This Week in Astrology July 17-23

This Week in Astrology: July 17 to 23, 2022

July 17-23, 2022

After basking in the awareness symbolized by the whole light of the Moon at the time of last week’s Full Moon, we disperse our knowledge and come to a point when we need to sort out what works for us–and what doesn’t–in preparation for next week’s New Moon, when something new is born once again.

This is not the best time to start a significant project, as the decreasing light of the Moon symbolizes descent into unconsciousness. It’s time to begin finishing up the details of what was conceived at the last New Moon. What revelations did you have last week? What did they mean for you? What can be done now?

The following is a chart of this Last Quarter Moon in a 0-Aries (“locationless”) wheel:

Last Quarter Moon on July 20, 2022 – Chart

This phase of the Moon occurs at 27 degrees and 52 minutes of Aries, square the Sun at the same degree of Cancer, and affecting planets at approximately 26 to 30 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) the most.

Last Week: Full Moon

Full Moon

The FULL MOON occurs on Wednesday, July 13th, 2022, at 2:37 PM EDT.

A Full Moon occurs when the Sun in Cancer forms an opposition to the Moon in Capricorn. The Full Moon is a time of culmination and the promise of fulfillment of that which was started at the New Moon. It is an emotional time – a time of romance, fertilization, and relationships.

The Cancer-Capricorn polarity concerns the balance between the private life, domesticity, the need for a home base, and nurturance (represented by Cancer) versus the public life, career, reputation, and accountability (represented by Capricorn). Attachments and love are ruled by Cancer, while achievements and rewards/punishments are ruled by Capricorn.

In some ways, this polarity deals with the balance between unconditional love and conditional love. Cancer encourages us to value our home base and our roots, while Capricorn persuades us to consider our sense of duty and responsibility along public or professional lines. While Cancer may be content to be dependent, Capricorn urges us to be grown-up and responsible.

Cancer represents the origin, and Capricorn represents the goal. Neglecting either end of the axis will surely backfire on us. Ideally, a balance should be found between the two energies, and this is what the Full Moon invites us to do. This Full Moon is about balancing our commitment to our career and families. Something has been building inside of us, and now is the time when the energy of the cosmos fairly demands that we let it out. Over the next two weeks, we will discover what this means for us. For now, we can’t sit on our feelings. We need to express them.

The Full Moon illuminates this conflict between roots and direction. With the Moon full and bright in the sky, symbolic “illumination” occurs in our own lives. However, these new feelings and revelations are emotional ones, as there is a sense of emotions bursting forth into our consciousness. It’s time to express ourselves and to let things out of our systems. Of course, we might want to exercise some care while doing so, knowing that what is coming out of us is fresh, unrefined, and not particularly rational as yet.

This lunation connects with Mercury and Uranus, suggesting novel ideas associated with realizations and epiphanies occurring now.

Full Moon Chart: Capricorn Full Moon on July 13, 2022

This phase of the Moon occurs at 21 degrees and 21 minutes of Capricorn, opposite the Sun at the same degree of Cancer, and affecting planets at approximately 17 to 25 degrees of the Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) the most.

Moon Phase Cycle: Bigger Picture

Jun 28, 2022, 10:52 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon
(New Moon)
Jul 6, 2022, 10:14 PM, Sun Square Moon (First Quarter Moon)
Jul 13, 2022, 2:37 PM, Sun Opposition Moon (Full Moon)
Jul 20, 2022, 10:18 AM, Sun Square Moon (Last Quarter Moon)
Jul 28, 2022, 1:55 PM, Sun Conjunct Moon (New Moon)

(Times are Eastern)

This week: The Sun is in Cancer until the 22nd, when it enters Leo; Mercury is in Cancer until the 19th, when it enters Leo; Venus is in Gemini until July 17th, when it enters Cancer; Mars is in Taurus.

The Sun is in Cancer from June 21-July 22. We are self-protective and insular under this influence. Our attention turns to our nest–our families, homes, and anything that makes us feel “at home,” safe, and secure.

Nurturing and caring for our loved ones and pet projects come into focus. Emotions run deep, and we easily tune in to the world of feelings. Note that we are more in tune with the Moon while the Sun is in Cancer.

We may not want to grow up and face responsibilities or the outside world during the Sun-in-Cancer cycle. We should watch for dependence when we’d do better for ourselves otherwise. However, it’s a robust transit for recognizing our needs for comfort, safety, and familiarity. We’re inclined to form strong bonds and protect our loved ones.

