers. Word of mouth can be helpful in your professional life.

Romantic and creative energy runs quite high in July, and while this can be fun and exciting, this heightened energy can also serve to frustrate you at times, especially around the 3rd, 13th, and 29th. Conflicts or stand-offs with others can occur during these periods. However, most of the month you are more likely to make this energy work for you, and particularly on the 6th, 10th, and 16-17. 

Be cool around the 19th, when emotions can be wacky and relationship drama is likely. Surprises are in store in a close relationship. You might also reach a turning point in a partnership, and a decision about whether to make it official and merge your resources can be a pressing matter for some. You may be tempted to indulge yourself with a big purchase.

The energy of the 26-27 can stimulate a financial breakthrough. Opportunities to advance business and financial goals can arise now. You might also be asserting your independence in surprising ways - if others have been confining or criticizing you, this can be a time when you defend yourself and demand fairer treatment. This is a powerful time for discovering new business ideas or improved methods of getting things done.

The first couple of weeks of July tend to be quiet for you, dear Leo, at least on the surface of things. Try to treat this period as a time for gathering your energies and for closing important projects and endeavors - even a relationship for some of you.

You can be rather withdrawn until mid-month as you prepare for a new astrological year and build up your energy reserves. Personal charisma runs high, however, and love matters are strong. A relationship may benefit from some anonymity or time spent under the radar now. Your private life is especially animated in July. There are some loose ends to tie this month. Those endeavors, and possibly relationships, that are private or behind the scenes tend to figure strongly and thrive. The 5-6 is excellent for research of a financial or business strategy - it may be something that you've come up with in the past, but now deserves special attention. People from your past could be involved now. Someone could confide in you, a secret might emerge, or you can have an epiphany about a past event or relationship. Your romantic life becomes considerably more straightforward after the 12th, or at least your wants and desires from romance are less complicated. 

Family life can also be quite lively. Living arrangements and conditions can be clearer. You may need to watch what you say around the 13th and 29th. You should also guard against hasty or impatient actions, which can make you more accident-prone. Your mental energies are quickened from the 14-31 while Mercury is in your sign, favoring any task that involves getting your point across effectively! 

As July progresses, it can be as if you are awakening from a slumber with planets, one by one, emerging from your privacy sector and moving into your sign. By the 14th, Mercury and Venus are in your sign, and others are really taking note. You're speaking up more often and can find yourself in demand. This is a fabulous period for charm and attractiveness. The 22nd brings the Sun into your sign, and the four weeks following that date are strong for new resolutions, an updated image, and personal power.

The 26-31 is a strong period for you, but it can also be an emotional and impulsive time. Try not to overdo it! You can be rebellious, innovative, and progressive. Publishing, promotion, education, and travel are especially favored.

July is strong for feeling a comfortable level of forward movement, dear Virgo. Conversations open up this month, and you stand to either make a new connection that lasts in the long term, or to enhance the bond of an existing one. Projects begin to gain some momentum. Your social life is lively and seems to go your way for the most part. While the desire to be with friends is strong this month, however, be careful that you don’t over-commit in the process, as you’re likely to feel the weight of your obligations later in July if you do. Be helpful and involved, but avoid the tendency to forget your own needs in the process.

The New Moon on the 4th can bring new energy to friendships and long-term goals. This is a time for feeling personally hopeful and emotionally satisfied. Friendships might be renewed or revitalized. This is a good time to join groups or associations that interest you, but be careful not to overdo it, as later this month, you’re in need of extra privacy and rest. Venus, Mercury, and the Sun begin to drop out of sight – into your privacy sector – on the 12th, 14th, and 22nd, respectively. Take extra time to process and digest recent events in your relationships, with projects, and in your career. Get extra rest and treat any slow-downs as a sign that you may need more time to recoup or reconsider. You are beginning a period best used for emotional renewal, tying up loose ends, and laying low. The better you do this, the more prepared you will be for planetary activity in your sign in August and September.

Increased clarity about a love affair or creative matter can come around the Full Moon on the 19th, when buried feelings for someone are acknowledged for some of you. 

Jupiter is now in its final leg of its journey through your sign (it finishes its transit in September), so take advantage of any opportunities that this happy planet provides you. The 1-2 and 7-10 are particularly strong for attracting both people and positive circumstances into your life. July is also good for bringing more organization and structure to your home life. Living life under the radar in the second half of the month can seem a little slow on the surface of things, but can also give you some extra breathing room for important self-discovery as well as much-needed rest and relaxation.

Your ambitions are stimulated this month, dear Libra, but you also enjoy contributing to a team or group effort, where you can also shine. Your support is rewarded, as others can come to your aid or inform you of an opportunity for personal advancement. With your strong involvement with friends, associates, and career, you will need to find a balance when it comes to attention to family, who will remind you of this around the Full Moon on the 19th.

The first half of the month is particularly strong for streamlining your routines, rewarding research, and high motivation levels for work and health. The New Moon on the 4th brings fresh energy for career and reputation matters.

