FP Horoscopes: This July, Mercury Is One Busy Bee What that means for you: practice mindfulness.

What that means for you: practice mindfulness.



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Now that Mercury’s infamous retrograde is behind us, the mental planet is moving at quite a clip — passing through three different signs in July. At this rate, it’s due to interact with other planets almost daily, keeping our brains very busy! Since there isn’t enough space in a monthly horoscope to describe these Mercury mashups, here’s some general advice instead: Don’t believe all your thoughts. They’re not reality. They can produce unwanted feelings, words and actions, so learn to let many of them come and go. Practice mindfulness. It will help you cope with whatever the universe throws at you. In July, that equals an assortment of surmountable challenges and golden opportunities!

CANCER

June 21–July 22

July gets underway with a tense encounter between Mars and Pluto on the 1st. Your drive to achieve a goal might lead you to bulldoze somebody that day. Remember that others don’t necessarily share your agenda. If you push for needed change in a relationship, however, and your methods are above board, you could have great success. Your determination can help you to win a powerful ally’s support, or it can provoke a fearsome opponent — depending in part on how you conduct yourself. After Mars charges into your humanity province for a nearly seven-week tour in the wee hours of July 5th, you’ll accomplish more by joining forces with others than by going it alone. So look for opportunities to collaborate! Team up with people who share your interests, goals or ideals. And consider getting involved in a philanthropic endeavor, as actions that benefit others will be especially fruitful. Mercury zings into Cancer minutes later, gifting you with a silver tongue and objective thinking. It will be relatively easy to express yourself and to weigh personal decisions between the 5th and the 19th. On the 12th, Venus’s chemistry with Saturn can lure you to put your desires second. Rest assured that selflessness and kindness won’t go unrewarded. You could end up getting what you want while helping someone else. The full moon of July 13th alludes to a possible turning point in a partnership that could force your hand for your own good. Is it time to take a leap of faith and commit? Or to break free and move on? Only you can say. But hours later, you should resist the temptation to sacrifice too much for the wrong reason or the wrong person, as Venus is tussling with Neptune. Maybe you’re trying to help someone and you’re assuming you’re on the same wavelength, but it turns out you’ve misjudged them. Your ideals could be clouding your perspective, and the fantasy of being able to save people is another illusion. When the sun syncs with Neptune on July 17th, you might be inspired to lose yourself in a divine experience. You could take a trip, explore religion and spirituality or learn about people, places and ideals that are foreign to you. This cosmic combo can make you feel deeply connected to something beyond yourself. Starting that same day, Venus will be gracing Cancer until August 11th. During that period, you’ll feel your most charming, attractive and gracious. Your warm, friendly vibe can draw people to you like moths to a flame, so try not to spend time with anyone you don’t want to be around! This transit can attract new admirers or remind your mate how fabulous you are. On July 19th, the sun goes head to head with Pluto, intensifying your one-on-one encounters. You might get defensive if you feel like someone’s trying to control you. Do stand up to a bully, but don’t get pulled into a power struggle. When the sun exits Cancer and segues into your worth zone on the 22nd, more of your attention will shift from who you are to what you have and what you need. You’ll identify with your possessions, personal values, material desires and financial status and could examine your relationship with money and things—perhaps questioning whether your stuff is serving your needs or stressing you out. Venus squares off with Jupiter on July 25th, tempting you to oversell yourself or cross the line with an authority figure. Feeling confident is a boon, but if your ambition gets out of hand, you might want to dial it down around people you have to answer to. That doesn’t mean you should downplay your magnetism; it can draw positive attention your way. A new moon on July 28th cues you to devise a fresh financial strategy; create a budget; open up a new stream of income; get your priorities in order; work on improving your self-esteem; deal with your belongings; and buy something you truly need. The lunar influence can cause your emotions, desires and needs to get jumbled together, though, so you may not be not sure whether you require something or merely want it momentarily. This house also rules the five senses; you might indulge yours by getting out in nature and appreciating the physical world. Also on the 28th, Jupiter comes to a standstill in your ambition angle, which could take the wind out of your sails a bit. Between now and late October, review your goals and weigh whether you’re climbing the right ladder. You may not get the recognition you’re after just yet, but you need this time to redefine success for yourself. When the sun convenes with Jupiter on the 31st, you’ll have a chance to utilize what you have going for you to reach an aspiration. Put your talents on display, work your contacts, dial up your confidence and use all the assets at your disposal to make progress.