The Sun is in Leo from July 22-August 22. In Leo, the Sun is proud, outgoing, and playful. The Leo Sun is intensely individual—not content with simply being just one of the team. It’s time to shine, add a touch of color and drama to our lives, and perform.

We’re blossoming–it’s a time when we want to enjoy ourselves and express ourselves. We are more generous and grand in our gestures and attitudes. On the shadow side, we can also be self-centered and vain.

While the Sun is in Leo, we take the high road, and we’re very often motivated by the idea of gaining respect and affection. We more naturally express joy, humor, and warmth during the Sun-in-Leo cycle. We also tend to take the lead or become the center of attention and activity.

Mercury is in Cancer from July 5-19. When Mercury is in Cancer, we move from the desire for quantity with information to the need for quality. We think, speak, and take in information on a deeper, more instinctive level. We have less interest in what is universal and more interest in what affects us personally and the people close to us. Our thoughts are colored by our emotions, making it more challenging to be objective.

We have outstanding and detailed memories during this cycle. We’re more likely to absorb information about the emotional background or atmosphere/setting around us, picking up on moods and tones in addition to facts.

While we may not have great confidence in our ability to generate new or original ideas, we have a well-developed sense of humor and radiate warmth in our communications. We take great interest in (and notice of) personal issues and interactions during this period. We don’t care much for intellectual stands if they’re devoid of a personal or heartful element, and we need intimate settings to express ourselves fully.

Mercury is in Leo from July 19-August 4. When Mercury is in Leo, our thinking is more confident and grand. The focus is now on the goal–and the grander a goal the better! The details may not be quite as important now. We are more expressive, even theatrical and given to speech-giving and story-telling under this influence.

We are also more convincing and persuasive, as we exude confidence when we speak or write. With this transit, we may not listen as well as we normally do since we’re very focused on our own ideas.

We’re also strong about making decisions ourselves and letting our voices and input be heard. This is not a time when we’re content with letting others make all the moves or decisions–we need to be involved. We take the lead, manage, direct, and create while Mercury is in Leo. We need to relate to information or create stories about it to absorb it well. During this cycle, we should watch for being too inflexible, proud, or haughty to change course.

Venus is in Gemini from June 22-July 17. With Venus in Gemini, we have a finger in every pie. Curiosity motivates us on romantic and social levels. “Variety is the spice of life” is the motto now. We are friendly, communicative, charming, and interested.

While it’s a time when we can be animated and fun, we may also keep our distance on an emotional level. Attractions often begin with words, as we tend to bond more readily on a mental level while Venus is in Gemini. We’re most attracted to mentally interesting people. Sometimes, our curiosity leads us into relationships that we might not form otherwise. The shadow side of Gemini is fickleness or disinterest in profundity.

Venus in Gemini is flirtatious, captivating, and adaptable. We ask questions and want to keep things light and lively. During this transit, we do best when we’re mentally engaged and our desire for variety is addressed. Social stimulation is appealing. Good fortune with transportation and communication can figure strongly.

Venus is in Cancer from July 17-August 11. In Cancer, Venus is nurturing, protective and self-protective, cautious, and fertile. We experience many emotional ups and downs in love under this influence due to our increased sensitivity and impressionability. We are tender, romantic, and attached. We could be clingy or sulky during this period.

Cancer love is dedicated, warm, and devoted. We show our love through our devotion, care, and concern. We are affectionate and cuddly, and are at our best when we feel safe and secure. We also want to make our loved ones feel safe and comfortable.

It’s a good cycle for collecting and money related to real estate, accommodation, food, coins, silver, or antiques. We enjoy homey, familiar pastimes and art and simple pleasures.

Cautious with our feelings, we are not always confident about boldly trying or sharing new things during this cycle. However, we do whatever we can to make our loved ones feel special. Our memories are long, and we can be very sentimental.

Mars is in Taurus from July 5-August 20. During this cycle, we are determined, stubborn, and resolute. Mars in Taurus can be passive until provoked, and is at its strongest when digging in its heels, outlasting, or defending something! In stark contrast to the impulsive Mars in Aries cycle, we tend to pursue our goals by plodding along patiently. We seek longevity and long-term satisfaction.

While Mars is in Taurus, we’re slow to change course or get started but persevering. Preferring methodical work over creative methods, we seek predictability and stability. We can be stubborn and resistant to change, and we’ll work hardest for material security. It’s not a time when we readily take risks. Instead, we seek concrete, long-lasting results. Our stamina is great, and our cravings and physical needs/desires are prominent.