July is also a month when inspiration comes suddenly, and you could pick up new, and possibly radically different, interests or goals at this time. Others continue to take notice of you more than usual, and it's time to show them what you can do. Your performance is noticed. Look for distinct opportunities to advance your career interests or improve your social standing in the first half of the month. Some of you will enjoy increased recognition, an award, or even a promotion.

"Happiness" goals slowly but surely replace professional ones this month as Venus, Mercury, and the Sun move into your solar eleventh house on the 12th, 14th, and 22nd, respectively. The 26-31 is very strong for your social life. There can be surprising happenings with friends or acquaintances and possibly a love relationship. Unexpected meetings or changes that point you in a new direction can occur now. Love requires emotional space and acceptance, and some of you could find love through or with friends. Networking can be in focus. Don't hide yourself away at this time, but also be wary of overdoing your pursuit of pleasure.

There can be real rewards this month from helping others, volunteering, and other forms of service. Spirituality is strong and your innate compassion is highlighted. Money matters improve and even thrive, but do watch for impulsive spending.

Recognition and possibly increased remuneration for your work is very possible this month. It's a time to shine your light. Be humble, but don't hide your abilities. Physical and mental healing are also in focus. In just a couple of months, Jupiter, the planet of growth and expansion (and what some might consider luck) will enter your sign for a year-long stay. Choose this month and the next to become clear what it is you'd like to change, seek, and conquer. 

The month begins spiritedly, dear Scorpio. Mars is now moving direct in your sign, and while it’s still moving relatively slowly, it’s picking up speed. Your independence and freedom are especially important to you in July, and your desire nature is very powerful. You’re much clearer about what you want and personal projects are moving forward. You may need to tone it down a little, but if you use this period well, you’ll have all the courage necessary to make your dreams happen. Your energy levels run high — sometimes too high –and your pioneering instincts are strong. 

This is a time when you are more experimental, spontaneous, and adventurous than usual, and your need to “get away from it all” is strong. While you can be especially enthused with education or absorbed in special interests in the first half of the month, you might feel somewhat bogged down with responsibilities as the month progresses, so be careful not to take on more than you can handle. 

The month becomes more goal-oriented as it progresses with Venus, Mercury, and the Sun moving to the top of your solar chart on the 12th, 14th, and 22nd. Developments in your career are mostly favorable, although they can sometimes clash with your strong need for independence and spontaneity. You experience more motivation to realize your business goals and might form alliances that further your professional goals. Around the Full Moon on the 19th, you can be especially busy and enjoy good news or contact with an old friend.

You have a bigger desire to define your relationships from the 12th forward, or to come to a deeper commitment. Your relationship status is a little more public or noticeable now. You are selling yourself in your career – it’s a time of more charm and influence, particularly around the 16th and 19-20. Business or money opportunities can emerge in the last week of the month. There can be recognition of your talents and skills.

The first half of the month is rather introspective, dear Sagittarius, and quite valuable for picking up on things you might normally miss. You can get very special insight into an intimate relationship and/or your own intimate needs, particularly on the 6th, 10th, and 16th. Your perceptions are especially keen. You might also begin to look at long-term financial plans from a new and improved perspective from the 5-6.

You have all of the necessary tools at your disposal to make important changes to your spending and borrowing habits this month, particularly in the week following the New Moon on the 4th. It's in fact a great time for devising plans and strategies, researching, studying a topic in more depth, and finding solutions to long-standing problems. There can be lovely support for career projects and goals. Finances deserve special attention, particularly shared money and property as well as loans and support payments. A refund, bonus, or loan may come through, or there can be an income boost for a partner.

Opportunities to break out of your normal routine abound and inspire as the month advances. An outward focus and more outgoing feelings are experienced as Venus, Mercury, and the Sun move into your solar ninth house, on the 12th, 14th, and 22nd, respectively. Brush up on skills, study, and learn while your mind is a learning sponge. Energetically speaking, the month picks up pace. You're likely to find the spirit and motivation to embark on unusual or different adventures. Even so, Mars spends the entire month in your privacy sector. While Mars is no longer retrograde, you're still in a hatching stage - taking solid action on important matters should probably wait until after Mars moves into your sign on August 2nd.

Love might be found, or enhanced, through experiences and ventures far beyond the usual routine from the 12-14 forward. Even so, affectionate feelings can be complicated this month, particularly if you focus too intensely on problem areas. The second half of the month is a generally good time to schedule a vacation, if possible, or to leave your weekends free for mini-getaways. Educational, publishing, or travel opportunities can present themselves. The 26-31 is a strong period for creativity, love, communication, travel, and making connections.

Relationship matters figure strongly this month, dear Capricorn. Any lingering frustrations with a partner or concerning relationships can reach a head around the Full Moon on the 19th, but ultimately you're turning over a new leaf and seeing nice improvements to your interactions this month.

Stimulating friendships and group activities, as well as increasing energy, are featured in July. Not only do you seem to need the energies and support of others, they are more dependent on you as well. Do your best to promote mutually beneficial relationships. You have plenty of cosmic support for getting relationships back on track. New insights come, particularly from the 4-6 with a New Moon in your partnership sector and a Sun-Mercury alignment there as well. This is a time for seeing relationships from a new angle. There can be much in the way of counseling, advice, negotiations, and business agreements going on now. Others may be looking for a commitment from you this month.

