Your Horoscope for July: Embrace Self-Expression

Astrologer Valerie Mesa shares your horoscope for the month of July

Summertime is in full effect, and your July horoscope is both festive and transformative.

As the sun's journey through Cancer continues to heighten your intuition, adding a layer of sentimentality to your experiences, Neptune stations retrograde on July 2. This marks the beginning of a period lasting until Dec. 7 during which Neptune retrograde encourages introspection and spiritual reflection. Take this opportunity to reassess beliefs, fantasies and illusions that may be hindering your personal growth. Reflect deeply on everything from your assumptions to your insecurities—are they accurate?

Mercury's dazzling debut in Leo that same day energizes your thoughts, conversations and immediate surroundings with passion and a theatrical flair. However, this happy-go-lucky transit is immediately clouded by an opposition to Pluto in Aquarius on July 3, triggering intense and possibly transformative discussions or power struggles. Try to steer clear of unnecessary conflicts and instead focus on constructive communication.

On July 5th, the moon will renew itself in the sign of Cancer, making it all the more potent in its sign of rulership. This lunation invites you to set heartfelt intentions for emotional healing, nurturing relationships and a supportive home environment. It's an excellent time to plant seeds of intention that align with your deepest emotional needs.

Love planet Venus will join the messenger planet in Leo on July 11, followed by Mars' ingress into multifaceted Gemini on July 20. Expressive, flirtatious and mentally stimulating, these celestial shifts promise a dynamic period for love and romance. In Leo, Venus encourages passionate declarations of affection, extravagant gestures and a desire for admiration and attention in relationships. Meanwhile, Mars in Gemini sparks lively and curious conversations, playful banter and a shared interest in intellectual pursuits between partners.

On July 21, there will be a second full moon in Capricorn (the first one occurred on June 21) responding to the influence of Saturn Retrograde in Pisces. This emphasizes themes of responsibility, structure and long-term plans, but with a need to reassess commitments and boundaries in the process.

On July 22, the sun returns to its sign of rulership, Leo, marking a vibrant and influential period characterized by confidence, creativity and self-expression. This sparkling season encourages you to embrace your individuality, pursue creative passions and embrace your unique attributes, fearlessly and unapologetically.

The sun will oppose Pluto the following day, signaling a time of intense transformation, particularly concerning your identity within a group setting. This may prompt deep introspection and significant shifts in how you perceive your role within communities or social circles.

Related: Here's What Cancer Season Means for You, According to Your Zodiac Sign

Aries (March 21-April 19)

July brings dynamic shifts across various aspects of your life, Aries. With Neptune stationing retrograde on July 2, you're encouraged to explore your subconscious and spirituality, given that your intuition and dream life are incredibly heightened during this time. That same day, Mercury enters Leo, sparking your creativity and enhancing your self-confidence. Look to the new moon in Cancer shortly after, specifically regarding your personal sanctuary, to set intentions around home, family and emotional stability.

Once Venus joins Mercury in Leo on July 11, your fifth house of romance and passion projects will be further energized, contributing to your vivacious charisma. Your celestial ruler, Mars, will also debut in Gemini on July 20, charging up your interactions and immediate surroundings with buzz and mental stimuli. If you're feeling called to inquire and research new professional opportunities, the full moon in Capricorn highlights your 10th house of authority and notoriety, bringing something significant full circle.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Surround yourself with what reminds you of home, Taurus. July begins with Neptune retrograde, prompting you to reassess everything from your friendship circles to your social contributions so you can discern between what’s genuine vs. what is merely an illusion. That same day, Mercury slips into Leo and your fourth house of home, stimulating heart-to-heart conversations and a newfound perspective on family matters. The new moon in Cancer on July 5 marks an excellent time to reconnect with siblings and relatives.

Venus joins Mercury in Leo soon after, making your personal life all the more festive and aesthetically pleasing. Watch your spending as Mars' ingress in Gemini could inspire you to indulge. On July 21, the full moon brings awareness to your belief systems and personal philosophies, specifically those that no longer resonate with your future calling. This may revolve around family, as the sun will enter Leo the next day, energizing your fourth house of emotional foundations.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

You're reconnecting with your values in July, Gemini. This is especially true with Neptune retrograde igniting your 10th house of career and reputation, urging you to reassess your sense of authority. With your celestial ruler entering Leo that same day, consider this an opportunity to brainstorm and engage with your peers, whether in person or perhaps even over a podcast interview. If you're looking for ways to align your goals with your values, look to the new moon in Cancer on July 5.

