Total (Solar) Eclipse of the Heart: Cancer's New Moon Comes With Some Contradictions

At 12:16 PST on July 2, 2019, the new moon will be in Cancer—and it’s also a total solar eclipse.

A total solar eclipse means that some major endings and new beginnings are afoot. But we can’t cross the threshold of the future with one foot still in the past—and moving forward can be a challenge for this sentimental sign.

Cancer teaches us to honor our roots, preserve precious memories, and celebrate sacred traditions—but it also tends to overly idealize the past and hold on to things long past their expiration date. Now that eclipse season is here, that stuff’s got to go!

What Does This New Moon in Cancer Mean?

 
With retrograde Saturn conjunct the south node in Capricorn and opposite this eclipse, we’re confronted by the cold, hard truth: The more emotional baggage we insist on dragging around, the more we limit our possibilities in life. If we’re serious about moving forward, we’ve got to deal with unresolved issues once and for all. This includes holding ourselves accountable for our own past actions, taking responsibility for the part we played and the work we still have to do.

Saturn is serving up some serious tough love right now. But the point is not to punish ourselves, put up walls, or harden our hearts. Tender-hearted Cancer simply needs a little structure, a strong container, in order to feel safe and secure—and that’s what Saturn does best.

With this eclipse also squaring wounded healer Chiron and wise warrior Pallas Athena, we’ll be grateful for Saturn’s help with setting emotional boundaries. Insecurities and fears of rejection are closer to the surface right now, making us more easily triggered and likely to overreact. Relationships give us opportunities to recognize these patterns and see where we’re unfairly projecting our own stuff on to others.

What do the stars have in store for you this year?

We also have a beautiful trine between this eclipse and retrograde Neptune in Pisces, which helps us access our deepest reserves of empathy and compassion. We may be wary of exposing our softer side, especially if we’ve been hurt before. But this aspect is like a healing balm that makes it easier to forgive others (and ourselves) for past hurts. Just remember, we may still have some work to do to make amends and restore broken trust.

This eclipse also sextiles Uranus and Vesta in Taurus. Right now, radical change is being sparked in the areas of our lives where we least expect or desire it, but probably need it most. We’re being shaken out of our complacency, prompted to release the past and embrace the here and now. With steady, calm, and patient devotion, we can stay present through all the twists and turns of this transformative eclipse season.

One more word to the wise: Communication is key at this new moon, with Mercury conjunct Mars and Juno in Leo and preparing to go retrograde on July 7. We’re all a little touchy right now, and conversations with loved ones can get a little heated. Try not to take things personally, keep your sense of humor…and give yourself a time out if you need one!

Read on for your sun sign and rising sign to learn more about the energies of this new moon/solar eclipse:

Horoscopes for the July 2019 New Moon in Cancer

Cancer

Something about you feels like home, Cancer. But just because friends, lovers, or family members find your consistency comforting, doesn’t mean you have to keep yourself in a box. If relationship roles have become too restrictive, give yourself permission to outgrow them.

Leo

Feeling insecure? It’s an off-brand emotion for you, Leo, but don’t worry—it won’t ruin your image. After all, it’s what you do with fears and insecurities that really matters. Look for strength in softness and find victory in vulnerability.

Virgo

Where form meets function: Virgo, that’s your zone of genius! You’re great at repurposing old, traditional structures and infusing them with new energy to serve practical purposes. Celebrate what you bring to the table, while appreciating what others have to contribute.

Libra

What’s your true calling, Libra? If you haven’t found it yet, this eclipse brings you one step closer. But you may be surprised to find that not all your loved ones are on board with your new direction. Keep going, though—you’ll find your tribe!

Scorpio

Welcome to your spiritual awakening, Scorpio! Oppressive rules and dogma that once held you back are falling by the wayside, while other traditional beliefs and practices are being infused with fresh new meaning and relevance for you. Others may find it meaningful, too.

Sagittarius

We’ve all got needs, Sag. But if you’re used to getting yours met in a particular way, at this eclipse you may be in for a surprise. Abundance can come from unexpected places, as long as you’re ready to welcome it.

Capricorn

Try a little tenderness, Capricorn: Someone you love needs more sensitivity and warmth from you than they’re currently receiving. Are you ready, willing, and able to give it? To stay connected, you’ll need to let your guard down and show them how you feel.

Aquarius

You’ve been strong for too long, Aquarius. Now it’s time to give yourself some TLC. Prioritize wellness this month by incorporating a few new mind, body, and spirit practices into your daily routine. The healing effects may ripple out to everyone around you.

Pisces

The thrill is gone, Pisces: It’s sad to admit, but a scene, subculture, or fandom you identified with in the past just isn’t where it’s at for you anymore. Don’t feel bad about it—just get out there and pursue a new passion!

Aries

What’s driving you, Aries? Lately, you’ve felt your priorities shifting as the pursuit of status and success takes a backseat to the comforts of home and family. But if you want to carve out more quality time, some sacrifices may be required.

Taurus

There are no words, Taurus. But if you want your feelings understood, you’re going to have to find some. After all, some emotions are too complex to be conveyed by body language alone. Don’t worry about saying the wrong thing—just say something.

Gemini

Accept no substitutions, Gemini! You know what you need in order to feel truly safe and secure—even if it doesn’t make sense to anyone else. Stand your ground and advocate for the more harmonious life you desire and deserve.

Art by Bambashkart