With Mars moving slowly but now direct, goals are becoming clearer and there's a general sense that you can move towards them more straightforwardly. Jupiter is generally supportive this month, and this helps to lift your spirits and keep your mind focused on those things that are most important to you. 

As the month advances, it becomes more and more favorable for emotional and material support, taking out loans, and refinancing. You might connect intimately with someone seemingly out of the blue, or there can be an unanticipated financial matter to manage. This is also a favorable period for sharing some of your deeper feelings with a trusted person in your life. July is a good time for repairing your relationships and for reminders of your need for closeness or companionship. The 26-31 is strong for talking about your needs - others are responsive and the usual barriers seem to drop. This can be an especially persuasive, charming month. While you may have been sticking to yourself more than usual in the past months, you now have plenty of opportunities to make right with important people in your life.

The month ahead is strong for more clarity and direction, dear Aquarius, particularly regarding career and life path goals. You're also in a very strong position to pick up, resume, or step up health improvement programs. Work, health, and routine matters absorb much of your attention and time in the first half of the month, and you can be quite productive. The 4-6 is strong for fresh new beginnings on these fronts, as well as for gaining important insight into a work or health issue. 

Doing your best work and taking pride in what you do are a focus for you now. Be careful that you don't take on more than your share. Frustration can come to a head around the 19th, when the need for some quiet time can become apparent. This is unlikely to be a dramatic discovery - in fact, it can be quite heartening and pleasant. Bodies in your work and health sector reach out to, as well as gain support from, Jupiter and Mars. This points to increased motivation, sense of purpose, and ambition for taking care of your daily life. You could be digging up interesting information now, and research of all kinds can be very beneficial. Organizing the little things will go a long way towards a stronger sense of accomplishment. You can work longer hours than usual, or push harder in health and fitness routines. Career matters or relationships with those in authority are stimulating although sometimes rocky.

Venus, Mercury, and the Sun move into your partnership sector one by one, on the 12th, 14th, and 22nd respectively, and your attention shifts from producing and tidying to companionship and togetherness. More and more, you seek out feedback and company. This begins one of the better periods of the year for partnering. Admirers are never short in supply. Certainly by the last week of the month, there is quite a commotion in your partnership sector. It's a powerful period for your relationships, and spontaneity is important. Others bring surprises into your life. Be open to new ideas and stimulation, but experiment wisely and creatively. The 26-31 can be powerful for attracting or enhancing a close relationship, and for livening up your life with new ideas, feelings, and events.

There can be many opportunities to enjoy and express yourself in creative ways this month, dear Pisces. Entertainment, hobbies, good times, and perhaps some romance in the first half of July. You are likely to find nice outlets for self-expression now, particularly through unusual, adventurous, educational, and creative activities. You have many interests. Projects surrounding publishing and learning can move ahead this month. Energy levels are increasing and creative abilities are in great form. You have a taste for the exotic, adventurous, and perhaps speculative. Conversations are more productive now, providing answers to problems that may have previously divided you with Mars no longer retrograde and slowly but surely picking up speed. There can be an epiphany about, or new insight into, a romantic or creative matter around the 4-6. Conversations or information surfacing now can be pivotal. Much of July, you are especially companionable. You're open to new experiences and enjoy exchanging ideas with others.

Venus, Mercury, and then the Sun move into your work and health sector on the 12th, 14th, and 22nd, respectively, and your focus gradually shifts to taking better care of your daily life, body, and work output. If your regular routine is less than satisfactory, this is a great time to begin to make changes, although the first week of August will be even better for lifestyle makeovers. Lay down the groundwork now. Good ideas and new methods can motivate you, particularly around the 26-31, although you'll also need to battle some restlessness and perhaps impulsive moves. Sudden events or opportunities can push you in the right direction in your work or with health endeavors. Be open and willing to make necessary changes, but avoid overly hasty or rebellious actions.

You might find that people are increasingly more receptive to your ideas, beliefs, and opinions this month. Transportation, commuting, or travel problems may begin to iron out. Mars in your solar ninth house all month is mostly helpful and motivating, but at times it can stimulate some impatience or a feeling that the grass is greener somewhere else. Tame or feed your need for stimulation and experimentation in moderation, and you're in good shape.

This is a busy, connected time for you, dear Aries, and you're likely to be doing some juggling. Assorted work and errands figure strongly, with little in the form of rest or predictability. However, you can accomplish much, particularly if you take the time to add up all of the little jobs you put behind you. Orderliness is something to strive for, particularly as Saturn challenges Neptune this month. Your ruler, Mars, remains retrograde until the 29th, so managing your time and establishing priorities is especially important. Family matters come into stronger focus as the month advances. There can be movement and opportunity in your career in the last few days of June. Business should subtly improve, and financial obstacles may fall to the side. 

Venus and the Sun travel closely together in your communications sector in the first half of June, and this points to happier conversations and personal appeal through what you write and say, particularly on the 6th and 11-12. 

