Astrology for July 17-23 2026

The Auspicious Week of 4º and Mercury Direct in Cancer 16º

A reminder from last week: Keep your eyes on all planets around 4º. Back on July 13, Venus in Virgo squared Uranus in Gemini at 4º, the beginning of a slew of auspicious alignments between many planets at this degree point, creating an ongoing configuration called a minor grand trine. Pull out that birth chart and find what planets you have at 4º in any sign. Throughout July and August, these placements will become very active for us all, ushering in all that is new and beginning.

On July 18, Uranus in Gemini trines Pluto retrograde in Aquarius at 4º. Uranus is the planet that initiates rebellion and challenges the status quo, with elements of shock or surprise. In this positive flowing aspect to Pluto, the planet of transformation, the flames of revolution and change will be fanned. In any way that we have taken it upon ourselves to move in a new direction or to challenge convention, we will be encouraged. This trine occurs in air signs, the element that rules information, communication, and all processes of the mind. Our curiosity and desire to know has a lot of momentum. We are busy sending and receiving messages to move things forward. Even with Mercury still retrograde, if you have questions on your mind, now would be a great time to hit send. The information you likely acquire will require some review either way. 

On July 20, Jupiter in Leo trines Neptune in Aries at 4º and opposes Pluto retrograde in Aquarius at 4º. Jupiter expands whatever it comes into contact with. Jupiter/Neptune extends the dream, the vision, the fantasy. Jupiter opposite Pluto will challenge what is underneath it. Does the dream solely serve the self or does it factor in the impact it may have on others? There is expansive momentum in the realms of creativity, art, and self-expression - but at what cost? What undercover power dynamics are being challenged as you attempt to shine so bright? Who or what is blocking your shine? Are you quiet when its time to celebrate the wins of those around you? What leader, project, or artistic endeavor is posing to serve the people, but is out of touch with reality? These dynamics will likely be brought to the surface today. We can’t go on like this. Change is happening. How can we innovate? 

On July 21, Jupiter in Leo sextiles Uranus in Gemini at 4º. After what might have been a bit of conflict yesterday, Jupiter in a supportive aspect to Uranus, the planet of innovation, will help us do just that. It’s easier to find solutions. Our mind is more open to new ideas, new ways of approaching goals and issues. This aspect expands social dynamics, and conversations can be both productive and enjoyable. Self-expression is flowing and feels less serious. Its okay to be silly, to loosen up. We can say yes to the date, yes to the hang. Although we are interested in expanding our horizons and considering how various elements of our futures may develop, we are reminded that how we engage with the present moment is what takes us there. Giggles. Lightness. Humor. 

Happy Leo season! On July 22, the Sun enters the sign of Leo until August 22. The Sun is at home and in the sign of its rulership in Leo. This is the sign the Sun is most comfortable in. The job of the Sun is to shine, and that is precisely our assignment. This is a month to dig into what brings you joy, pleasure, and connection to your own inner child. If you have children in your life, this may highlight the relationship you have with them. We are all encouraged to take up space, get bigger, louder, and shine our unique light for all to see. Leo is romantic, creative, and dramatic. It can sometimes get a bad rap for being self-centered, and when out of balance that can certainly surface, however, take this opportunity to center yourself. See what happens when you unapologetically live from the heart. Be generous via energy, resources, and attention with your loved ones and watch reciprocal bonds grow. This is a beautiful time to dust off any hobbies that used to have a place in your schedule. Has Mercury reminded you of anything you used to do for fun that deserves to make a comeback? 

On July 23, Mercury stations direct in Cancer at 16º. Think back to when Mercury stationed retrograde on June 29. What have you been reviewing since then? Today’s station direct may still create some technical difficulties or malfunctions in mundane matters, but the day has a high chance of revealing answers to questions we have been mulling over for the past three weeks. In the sign of Cancer, we have been revisiting old feelings and memories of the past. What becomes clear today? What is no longer moving forward with you? It may take some time for all to be revealed until Mercury leaves its shadow on August 6 or leaves the sign of Cancer completely on August 9. Just a little patience, a little tenderness with ourselves and others as we all sort out the results of our recent deep emotional audits.

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