By delving into the depths of the past, the full moon in Cancer invites us to reflect, heal, and find inspiration for our future. This cardinal water sign is strongly connected to our intuition, nurturing abilities, and the unearthing of buried emotions. As Cancer's ruling planet is the moon, which governs memories in astrology, this lunation holds the power to dredge up our past and bring it to the surface.
Embrace Healing and Catharsis
During this time, we have the opportunity to break free from anything or anyone in our past that no longer serves us. It is a chance to release old wounds and find new sources of inspiration. Just as Capricorn season reminds us of our goals and direction, this full moon encourages us to acknowledge how far we've come over the past six months. Any dreams or goals we set during the new moon in Cancer on July 17 may now come to fruition.
Understanding the Significance of a Full Moon in Astrology
In astrology, a full moon occurs when the sun and moon align directly across from each other, with the Earth in between. From our perspective on Earth, the moon is fully illuminated. Full moons are often associated with moments of illumination, where what was once hidden or unknown is revealed. They can bring critical information or mark the release of the old to make way for the new.
Full moons happen once a month, marking the halfway point of the lunar cycle. Many of us set intentions during the new moon, and by the full moon, we may witness progress, gain insights about our desires, or reach a turning point in our journey.
Manifestation, rituals, and intentions can also be performed under the influence of the full moon. To understand the energy a full moon carries, we consider its aspects with other planets and their corresponding meanings. For example, if the full moon forms powerful aspects with Mars, Saturn, or Uranus, it may embody disruptive or challenging energy. On the other hand, if it connects with Venus or Jupiter, it may signal more auspicious energy for manifestation work.
Full moons also create an opposition in the sky, as the moon sits in one zodiac sign and the sun sits in its opposite or sister sign. This opposition triggers a push-pull effect within our lives, inviting us to find balance and integrate opposing energies. These lunations can be dynamic and energetically draining, requiring us to care for our well-being, reflect, and rest.
What to Expect from the 2023 Full Moon in Cancer
This year's full moon in Cancer promises to bring forth a deep emotional experience. With supportive connections to Saturn in Pisces and Jupiter in Taurus, tears shed during this period may very well be tears of joy.
As the full moon forms a trine aspect with Saturn, the planet of responsibility, we may find ourselves more open to emotional commitments that bring stability and security. Saturn's practical nature enables us to gain distance from our feelings and process them with a logical mind.
At the same time, lucky Jupiter, the planet of expansion and optimism, forms a sextile with the full moon. This generates an abundance of gratitude for the people who support us. It's an opportune time to take action towards our dreams and revisit the past to find new growth, inspiration, and abundance for the coming year.
Navigating the Challenges and Revelations
However, alongside the positive energies, there may also be some cosmic drama. The retrograde of asteroid Chiron, representing our deepest pain and past wounds, ends in Aries during this full moon. This turning point in our healing journey may bring newfound clarity, but it can also make us feel more vulnerable and raw.
Additionally, the combination of Mercury retrograde and fiery Mars in Sagittarius may result in tense conversations and sharp words. It is essential to be mindful of our delivery and tone, as misunderstandings and hurt feelings are likely to arise.
Furthermore, Pluto, the planet of power and transformation, sits at 29 degrees of Capricorn, an anaretic degree associated with tension. This can trigger buried feelings of jealousy, fixation, and a desire to control every situation. While it is tempting to resist change, surrendering to the unknown is often the best way to navigate Pluto's energy. Some of life's most precious gifts await us on the other side of our fears and what we've been avoiding.
How the 2023 Full Moon in Cancer May Affect Your Sign
Each zodiac sign will experience the energy of this full moon in unique ways. Here's a glimpse into what you can expect, based on your sun, moon, and rising signs:
Aries
The full moon in Cancer activates your fourth house, bringing changes to your home, family, and past. You may experience a shift in personal relationships, move to a new place, or take on new responsibilities at work. It's a time of breaking free from the past and reclaiming your confidence.