Neptune turns retrograde on the 13th and then squares Saturn on the 17th. You would probably be better off delaying important decision-making for a time when you're clearer about what you want, and instead focusing on doable, realizable goals. During the retrograde Neptune cycle that lasts until November, you have the opportunity to come to some level of peace about a disappointment from the past. For now, however, it's important to work on tidying your affairs. There may be adjustments required to plans involving publishing, travel, legal matters, or education. Mental and emotional health should improve as you put attitudes that no longer serve you well behind you. 

Venus, the Sun, and Mercury move into your family and home sector on the 17th, 20th, and 29th respectively, and Mars turns direct in your intimacy sector on the 29th. These influences tend to shift your overall focus to your emotional life and finding more emotional satisfaction and replenishment through your closest relationships and touching base with your inner needs. It's a time for some self-nurture and establishing yourself. 

Good energy is also with you for work, habits, and health. You may be connecting with people and information that encourage growth and improvement in these areas. For some, it's about connecting with a good caregiver, for example. You could be doing more specialized work, or could find that you’re in especially big demand and work increases or improves. As well, getting your daily schedules, routines, and health programs into shape is a focus, and can contribute to your growth, professionally and personally. Financial complexities begin to unravel this month after the 29th. Dealings with a partner and with financial institutions become more straightforward after a feeling of treading water. You'll have more energy and direction about these things in the coming weeks.

There is a stronger desire to establish yourself and to build and develop projects this month, dear Taurus. Later June brings circumstances that motivate you to reach out, connect, learn, and share. Until then, ambition surrounding business affairs, material concerns, and finances can be stimulated, although there can be some complications with shared resources, intimacy, and friendship matters. There is a stronger focus on personal possessions and valuables, sensual comforts and pleasures, financial security, and money matters, and with Venus traveling closely with the Sun, good energy for attracting support, gifts, and bonuses, particularly around the 6th. 

Neptune’s retrograde on the 13th can point to confusing or ambiguous situations surrounding friends or dreams/goals, and a Saturn-Neptune influence peaking on the 17th suggests a need to face reality. There can be a push from the universe pointing you in the direction of reassessing your goals and paying more attention to, or taking better care of, your spiritual needs, while also balancing your need to manage practical affairs and responsibilities. Friendships can eventually resume with renewed faith, with refinements and adjustments. There could be difficulties balancing friendship and your intimate life for some of you. There can be a temptation to escape the pressures of a partnership through connection with a friend, but be careful not to idealize people at the expense of other relationships. Some of you may be dealing with addictive behaviors, difficulties with a friend, or disillusionment about a long-term goal that no longer seems quite as feasible or supported. Take things one step at a time and know that there is a solution to any problem you encounter now – be patient and open to new ideas.

There can be nice developments on romantic and creative levels later in June. An epiphany about your feelings or final word on a financial matter can emerge around the 20th. Venus, the Sun, and Mercury move into your communications sector on the 17th, 20th, and 29th, respectively. You are more inclined to make connections, branch out, and reach out, and this conveniently comes around the time that Mars turns direct in your relationship sector, improving your confidence in a relationship or with others in general. Good energy is with you for expanding your personal horizons through creative endeavors or romantic relationships now. You are commanding more attention in a positive way, and you are approaching your life with more confidence and self-assurance. Opportunities to travel, learn, teach, and connect are likely to emerge. 

Mars moves retrograde in opposition to your sign until the 29th, when it turns direct. Dealing with others in a straightforward manner may have been challenging, but from the 29th forward, relationship dynamics smooth over and problems can be dealt with more directly. 

The month puts a strong focus on your personality and on fresh starts, dear Gemini. Attention is coming your way. Mars remains retrograde for most of June, however, making it less than ideal for pushing all-new projects ahead, but this doesn't mean you can't enjoy the energy boost provided by the Sun in your sign until the 20th, Venus until the 17th, and Mercury from the 12-29. These positions also boost your ability to attract what and who you want into your life, and the means or confidence to talk things out.

The Sun and Venus, in fact, travel rather closely to one another most of the month and in your sign. This is a wonderful influence for your powers of attraction, pride, and confidence.

The first week of June, however, is a little tricky. The New Moon in your sign occurs on the 4th, and this is a good influence for giving you a sense of a personal reboot - a chance to start fresh. However, the lunation is tied into a configuration that can play with your expectations, which demand some readjustment. You may be swinging from positive to negative thinking now, particularly related to partnerships, home and family life, and career. Disappointments are possible, but the good news is that you seem to remain in charge, even if life is pulling you in all sorts of directions.   

Planetary shifts on the 13th point to a changing relationship to career and responsibilities. You could be doing some questioning of your career/life path or reputation issues. The design here is for you to check in with your goals to see if any refinements need to be made so that you can strengthen them, ultimately. You are constantly evolving so that periodic checkpoints are important. What feels like a lack of direction is temporary and can actually work in your favor as you learn about your true ambitions and goals. The trick is to incorporate your emotional and spiritual goals into material or practical ones in order to round things out.

A recurring Saturn-Neptune challenge perfects on the 17th, and there can be more of this kind of energy - this is about rearranging and reorienting thins. You could find that others are more demanding or strict with you these days. Strains on a relationship can occur as the result of your struggle with finding a life path or defining your career, or uncertainties in relationships can affect your motivation levels in the material world. 

