As we head into the second half of 2020, our in-house astrologer, Lori Bell, shares a celestial perspective on being brave, resilient, strong, and actionable
2020 is not for the faint of heart, but for the brave of heart. July brings us halfway to the finish line of this tumultuous year. It can not come soon enough. It is high time to get on with our lives, even in the "new normal." It will take enormous grit and bravery. The universe is requesting that we each find our inner warrior. Like the quest of the cowardly lion in The Wizard of Oz, courage is the answer.
July is an astrological turning point that provides us with the compass to navigate the remainder of 2020. Mars, the planet of passion, entered Aries, where he will stay for the next six months. What makes this alignment rare is that Mars will retrograde in Aries, and remain there until January 2021. Astrologically, this represents an epic and potent celestial alignment. Mars in Aries is analogous to a Samurai - think valiant defender, fighter, and fierce, while also ethical and benevolent. He is bold, fast, and furious. And Mars enables us to be fearless. Mars in Aries is that warrior in action. Wherever Mars in Aries transits through your natal chart, you get an invitation to take action and find that fearless warrior within yourself. After the COVID-19 quarantine, Black Lives Matter movement, and continued political unrest, we can all use a long dose of Mars in Aries.
Mars turns retrograde come fall, and I won't sugarcoat it - this isn't an ordinary retrograde. Mars is also squaring Pluto, reigniting the challenging Pluto-Saturn conjunction that began in January and was the precursor to COVID-19, anti-racist protests, political corruption, and social unrest. This alignment offers a unique opportunity for transformation. From the astrological perspective, it can be monumental. Historically, this alignment coincides with the initiation of wars leading to significant change. In 1776, the American Revolution ended, and the U.S. gained independence from Great Britain. 1861 saw the inception of the Civil War, which led to the abolishment of slavery, and in 1941, it aligned with the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
Interested in your own personal reading? Book directly with our in-house astrologer and doctor of Chinese medicine, Lori Bell, for virtual readings, wellness guidance, and more! Email her at lori@loriabell.com
Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19)
Be bold, brave, and daring. Mars will activate your first house of self-identity; it is a time of great accomplishment, high energy, and self-assertion. You are the warrior in action, Aries. Do watch your temper; you do not want to find yourself on social media while having a meltdown, OK? Keep your frustration in check, exercise, have sex, and have your CBD oils with you at all times.
Taurus (Apr 20-May 20)
Mars in Aries activates your 12th house of retreat and solitude. It is time to turn inward, where you will find peace, wisdom, and clarity. The 12th house is free from the worry of life's daily ups and downs, a welcome respite. You may want to move in and stay until 2021. Meditate, walk in nature, listen to music, or just rest. Your intuition is at its peak, so pay close attention. Tap into your inner warrior, Taurus. Your calming and balanced presence is much needed.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Gemini, Mars in Aries lands in your 11th house of future plans and dreams. Connect with your tribe, community, and with those who support your personal pursuits. Gemini, you've got to establish your goals and then surround yourself with people who support them. The right group is key to your success and happiness. Just be mindful of bossing these supportive people around, OK? You need them now.
Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Happy birthday, sweet Cancer! Take action in your 10th house of career, igniting your ambition to achieve. Reinvent yourself, be bold, and autonomous. Now is the time to do something epic. Pursue what fills your soul; but really go for it; you've got nothing to lose. Mars is courageous, fearless, and the ultimate risk-taker. You're no pushover in your professional life; when you're inspired, nothing stops you, Cancer.
Leo (July 23-Aug 22)
The Mars-in-Aries action lands in your 9th house of personal ethics, philosophy, and travel. Leo, harness this warrior energy to expand your worldview. Take chances --intellectually, emotionally, and physically. Push the boundaries beyond your familiar comfort zone. Just be safe, OK? Aggressively defend the opinions and values which you hold dear. Do steer clear of commenting on social media; you'll just spiral into futile arguments and it's not worth your time. Instead, make room for new exploration, experiences, and engagements. You'll feel so alive!
Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22)
Where to take action and find your inner warrior is in the 8th house of transformation, intimacy, and shared resources. This house spotlights your instinctual nature and private life you try to keep behind closed doors, hard in COVID times. You're driven to transform, Virgo. The transformation comes from within. Mars in Aries is fearless; and this is just what the 8th house needs. You're the caterpillar turning into its butterfly.
Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)
The 7th house of partnership is where the action takes place. Libra, you thrive when you are in a relationship or collaborating. Mars in Aries is confrontational, fiery, and courageous. Mars will help you to stand up for yourself and deal with conflicts directly rather than avoiding them. Mars in Aries gives you a clear direction and decision making can happen now. We know how indecisive you be.
Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21)
The sixth house of work and self-care is where the action takes place and your inner warrior dwells, Scorpio. Working hard, getting things accomplished, organizing your life, and taking care of your health will get you through the next six months. Keep a daily routine, but do not overextend yourself. Go slow and stay vigilant. Overall wellness will be your reward.
Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21)
Lucky you, Sag. The fifth house is where Mars in Aries lands for the next six months. Engaging in romance, creativity, and pleasure will get you through 2020. COVID has shown us to derive happiness from the simplicities of life. Your sexual desire and self-expression are heightened. Mars in Aries knows what he wants and is not shy about going after it. Be bold and indulge, Sagittarius.
Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19)
Take action and find your inner warrior in your fourth house of home, roots, and family. Our home is our haven, which we create to withdraw from the external world and get in touch with our needs and motivation. Your home life is the hotbed of activity. You find yourself working from home, homeschooling your kids, or tending to home improvements. Your patience is on a short fuse, so be mindful of domestic tension. Carve out alone time. It is essential for well being and it is what you need. I promise.
Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18)
Where to take action and find your inner warrior is in the third house of perception and communication. Mars in Aries is energizing your house of self-expression, and your mind is quick, sharp, and argumentative. Funnel your frustration or anger productively. As quoted from Edward Bulwer- Lytton, "The pen is mightier than the sword." Writing, communication, and connection with your local community is ignited. Get involved locally and try to listen to others.
Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20)
Your call to action takes place in your second house of self-esteem, confidence, and money. Mars in Aries is confident, fearless, and self-assertive. You are going to harness the bold and ambitious Mars, and take care of your destiny. If you have to reinvent yourself, do it. Be epic, Pisces! Mars is gifting you the courage to take a risk.