LEO

July 23–August 22

As much as you want to chase after new experiences, your job, daily duties or health issues may get in your way on the 1st when Mars clashes with Pluto. If you’re pushing yourself too hard, the universe will compel you to slow down. The good news is you might blaze a fresh trail to improving your health or your work (for instance, by being proactive about seeking out the latest medical info or learning new skills). But steer clear of radical views and outlandish risks. After Mars climbs to your success angle early on the 5th, you’ll be geared up to chase after your goals and will work hard to achieve whatever you set out to do. Mars doesn’t like to answer to anyone, so if you can work for yourself rather than under a supervisor now, that would be ideal. Tread carefully around higher-ups when your ambition is in overdrive. On July 12th, a Venus-Saturn confab persuades you to enjoy the company of friends and other people you value. Commit to making an effort when a bond is important to you. Even the best relationships require work sometimes! The full moon on July 13th offers the year’s best incentive to drop a bad habit once and for all. A crisis involving your work or your health could point to a stressor in your lifestyle that needs to change. But a project might also come to fruition now. That same day, Venus’s dustup with Neptune cautions against ambiguous hookups, because it’s difficult to read another person’s signals. Even if you think you can handle a no-strings fling, you might be harboring a fantasy that reality can’t match. Your ruler, the sun, gels with Neptune on the 17th, giving you a chance to form a powerful bond with someone you’re close to or to achieve a higher level of cathartic self-understanding. Carve out private time with a loved one or alone time. With Venus slipping into your release corner soon after, there will be days when you won’t feel like being around a lot of people in the next few weeks. Take a raincheck on plans and give yourself permission to spend more time by yourself. Or hole up with someone you’re close to if that’s what you’re in the mood for. You might opt to take care of a person who’s dear to you and make a sweet sacrifice, putting their desires before your own. With Mercury waltzing into Leo on the 19th, your communication and judgment will be on point in the coming weeks. Later that day, the sun’s faceoff with Pluto causes your need for rest and relaxation to compete against the necessity of getting a lot done. Don’t feel pressured to take on one more thing. Balance work and downtime to avoid burnout. On July 22nd, the sun bursts into Leo, marking the beginning of your birthday season. Now you’ll have more energy and the perfect excuse to focus on yourself. This is your time of year for making a splash and zeroing in on who you want to be. Let others revolve around you, like the planets revolve around the sun! A Venus-Jupiter dustup on the 25th could leave you torn between a desire to lie low and an impetus to get out and have new experiences. Should you indulge in escapist pleasures or answer a higher calling and show heartfelt selflessness? Maybe both. Note: This cosmic combo can lure you to chase after a romantic dream that’s all smoke and mirrors—so it’s possible that he/she/it won’t turn out to be as amazing as you imagine. Your sign hosts the new moon on July 28th, inviting you to reinvent yourself. This opportunity only rolls around once a year, so take advantage of it. If you’ve been rocking the same signature look for more years than you can count, consider changing things up. But a new you needn’t be all about optics. You can also tweak your image by expressing yourself in a whole new way. What do your body language and communication style say about you? Are the messages you’re sending working for or against you? Time to turn the page! Soon after, Jupiter begins backspinning, which may dampen your enthusiasm for new adventures. Contemplate the knowledge you’ve gained recently rather than attempting to break fresh ground. Seek the personal meaning in your latest lessons. Start formulating beliefs around what you’ve seen and learned. If the outer world isn’t cooperating with your wanderlust, focus on a journey of the mind and try to gain perspective. Lucky for you, the sun canoodles with Jupiter on the 31st, allowing you to bounce back to some extent. Do something you thought you couldn’t do, study a subject you’re interested in, visit a place that stimulates your mind. The key is to get up the courage to explore new possibilities and learn what you’re capable of in the process.

VIRGO

August 23–September 22

On the first day of the month, a fight between Mars in your intensity zone and Pluto in your fulfillment province can lead to an explosive moment that does collateral damage. You might risk a lot to feel close to someone and should probably resist a compulsion to force matters. But a powerful new attraction or sexy sparks in an existing relationship may be just the shakeup your love life needs. Then early on the 5th, Mars surges into your expansion corner, dialing up wanderlust and motivating you to be more adventurous over the next seven weeks. You’re amped up to broaden your horizons, and if you can’t get out of town, try to get out of your routine whenever possible. Pursue unfamiliar experiences that you’ll learn from. You’re ready to take a risk and fight for what you believe in, so you might become more actively involved in a cause. When Venus in your ambition realm makes music with Saturn in your productivity corner on the 12th, your work ethic and creativity can cast you in a favorable light with higher-ups, so keep at it! And the next day, a full moon in your joy sector suggests a creative project may come to fruition. It’s also possible that a romance could reach a climax — either blossoming or going as far as it’s going to go. An urge to be yourself and have a good time can make you bold enough to pursue the love, happiness or fun that you want. Hours later, Venus and Neptune get their wires crossed. So even though you have the ability to charm people in power now, you won’t have the easiest time gauging anyone’s reaction to you. Try not to get too hung up on what people think of you that day. Fortunately, the sun’s chemistry with Neptune in your interpersonal angle on July 17th will help you to click with other individuals and see the best in them. You might be moved to do something kind for a person you care about or join forces on a philanthropic endeavor. Soon after, Venus dances into your humanity province for a few weeks, making you more interested in seeing your friends than schmoozing bigwigs. You’ll feel at ease in group settings and will have the most fun when you’re around a lot of people. It’s pretty easy to get along with everyone during this period, as you’ll exude carefree camaraderie. However, a standoff on July 19th between the sun and Pluto can indicate friction between pursuing your passions and gelling with a group. Drama could get stirred up if someone’s trying to dominate you (or the other way around). On the 22nd, the sun sneaks into the last house of your chart, signaling that your solar year is winding down. It’s appropriate to retreat from the world when you feel like it in the coming month so you can rest and reflect. Take an honest look back at the past year — but do yourself a favor and reserve judgment. See if you can shine a light on ways in which you’ve worked against yourself. You won’t have a lot of fuel in your tank, so definitely make time for relaxation. Venus quarrels with Jupiter on July 25th, which might leave you unsure of whether you want to play the field or put all your chips on one person. Jealousy, sex and overblown expectations can affect a friendship, so tread carefully. On the other hand, a casual connection may heat up in a good way now. The new moon on July 28th lays the groundwork for next month’s new moon in Virgo. This lunation has a built-in contradiction: New moons are generally about beginnings, but the last house has to do with endings. Think in terms of what you can let go of, in preparation for the fresh start that your birthday season always brings. Where do you need closure, forgiveness, healing or peace? Since this house rules the spirit and the subconscious, you might get into a new spiritual practice, crack open a blank dream journal or perform a selfless endeavor. Jupiter pivots retrograde in your depth-and-merging sector that same day, which could cause outside resources like a loan to dry up for a few months. If you’ve fast-tracked emotional growth, a partnership or your recovery from a loss, pain or crisis, progress is apt to slow. Now’s the time to contemplate what changes really need to happen down the road. On the 31st, the sun hooks up with Jupiter, convincing you to keep things low-key. Time alone pondering life can bring a lightbulb moment that helps you understand the way you tick. And if you opt to cozy up to someone special, authenticity and acceptance will allow your bond to flourish.