The second half of the month is rather strong for money matters. Some of you could have much success with artistic or spiritual fields now.

The 20th can bring a project to a head or a relationship to full bloom. A turning point can be reached now. The last week of the month is exciting. Solutions related to house and home and/or family can present themselves now. Money you've been waiting for, particularly related to home or real estate, might come through. You can get support or backing now. Mars' direct turn on the 29th points to slow but sure progress in partnerships and with work and health endeavors in the coming weeks. In fact, the summer is excellent for second chances in these areas.

June is an important month for getting the rest and time for reflection you need, dear Cancer, especially as life will pick up pace as the month advances. It's not an ideal time for pushing projects ahead, but it's strong for processing and digesting recent experiences and, ultimately, getting a better sense of your needs and desires.

When Neptune turns retrograde on the 13th and in surrounding days, you can experience unusual emotions and desires, and this can lead to some indecision, or a feeling that you're suddenly without a real direction. A mini crisis of faith in a belief system, and for some of you an educational path, can occur this week, but while it can be confusing at first, it can also help you to realign yourself with goals or beliefs that truly reflect your current needs. A disappointment is possible, but it can lead to a better situation overall if you use it as a learning experience.

You're also reminded, particularly around the 17th, of the need to tidy up your daily affairs and put better programs in place for taking care of your health and wellness. You may need to put some of your bigger dreams on hold as you attend to practical affairs, but try not to lose your faith in the process. Surrendering yourself to the unknown and getting the work that’s in front of you done – taking things step by step and day by day – can get you into a positive place. The Full Moon on the 20th can help motivate you to clean up a work or health-related problem.

Venus enters your sign on the 17th, and until July 11th, you're in an especially positive light. People are drawn to you, and around the 26-29, even a little mesmerized by you! It's a nice period for personal appeal. The Sun moves into your sign on the 20th as well, launching your yearly, month-long cycle of visibility and personal power. You're in charge and starting anew, particularly after the New Moon on July 4th, but this is building in June.

While early in the month friendships may be a source of confusion, as June progresses, there can be wonderful opportunities emerging through or about friends. News, communications, and information can open, bringing on a new perspective and connecting you to others in new ways. Your views toward love and commitment can transform. This is a strong period for learning, sharing, and relating.

The 29th brings Mercury into your sign, increasing reasoning and communicating skills, as well as Mars into direct motion in your romance and creativity sector. You'll begin to see forward movement with creative pursuits, in your dating life, and in your career, and you'll have many weeks before you to get back on track in these areas.

There is strong focus on your social life, friendships, and happiness goals and aspirations this month, dear Leo. Love, communication, learning, and pleasure are also strong themes as your ruler, the Sun, travels closely to Venus most of June. For some, this can mean a strong connection to an old or new friend. While the first few days of June can bring some ups and downs related to your relationships and money matters, you're in a good position to make changes and adjustments that will ultimately improve the viability of your goals and projects as well as the quality of your relationships. You have loads of charm, particularly with associates and networks, and you'll do well to mingle.

Neptune's retrograde turn on the 13th may be felt as deflating initially, particularly in terms of your faith in a relationship or financial project. There might also be some confusion over ownership matters or shared finances. These experiences may in fact prompt a review of, or checking in with, goals and dreams. Slowing down makes sense. A Saturn-Neptune square on the 17th was first with you in November, and will occur again in a few months before separating. For some, there could be a creative block or the facing of a financial reality that make it difficult to pursue a particular project or possibly even a relationship. There may also be some confusion over property and possessions, shared resources, or business. Keep in mind that adjustments made now will free up space for more meaningful and realizable goals, projects, and connections to enter your life.

The 20th brings a Full Moon and a nice opportunity to follow your heart or finalize a creative project. This is also a time when good news or helpful connections can figure strongly, particularly related to money, gifts, bonuses, or personal talents. The Sun moves into your privacy sector at this time, launching a cycle in which you are inclined to review and reflect about recent events, feelings, goals, and endeavors.

The latter part of June is also strong for pursuing health, financial, and work goals. Opportunities to heal the body and mind can emerge, and so can chances to make good use of your natural talents in work and projects, perhaps monetizing a hobby at this time. Mars turns direct on the 29th after several weeks of retrograde motion, and you'll enjoy more clarity about home and family matters over the coming weeks. A project might pick up pace, reach a turning point, or resume now.

Your career, social standing, and life path goals are in stronger focus than usual this month, dear Virgo, and while you can be quite goal-oriented and interested in performance, there are also nice opportunities to socialize, mingle, and enjoy yourself in June. Some of these can happen through work or business dealings, and certainly you are in good shape in terms of popularity in your professional dealings now, but as the month advances, it’s more about friendships, networks, and group settings.

Neptune’s retrograde turn on the 13th is an annual event that has, in recent years, been occurring in your partnership sector. An important relationship, past or present, can be on your mind now, and over the coming months, you’re likely to do some ruminating as you begin to look at a relationship or your relationship needs in general in new ways. There can be some confusion about partnerships now. Give people space, and give yourself time before coming to important conclusions. Positively, you may get to a point where you come to terms, or peace, with a past disappointment during this retrograde cycle.

