The Sun enters Cancer on June 20, initiating the first day of the summer season. The Sun’s passage through Cancer activates an elemental shift from the air of Gemini to the water of The Crab. The element of water expresses through heart, soul, feelings, and emotions. Cancer rules the principle of soul as the distilled essence of each being. It mediates between spirit and body, and balances them. Whether we turn our attention within or direct our awareness outward into nature, we encounter soul. The world soul, or anima mundi, is the cosmic soul within nature.
The principle of soul is an aspect of the goddess or divine feminine. Cancer embodies this goddess expression as the archetype of the mother who creates, nurtures, and heals all life. This nurturing and healing energy evokes a deeper quality of love that manifests at the most basic level of life. The Moon, as the planetary ruler of Cancer, symbolizes this fundamental expression of existence.
With the onset of summer, nature blossoms forth with new life. Here in the Sierra the mountain streams and rivers are gushing forth with exuberance. The wildflowers are unfolding their tapestries of color in sequential waves through time. The bears and other animals are stirred to activity by the invisible quickening of the life force. The heavens are brilliant blue, quickly changing to magnificent thunderheads laced with lightning.
How can one not be affected by the unending drama and beauty of nature? Nature is our soul and it moves us. Each unique expression of nature is an aspect and dynamic of the world soul. To investigate and explore the world of nature is to peer into the inner workings of cosmic life, and can open us up to the processes of our own soul. The rewards for such intimate encounters are what life is truly about.
Most of us live here because we love nature. Be sure to set aside regular time this summer to bask in its beautiful and complex manifestations. It will transform your life. You will be a better person for it. Embrace the goddess in Cancer and experience the anima mundi in our special region of the planet. Open up your heart and soul to the profound feelings of love and joy that are the true essence of life.
Aries (March 21-April 19): This month the focus is on finding yourself, especially as it relates to your vocation. There is a need to fine-tune what you do for a living in order to bring your true talents to the fore. You feel an increasing sense of responsibility and maturity, which brings a new seriousness to your demeanor. There is also a special inner balance and grace. It is a good month for you.
Taurus (April 20-May 20): You feel motivated to take action and get your financial affairs in order. This is an excellent time to address any issues involving mortgages and debt. These areas can be improved with timely action. Travel can also be rewarding. Go somewhere that encourages you to open up to nature. This is a good month.
Gemini (May 21-June 21): Your soul is eager to open itself up to you. Nature and meditation are appropriate ways to maximize your potential. Travel to new places to open up to new experiences. This will stimulate your mind to expanded levels of understanding. It is an excellent way to deal with some of the heaviness you feel now.
Cancer (June 22-July 22): This is your month to shine. The consciousness of nature and soul is enlivened in your being. Get out and connect with the mountains, forests, streams, and lakes. Bask in the Sun and gaze upon the Moon. The key is to reconnect with the joy of life and follow your bliss. There is the opportunity for mystical experience as well as renewed hope for the future.
Leo (July 23-August 22): There may be a love affair entering your life now. If you are already in a relationship, then it is an opportunity to rekindle the romance. The point is to play and have fun. Break your patterns and do something different. It can feel as though you are on an emotional rollercoaster, but hang on: the ride will be worth it.
Virgo (August 23-September 22): Domestic affairs are highlighted for you this month. Home and family, as well as shared finances, are center stage. You still feel a heavy sense of responsibility to get a handle on your situation. If you can, take a break and get out of town. Travel is positively highlighted, so go for it. Get out into nature and feel that regenerative energy uplift your heart and soul.
Libra (September 23-October 23): It is time to look at the big picture and plan for the future. Financial issues need to be addressed. Support for restructuring mortgages and debt is here now. You need to take action and start the communication process in order to improve your situation. Use your charm and people skills to achieve the desired result. It is a good month for you.
Scorpio (October 24-November 21): This month the focus is on career and profession. There is a very grounded, organized, and disciplined energy available. Use it to put ideas into action for maximum results. Your desire for personal growth and self-improvement can reap rewards. There can be some competition and conflict surrounding these activities, but you can handle it.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21): You are flying high now. You sense a renewal of self and an inner drive supporting your hopes and dreams. The future looks so bright, you gotta wear shades. Cast off any self-limiting patterns that tend to hold you back. Have fun and be sure to socialize and get together with friends. You will be the life of the party.
Capricorn (December 22-January 19): This month the energy is divided between your need to have some time alone and social obligations that require your presence. Travel and take time in nature. It will be healing for your soul. There can be some unexpected negative news regarding money and investments. Remember: forewarned is forearmed.
Aquarius (January 20-February 18): Do not take undue risks with your finances now. There can be some sudden negative changes in money and investments. Your genuine ability to try new, creative endeavors may be a bit premature. Make sure that you have done your research and checked the facts before you put money into anything now.
Pisces (February 19-March 20): You are feeling very good right now. There is a new and expanded sense of self that is unfolding. It is a good time to stretch your wings and soar to the heavens. A new feeling of freedom promotes uplifting above and beyond the mundane cares of the world. This is an excellent month for you.
~ Robert Ayres is a Truckee resident and internationally known astrologer with 40 years of experience. He can be contacted for personal consultations at 530-550-1118 or astrologicalalchemy.com.
