Living with the Stars

  On the 17th July, just after sunset, we have a New Moon in Cancer at 25 degrees. This New Moon brings with it the vibe of Leo as Venus, as an evening star, lies at the heart of the Lion, traditionally held to be at 28 degrees Leo conjunct Regulus, also known as Cor Leonis. Of course, with precession ( a process whereby the position of the stars and constellations gradually move in relation to the seasons), fixed stars have moved a little. Nevertheless, Regulus, one of the four 'Royal Stars', marked the summer solstice by the Persians in 3000BC, and was known as the 'Watcher of the North'. The other three royal stars are Antares, Fomalhaut and Aldebaran.  So what does this New Moon portend? Well, a new moon is always about setting new intentions. Cancer is ruled by the Moon. It is during the Cancer season that we experience the solstice, when the Sun reaches its highest declination and begins its 'travel' south (of course the Sun does not move...we know that).

  On Monday 3rd July, we have a Full Moon in Capricorn. and marks the culmination of a pattern set in motion at the New Moon two weeks ago. If you read the blog post for that lunar event, you might recall that it called for setting intentions for the coming year and to pay attention to the illusions and deceptions around at the time (the New Moon was square Neptune, the planet associated with illusion and disillusion equally. It was a New Moon marked with the tragedy of the submersible Titan).  This time, this Full Moon throws light on taking responsibility for our emotions (Saturn rules Capricorn) whilst also allowing intuitive thoughts (Mercury is in a water sign, Cancer, which the Moon rules) to guide you. Balance is always the key; taking responsibility for your emotions also means that you have to be honest with yourself, knowing what you are feeling.  Let's look at other things going on in the chart. First of all, the ruler of Capricorn, Saturn, makes a harmonious aspect to t