LIBRA

September 23–October 22

Mars and Pluto are at odds on July 1st, making conflict difficult to avoid. An interaction could elicit powerful emotions in you, and ignoring inner turbulence will make matters worse. Do you sweep stuff under the rug sometimes to keep the peace? Until you face your own issues squarely, you’ll run the risk of projecting them onto others. Try your best not to overreact if someone provokes you. Early on the 5th, Mars moves into your depth zone for a nearly seven-week stay, revving up your libido and generating powerful interactions. You may run into trouble oversharing or grappling with difficult emotions and go through a period of personal transformation. But you could also channel a lot of energy into a passion project or intensive endeavor and become thoroughly immersed in it. Direct your drive toward something you feel strongly about! On July 12th, your ruler, Venus, in your expansion zone vibes with committed Saturn, hinting that getting out of your comfort zone and everyday routine and enjoying unfamiliar pleasures will be incredibly satisfying. An attraction to a different person, culture or place could turn into a long-term interest, so explore and experiment. With a full moon lighting up the base of your chart on the 13th, you may have to deal with emotional drama on the home front or navigate a shift in your family or living situation. Venus’s run-in with Neptune that day implies you’re not sure if the pleasure that is tempting you is good for you. In addition, your craving for adventure could be undercut by a lack of physical energy; the spirit is inspired, but the body is tired! Find a compromise if possible. On July 17th, a sun-Neptune confab suggests that your artistry or your skills that benefit others will fuel a drive to make your mark. Draw on those abilities, and let your need to be useful motivate you to keep striving toward goals. The feeling of making progress will have a positive effect on your overall well-being. Venus ascends to the pinnacle of your chart that day, coaxing you to polish your public image and turn on the charm with your superiors in an effort to make a favorable impression. You’re capable of doing creative work and getting along well with your colleagues — both of which will also make you look good. This is a good month to grab coffee with a power player in your field, attend industry functions and schedule lunch with your boss. When the sun and Pluto play tug of war on the 19th, balancing your public and private lives will be a challenge. Problems at home and turbulent emotions can make it harder for you to go out and shine. After the sun blazes into your network zone on July 22nd, you’ll start to feel at least as invested in teamwork and mingling as you have been in pursuing personal aims. Now you’ll thrive on spending time with friends and feeling connected to the various circles of people in your life. When Venus needles Jupiter in your interpersonal angle on the 25th, your appeal won’t be lost on people — but be careful not to push your luck. You might even snag a professional mentor or invaluable contact with the help of this planetary pair. If you’re currently focused on #RelationshipGoals and wind up in a discussion about where things are headed, you might find out you’re not on the same page. An ultimatum could make a difference, but is that how you want to reach an understanding? The new moon of July 28th prompts you to do some professional networking; join an organization; make new friends; connect with your squad; ponder your hopes and dreams and create a bucket list; get a philanthropic effort off the ground; and contemplate your role in the lives of others. If you’ve developed fresh objectives and interests lately, it’s natural to gravitate to new groups of people. Seeing yourself in the context of a group will help you to envision your future, so don’t isolate yourself in your quest. After Jupiter does a U-turn in your interpersonal realm that same day, you could become less excited about a serious relationship or about the quality of people you’re meeting. Hopefully you’ve had more luck connecting with other individuals recently. For the next few months, you might narrow down the options in your head and decide who has potential to go the distance with you. Lucky for you, a sun-Jupiter alliance on the 31st offers excellent incentive to get out and see people, because you’re apt to enjoy a particular individual’s company or make a valuable connection. With this planetary map, being totally yourself in a group setting can help you click with a potential friend or mate who will enrich your life.

