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Take a good look around, and be brutally honest with yourself. Are you happy? Does this place feel like home? Everyone is vibing at their own individual frequency, so no need to compare yourself or make judgements on your spiritual progress. However, to say that we’re in the midst of a collective awakening is truly an understatement, especially when considering the upcoming astro-weather. Now, while I would normally focus on the upcoming new moon in Cancer, there will be prominent shifts happening simultaneously. For instance, just a couple of hours after the moon renews itself, the lunar nodes—also known as the North and South Node of Fate—will conclude their journey through the Taurus-Scorpio axis, and officially activate the Aries-Libra axis. For reference, check where these cardinal energies live in your birth chart, and reflect back to the years 2004 through 2006. This window of time could hint at the energies to come, as it was the last time the Nodes of Destiny journeyed through these signs. Either way, you’re going to want to keep this in mind as these new energies will serve as a powerful influence throughout this lunar cycle.
With all of that being said, the moon will renew itself via 24 degrees of sentimental Cancer on July 17 at exactly 2:32 p.m. ET. The first water sign in the zodiac, Cancer is a representation of our home base, emotional foundation and family dynamic. The way these parts of our life “feel” speak to the essence of Cancer, as it specifically prioritizes that which brings support and comfort. It’s no wonder Cancer’s astrological energy resembles that of the mother archetype… and if you or your loved ones have Cancerian placements, then you’re no stranger to their protective persona. As you may remember, the sun joins forces with the moon during the new moon phase, and this potent synergy is precisely what catapults us into a brand-new chapter of life. In the meantime, reflect on the vibration you’re aspiring towards. Are you consciously surrounding yourself with people, places and energies that emotionally fulfill you? Does your living space meet your expectations? This lunation is encouraging us to come home to ourselves, even if that means making the changes necessary to do so.
The new moon will be making an opposition to Pluto retrograde in Capricorn, which will likely have us revisiting themes from our past. Keep in mind, the moon will eventually reach 29 degrees and directly oppose the Lord of the Underworld—about half a day later, or so—but the sun won’t make an exact opposition until July 20 and 21st. This will also be the last opposition that occurs between the sun in Cancer and Pluto in Capricorn, which has been ongoing since 2009. Having said that, this could feel incredibly liberating and cathartic, as we are *finally* ready to cultivate a new system and structure within our personal lives. Powerhouse Pluto is also a key player at this time, as it will square the Nodes of Destiny on July 23. And when considering the influence of the new moon, this square will simultaneously trigger a grand-cardinal cross featuring the North Node in Aries, South Node in Libra, and Pluto in Capricorn. Granted, this cardinal cross won’t be exact on the day of the new moon, but there’s a seed that is being planted nonetheless.
In typical Cancerian fashion, there will be a strong urge to protect our loved ones, and assert our overall sense of security. This, however, is where we’re being challenged to step out of our comfort zone in order to establish a new foundation for ourselves moving forward. Talk about fertility! (Remember, cardinal energy initiates and kicks things off.) On another note, the new moon will harmonize with Uranus, adding a layer of disruption and shock value, but not in the way you’re thinking. This isn’t anything for you to stress about… but instead, an opportunity to take the unconventional route and approach things from a different standpoint. Uranus comes in to shake things up when they’ve been stagnant for too long, which can also be liberating and necessary. And while in harmony with otherworldly Neptune, this lunation is simultaneously bringing awareness to the support of spirit and the divine. In other words, we are all exactly where we need to be at this very moment; there’s no need to fear the unknown and uncertainty of it all.
Mars will also be in opposition to Saturn retrograde, highlighting where we should be more discerning and cautious. Otherwise, this is a wonderful aspect for tedious and analytical work. So if you’ve been lacking discipline and focus with your endeavors, this will definitely help you get back to basics.
