July Overview:

The Astro news for July is:

July is a relatively quiet month as far as the planets are concerned. Mercury is now in forward motion and picks up speed so quickly that it has 2 ingresses this month. Jupiter, uranus, Neptune and Pluto continue their retrograde movement, and there is no change of direction through July. All moon phases are relatively benign, perhaps in preparation for August's eclipses.

Mercury begins the month still in Gemini continuing positive communication for the air signs of Gemini, Libra and Aquarius. Following its retrograde period Mercury is now picking up speed, moving into Cancer on the 11th.This brings positive communication for the water signs, Pisces, Cancer and Scorpio. It then moves into Leo on the 26th bringing the same positive action to the fire signs, Aries, Leo and Sagittarius.

When mercury is resident in your sign, or even your element, it opens up opportunities for you to be more open with your communication, as thoughts and words seem to flow more easily during this time.

Venus, planet of relationships, continues moving through Cancer until July 13 when moving into Leo.This means she brings her bounty to water signs Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces for the first half of July and the Fire signs, Aries, Leo and Sagittarius from the 13th. (AEST)

Venus is the planet associated with relationships but is also known as the 'lesser benefic'. This means she can provide a small amount of luck while in a positive aspect to your sign, especially in your sign or the same element. You may not win first prize in  the lottery but should find things flow more easily your way.

Mars ends its movement through the fire sign of Leo on the 2nd, When it moves into the earth sign Virgo. Like Mercury and Venus, Mars brings it's bounty and energy to the associated sign and element, in this case all three earth signs Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn are set to be energised and will receive a renewed boost of energy from the 2nd. When Mars is travelling through an earth sign it is much more grounded and this can be positive for getting the job done. The down side is not being comfortable in earth, it can make for slow and laborious working.

The Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd July, heralding a time of renewal and new beginnings for the Fire Signs. This heralds a positive and active period for Aries, Leo and Sagittarius after this date. Until then it is the Water Signs. Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces who continue to receive the benefits.

The major lunations in July are fairly positive. The New Moon of the 3rd is in a positive alignment with the planet of love and minor fortune, Venus. This can bring an increase in good fortune for the water signs Pisces, Cancer and Scorpio. A positive time for romance!! The Full Moon of the 18th forms a positive aspect to Uranus, planet of the unexpected. This can be a period that heralds exciting change in relationships, generally but especially for the water signs mentioned above.

(see individual weeks for more detail)

Full Moon July 18:

Full moon's always highlight relationships and this month those most affected are Capricorn and Cancer, especially those born very late in the signs. This is full Moon that can bring fresh energy to your relationships and calls for you try something a little different.

This is quite a positive lunation that provides opportunity for adjustment in whichever area of life is indicated by your own sign below.

There is the need for all to look a little closer at relationships in general and identify areas that need improving or even letting go. This is time for taking a different approach, which can provide positive results. Taking this as an opportunity to express yourself in a more independent and self expressive manner is a positive use of the energy.

Aquarius and Leo, need to pay closer attention to health, particularly issues around habitual behaviour. Could be a good time to kick those nasty habits. Also relationships come under the spot light for you in a positive way.

For Virgo and Pisces, the emphasis will be on your creativity and the need to be more social. Take advantage of any opportunity that arises in this area. Relationships should be traveling quite smoothly at the moment but there can be some stop/start action.

Libra and Aries, for you the emphasis is on home and career. There can be some quiet positive news later in the week. Try to leave your work at the office and not take your troubles home.

Taurus and Scorpio, for you this Full Moon brings the opportunity to expand your horizons and open your mind. This is also a positive period for your creativity. Career and home also are under fairly positive energy at the moment, with the opportunity for both enjoyment and advancement.

Sagittarius and Gemini, for you this full moon, puts the focus on your financial sector allowing you to identify problem areas and make the necessary changes. Overall positive but avoid indulgence and try to keep everything in moderation.

3rd Quarter Moon July 26:

This week's moon phase brings a dynamic energy to play for the fixed signs, Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius.

There is an overall easy flow of energy this week, with something positive for everyone. This is a positive week for making great forward strides in the blue areas.