SCORPIO

October 23–November 21

With your co-rulers, Mars and Pluto, duking it out on the 1st, watch your tone. Criticism can do more damage than you intend. Colleagues, siblings, neighbors and other people in your everyday life are likely to be on the receiving end. The flipside of this coin: You’re motivated to change something for the better, and your community is apt to benefit from your efforts. After Mars crosses your interpersonal angle in the early hours of July 5th, you should make a point of snagging a partner for your activities, because two is better than one between now and August 20. Get grievances into the open in your relationships and work through them together. You might also enlist an exercise buddy to boost your motivation. On the 12th, Venus in your depth-and-merging realm meshes with Saturn in your comfort sector, luring you to enjoy the company of someone you feel safe with. Intimacy is very grounding now, and a close relationship may become more serious. If you’re by yourself, anything that makes you feel at home in your own skin, like immersing yourself in a passion project, will be very rewarding. Introspection can help you make peace with the past now. On the 13th, a full moon in your thinking-and-talking corner could cause information overload or trigger a development involving your sibling or your neighborhood. If you’re being pulled in a million directions, take a breath and process one thing at a time. When Venus becomes enmeshed with Neptune that day, do your best to keep your feet planted on terra firma. You may be tempted to see someone through rose-colored glasses and perhaps misread the nature of your relationship. You’re craving closeness, and it’s easy to put someone on a pedestal when these two planets are linked. Fortunately, the sun clicks with Neptune on July 17th, mobilizing you to get out of your comfort zone. Doing so can put the romance, creative expression, personal fulfillment and spiritual joy you yearn for within reach. You’ll really start to see the appeal of difference after Venus sashays into your expansion zone, luring you to explore unfamiliar pleasures. New people, places and cultural experiences will inspire you and open your eyes to a wider range of possibilities. You might date someone very different from you or someone you’d normally overlook, and a long-distance romance or vacation fling could also be in the cards. Have some fun venturing beyond your habitual boundaries. You’ll get great satisfaction from broadening your horizons in the month to come. But on the 19th, the sun goes toe to toe with Pluto, warning you that a difference of opinion could get tense. Don’t show all your cards or focus on winning this battle. If you can stay off the soapbox and separate your ego from your views, you’ll be ahead of the game. After the sun climbs to the peak of your chart on July 22nd, your ambition will gain momentum. You’ll begin to think more in terms of your professional or public image and the direction you want to take in life. You might find yourself in the spotlight, where you’ll need to perform at your best and prove what you’re capable of. On the 25th, a Venus-Jupiter dustup suggests tension between the joy of experiencing unfamiliar pleasures and the need to overanalyze everything. You might be dying to escape daily life, but meanwhile, you’re juggling a full workload. If you’re feeling connected to people who are different from you, you could be inspired to put your skills to good use in an effort to serve others. The new moon of July 28th rocks your success angle, cajoling you to set new goals. Use this period of renewal to jumpstart your ambition and create a business plan, aim for a promotion or chart a new course in your life. You might start researching careers, talk to your boss about your responsibilities or take on a high-profile role that increases your exposure. It’s a good time to consider your public image and/or professional reputation. What can you do to improve your PR and your status? After Jupiter goes rogue that same day, the pace of your daily routine will slow enough for you to catch your breath. Have you taken on too much recently? Use the next few months to assess which things matter the most to you. When the sun plays nice with Jupiter on the 31st, a positive work ethic will reflect very well on you. You’re able to find meaning in what you’re doing and you’re open to seizing the opportunities that come your way. Both of these assets will enable you to catch the attention of your superiors. Take pride in a job well done—and you’ll end up looking even better than if you’d focused solely on self-promotion.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22–December 21

When Mars in your joy sector scuffles with Pluto in your worth province on July 1st, a desire to play it safe could go straight out the window if an impulsive risk threatens your bottom line. Factor in your core values and priorities before taking a leap to get what you think you want. The good news is that this might be an opportune moment to transform a hobby into a money-making venture. In the early hours of July 5th, Mars barges into your efficiency corner for a nearly seven-week visit. Now you’re motivated to roll up your sleeves and get to work on your to-do list, job responsibilities and daily duties. You can tackle tasks with vigor during this period, but you should do your best to stay humble so you can help out others who need you. Humility is also vital if you have to answer to a boss. Try not to be too perfectionistic or critical. If you have energy to burn, blow off steam with challenging workouts. Venus’s chemistry with Saturn on the 12th encourages you to devise a solid strategy for meeting prospective partners if you’re looking for love — or to take someone you already know more seriously. A mature conversation can put you back on the same page with a person you care about. You may need to keep your urge to splurge in check when a full moon hits your worth sector the next day, blurring the line between want and need. You’re attaching emotions to material objects, increasing the odds that you’ll turn to retail therapy for instant gratification. When Venus falls under Neptune’s spell—also on the 13th — you may not feel one hundred percent secure in a relationship. This pairing can make you disappointed in another person if your underlying hopes are somewhat unrealistic. Self-care should be a priority now, so carve out restorative alone time in your schedule. On July 17th, a sun-Neptune encounter coaxes you to again prioritize private time, either on your own or with someone you care about. It’s likely to soothe your soul, and you might even heal a family wound by shining a light on something hidden and finding forgiveness. After Venus plunges into your depth realm that day, you’ll start craving intense one-on-one connection. Lighthearted relating won’t hit the spot in the next few weeks. Your close bonds take center stage, and a sexual relationship can feel profoundly emotional under this influence. You’ll want loyalty, trust, integrity and commitment from the individuals you care about most. And you shouldn’t have too much trouble getting emotional or financial support. When the sun opposes Pluto on the 19th, though, feeling unsure of yourself or worrying about getting what you need can complicate closeness. Once the sun sails into your exploration corner on the 22nd, a wave of enthusiasm for learning experiences could hit. Broaden your horizons by taking a trip if possible, signing up for a class, engaging with people who are different from you and exposing yourself to foreign ideas and beliefs. Get out of your routine to get a fresh perspective on life. When Venus squares off with Jupiter on July 25th, tension between desires and expectations could come to a head. Are you hoping for more from a relationship than you’re getting? Or maybe you’re not sure if you want it to be hot and heavy or breezy and light? Try not to overreact, because this mood will shift. If you see an opportunity to inject more creativity, play, romance and self-expression into a close connection, grab it. Due to the new moon on July 28th, your intrepid spirit could lead you to take a leap of faith and launch an entrepreneurial undertaking, book a bucket-list trip or jump into an exciting adventure that stimulates your mind. You might embark on a new course of study soon or explore a different belief system. This lunation gives you the impetus to break free from the boundaries of your everyday life. Channel your natural restlessness by chasing after the new and unfamiliar. That same day, your ruler, Jupiter, goes retrograde. During the next few months, playfulness, creative output, self-expression or romance may dissipate a bit. Ponder what — and who — brings you joy and fulfills you, without necessarily pursuing it or them. This is a phase for weeding out quality over quantity. The sun and Jupiter are in cahoots on July 31st, pushing you to rise above humdrum concerns and get out into the world. Seek a change of scene to refresh your outlook. Travel can bring great personal pleasure and also enhance your love life, so skip town if you can. This transit invites you to learn about yourself, become more conscious of everything around you and grow as a person — all in one fell swoop!

