July begins the second half of 2026 with an astrological movement marked by transformations and new challenges. After a period in which emotional issues and relationships gained prominence, this month will focus attention on themes linked to protagonism, visibility, creativity and responsibility towards one’s own space in the world.

According to Wladimir Barros, astrologer at Astrolink, the period will combine moments of acceleration and unexpected changes with important invitations to reflection and maturity. “The month begins with a restless and electric energy, but at the same time we live with Mercury retrograde in Cancer, which calls for review, listening and more care with interpretations. It is a period that requires balance between acting and reflecting”, he explains.

A beginning marked by changes and impulses

In the first days of the month, the conjunction between Mars and Uranus in Gemini will bring an atmosphere of movement, innovation and the desire to break patterns. The aspect will favor bold initiatives and changes in direction, but it can also encourage hasty attitudes and conflicts caused by failures in management. communication.

The influence will gain even more relevance because Mercury will remain retrograde in Cancer until July 23rd. Unlike the popular view that associates traffic only with setbacks, the period will act as an opportunity for review. “Mercury retrograde in Cancer helps us realize how past experiences continue to influence our current choices. The challenge is not to avoid decisions, but to understand which emotions belong to the present and which still reflect old stories”, says Wladimir Barros.

Venus in Virgo highlights everyday care

From July 9th, Venus will enter Virgo, changing the way emotional relationships manifest themselves. Affection will begin to be demonstrated more through practical attitudes than through grand demonstrations. The transit will favor objective conversations, routine adjustments and reflection on reciprocity. At the same time, it will draw attention to the risk of excessive charges and attempts to check the other under the justification of care.

New Moon will ask for attention to the roots

The New Moon in Cancer, on July 14th, will focus on themes related to family, belonging and private life. As will occur during the retrogradation of Mercury, the lunation will invite you to strengthen foundations emotional before seeking external expansion. The period will favor family meetings, moments of welcome and reflections on what really nourishes emotionally.

The main moment of tension of the month

Between the 18th and 20th, the sky will concentrate some of the most important movements of July. On the 20th, Jupiter in Leo will form opposition with Pluto in Aquarius, creating a scenario of tension between individual expression and collective interests. The aspect may highlight disputes for recognition, leadership conflicts and questions about who occupies certain spaces and for what reasons.

For Wladimir Barros, this will be the most significant transit of the month. “Jupiter in Leo will stimulate the desire to appear, create and lead. Pluto in Aquarius will question power structures and demand authenticity. The opposition between them may reveal both exaggerations and ego disputes as well as genuine and transformative leadership”, he says.

On the same day, Jupiter will also form an exact trine with Neptune in Aries, bringing a more inspiring counterpoint, associated with imagination, purpose and vision of the future.

Leo season will gain momentum

On July 22nd, the Sun will enter Leo, expanding themes that had already been stimulated since Jupiter entered the sign at the end of June. Creativity, self-esteem, pleasure, romances and authorial projects will gain prominence. The moment will favor personal expression, as long as it is aligned with authentic values. “Leão talks about having something true to offer. The challenge is to differentiate recognition from external validation”, highlights Wladimir Barros.

Mercury direct and Saturn retrograde

Mercury’s return to direct movement on July 23 will tend to bring more clarity to conversations, negotiations and decisions that were under review in previous weeks. A few days later, on July 26, Saturn will begin its retrograde in Aries. The movement will inaugurate a period of reflection on autonomy, responsibility and the ability to sustain long-term choices. The focus will no longer be just starting something new and will become building structures capable of lasting.

By Manuella Tavares