CANCER SOLSTICE: On Tuesday, June 20, at 2:13 a.m. PDT, the Sun makes ingress into the sign of Cancer. The first day of this astrological month marks one of the two solstices in our calendar year; these are the days when the physical sun reaches either the highest or lowest point in the sky, depending on the hemisphere in which you reside. Ancient astronomers and astrologers knew this to be the day when the sun seemed to stand still, and would thereafter gradually reverse its previous trajectory.

The word "solstice" is from two Latin words: "sol," meaning the sun, and "sistere," which means to stand still. For those living in the Northern Hemisphere, Tuesday heralds the first day of summer and the day of the longest light. If you live in lands south of the equator, this is the first day of winter and the shortest day of the year.

THEMES FOR THE SEASON: The astrological "birth chart" drawn for a solstice or an equinox is said to reflect themes that we will be working with for the next three months. Most significant about this year's Cancer solstice is that it coincides with the Last Quarter Moon of our current lunar cycle, when the Moon is in its waning square to the Sun. Having the solstice occur at the time of a Last Quarter Moon marks the new season as a critical turning point. We are entering a crucial time of realignment, revision, integration, and cleansing.

The great planet Jupiter is conjunct the Moon in Aries at the time of the solstice, thus also square the Sun. Jupiter's influence always magnifies the current energies, so its presence is like putting an exclamation point after each of the qualities associated with a Last Quarter Moon. Jupiter's conjunction to the Moon in Aries indicates amplified emotional reactivity, impatience, and impulsive behaviors over the next three months. Its square to the Cancer Sun increases a sense of vulnerability and the need for security, which may manifest as protectionism, defensiveness, and the tendency to take things personally.

On the plus side, Saturn is trine the Sun at the solstice, which can help us stabilize and will enable us to observe events with better objectivity. However, the Sun is also semisquare Uranus, indicating sudden or unexpected changes that test our flexibility. And, with the solstice Sun square Neptune, the next three months could feel confusing due to a sense of being disconnected from physical reality. Our faith and spiritual values are put to the test and some may choose to escape reality through addictive behaviors and other forms of avoidance. This square, especially, challenges us not to hide away, but to consciously use all our spiritual tools to help us transcend what may be a highly emotional season.

SATURN SEXTILE ERIS: On Thursday of this week, the planet Saturn is exactly sextile dwarf planet Eris. We usually think of these two planets as being incompatible, since Saturn sets the rules and Eris tends to disregard them; but when they are in harmonious aspect, we have the opportunity to move beyond a tendency to blame or shame. We can also feel more self-assured in our ability to work toward personal goals. Our determination and courage are increased, and we are more willing to take necessary risks.

The influence of this Saturn-Eris sextile is long-term, since the two planets are within one degree of being exactly sextile from mid-April through late July this year. The aspect was exact for the first time on May 6, is repeating this Thursday, June 23, and perfects for the last time on January 16, 2023. If we focus our intentions, we can use this sextile to overcome stalemates and move past obstacles that have seemed to block our progress for far too long.  

DAILY ASPECTS: Here is the list of the important planetary aspects that are occurring this week, along with my brief interpretations of each:

Monday

Mercury sextile Jupiter: Our thoughts may be more optimistic with this subtle aspect. At the very least, our desire to communicate our beliefs is increased and conversations can go on at great length, as long as the subject remains interesting to both parties.  

Tuesday

Venus trine Pluto: This trine sets the stage for a deepening of relationships and strengthens the desire to connect with a loved one. Greater honesty and intimacy are therefore possible.

Sun enters Cancer/Solstice, 2:13 a.m. PDT: The Cancer solstice marks one of the four turning points of the calendar year, giving us the opportunity to set new goals for the next three months.

Wednesday

Venus enters Gemini: Communication and intellectual stimulation in relationship are high priorities when Venus is in Gemini. Over the next four weeks, until the goddess of love moves into Cancer on July 17, it will be especially important to share what we are thinking with loved ones, and to be willing to really listen to what others are saying. Variety is essential, as we can easily become bored with predictable routines.

Thursday

Sun semisquare Uranus: Unexpected changes can trigger a fight-or-flight response. Self-care is very important with this aspect.

Venus semisquare Chiron: Some wounds are exposed in response to not feeling heard and respected.

Saturn sextile Eris: This aspect helps us focus on our long-term personal goals and increases our determination to achieve them.

Friday

Venus semisquare Ceres: There may be conflicts between our ideas and the values being promoted by family members.

Saturday

Mercury sesquiquadrate Pluto: Disagreements lead to uncomfortable conversations and subtle power struggles. Be aware of attempts to use words to manipulate or control.

Uranus sextile Ceres: This sextile encourages a new acceptance of differences between loved ones, especially family members.

Sunday

No major aspects are exact today.

IF YOUR BIRTHDAY IS THIS WEEK: Your innate sensitivity is heightened this year. Your empathy can help you be present and caring for others as needed, but also means you will need plenty of "down time" for good self-care. It may be easier for you to take care of others and less comfortable for you to show vulnerability. Do your best to allow others to also assist you, according to your needs. Take your time, and follow your intuition about how much and how soon to open your heart. Remember that trust is like a flower that is blossoming; if it is to thrive, it cannot be rushed, nor plucked too soon. (Solar Return Sun square Jupiter)

In peace and with gratitude,

Pam

Aspects of Note This Week:

All times listed are Pacific Daylight Time. For Greenwich Mean Time, add 7 hours.

• MON: Mercury sextile Jupiter
• TUE: Venus trine Pluto, Sun enters Cancer (Solstice)
• WED: Venus enters Gemini
• THU: Sun semisquare Uranus, Venus semisquare Chiron, Saturn sextile Eris
• FRI: Venus semisquare Ceres
• SAT: Mercury sesquiquadrate Pluto, Uranus sextile Ceres
• SUN: No major aspects are exact today

Astrologer Pam Younghans writes the NorthPoint Astrology Journal based on planetary influences and insights received. Her hope is to bring astrology "down to earth" in a way that will help readers navigate current energies, while also utilizing these energies for spiritual and personal growth.

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