CAPRICORN

December 22–January 19

When hot-blooded Mars throws darts at Pluto in Capricorn on July 1st, domestic strife could get out of hand, and your first instinct may be to tighten your grip. Try to remember that control is an illusion, and acting like a control freak is a stressful strategy — for you and for those around you. Even if you feel provoked, you can direct this explosive energy in a positive direction. Face your feelings, let go of stuck anger and confront the past if necessary. Deep personal change is possible if you’re able to deal directly with these highly charged emotions. With Mars rocketing into your joy realm early on the 5th for a nearly seven-week tour, you have the go-ahead to be more proactive in chasing after what (or whom) your heart desires. You’ll tend to do as you please and will feel playful and bold. A competitive spirit might steer you toward games, sports or gambling. When Venus plays nice with your ruler, Saturn, on the 12th, a realistic view of relationships and a desire for someone reliable will keep you on solid ground. Bonus: Creative work might generate a steady income under this influence. On July 13th, your sign hosts the full moon, bringing out all the feels and possibly pushing you to the point where you need a release. This lunation also provides your annual excuse to drop what — or whom — is no longer good for you, so consider letting go of anything or anyone that has passed a natural expiration date in your life. You could gloss over details when Neptune throws Venus for a loop that day. Although you want to be helpful and useful, you may not understand exactly what’s required. Miscommunication with people in your everyday life — such as coworkers — could be a problem, even though your intentions are good. Fortunately, the sun-Neptune confab of July 17th allows you to put yourself in others’ shoes and express your kindness. One-on-one communication has a nice flow under this influence, and you’re capable of picking up on subtle signals. Soon after, enticing Venus crosses your interpersonal angle, putting you in the mood to hang with your favorite individuals. One-on-one time is more appealing than squad time over the next few weeks, so get plenty of it on the books. If you’re in a serious relationship, prioritize private time with your significant other, as this period can bring you closer. You’re feeling agreeable and won’t have a problem compromising to get on the same page. The sun opposes Pluto in Cap on the 19th, though, and if you want to avoid conflict, you should probably loosen your grip. You feel better calling the shots, but there’s a good chance you’ll come on too strong if you insist on being the one in the driver’s seat. On the 22nd, the sun plunges into your depth sector, infusing a close relationship, passion project or emotional issue with more energy. You could become more absorbed in your personal life and in matters involving sharing, trust, sexuality, control and psychology. Whatever you feel invested in will draw your intense focus in the month that follows. It’s important to spend time with people you feel at ease with when Venus and Jupiter go at it on July 25th. Your mood is tied to your rapport with other individuals. You may try to push things to the next level in a relationship out of an emotional need for more security. If that’s the case, it might be best to slow down and see what happens, even if it feels counterintuitive. When a new moon hits on the 28th, a new sexual connection could be just around the corner. Already in a relationship? It’s due to heat up! Not only will intimacy be intense after this lunation, but you might also tap fresh outside resources like a loan, grant, refund or line of credit. A new research endeavor or passion project could grab your attention, too, as this part of the chart encourages laser-focused deep dives. And if you’re on the mend from a loss, crisis or emotional wound, you’ll finally feel ready to turn a major corner in your psyche. That same day, Jupiter goes rogue at the base of your chart, which can affect your underlying sense of security. A recent domestic development could stall as well, or family support may not seem as readily available. During the next few months, mull over what you need to feel at peace and at home. On the 31st, the sun syncs with Jupiter, so something as simple as cocooning with your partner or dedicating a few hours to self-care will replenish your energy reserves and put you in a positive mood. Getting close to someone or getting in touch with your innermost feelings will be intense in a good way.