Jupiter is in Aries.

Jupiter is in Aries from May 10 to October 28, 2022. This is part one of two, with the second and final part occurring from December 20, 2022, to May 16, 2023. Read more about Jupiter’s transit of Aries.

Jupiter will head back into Pisces from October 28 to December 20, 2022–the final part of three in the Jupiter-in-Pisces transit. Read more about the Jupiter in Pisces transit.

Saturn transits Aquarius from March 21 to July 1, 2020, and from December 17th, 2020, until March 7, 2023. Read about Saturn’s transit of Aquarius.

Uranus is in Taurus.

Uranus transits Taurus from May 15, 2018, to November 6, 2018, and then from March 6th, 2019, until 2025/6. We approach money and personal possessions in new ways and learn to free ourselves from certain material constraints. Innovative ways to make ourselves comfortable emerge. We’re less inhibited about expressing sensuality, self-love, body love, and pampering. Above all, we’re challenging what we previously valued during this cycle.

There can be abrupt changes with money, valuables, possessions, and income that lead to a reshuffling of priorities or values. Income might come from non-traditional sources or ventures. In general, we’re bringing progressive ideas to the world of business. New ways of doing business, as well as making, viewing, and handling money, are likely. Our income and the energy we put into making money can be variable.

Romance & Relationships

Venus is in Gemini from June 22-July 17. In Gemini, Venus is communicative, sociable but emotionally aloof, insatiably curious, and a little bit flighty. Fickleness with our affections is a strong possibility, but the desire for a meeting of minds is strong and the urge to socialize dominates. Some detachment from our emotions is likely, which may be a breath of fresh air for some. The lines of communication open, although we may only scratch the surface of things. Under this influence, love is playful and lighthearted. Fickleness is the shadow side of Venus in Gemini.

Venus is in Cancer from July 17-August 11. We treat lovers with sympathy and tenderness, providing the emotional nurturing that they need. We tend to “play it safe” when it comes to relationships. Love and devotion are most important to us, and provide us with a sense of inner security. We seek a deep love in which we can merge souls and personalities with our lover. We are quite devoted to our partners, and we seek such devotion in return.

However, we could also become possessive, manipulative, and stifling. Familiarity is more important to us now. Our fear of rejection is overdeveloped, and we offer our hearts cautiously as a result. We pay more attention to our lovers’ feelings than their words. We feel threatened if a lover acts in an impersonal, overly independent, or detached manner. Safe and solid relationships are more appealing. Romantic and emotional hurts are very hard to forget.

In Cancer, Venus is nurturing, protective and self-protective, cautious, and fertile. We experience many emotional ups and downs in love under this influence due to increased sensitivity and impressionability. We are tender, romantic, and attached. Cancer love is dedicated, warm, and devoted. We show our love through our devotion, care, and concern. We are affectionate and cuddly, and are at our best when we feel safe and secure.

This week: On Sunday, the 17th, our interactions can be more intense, problematic, and transformative. Questions of trust or difficult power dynamics can be big topics now. On Wednesday and Thursday, we should watch for skittishness, unreliability, and saying things we don’t mean/feel.

Venus, the Goddess of Love: Highlights in the Coming Week:

Venus in Gemini Saying (or writing) it with style comes natural now. A yen for variety is a hallmark of this phase, and this especially applies to romantic experience and artistic tastes. (The latter tends to focus on literature in general and poetry in particular.) A sociable, congenial, slightly frivolous orientation sets in.

Venus contraparallel Pluto July 17. Romantic intensity, a feeling of fatedness, possessiveness, fear of betrayal, and insecurity in relationships. Questions of trust can emerge in relationships. Looking for a commitment.

Venus semi-square Uranus July 20. Uncertainty about the desire to be close to someone. Freedom versus closeness. A desire to experiment in the romance department may be fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying or frustrating.

Venus semi-sextile Mercury July 20-21. It may be all too easy to say things we don’t mean/feel.

Venus sesquiquadrate Saturn July 24. Feelings of isolation, of not getting what we really want, and of not being loved the way we want to be loved can get in the way of pleasant relations with our partners.

Venus contraparallel Pluto July 24. Romantic intensity, a feeling of fatedness, possessiveness, fear of betrayal, and insecurity in relationships. Questions of trust can emerge in relationships. Looking for a commitment.