Read on for what to expect during this year's new moon in Cancer, along with a new-moon affirmation, according to your zodiac sign:
Aries
What makes you feel rooted, both within yourself and in terms of your home base? Things are about to shift in a big way, as the North Node of Destiny will make its debut in your sign just a few hours after the new moon, and for the first time since 2006. In the meantime, however, the moon will renew itself via the most private sector of your birth chart—your fourth house of home, family, innermost feelings and emotional foundations—bringing emphasis to everything from your personal life to your perception of safety. Moreover, your celestial ruler, Mars, will make an opposition to Saturn retrograde, which can help you tackle and make sense of the tedious logistics occurring in your everyday life. This is especially true for those of you in the process of cleansing, clearing and/or making peace with an old version of yourself. New Moon Affirmation: The universe is protecting me; I am balanced and at peace within myself.
Taurus
Lean on your inner circle for support, and don’t be afraid to wear your heart on your sleeve. It’s been an interesting 18 months with the North Node transiting your sign, but all things come to an end. What did you learn about yourself, and your personal value systems? How has your perception of security evolved since 2021? The moon will renew itself in Cancer, bringing fertility and new beginnings to your third house of siblings, communication, and immediate surroundings. Keep in mind, your planetary ruler is already in its pre-retrograde shadow phase in Leo, and via your fourth house of home, family and emotional foundations. Reflect on the ways you’d like to improve your communication style, and/or use your voice to make your feelings known. You deserve to feel safe, even if that means taking the necessary precautions in your personal life. New Moon Affirmation: My mind is resilient, and my words have the power to protect me.
Gemini
Themes surrounding your finances, stability, and family values are being brought to your attention under this new moon. And with go-getter Mars transiting the most personal sector in your birth chart, there is greater emphasis on the logistics and tedious planning you have going on in the home front. Given its opposition to taskmaster Saturn in your career sector, this could also revolve around your day-to-day work routine, and/or the way it’s merging with your personal life. With all of that being said, you are being encouraged to honor your boundaries and emotional needs—whether yours or a loved ones–at this time. New Moon Affirmation: I am in tune with my mind, body, and soul, and that is what I need to feel secure.
Cancer
Happy new moon, Cancer. It’s your solar season, and your lunar essence is beaming as bright as ever. Granted, the new moon phase isn’t the most lively let alone energizing, but never underestimate the moon’s lack of visibility. After all, it’s not everyday the sun and moon join forces in your sign, right? Make a wish… but first, reflect on the parts of yourself you’re ready to commit to, or break away from. Whether personally or in terms of your family dynamic, this is an opportunity for you to assert yourself and call back your power. Also, with Mars sitting in direct opposition to taskmaster Saturn retrograde, the universe is supporting you as you diligently plan for the future you hope to manifest. New Moon Affirmation: I have the power of my intuition and the support of my ancestors to choose what is best for me.
Leo
When reflecting on themes of healing and closure, what would ultimately bring you peace of mind? Truth be told, with both Mars and Venus in your sign, you have the confidence and courage to take a stand, but there’s more to consider . The moon will renew itself in sentimental Cancer, and via your 12th house of closure, dreams, and unconscious patterns, bringing fertility and new beginnings to your life behind the scenes. This could be through spiritual pursuits, an act of surrender, or perhaps an epiphany about your past experiences with home and family. Don’t hesitate to take space for yourself at this time; rest, recharge and replenish. New Moon Affirmation: I let go of what I can’t change; I strive to achieve inner balance.
Virgo
There’s nothing more reassuring than a friend you can refer to as family, and with the moon renewing itself in sentimental Cancer—your 11th house of community affairs, future visions and friendship groups—there is an opportunity for you to cultivate that sense of belonging for yourself. Your celestial ruler, Mercury, will also face off with expansive Jupiter, which can be equally as inspiring as it is extravagant, so be mindful of your exchanges at this time. This could be with regards to a network you consider “dependable,” or a conversation with a family member that turns out to be more stubborn than you’re comfortable with. New Moon Affirmation: I choose to surround myself with individuals who bring out the best in me; I attract loyalty and dependability.