AQUARIUS

January 20–February 18

On the first day of July, Mars in your thinking-and-talking corner provokes Pluto in your subliminal sector, bringing potentially destructive energy to the surface and causing it to leak out in your interactions. Try to work through your own feelings rather than venting them through abrupt words that can come off as aggressive. Dealing with what’s churning inside you will make you feel better in the long run. In the wee hours of July 5th, Mars moves down to the base of your chart for a nearly seven-week visit. After that, you’ll get busy around the house and may engage in more family activities. A domestic project like renovation or repairs could take up a lot of your time, and you may find yourself arguing — particularly with parents or housemates — without understanding the reason. If you’re feeling prickly and defensive, tune into your emotions and process them, trying not to lash out. On the 12th, Venus in your fulfillment realm forms an alliance with Saturn, allowing romance, humor, creativity and fun to lighten your spirits. A loved one could draw you out, and you might relish a positive experience of being cherished for who you really are. The full moon of July 13th could bring a secret to light or cause something that you’ve pushed down inside you to resurface, and the point is to face what’s been hidden. This is also an appropriate time to let go of the past and attend to your inner life as much as you do your outer one. That same day, Venus’s commotion with Neptune can lure you out on a limb for the sake of love or happiness without a clear sense of what it will cost you. Avoid giving up too much for what you think you want. And whom you want; an attraction might cause you to doubt yourself, which is a high price to pay. The sun and Neptune team up on the 17th, allowing you to draw on your creative talents. Use your highest personal values and priorities as a guide, and they won’t steer you wrong. After Venus enters your productivity corner that day, you’ll feel more in sync with coworkers and will be able to enjoy getting things done. Or maybe you’ll feel like hitting happy hour with your colleagues after clocking out or you’ll spend more time than usual chatting in the office. You also might opt to beautify your workspace to keep your spirits up while tackling everyday business. On the 19th, a sun-Pluto standoff can compel you to deal with what’s in your subconscious. Doing so will ultimately enhance your overall wellness and productivity. Your one-on-one relationships become even more important after the sun crosses your interpersonal angle on the 22nd, fueling partnership in the coming month. You’ll derive energy from other individuals, so pair off. You can learn about yourself through others and gain strength from them. Join forces and strive to be the best mate, companion or friend you can be. Venus’s encounter with over-the-top Jupiter on July 25th could spark creative work or spur you to learn a lot from your colleagues. Struggling with a relationship problem? Honest communication and an open mind can help you solve it. But you might go overboard with what you consider friendly criticism. If you see yourself as trying to be helpful, that could make you oblivious to how your words really sound. With a new moon on the 28th, a committed relationship could be on the horizon, and it may or may not involve romance. A business partnership or creative collaboration might be in the cards. If you already have a significant other, the two of you could move to the next level soon by swapping house keys, moving in together, getting engaged or taking some other big step. There’s also a possibility that you’ll redefine an existing connection — for instance, by talking things through with a close friend and getting onto firmer footing. And if you’ve been waiting to go public with something you’ve been working on, this moon can nudge you to share what you have to offer and solicit feedback. After Jupiter does an about-face in your cognition-and-communication zone that day, you may notice you’re not interacting with quite so many people, thinking as big or speaking as freely. If grand ideas have popped into your head recently, you could start cutting them down to size. Think about the people you’ve met lately, the thoughts you’ve had and the hopes you’ve conceived. Then over the next few months, suss out what/whom to invest in further. With the sun and Jupiter joining forces on the 28th, communication gets a boost. You have a great shot at getting on the same page with someone and being seen for who you really are, but you need to open your mind and your mouth. Connecting one-on-one with people will inspire and inform you.

PISCES

February 19–March 20

Group relations might feel like a powder keg on July 1st when Mars challenges explosive Pluto in your network zone. A dispute over money or possessions could snowball, so steer clear of competition. Instead, try to use everything at your disposal to bring about change in the world. Whether you’re met with conflict or cooperation depends in part on how you conduct yourself, so tread carefully. In the early hours of July 5th, Mars promenades into your cognition-and-communication province, sending your mind racing and speeding up the tempo of your everyday life. Over the next six and a half weeks, you’ll be full of ideas and eager to pitch them to people. Take advantage of your assertive attitude without becoming argumentative. Channel restlessness into challenging mental tasks and community activism. On July 12th, a confab between lovely Venus and solid Saturn puts you in a good mood. Enjoying the comforts of home or the company of family will help you to feel at peace with where you’re at in your life and appreciate what — or whom — you can depend on. When the full moon rises in your humanity sector on the 13th, drama in your squad could grab your attention. Do your best to honor people’s feelings and to balance personal fulfillment with group interests. Venus and your ruler, Neptune, get their wires crossed that same day, tempting you to overindulge in escapist pleasures. Eating and drinking are extra enticing, and if you have a sweet tooth, chances are you’ll give in to it. This planetary map also colors your interactions with roommates and relatives. You may feel let down by those people, but try to see them as they really are — and come to terms with that reality. On July 17th, the sun harmonizes with Neptune in Pisces, offering you a chance to be seen for who you really are. Let your individuality and desires shine through. Share your creative gifts with the world. This combo can clear up the smokescreen that Neptune surrounds you with and allow you to feel more genuinely bonded with loved ones. Venus sashays into your fulfillment realm hours later, encouraging you to enjoy life and wear your heart on your sleeve. You’re in the mood for romance, fun and creative self-expression and can convey warm feelings like affection and generosity freely. In the next few weeks, a big part of you will simply want to play and do what makes you feel good. A sun-Pluto faceoff on July 19th, however, could leave you torn between marching to your own beat and caving to peer pressure. You might need to ignore haters (or block trolls) and focus on just doing your thing. After the sun segues into your efficiency corner on July 22nd for a month-long tour, you’ll have loads of momentum to get stuff done. Take pride in being useful and productive instead of trying to achieve major milestones that will earn a round of applause. Roll up your sleeves and get to work on your to-do list, job responsibilities and wellness goals. On the 25th, a Venus-Jupiter dustup can trigger a spending spree to sate your appetite for pretty things that please you. If money is tight, keep in mind that the object of your desire might not be worth as much as you imagine. But do give yourself permission to enjoy life — because attraction, creativity and play can all coincide with a surge in confidence. Just don’t fall into the trap of waiting for an even greater payoff. Appreciate the moment! A new moon on July 28th can prompt you to do one or more of the following in the coming weeks: Get onto a better schedule. Introduce a positive habit to your regular routine. Launch a job search. Start a new diet or fitness regimen. Organize your workspace. Learn a skill. Book medical appointments. Improve your time management. Adopt a pet. Get a work project underway. Take on different duties. Create fresh to-do lists. To sum up, beginnings that relate to your productivity and physical wellbeing get the green light. Jupiter does a U-turn that day, which could temporarily cut into a source of income or convince you to decrease spending. If money has flowed a little too freely of late, pause and prioritize. What do you actually need? What’s most important to you? You have a few months to come up with honest answers. When the sun gels with Jupiter on the 31st, though, your hard work could pay off. Staying humble enough to do whatever is necessary can earn you more notice (and money) than tooting your own horn. And directing your energy toward accomplishing the tasks at hand will make you feel good about yourself. Tap into your full array of talents to get the job done.