Venus square Jupiter July 24-25. We experience a strong desire for more pleasure in our lives, which can be excessive. Take care not to overstate your feelings or to set up unrealistic expectations in your partnerships. As well, take what your partner says with a grain of salt. There is no malicious intent involved, but feelings of elation can cloud our judgment, and we can promise more than we can deliver.

Venus square Chiron July 30-31. Not a commitment-friendly transit. We are somewhat fearful of investing ourselves emotionally in a relationship.

Venus sextile North Node August 1-2. There is a stronger desire to connect to and belong with others at this time. We are more obliging and sociable.

Venus sextile Uranus August 1-2. We lose our fear of taking risks at this time, and we happily embrace all that is new, unusual, and out-of-the-ordinary with regards to romantic involvements. We are ready to experiment, but not necessarily ready to commit.

Venus sextile Mars August 2. This points to success and ease in close personal interactions. We are passionate and sexy. It is a good time for financial ventures, social life, artistic pursuits, romance, and pleasure. We are now able to take the initiative and to achieve harmony and sexual fulfillment. This influence brings satisfaction to the feelings. We may make permanent ties or relationships that prove to be fruitful and fortunate.

The Moon & Timing

The Void of Course Moon is the period of time after the Moon has made its last aspect in one sign until the Moon enters a new sign. During the Void of Course Moon periods, it is generally wise to stick to routine rather than to begin new projects.

The last aspect the Moon makes before changing signs is indicated here and is indicative of the “outcome” of the matter (whether that is a new project begun before the void period or the answer to a question in Horary Astrology).

Void of Course in Horary Astrology: If you were asking a question and making a chart to determine the answer, as you do in Horary astrology, it is said that since the Moon is not looking forward to any more aspects in this sign, you would have to say that the answer is not forthcoming; any questions asked at this time would not come to pass.

The Moon being Void is one of the Strictures against Judgment in Horary Astrology. The following tables incorporate the modern planets, but some astrologers do not count Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto in void Moon calculations.

The Void-of-Course Moon this Week:

Void-of-course Moon on Monday, July 18th, from 2:44 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Pluto), until the Moon enters Aries at 7:18 AM EDT.

VOC Moon on Wednesday, July 20th, from 10:20 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to the Sun), until the Moon enters Taurus at 2:24 PM EDT.

VOC Moon on Friday, July 22nd, from 7:46 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Pluto), until the Moon enters Gemini the next day, Saturday, July 23rd, at 1:12 AM EDT.

July 2022:

Void of Course Moon Dates & Times: July 2022 Table

Timing with the Moon – Better Periods this Week for Electing New Initiatives

It’s important to note that there are more factors to consider in addition to the windows listed below. The following windows are starting points. For example, you generally don’t want to elect a new venture when a very challenging aspect is applying, and it’s preferable to elect a time when a particularly positive aspect hasn’t yet perfected (is applying rather than separating).

The Moon is waning, which is generally considered unfavorable for new beginnings, also with exceptions. (See Best Time to Start a Business for more details).

According to principles of timing with the Moon, a long window of opportunity occurs from Saturday, July 16th, at approximately 4:20 AM EDT, and runs until Monday, July 18th, at approximately 2:40 AM EDT, while the Moon is in Pisces.

See also the following articles and tables: Timing with the Moon and Opportunity Periods with the Void Moon for times and techniques.

Planetary Stations & Sign Ingresses:

Jun 21,
2022, 5:14 AM Sun enters Cancer
Jun 22, 2022, 8:34 PM Venus enters Gemini
Jun 28, 2022, 3:54 AM Neptune Retrograde
Jul 4, 2022, 11:12 PM Pallas enters Gemini
Jul 5, 2022, 2:04 AM Mars enters Taurus
Jul 5, 2022, 2:25 AM Mercury enters Cancer
Jul 7, 2022, 5:33 PM Vesta Retrograde
Jul 17, 2022, 9:32 PM Venus enters Cancer
Jul 19, 2022, 8:35 AM Mercury enters Leo
Jul 19, 2022, 11:21 AM Chiron Retrograde
Jul 22, 2022, 4:07 PM Sun enters Leo
Jul 23, 2022, 1:26 PM Ceres enters Leo
Jul 25, 2022, 2:48 AM Juno Retrograde
Jul 28, 2022, 4:37 PM Jupiter Retrograde
Aug 4, 2022, 2:58 AM Mercury enters Virgo
Aug 11, 2022, 2:30 PM Venus enters Leo
Aug 20, 2022, 3:56 AM Mars enters Gemini
Aug 21, 2022, 6:48 AM Vesta Rx enters Aquarius
Aug 22, 2022, 11:16 PM Sun enters Virgo
Aug 24, 2022, 9:54 AM Uranus Retrograde
Aug 25, 2022, 9:03 PM Mercury enters Libra

See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day (this takes you to my other site, Astrology Cafe).