Saturn forms a square with Neptune on the 17th, echoing events or circumstances that may have occurred or began last November. This influence presents a challenge to bring more structure to your life in areas that are weakening your resolve and faith. Flaws in a dream related to partnerships may reveal themselves now, or you may be questioning whether, with all of the things you need to do, you are getting what you need on a spiritual or emotional level from a partner or relationship. The unreliability or absence of a partner could be discouraging at a time when you would benefit from spiritual support the most. Demands from people in your life can be draining your energy, and you’ll need to work out a plan that helps you to better divide your attention between self-care and attention to others. Take things step by step, day by day, and trust that you’ll get to all that you need to do in good time. Wrestling with expectations is very likely this month, but getting them to reasonable levels can be empowering.

The 20th can bring a project to completion or a matter related to family and home life to a turning point. You’re also in a good position to meet people who help boost your confidence or encourage you to reach your potential.

Venus’ move into your friendship sector on the 17th, and the Sun following suit on the 20th, indicates a shift towards more enjoyment of life through connections with others and the nurturing of long-term dreams and aspirations. You begin to feel less pressured to perform and produce, and more accepted and supported by others.

The final Jupiter-Pluto trine in a set occurs on the 26th and points to nice personal opportunities in the second half of June. Confidence and focus increase and improve, as well as your power of persuasion. While this period is more about you and your personality, romantic expression might also reach new heights. This is a good time for boosting your appeal and improving your image, as well as for picking up or renewing a satisfying hobby.

Your desire for new and interesting experiences, mind expansion, and activities that take you away from your routine is strong this month, dear Libra. It's an excellent time for revision and building skills, particularly when it comes to true interests and self-directed learning. Your attitude is more forward-looking, and as June advances, your ambition and motivation increases as well. By the end of the month, you can be especially interested in getting ahead in business and other practical areas of life. Your ruler, Venus moves along closely with the Sun most of June, and this also helps to light your way. It can also point to more support from friends and networks. 

Neptune's retrograde turn on the 13th, however, can point to certain work matters going on the shelf for now, or coming up for review. Problem areas may be exaggerated temporarily mid-month with a Saturn-Neptune square also coming into sharper focus and drawing your attention to what may be missing in your life. You will likely need to deal with some shifting of schedules, daily routines, or work. Issues that have to do with health, energy levels, or uncertainty with work may surface. Aim to organize and simplify as much as possible. Look for areas of life that are suffering from neglect, clutter, waste, or disorganization. Spend extra time working out routines that truly work for you, and that make some space for activities focused on improving health and well-being. It can be difficult to juggle all that you want to accomplish, particularly if you’re feeling discouraged about a particular dream or goal that requires adjustments, but focusing on the essentials step by step will get you to a better place.

Three weeks into June, you are in a strong position to set goals and to connect with people and situations that truly help you get where you want to go. You may be finishing up the details of a major learning endeavor or project around the Full Moon on the 20th. Venus moving to the top of your chart helps your reputation or status and enhances your relationship with parents, bosses, or superiors. 

The last week of June finds you more motivated to take care of business and to pursue your goals. Finances, family and home matters, and personal development are high up on your list, and largely in good shape now. There may be more support from or for family and home affairs. You could also be experiencing more emotional bravery, finding it easier to face your feelings and your past, and this can be empowering. A Venus-Neptune connection is strong for finances and resources, and Mars turning direct on the 29th can point to a turnaround in financial and business-related areas. A partnership may also resume or gain more clarity and purpose, and these things are only set to improve in the weeks ahead.

There is a strong theme of introspection and strategy this month, dear Scorpio, that begins shifting as June advances. By the end of June, you’ll be readying yourself to take on almost anything! June begins with a strong need for inner change, transformation, and self-mastery. Increasingly through June, your focus turns outward, but the inner work you do is powerful. The first few days of the month can find you rather indecisive and conflicted, largely revolving around money and resources on a mundane level and matters of ownership, respect, and trust on an emotional level. It’s a time for observing and processing rather than taking new action, and this theme is echoed by retrograde Mars in your sign until the 29th.

Neptune turns retrograde for over five months on the 13th, and shortly after this station, Saturn and Neptune meet in a square. Attachments can be confusing now. There can be some challenges related to your faith in a creative project or relationship temporarily. Trust that ultimately you’ll be in a stronger position after you do some sorting through what is realistic and what may only be wishful thinking. It’a time for identifying and then working towards dreams and goals that are realizable. There may be a dilemma that revolves around money, resources, recreation, children, or dating/romance. If you’ve been spending too much on entertainment or romance, you’ll feel the pinch during this period and will need to take some steps to cut back. There may be a strong reminder or awareness of an addiction, oversight, overindulgence, or neglect in some area of your life that now requires a reality check and some buckling down so that it doesn’t drag you down. Look for ways to reduce and eliminate waste, particularly in spending. 