ARIES

March 21–April 19

With Mars in Aries provoking Pluto on July 1st, you’re more than a little determined to make significant headway. But having to work under a boss or within a bureaucracy can frustrate you. Proceed with caution around authority figures. The good news is that if you see a way to reform the system, you have the power to bring about change. You may be stymied by the slow evolution of your career path, and the actions you take now could finally move the needle. Mars exits your sign in the wee hours of the 5th and moves into your worth zone. Over the next six and a half weeks, you’ll be motivated to tackle your finances and possessions, make money, and buy what you want. Impulse purchases could be a problem, so stick to a budget if you’re concerned about getting carried away. Venus cozies up to Saturn on July 12th, enabling you to stay positive, give others the benefit of the doubt, use your social skills, do some professional networking and enjoy what you can accomplish when you connect with the right people. The next day, a full moon illuminates the peak of your chart, which could bring a goal to fruition or push you into the spotlight. Be prepared to put your best foot forward, since this lunation calls for you to stand out and perform. If an authority figure seems temperamental, give them space. With Venus and Neptune at odds that day, you could get lost in your imagination or view another person through the lens of a fantasy. You’re in a cheery mood overall but might become melancholy for a brief spell. A sun-Neptune mashup on the 17th encourages you to unwind and let go of anything that’s weighing on your soul, so don’t feel compelled to stay busy. The stars are luring you to pause and just be. Hours later, Venus dips down to your foundation angle and prepares to nest there for a few weeks. Consider this your cue to start enjoying the pleasures of home and family. You might host a party at your place; do a bit of decorating; get really into cooking or baking; hang out with roomies and relatives; or spend quality time with your couch — catching up on your favorite shows or your sleep. Comfort and calm will hold more appeal than socializing, so no regrets when you send your regrets! On July 19th, the sun and Pluto move into opposition, which could produce tension with authority figures. You may also be torn between resting on your laurels for a bit or pushing yourself to make progress. After the sun’s arrival in your fulfillment realm on the 22nd, you’ll have more energy to get out occasionally and enjoy life. In the month that follows, you’ll want to set your own priorities and do as you please. You’re in a creative, fun, generous, romantic mood and should make time to play when you feel like it. Venus elbows Jupiter on July 25, which may tempt you to overindulge in simple comforts like sleep, food and drink. Plus, the pleasures of home are likely to compete with loftier aspirations — and you might try to pull off having it all. Should you get cozy in your nest or spread your wings and savor the feeling of freedom? Curl up with someone familiar or explore fresh, exciting possibilities? Let the wave of enthusiasm carry you for a moment, but try not to lose sight of the shore. You could become involved in a new love affair, creative endeavor, hobby or other source of self-expression and pleasure after a new moon occurs on July 28th. This lunation gets your juices flowing and inspires you to share your true self with others. Have a good time. Wear your heart on your sleeve. Hog the mic for a minute, show off and be unapologetically you. Jupiter shifts into reverse that day, changing the tone of its trip through Aries. You may feel less self-assured as the buoyant energy of the last couple of months subsides. Jupiter still has your back, though! Review recent growth and assess the direction you’re headed in. Does it suit you? Do your outer aspirations match your inner self? If you’re measuring yourself by society’s standards, the next few months are a good time to face that. You’ll get back to exploring new ways of being you later; for now, ponder which paths forward feel true to you. Thanks to a joyous encounter between the sun and Jupiter on July 31st, expressing your individuality and your feelings will inject you with a freeing sense of life’s possibilities. Get out and have fun, be yourself around people, put your creativity on display, go on a date, spend time with loved ones doing what makes you happy. Personal fulfillment can snowball into a new lease on life, so make pleasure a priority.