Your full moon self-care practice: Declutter your home and let go of items that no longer serve you. Create space for new opportunities and people to come into your life.
Taurus
The full moon highlights your third house of communication and education. Important conversations may reach a turning point, and information you've been waiting for could arrive. This is also a time to act on your inspired thoughts and witness the materialization of your ideas.
Your full moon self-care practice: Identify and release limiting beliefs, replacing them with positive affirmations. Reprogram your mindset and shift your thoughts to manifest your desires.
Gemini
Finances take center stage as the full moon moves through your second house. You may see progress or receive a raise, promotion, or investment opportunity. It's also a time to reevaluate your energetic investments and prioritize relationships that bring you balance.
Your full moon self-care practice: Practice gratitude for the abundance in your life. Focus on the existing blessings and cultivate a sense of warmth and appreciation.
Cancer
The full moon lands in your sign, marking a turning point in your personal relationships and contracts. It's a time for making commitments, whether in a romantic or professional context. Embrace your authenticity and redefine how you show up in the world.
Your full moon self-care practice: Reach out to your network for support in pursuing your dreams and goals. Collaboration may lead to new opportunities.
Leo
The full moon moves through your twelfth house, inviting you to reflect and heal. Embrace self-care and allow yourself to process any emotions that arise. This may also be a time of significant progress behind the scenes.
Your full moon self-care practice: Incorporate guided meditations into your nightly routine to enhance your dreams and gain insights for your waking life.
Virgo
Your eleventh house of support and friendship is illuminated by the full moon. Good news may arrive, or you may witness the manifestation of your desires. Nurture relationships that leave you feeling seen and appreciated.
Your full moon self-care practice: Invest in relationships that bring nourishment and a sense of belonging. Community support can lead to unexpected collaborations and opportunities.
Libra
The full moon shines a light on your tenth house of career and reputation. Take advantage of this time to celebrate personal accomplishments or make significant career moves. Unexpected support may show up, validating your efforts.
Your full moon self-care practice: Reflect on your achievements and express gratitude for your progress. Celebrate how far you've come before setting new goals.
Scorpio
Critical information and answers you've been seeking may be revealed during this full moon. It's an auspicious time for self-expression, sharing ideas, and shifting perspectives. Your expertise can inspire others.
Your full moon self-care practice: Write down your desires and read them aloud, connecting with the feelings associated with them. Manifest your dreams into reality.
Sagittarius
The full moon activates your eighth house of shared resources, investments, and emotional healing. It's a time to release old obligations and assert your boundaries. Reflect on the balance in your relationships and address any inequities.
Your full moon self-care practice: Take inventory of your closest relationships and invest your energy where it is reciprocated. Have conversations about creating balance and equity.
Capricorn
Sparks are flying in your seventh house of partnerships. You may meet someone significant or experience exciting developments within an existing relationship. Collaborative projects and career advancements are also favored.
Your full moon self-care practice: Fall in love with yourself first. Affirm your qualities as a partner and state them aloud. Invite the universe to bring the right person into your life.
Aquarius
The full moon lands in your sixth house, bringing a shift in your daily routines and well-being. You may complete a major project or commit to new habits that align with your purpose. Expect changes in your work life as well.
Your full moon self-care practice: Adopt a new habit that supports your growth and goals. Embrace change for lasting results.
Pisces
The full moon illuminates your fifth house of pleasure, creativity, and romance. Expect good news or exciting opportunities to come your way. Embrace gratitude for the small joys in your life and deepen your connections.
Your full moon self-care practice: Revisit a hobby from your past and reconnect with your creativity. Dive into the process of creation without judgment.
As the full moon in Cancer approaches, let us embrace this opportunity for healing, inspiration, and growth. By mining our past and reflecting on our journey, we can move forward with renewed purpose and authenticity. May this lunation bring us closer to our desires and lead us to a future filled with abundance and fulfillment.