Note: Times given are Eastern Time (ET).

This Week’s Calendar

This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 17 to 23, 2022

This Week’s Aspects

Mercury trine Neptune. Imagination and intuition run high, and are involved in decisions made today. We are in the right place at the right time. We may easily sense the thoughts and feelings of others. We express ourselves with subtle flair. Favors photography, the arts, poetry, fiction, spirituality, advertising, and promotion.

Sun trine Neptune. We’re at the right place at the right time, probably because our hunches are more likely to be correct and we are “tuned in”. We are inspired, and charitable acts now will serve to lift our spirits like no drug can. A good time for self-improvement programs or efforts. Instinctual judgment is enhanced under this influence. We are able to see matters, and people, from a different perspective–one that allows for, and even finds beauty in, differences.

Mercury opposition Pluto. This energy produces either a compulsive need to talk or a desire to withhold information. Obsessive thinking, attempts to persuade others to think like we do, insisting on knowing the “truth” or on exposing falsehoods, making mountains out of molehills–these are all possibilities now. This aspect can also represent mental anxiety or concern. On the other hand, it can suggest the ability to engage in deep, penetrating communication.

Sun opposition Pluto. The Sun in dynamic aspect to Pluto suggests willfulness and dealing with issues of power and competition. We may feel on edge, volatile, or even threatened. In extreme cases, infantile rage is possible. There is an inner drama taking place now, and a feeling that external circumstances are undermining our own feeling of powerfulness. In the process, we may be able to get in touch with our internal motivations. A tendency to want to control our lives through some form of manipulation is strong during this influence. Meeting with obstacles in our paths, however, can force us into the position of using all of our resources to fight back, and we can discover resources we never knew we had in the process.

Mars semi-square Neptune. Disorganization, lack of drive, lack of forethought, impracticality, and carelessness. Energy and time are too easily wasted. Passive-aggressiveness. It’s hard to know what we want and where we’re headed under this influence.

Venus semi-square Uranus. Unusual attractions (to people and things) can have us acting on a whim. We may deal with freedom versus closeness issues in our relationships. Avoid impulse buys at this time, and hold off on decision-making with regards to finances. Some instability, restlessness, and rebelliousness is probable in romantic relationships. We may not see eye to eye with a loved one, and we could be taken off guard by unexpected events. This is not a favorable aspect for beauty treatments because they could have unexpected results.

Jupiter semi-square Saturn. We need to do things by the book, but may not want to. Shortcuts don’t work right now – we need to follow the rules. When we think in big terms, or if we have the urge to expand, we confront obstacles or we are forced to face reality. Some re-structuring of our lives and of our business goals is now in order. We may be looking for new challenges if things are not going exactly as we had planned. We have a desire to grow and expand, but our attitude is tempered with some caution and feelings of restriction. There is no “easy fix” just now. It’s best to breathe new life into old plans rather than to strike out with a new plan altogether. We might take small steps to grow, but avoid overextending ourselves.

Mercury trine Jupiter. Looking for meaning in mundane affairs, positive thinking, insights, cooperation–these are themes of this influence. Our ideas are big and our intentions noble. We might receive good news or offers now. We prefer to think about the big picture rather than becoming bogged down with details. This transit favors short trips, writing, teaching, studying, submitting applications and forms, accurate diagnoses and observations (all things equal).

Note: Times given in the table/calendar above are Eastern Time (ET).

Daily Trends Calendar

See below for day-by-day forecasts and planets in signs. See also Transit to Transit aspects.

See also: Astrology of Today – an overview of the day – Astrology Cafe.

Astrology Chart of Today/Now in my Free Report section.

What’s In Store By the Stars – Daily Astrology Trends

(as featured on the site’s main page and in our Daily Trends Calendar)

See also the Astrology Trends Calendar that includes these daily trend overviews and other astrological events such as ingresses, stations, and lunations.