Venus eventually joins Mercury in Leo, adorning your immediate space with creative opportunities and uplifting messages from romantic admirers. However, leave it to Mars' debut in your sign to really turn up the heat, as you are all the more assertive and confident under this transit. The full moon on July 21 will highlight the foundation of your mergers and intimate unions, encouraging you to be pragmatic in your approach moving forward.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Your solar season is in full effect, Cancer. July's astrology brings you back to where it all began... but first, Neptune retrograde. Activating your ninth house of belief systems and self-discovery, this retrograde encourages to expand and seek higher truths outside your comfort zone. Mercury's debut in Leo that same day (followed by Venus) focuses on your finances and value systems, provoking money-related conversations or the inspiration to explore creative income streams.

The moon will renew itself in your sign on July 5, marking a powerful moment for setting intentions related to your self-improvement and personal goals. Take this time to commit to what aligns with your deepest desires and emotional needs. Relationship dynamics will likely take precedence during the full moon in Capricorn, as well as a sense of completion in a significant union or commitment. The sun's debut in Leo shortly after is all about taking your power back and stepping into your authenticity.

Related: A Full Guide to Your Astrology Birth Chart and How to Read It, According to an Astrologer

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Take time to go within and decompress, Leo. Either way, July begins on an introspective note, as Neptune stations retrograde in Pisces on July 2. This cycle favors uncovering hidden truths and releasing emotional baggage, paving the way for your personal renewal. Mercury will also debut in your sign, quenching your curiosities and signaling a potent time for self-expression. Given that a new moon in Cancer is happening shortly after, this is an excellent opportunity for journaling, meditation and self-reflection.

Venus makes a grand entrance in your sign on July 11, enhancing everything from your charisma to your creative expression. Strut your talents, and put your charms on display. However, steer clear of power struggles, as Venus will oppose Pluto the next day, potentially unveiling what’s been lingering beneath the surface. Remember to lean on your peers, especially with Mars entering Gemini on July 20, as it will energize and liven up your community affairs and social life. Your solar season begins on July 22, so hang in there.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

July is about reassessing the foundation of your connections, Virgo. The month begins with Neptune retrograde igniting your relationship sector, prompting you to dissolve illusions and clarify boundaries in your personal and professional partnerships. Mercury will debut in Leo that same day, shifting your focus inward toward your personal healing. If the past happens to come back around, don't be discouraged. A new moon in Cancer supports you as you set intentions for expanding your social circle and aligning with individuals who share your visions for the future.

Mars' debut in Gemini will charge up your 10th house of career and notoriety, inspiring and energizing your drive for success both personally and professionally. Whether it's an entrepreneurial project you're contemplating or advancements within your workplace, your ambition and determination will be on full display. Embrace opportunities to showcase your leadership skills and innovative ideas, which may lead to recognition. The full moon in Capricorn will illuminate your achievements, inviting you to celebrate and enjoy moments of fulfillment. 

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

You set an example by simply being your most authentic self, Libra. July brings greater focus to your health routines and work environment as Neptune retrograde urges you to take steps toward dissolving confusion and clarifying your daily habits for greater efficiency. Gathering with your best pals for a workout class? Mercury's debut in Leo on July 2 highlights everything from your friendship groups to your community affairs. Before networking your little heart out, look to the new moon as it sets the stage for new beginnings in your professional life.

Venus will join Mercury in Leo on July 11, adding a layer of sweetness and harmony to your social life, as it is a favorable time for socializing and networking with individuals who share similar hopes and dreams. Once Mars debuts in Gemini, however, your focus shifts toward travel, higher learning and philosophical pursuits. Embrace this opportunity to expand your horizons and broaden your perspective. The full moon on July 21 shines a light on your emotional well-being, prompting you to find a balance between your personal and professional life.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

July promises an inspiring and transformative journey, Scorpio. Neptune will retrograde on July 2, allowing you to dive deep into your passion projects, artistic musings and romantic involvements. This is followed by Mercury's ingress into Leo and your 10th house of career, making it an opportune time for career advancements or important discussions with those in authority. The possibilities are endless, and the new moon in Cancer on July 5 offers you a chance to broaden your horizons through travel, education and philosophical pursuits.