The Full Moon in the last degree of Sagittarius on the 20th at the same time that Jupiter and the North Node align can bring a pleasing end or turning point to a financial matter and support/recognition from a friend or group. Venus moves into a position of harmony with your sign on the 17th, and then the Sun follows suit on the 20th and Mercury on the 29th while Mars turns direct in your sign. These point to increased confidence and a stronger sense of effectiveness. It’s a good time for pursuing new interests and studies, for reaching out to others and sharing ideas, and for travel or other forms of adventure-taking. You may be putting more faith in people in your life, relationships, and life itself.

The final Jupiter-Pluto trine occurs in the last week of June and gives you a lovely boost, particularly on practical levels but also faith in yourself. You may have been experiencing a stronger need for more meaning and purpose, or personal influence, with friends, networks, or groups. This is a wonderful time for making those connections, communicating, building ideas, and sharing. You are also developing a stronger belief in your future and what you have to offer others. You might happily take the lead or become the expert that others turn to. Mars turns direct in your sign on the 29th, and in the weeks following, you’ll be building your resolve and pushing personal plans and projects forward. Energy and motivation levels increase as plans of action seem more straightforward.

The month ahead continues a strong focus on relationships and connections that began towards the end of May, dear Sagittarius. The first week of June can stimulate some struggle with decisions, perceptions, and expectations, but the New Moon on the 4th can bring energy for a fresh start. Resistance, competitive feeling, and problem areas continue to require some work, but you begin to sense that you can get past them. Still, June is very much a transition month for you. It's a time for developing strategies and making adjustments rather than pushing ahead with all-new endeavors. 

Neptune turns retrograde in your home and family sector on the 13th and then forms a square with Saturn on the 17th, pointing to emerging issues that require some restructuring. If your home life and relationships with family are askew, it can be very hard to get other areas of life into order, and you're now encouraged to sort things out. Your home is your base, and it's important to treat it as such – work on it first and see other areas of your life blossom by extension. Avoiding issues will keep you in a rut, so resolve to make changes and to grow with and through them. You'll be deciding which plans, dreams, and goals are truly realizable, and this gives you the chance to direct your energies constructively. For some of you, establishing boundaries with people who frequently overstep them may be necessary. You may need to deal with inconsistencies, neglect, or bad habits from the past in order to improve your life in the long term. A Jupiter-Pluto trine later this month can help you to hone in on what you want the most.

Venus, the Sun, and Mercury move into your intimacy sector on the 17th, 20th, and 29th respectively. Your focus on the hidden, deeper elements of your life strengthens. It's a good time for looking within for answers, and also for gaining the support of others if needed. You experienced a Full Moon early in your sign last month, and this month, another one occurs, this time in the last degree of Sagittarius. This is a powerful time for coming into touch with buried feelings, needs, and desires.

Your ruler, Jupiter, forms its final trine with Pluto in a set in the last week of June, and you get a nice boost of confidence and verve. This is a time of increased ambition and confidence in your natural talents. Whether it's about work or an important goal, you're more focused on getting results, yet also patient enough to take enough time to achieve them. Some of you could be transforming and growing relationships with parents or bosses. This is generally a good period for money, as you are more resourceful. 

Personal energy levels remain on the low side this month, but your outlook improves as the month advances. It's easier to turn to others, if needed, as they tend to be there for you. From the 29th forward, once Mars has turned direct, you are less inclined to hold onto resentments and while further inner work is necessary, it's clearer what exactly that is now. Mars will continue to stay in the background, directing your attention behind the scenes, for a while longer, but when Mars does re-enter your sign on August 2nd, you'll be raring to go.

This is a strong month for increasing efficiency, getting organized, improving health, and harmonizing/connecting with others, dear Capricorn. Aim to solve problems, make adjustments, reorganize, and deal with practical details for best results in the first few weeks of June, and for generally getting a handle on the "little things" that make your life run more smoothly. This process is not without its challenges, but will be rewarding. 

Neptune is retrograde from the 13th forward (until November), and around the time of its station, a Saturn-Neptune square perfects. If you experience a disappointment around this time, it's likely to spur you towards better understanding of your dreams and expectations. Now is a time for working towards small, realizable goals. Challenges related to studies, a personal interest, a transportation or communications matter, or a relative can be in focus now. Soon enough you will be able to more clearly see the fantasies and dreams that serve you well, and those that may need to be refined or thrown out. You will eventually get to a place where your goals are a more authentic reflection of  you. Bringing more structure to your daily life or to a project that is already underway can be important and empowering now. Working on something step by step is important if you can’t yet envision where you’re headed exactly, as this way, things will fall into place as you go along. Keeping up with your communications and making connections may be more challenging. While it’s important to stay connected with people you care about, you also need to set some boundaries, gently, if you need more space.

The Full Moon on the 20th is good for finalizing a project or for reaching a turning point. For some, this is about realizing the need to feed your spirit. You may need to take some time for yourself so that you can bring your renewed self back to your work and self-care programs. There can be good news related to higher learning, travel, or publishing now, and you can connect with the right people and information to feel that you're heading somewhere you want to go. Venus moves into your partnership sector on the 17th, and then the Sun arrives here on the 20th and Mercury on the 29th. This stimulates stronger interest in, and reliance on, your relationships. It's a great time for counseling and partnering up to get things done.