Libra
It’s all eyes on you, as the moon will renew itself in Cancer, bringing emotional emphasis to your 10th house of authority, career moves and reputation in the world. Keep in mind, with your celestial ruler, Venus, already in its pre-retrograde shadow phase, some of you could be in the process of re-evaluating the value of your endeavors, while others of you reconnect with professional prospects from your past. Either way, the real question is: does this feel safe? Are you feeling the intuitive pull to move forward? Honoring your instincts will serve to be more rewarding than you realize, specifically when it comes to your sense of authority. New Moon Affirmation: When I follow my heart, I am a capable leader; my truth is inspiring to others.
Scorpio
With the moon renewing itself in your sister-sign, Cancer—via your expansive ninth house of self-discovery—there is an opportunity for a new beginning. Keep in mind, the moon will be in opposition to your modern ruler, Pluto retrograde in Capricorn, via your third house of immediate surroundings, and early childhood. What part of your past are you ready to make peace with? How has your perception of home and family evolved in the past two years? With the South Node of Fate approaching the end of its journey through your sign, a significant chapter of your life is coming to a close. That being said, consider this a chance to shift your trajectory and start again. Allow your future to redefine your past experiences. New Moon Affirmation: I am an ever-evolving being, and my past does not define me; I choose to nurture the future I crave.
Sagittarius
If you’ve ever questioned the foundation of your intimate partnerships, this thought could be top of mind under the new moon in Cancer. For instance, with the moon renewing itself in Cancer—your eighth house of mergers, shared resources and other people’s money—you’re not only more receptive to a significant other’s emotionality, but also being called to surrender your doubts and fears in the process. In the meantime, reflect on the root of these shadowy attributes, and make sure you’re being honest with yourself. What systems and structures no longer resonate with your new reality? What do you need to feel more secure in this connection? Family dynamics, namely when it comes to shared assets and/or inheritances, could also come up for review. New Moon Affirmation: I recognize safe spaces; trust is a choice and I choose to trust the process.
Capricorn
July’s new moon is touching down on your committed seventh house of agreements, compromise, and significant others. Do you feel safe within your current partnership(s)? Do you share similar value systems? Whether personally or in terms of family dynamics, this is an opportunity for you to nurture a connection, and upon a brand-new foundation. Keep in mind, while igniting your expansive ninth house of long term pursuits, Mars will make an opposition to Saturn retrograde in your third house of communication, and immediate surroundings. Change of plans? Don’t hesitate to take this time for reflection, as you will soon be navigating a new realm in your relationships. New Moon Affirmation: I am committed to nurturing relationships with a solid foundation; my partnerships are supportive and dependable.
Aquarius
Honoring your personal needs on a day-to-day basis can bring me closer to the fulfilling lifestyle I crave, and deserve. Just in time for July’s new moon in Cancer—as it will ignite your sixth house of health, daily routines, due diligence and acts of service—you are being presented with the opportunity to nurture your inner world, while maximizing your day. With both Mars and Venus transiting your relationship sector, a significant other could potentially interrupt your focus, so don’t lose your balance. Speak your truth, and set boundaries if need be. The new moon is encouraging you to choose yourself, and without hesitation. New Moon Affirmation: My daily rituals are sacred, as is my responsibility towards family; I choose to nurture my routine and overall well being.
Pisces
Celebrate your wins, and the intuition that led you there. The moon is renewing itself in your sister-sign Cancer, bringing fertility and emotional emphasis to your expressive fifth house of authenticity, creative musings and passion projects. Keep in mind, with Saturn retrograde hovering over your sign, you are likely more focused and disciplined when it comes to your long term goals, which can serve as a positive influence at this time. Some of you might even be entertaining the thought of expanding your family and conceiving, while others of you opt for nurturing your inner child instead. Meanwhile, with Pluto retrograde in your 11th house of community affairs, you are being encouraged to silence the noise that derailed you from your unique talents, skills and abilities once upon a time. New Moon Affirmation: I know how to make my inner child feel safe; my musings are just as valid as my emotions.
Valerie is an astrologer, writer & visual storyteller. She writes horoscopes for PopSugar, StyleCaster, Elite Daily and more. For more of her work, check out valeriemesa.com or follow her on Instagram @valeriemesa.