JULY 17

The Pisces Moon is compassionate, sensitive, giving, and wise at its best and noncommittal or avoidant when challenged. Decisions or commitments may not be easy under this influence, but tapping into our intuition is. This is especially the case with today’s transits: Mercury and the Sun harmonize with Neptune. Imagination and intuition run high, and we may easily sense the thoughts and feelings of others. We express ourselves with subtle flair. These transits bring fluid, graceful themes to the day. We can be moved to help, support, or give of ourselves. We see people and life itself from a different perspective–one that not only allows for but finds beauty in differences. It may be best to de-emphasize some of our material concerns or interests, at least temporarily. We experience a sense of knowing and understanding with minimal explanation or instruction. While we may not be direct, we see the way around obstacles. It’s a good time to forgive and release.

Venus moves into the sign of Cancer today, where it will visit until August 11th. Venus in Cancer is nurturing, cautious, fertile, protective, and self-protective. We experience many emotional ups and downs with our affections under this influence due to increased sensitivity and impressionability. We show our love through devotion, care, and concern, and we’re at our best when we feel safe and secure. During this cycle, we are more interested in home life and improvement, nesting, home business, domestic and family activities, comfort, security, and long-term purchases.

We’re heading toward an opposition of Mercury and Pluto, and as the day advances, we depend far less on our faith and pay more attention to fears or suspicions.

JULY 18

Mercury opposes Pluto early today, and we can face some pressure to deal with problem areas. There can be mental tension, paranoid thoughts, or excessive suspicion to manage. We might either feel compelled to talk and question or withhold information. We can too quickly become embroiled in power struggles. However, if we aim to learn from our resentment, it can bring us closer to understanding what we truly want. The day advances with more positivity. The Moon heads into Aries at 7:18 AM EDT, and we want to start fresh. The Moon’s alignment with Jupiter encourages us to embrace our needs for self-direction, self-expression, and initiative.

The void Moon occurs from 2:44 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a sextile to Pluto), until the Moon enters Aries at 7:18 AM EDT.

JULY 19

Chiron stations and turns retrograde today and will remain retrograde until December 23rd. This cycle is strong for introspection and assessing our mental and physical health programs/efforts. However, the station itself can be disorienting. Indecision is likely as we adjust to the shift. Also today, Mercury heads into the sign of Leo for a stay until August 4th. With Mercury in Leo in the weeks ahead, our thinking is confident and grand, and clearly defined goals motivate us. We are expressive, convincing, decisive, and persuasive. We want our voices and input heard. It’s not a time when we’re content with letting others make all the moves or decisions–we need to be involved. We take the lead, manage, direct, and create while Mercury is in Leo. We need to relate to information or create stories about it to absorb it. During this cycle, we should watch for being too inflexible or proud to change course.

Complicating the day’s energies is a Sun-Pluto opposition, pulling up deeper, darker, or buried and unresolved matter. Through feelings, relationships, and events, we can more clearly see areas of life where we’ve been holding onto something too tightly or giving away our personal power. This can be disruptive and feel uncomfortable, but it can also heighten self-awareness. A tricky or buried issue might now reach a head. We may feel on edge, volatile, or defensive. There can be an inner drama, or external circumstances seem to undermine our perception of powerfulness. We may experience a battle within ourselves between light and dark energies, or we can meet this theme through others. Outside forces remind us of our need to take charge of our lives, but shortcuts to gaining control are unlikely to work out. Instead, we should formulate strategies for managing our fears or worries.

JULY 20

The Last Quarter Moon is exact this morning when the Sun in Cancer forms a square to the Moon in Aries. We’re beginning to see recent events in a more mature light. The next few days are good for reassessing matters from a more experienced viewpoint. For now, we can feel tense or conflicted. The Moon continues its transit of Aries until 2:24 PM EDT, after which the Moon is in steady, deliberate Taurus. However, Venus semi-square Uranus today points to some unpredictability and fickleness. We could follow whims or feel restless until we recognize the need to freshen up our relationships or pastimes. Rumblings of the need to change unhealthy patterns with relating and spending can occur.

The void Moon occurs from 10:20 AM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a square to the Sun), until the Moon enters Taurus at 2:24 PM EDT.