Venus will join Mercury in Leo on July 11, adorning your professional sphere and interactions with charm, harmony and diplomacy. This is an excellent time to cultivate relationships with colleagues and harness your magnetism to achieve career goals. Expect a full-circle moment on July 21 as the full moon in Capricorn illuminates your communication sector and immediate surroundings. This newfound clarity will be an inspiring prelude for Leo season, kicking off on June 22.

Related: Whether You're Destined for a Summer Love, Based on Your Zodiac Sign

Sagittarius (Nov. 22–Dec. 21)

July is about exploring deeper emotional territories, Sagittarius. The month begins with Neptune retrograde igniting your fourth house of home, prompting you to reconnect with your roots and seek healing from now until the end of 2024. This may inspire a newfound perspective, especially when considering Mercury's debut in Leo, encouraging you to expand your horizons and worldview.

If you're hoping to nurture the foundation of a commitment, look to the new moon in Cancer on July 5 and set intentions that contribute to the deepening of your connections. This is followed by Mars in Gemini, igniting your partnership sector, where collaboration and negotiations take center stage. Reflect on whether these partnerships align with your core values, as the full moon in Capricorn shines a light on the steps you should consider to achieve stability and security moving forward.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Communicate your needs, Capricorn. July focuses on your relationships and immediate environment, but Neptune retrograde encourages you to trust your intuition in the process. On July 2, Mercury will also slip into Leo, activating your eighth house of intimate unions and shared assets, which prompts you to dive deep into research and engage in conversations that uncover hidden truths. You're extremely analytical at this time, the new moon sheds light on your relationships while encouraging you to hold space for significant others with empathy and mutual understanding.

If you've been patiently waiting for a promotion or are in the middle of negotiating new streams of income, Venus' debut in Leo on July 11 brings harmony and prosperity to this area of your life. If this isn't enough reason to celebrate your wins and plans for the future, there will be a full moon in your sign on July 21, highlighting everything from your personal achievements to how you project yourself to the rest of the world.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Get acclimated to your new reality and find comfort in your personal space, Aquarius. With Neptune retrograde kicking off the month, you're presented with an opportunity to reassess everything from your recent investments to your financial belief systems and material possessions. If you're currently committed to a significant other, Mercury entering Leo that same day encourages you to engage in heartfelt conversations that allow you to remain true to your authenticity. Look to the new moon in Cancer on July 5, as it is a wonderful time to embrace self-care rituals that nourish your mind, body and spirit.

Vivacious Venus will join Mercury in Leo in your relationship sector on July 11, heightening everything from your charm and diplomacy to your powers of persuasion. Consider this an opportunity to strengthen bonds through mutual appreciation and creative collaboration. It gets better as Mars debuts in Gemini and energizes your fifth house of self-expression and romance. Harness this dynamic energy into your passion projects and hobbies, and explore new creative avenues.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Life is what you make it, Pisces. July emphasizes everything from your routine to what brings you joy, but with Neptune stationing retrograde on July 2, you're also called to introspect and reconnect with your inner world so you can dissolve illusions and clarify your goals and dreams. That same day, Mercury will debut in Leo, igniting your sixth house of productivity, health habits and self-care practices, making it an excellent time to nurture your work environment and daily rituals.

Also, the new moon in Cancer on July 5 will illuminate your fifth house of self-expression, encouraging you to set intentions around creative projects and your heart's desires. You'll know whether you're surrounding yourself with the right group of individuals, as the full moon in Capricorn will shine a light on the foundation of your social networks. Don't hesitate to fine-tune your “friends list” if needed, especially with Mercury entering meticulous Virgo and your relationship sector on July 25.

Related: Which House of the Dragon Character You Are, Based on Your Zodiac Sign

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.