July 2024 is a month of significant planetary movements. Neptune will station retrograde in Pisces, while Mercury changes sign twice during the month, first into Leo and then into Virgo, where it rules. Venus moves into Leo, and Mars into Gemini. The new Moon is early in July, and we will experience a second Capricorn Full Moon, a celestial event that promises to bring intense energy and power.
Neptune Station Retrograde in Pisces on 2 July 2024 until 30 January 2025. With Neptune Station retrograde, a profound shift is underway. This period not only reveals the harsh realities faced by the less prosperous but also illuminates the disillusionment experienced by those on a spiritual quest in Pisces. The Neptune transit is a dreamlike journey, filled with fantasy and illusion, that can lead us to question our perception of reality. It’s a time when we yearn for a world of unity, where nations unite for peace and cooperation. Yet, we must also confront the uncomfortable truths of poverty, xenophobia, and a society that often blames the disadvantaged for its problems. However, this confrontation is a catalyst for personal growth and a deeper understanding of the world around us, offering hope and inspiration.
Mercury enters Leo on 2 July (Shadow period from 17 July 2024)
With Mercury in Leo, you can voice opinions more vibrantly and dramatically. During this period, you can appear confident, fake it until you make it, or bluff your way through it. Don’t hide if you don’t know; pride can be an impediment to learning. Sometimes, we must start from the bottom; if you are potentially the know-it-all type, this can be an issue.
Mercury enters its shadow period on 21° Leo on July 17 and will turn direct in August. Keep this in mind: in matters concerning communication, it’s important to get it right the first time around. This period requires patience and understanding, as misunderstandings and miscommunications may be more common. You can navigate this period with grace and ease by being prepared and calm.
New Moon 6 July Moon in Cancer is an excellent time to talk to someone with whom you feel safe and vulnerable. Showing vulnerability can be a strength, especially when you are developing the capacity to nurture, mother, and care for and generally have the instinct to protect. This is a great time for artistic or literary pursuits because we can connect with our imagination more than usual. If you need to feel safe and want to belong, you may have a strong nesting instinct, go with the flow, and huddle in your cocoon. Embracing your vulnerability during this time can empower you and boost your confidence.
Venus enters Leo on 11 July. This is a time to work on the feminine sacred self-confidence and self-esteem. Generate warmth, generosity, and passion by standing under the spotlight. Now is your time to receive that attention and admiration and bask in the warmth of other attention. Remember, Venus is about balance, and giving will ignite the receiving. Make your partner feel special, show loyalty, and spend time and attention towards them. Emotions are dramatized, and the big gestures are creative and glamorous.
Mars enters Gemini on 20 July, and it is time to work on being resourceful. Competition will heat up because there are too many voices talking at the same time. The debate can become heated, with arguments from opposing points of view. There is a lot of coming and goings on, so keep yourself cool. Take a short drive or take up a sport that minimizes stress-related situations. Have a foosball table in the office or play pickleball with friends to ease the competitive energies.
The Full Moon is on July 21, with the Sun in Cancer and the Moon in Capricorn. The Capricorn Full Moon came around for the second time in July. I will repeat what I said last month: “We need to watch out for that melancholy that brings fear of the future and wants to make us hide in our pods and watch the world go by, feeling sorry for ourselves.”
But the Leo energies are already flowing in. The Sun will change sign the next day, and we already have a few planets in Leo. The Moon in Capricorn can do with a bit of warmth tickling in, even if, at this stage, things may look a bit dim. The Sun will be warming up soon, and things are bound to improve.
Sun Ingress into Leo: On 22 July, the Sun enters the sign of its rulership, Leo, and our focus shifts to what we can control and organize in our lives. Once we have organized ourselves, we run the risk of wanting to organize everyone else. Respect other opinions and cultivate a flexible mind. Being dogmatic and a know-it-all may not be helpful at all and may rub others the wrong way.
It is time to do things heartily, creatively, and powerfully because we can be impressive, generous, and warm-hearted; otherwise, a great deal of potential will be wasted.
When Mercury enters Virgo on 26 July, objectivity becomes key. We become organized and meticulous, classifying everything. This is where we can develop and work on our eye for detail. We can expand our capacity to deal with complexity and intricacy in a time of learning, analyzing, and using information to our advantage.
Work will be the emphasis at this time, dominating our thoughts and discussions. Critical faculties are key, and we must keep a sense of humor for those who do not get it.
Fixed Star Acubens: this star brings the influences of Saturn and Mercury, and it has been called a “Sheltering or hiding place.” The star it is also linked to transition, helping those coming in or leaving, easing the way. According to Vivian Robson in the book Fixed Stars & Constellations in Astrology, it gives activity, malevolence, and poison, making native liars and criminals.
These astrological movements in July 2024 are rich with opportunities for growth and self-reflection. As Neptune retrogrades in Pisces and Mercury in Leo, it reveals deeper truths and encourages confident communication. Staying grounded and honest with oneself is essential. The New Moon in Cancer offers a nurturing time to connect with your inner emotions, while Venus in Leo and Mars in Gemini bring vibrant energies that can fuel your passions and competitive spirit.
The Full Moon in Capricorn, followed by the Sun’s ingress into Leo, marks a transition from introspection to action, emphasizing the importance of balancing personal ambitions with respect for others’ perspectives. With Mercury entering Virgo, attention to detail and organization will be crucial. Embrace these celestial influences to navigate through July with clarity, purpose, and a heart open to giving and receiving.
Contact me at clesia@sia-astrology.com