JULY 21

The Moon spends the day in earthy, stubborn Taurus, and it’s a good day to connect with our needs for comfort and predictability. The Moon aligns with Mars midday, and we’re ready to put some muscle behind achieving these goals. Jupiter and Saturn form a semi-square today, and when we think in big terms, or if we have the urge to expand, we confront obstacles, or we need to face reality. Some re-structuring of our lives and our business goals is in order. There is no “easy fix” just now – we need to keep working hard and can make good progress, even if there are fits and starts. It is best to breathe new life into old plans rather than to strike out with a new plan altogether. We should watch for overextension, which can lead to frustration. Our social and personal goals may clash at this time, requiring some adjustments. This is the first of three transits, with the other two perfections to occur on September 21st, 2022, and March 21st, 2023.

JULY 22

The Sun enters Leo today, where it will transit until August 22nd. The Sun is proud, outgoing, and playful in its own sign–we want to enjoy and express ourselves during this cycle. The Leo Sun is intensely individual, not content with merely being one of the team. It’s time to shine, perform, and add a touch of color and drama to our lives. We are generous and grand in our gestures and attitudes. On the shadow side, we can also be self-centered and vain under this influence. The Moon spends the day in Taurus, helping ground and moderate us. This Moon encourages patience and savoring of the moment. As Jupiter approaches a sextile to Pallas, we are optimistic, helpful, and ready to share words of wisdom. It’s a strong influence for big-picture planning and thinking.

The void Moon occurs from 7:46 PM EDT, with the Moon’s last aspect before changing signs (a trine to Pluto), until the Moon enters Gemini the next day, Saturday, July 23rd, at 1:12 AM EDT.

JULY 23

The Moon enters Gemini early today, at 1:12 AM EDT, and we’re especially communicative and connected. Gemini’s ruler, Mercury, forms a trine to Jupiter, boosting our confidence and faith. Through conversations or musings, a positive outlook or hopefulness can emerge. We have more trust in the future, we seek a little extra meaning to our projects and experiences, and we can benefit from big-picture thinking. Our ideas are grand, and our intentions noble. We might receive good news or offers now. Curiosity grows. With Mercury and Jupiter in harmony with Pallas, we’re able to organize our thoughts and ideas and recognize patterns. We can enjoy making plans, lists, and connections now.

The void Moon continues today until the Moon enters Gemini at 1:12 AM EDT.

If it’s your birthday today, see our feature, If Today is Your Birthday Forecasts, for a free forecast for the upcoming year.

Moon Signs This Week:

When the Moon is in Pisces

We may not want to face reality while the Moon is in dreamy, impressionable Pisces. It can be a wistful, sensitive, intuitive, and compassionate time. We are especially imaginative, and our intuition reigns under this influence. Boundaries and walls come down, as Pisces energy merges and blends. It's a time when details are overlooked and feelings defy description.

The Moon in Pisces generally favors the following activities: Imaginative undertakings, mystical or spiritual pursuits, inner development, music and drama, going on a retreat, activities involving water.

When the Moon is in Aries

We're motivated by a strong desire to start fresh. A gut instinct to begin something new is with us now, as well as the gumption to do so. Our pioneering impulses are strong, and we feel energetic, spontaneous, and enthusiastic. We may also be tactless and impulsive now. Excess energy is best channeled into physical activity.

People can be more self-motivated and also self-focused while the Moon is in Aries. It's a competitive rather than cooperative time. Accidents and tempers flaring are more likely than usual. This period is one of more personal courage.

The Moon in Aries generally favors the following activities: Quick actions that yield immediate results. Undertakings that involve the self and the personality. (Staying power may be lacking). Self-assertion, taking on challenges, beginning short-term projects.

When the Moon is in Taurus

We are motivated by the desire for serenity, security, peace, and comfort. The Moon is at her most sensual and constant in Taurus. Our basic impulses are to relax, resist change, and "stop to smell the roses." Life slows down a little, and we get comfortable. We may also be inclined to stubbornness and materialism under this influence.

While the Moon is in Taurus, people can be emotionally constant but inflexible. It's a time of stronger focus on personal needs and comfort levels, and a period of more common sense and attention to practical matters.

The Moon in Taurus generally favors the following activities: Substantial and material actions that yield solid results. Financial activities, and those involving personal possessions, applying for a loan, beginning a potentially long-term relationship, music, home decor.

When the Moon is in Gemini

Our basic instinct is to communicate, think, and learn under the influence of Moon in Gemini. We are motivated by a desire for variety and by an instinctive curiosity. The Moon in Gemini is light-hearted, breezy, spirited, and curious, but it can also be restless and fickle.