TAURUS

April 20–May 20

The battle between Mars in your subliminal corner and Pluto in your expansion realm on July 1st can lead to self-sabotage, and the more aware you are of your own hidden motives, the easier it will be to avoid shooting yourself in the foot. If you’re willing to work quietly (and maybe thanklessly) behind the scenes, however, there could be an opportunity here to make a difference in the world. Go-getter Mars shows up in Taurus in the early hours of July 5th for a nearly seven-week tour, after which you’ll be fired up to further your own interests and make tons of progress on your personal agenda. You’re inclined to stick up for yourself now but might steamroll people if you’re trying to get them to work with you. Operate independently if possible, so you can focus on your own efforts. With Venus and Saturn in cahoots on the 12th, you can attract what you need, thanks to the work you’re doing. Keep your eyes open for a chance to earn income. Be clear on what’s most valuable to you and invest wisely. The full moon of July 13th can represent a call to adventure, a crisis of faith or a shift in perspective, as it lights up your exploration corner and pushes you out of your comfort zone to get a bird’s eye view of the big picture. This lunation inspires you to transcend your everyday routine and your default mindset. It’s your best excuse of the year to move past a personal conviction that is limiting your growth. Examine your belief system and cull one that isn’t doing you justice. You might feel unsure of your worth in your squad or another group when Venus tangles with Neptune that same day. Maybe you’re overrating someone and selling yourself short. But on the 17th, a sun-Neptune connection implies you’ll gel with friends — new and old — by putting yourself out there and speaking your truth. If you feel moved to advocate for others, this is a great time to have your voice heard. Soon after, amiable Venus arrives in your cognition-and-communication province, bringing pleasant thoughts and interactions and helping you see the beauty in your surroundings. You’ll be in a cheerful mood over the next few weeks and will find it fairly easy to tell people how you feel. This can also be a flirty influence, enabling you to draw in your crush and engage in witty banter. You might get inspired to spruce up your neighborhood, and finding other like-minded folks will make it fun. The sun-Pluto opposition of July 19th could bring on a heated debate, so stay off the soapbox and resist the urge to score intellectual points. On the 22nd, the sun dips down to your foundation angle, putting more emphasis on family, home and feelings. You want to relax in familiar surroundings with people who really know you and enjoy creature comforts like good food. You might crave alone time to reminisce or to get in touch with your private thoughts and emotions. When Venus tangles with Jupiter on the 25th, an optimistic mindset and pleasant interactions could spur an empathetic desire to help others who are less fortunate than you. You might build someone up in your head, though, if fondness veers into fantasy. Try to base love on true acceptance, not hopeful illusion. Your view isn’t objective now, and you may need a reminder that nothing is quite as it appears. On July 28th, the new moon hints that a change in your living situation may be on the horizon. You might move or enhance your current space — or there could be a new addition to your household. If home improvements are called for, you’ll get busy redecorating, decluttering, cleaning or diving into another domestic project. Maybe you’ll renew a familial bond or reach a new accord with a parent. Or you’ll institute a new self-care practice, especially if it boosts your mood and involves relaxing at home. This is the right lunation for contemplating your comfort level. How safe and secure do you feel? What can you do that will allow you to feel more at ease? After Jupiter goes retrograde that day, you probably won’t feel quite as much of a tailwind behind you as you have in the past couple of months. Reflect on any spiritual lessons that have seeped in. How do you feel about surrendering your will and seeing where life takes you? Try not to lose hope or patience if drifting with the current seems to drag on. The sun syncs with Jupiter on the 31st, boosting the appeal of chilling at home and relishing peace and quiet. You might want to make use of a tool like psychotherapy or a dream journal to get in touch with your emotions and understand yourself better.

GEMINI

May 21–June 20

When Mars in your network zone quarrels with Pluto in your merging realm on July 1st, collaborations may prove difficult temporarily, and you should try not to get into a power struggle. But if you’re prepared to face challenges head-on, you can join forces with others to transform a sticky situation. It’s possible you’ll have to take one for the team in the process. Early on the 5th, Mars ducks into the last house of your chart, motivating you to work behind the scenes without expecting a lot of recognition. You might slip into an old pattern of behavior and inadvertently operate against your own best interests. Pay attention to your subliminal motives for undermining yourself and face up to anything that’s bothering you. Venus in your sign schmoozes Saturn in your expansion realm on July 12th, which could make it easy for you to charm a professor or mentor. You might also magnetize people who have something to teach you. The full moon of July 13th can trigger emotional upheaval in a close relationship or allow outside support such as a loan to come through. Try to balance give and take as well as you can, honoring someone else’s needs as well as your own. If you’re recovering from a crisis, wound or loss, this lunation may represent the climax that precedes significant change. With Venus in Gemini wandering into Neptune’s mists that day, you could feel unsure of how others view you. Maybe you think you’re putting out clear signals, but people aren’t responding as you’d like. Authority figures are particularly tricky to read, and it might seem like your appeal is temporarily lost on them. Feeling aimless? Try doing something creative just for the pleasure of it. The sun in your worth sector jibes with Neptune on July 17th, nudging you to share your talents with the world. You can do creative and meaningful work under this influence. Venus segues into that part of your chart hours later, increasing your desire for nice things. For the next few weeks, you’ll be tempted to spend money rather freely, but you’ll also have a knack for drawing in what you need. You’ll want what you want, and hopefully the law of attraction will help you to cover the cost. A craving for stability in your relationships means you’d rather spend time with down-to-earth types than fickle, unreliable people. As the sun and Pluto face off on the 19th, you could identify very strongly with your own needs, which will complicate sharing. Balancing “mine” and “ours” is no easy feat now. After the vibrant sun soars into your thinking-and-talking corner on July 22nd, your thoughts and everyday interactions will be infused with added energy. You’ll be able to put a lot of yourself into everything you say and may be more inclined to explore your neighborhood or take short trips in the coming month. Although you’re likely to feel more talkative, you should also make a point of listening, since this is a great transit for learning. On the 25th, Venus’s skirmish with Jupiter can pit your personal desires against group interests and your regard for the greater good. You’re allowed to want what you want, but don’t try to finagle your way with others. Everyone is liable to have their own priorities. There’s a chance that this transit will inspire you to be extra generous with friends or with people in general. If you’ve been feeling like you need an attitude adjustment, the new moon on July 28th could be just what the doctor ordered. You can use this lunar lift to hit restart in your brain and move forward with a more positive, can-do mindset. An inquisitive mood could propel you to gather info, check out an unfamiliar part of town, meet new people, start a course of study or take on a mentally challenging project. You might also make an important decision soon or get involved in a community endeavor. Jupiter goes off the grid that same day, though, slowing progress in a group effort or narrowing the range of people coming into your life. You could feel a bit less supported by your squad and less excited about something that made it onto your list of hopes and wishes in the past couple of months. It’s the perfect time to weigh which new friendships, contacts, group affiliations, social media accounts and goals are a natural fit for you and which won’t mean as much to you in the long run. On the 31st, however, the sun and Jupiter are in cahoots, encouraging you to connect with a group. You’ll benefit from feeling like you are part of something beyond yourself — and that experience will go a long way toward enhancing your perspective. Reach out to others who share your ideals, aspirations or interests, and aim to learn what you can from them.

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