The final Jupiter-Pluto trine in a set occurs on the 26th, engaging your ambitions and confidence. You may be reaching more people, building a following, teaching or guiding others, and sharing important ideas. Travel and educational opportunities may be part of the picture. 

Friendships and romance begin to straighten out from the 29th when Mars turns direct in your sector of happiness goals and friendships. This comes after a period of possible confusion of boundaries or emotional complications. You're learning who is truly in your corner, and your own desires and affections become clearer. Your social circle is considerably warmer towards you going forward. 

There is strong focus in June on your social and romantic life, creative endeavors, friendships, hobbies, and the need for more satisfying outlets for expressing yourself, dear Aquarius. With the Sun and Venus moving close to one another in your sector of creativity and pleasure in the first half of the month, you're in a strong position for personal appeal. Something totally goes your way, and you may find new or renewed ways to express your playful side or to release tension in pleasurable ways. There are some challenges related to expectations, particularly in the first few days of June and from the 14-17, but you're on top of these, making adjustments and finding your way. The 11-13, while confusing on practical levels, can be strong for powers of attraction and relationships.

Neptune turns retrograde on the 13th and then forms a square with Saturn on the 17th. This is a time for rethinking and introspection, particularly regarding financial and social goals. Indecisiveness can sometimes serve us quite well, as it can lead to holding off decisions or conclusions that need more time and strategy. Keep an eye out for inconsistencies, especially surrounding practical affairs and finances, as these can be skewed by wishful thinking or a feeling of temporary deflation. Efforts to tidy up your finances or to bring more structure to the training and development of your skills can be especially useful now. Friends or group affiliations may seem more demanding of your time and energy, or for some, there can be a lull in your social schedule these days. Friendships or causes can drain you at times if you are giving too much while ignoring your own needs. With finances, focus on identifying areas of waste or neglect. Protect your resources and aim to bring dreams down to earth.

Venus, the Sun, and Mercury move into your sector of work, routine, and habits on the 17th, 20th, and 29th, respectively. This points to a shift of focus to taking better care of your daily affairs and health. Mars' direct turn in your career sector on the 29th suggests a pleasant turnaround regarding confidence in your future, goals, business, career, and practical affairs. Where you're headed becomes clearer.

Jupiter's final trine to Pluto in a set that began last Fall occurs in the last week of June, and this is an empowering influence on emotional levels. The desire not only to get to the bottom of any emotional issues or problems in your life but also to move past those problems that have crippled you in the past is strong now. This can be a time for resolving long-standing problems and finding more courage to go after what you want and need on a soul level. Support, financial or otherwise, is more readily available to you. Career matters can improve, whether this has to do with conditions or attitudes towards work and your larger goals. You are working more on your own terms, and Mars' direct motion at the top of your solar chart on the 29th further supports this. It becomes easier to get straight answers from bosses and co-workers, and from yourself about your own goals and ambitions. There is a stronger sense of direction andmore time spent on moving things forward as you move into July.

There is a large focus on family and home matters this month, dear Pisces. Your nesting instinct is keen and your instincts to rest up and improve your sense of security and safety are important ones. Romantic, creative, and expressive energy increases later in the month, when you feel readier to share yourself, your feelings, and your ideas with others. 

Challenges involving your ruler, Neptune, suggests some wrestling with personal goals, clarity, and expectations this month. Neptune turns retrograde on the 13th, and is retrograde for about five months. This is an annual cycle that is strong for getting some much-needed introspection. Its station occurs shortly before Saturn and Neptune form a square on the 17th, and there can be some feeling of being sapped or drained temporarily before you find ways to redirect your energies. This is the way of the cosmos turning your attention to problem areas – things you've been missing or overlooking, and likely that have to do with your spiritual, soul needs. There is a need to balance attention to your responsibilities and obligations with your personal plans and need for imaginative activities. As you sort this out, aim to take special care of your health and body, as demands on your time and responsibilities to others can take their toll on you. There can be some issues raised surrounding freedom, independence, reputation, and life path. You may be called upon to get organized or to become more goal-oriented, and it can be difficult knowing when to stand your ground and when to accept current conditions. 

Venus, the Sun, and Mercury move into harmony with your sign on the 17th, 20th, and 29th, respectively. As well, Mars, also moving in harmony with Pisces, turns direct on the 29th, further boosting and supporting energy and confidence levels. Obstacles seem to clear away as June advances. Less effort is spent on getting others to understand, see, and support you and your ideas. There can be an epiphany experienced surrounding home and career.

The Jupiter-Pluto influence that began last Fall forms on the 26th for the final time in this set. This reinforces strong connections with friends and/or a partner. Relationships can prosper, transform, and grow in meaningful, although not always easy, ways, and mutually beneficial partnerships may be formed. The direct turn of Mars on the 29th can point to a turning point or forward movement for studies, projects, publishing efforts, personal finances, legal affairs, or travel. Pressure eases as people respond more warmly to your ideas and opinions, and transportation or commuting problems experienced in recent weeks are ironed out.