The Moon in Gemini generally favors the following activities: Mental and communicative actions, and more than one activity at once. Reading, learning, letters and emails, errands, writing, teaching, making connections, cafes, light and airy meetings, short trips.

Upcoming Weeks: Calendars

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 24 to 30, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: July 31 to August 6, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: August 7 to 13, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: August 14 to 20, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: August 21 to 27, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: August 28 to September 3, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: September 4 to 10, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: September 11 to 17, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: September 18 to 24, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: September 25 to October 1, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: October 2-8, 2022

: This Week in Astrology Calendar: October 9-15, 2022

THIS WEEK’S PLANETARY POSITIONS BY SIGN (General Trends):

Sun in Cancer Being more in touch with your emotional roots is a keynote of the cycle that now takes hold in your life. This has to do with feelings, but it’s more than that: it’s about making the things you feel and care about a reality. At some levels, this means a greater focus on family life – parents, children, relatives, the whole domestic scene. On a somewhat broader scale, you’re likely to find that houses and other real property take on greater significance for you. Nurturing is where it’s at in your life now: making things grow and taking care of them, planting seeds that will develop and survive far into the future – that’s what it’s all about.

Sun in Leo “This I do for me” is your motto at a time like this. This is your time to shine, like a swirl of star-stuff that has finally reached critical mass and suddenly starts to give off more light than it receives. Issues of pride, mastery, and appreciation become more and more central to your life-stream as this cycle progresses, as does a very important lesson: it’s not what you do so much as how you do it, not who you are so much as how you make others feel about themselves. If it doesn’t come from the heart, it shouldn’t matter now.

Mercury in Cancer Gut-level is the way you think, speak, and perceive in the cycle you have just begun. You aren’t interested in the superficial; instead, you want to get right to the root of things. You don’t care about the universal, only about how things impact you and yours. Intellect and emotion mix to the point of inseparability.

Mercury in Leo The hallmark of the cycle you have just begun is thinking, learning and communicating with style. Intellectual creativity is highlighted, and your social connections have a certain flair of drama to them. Winning the admiration of others for the things you say or write (and the way you do it) takes on more importance in your life.

Venus in Gemini Saying (or writing) it with style comes natural now. A yen for variety is a hallmark of this phase, and this especially applies to romantic experience and artistic tastes. (The latter tends to focus on literature in general and poetry in particular.) A sociable, congenial, slightly frivolous orientation sets in.

Venus in Cancer Mothering (or being mothered), sympathy, a yearning to put down roots, and a fondness for things that have stood the test of time – these are some of the hallmarks of the phase that now begins in your life. Romantic and social experiences, as well as artistic tastes, will show evidence of these factors.

Mars in Taurus Making the most of what you’ve got, striving for security and stability: that’s the impulse that stirs in you as a new cycle begins in your life. New frontiers? That’s kid’s stuff for you now! What you want is to build something that will last: a pyramid, a Great Wall – you know, that sort of thing. Steady, patient, solid: that’s your style now.

Jupiter in Aries Faith in yourself and your future is emphasized as you begin this new cycle. A feeling that anything is possible leads to new ventures, a clean break from the past. At its best, this is a very positive and optimistic new cycle in your life, but at times, overconfidence can border on foolhardy bravery. Don’t burn your bridges behind you!

Saturn in Aquarius Ideals are in for a period of testing, as a new phase begins in your life. What are principles worth, unless they are put into practice? That’s an important question for you now. This could mean you may be disappointed by causes you believe in – but if you abandon your principles, you lose.

Uranus in Taurus Practicality and ingenuity combine as powerful drives in your life now that you have begun a new cycle. Taking innovative concepts and making them real and practical is your strong suit; getting stuck in the mud is to be avoided at all costs. Financial savvy, inventiveness, worldly genius.

Neptune in Pisces Things spiritual and psychic take the driver’s seat of your imagination as you begin a new cycle. The fine arts and all manner of fantasies assume a larger-than-life importance. Surrendering to fate, karma, and other powers greater than merely mortal may be seen as the ultimate liberation. If all is Maya (illusion), what is the reality that gives rise to the world of appearances?

Pluto in Capricorn As this new phase dawns for you, the pursuit of social/political power and status has a way of seeming necessary and inevitable – and let nothing stand in its way. It starts out small but has bigger consequences than you’d think. Ambition, responsibility, a place for everyone, and everyone in their place…

The interpretations in this box are from the Day Watch software.

What’s In Your Forecast?

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