I’m not crying, you’re crying because of Cancer season, babes!
After a month of floating around on all those fun and chaotic Gemini vibes in the air, the sun moves into the 4th sign of the zodiac: Cancer. From June 21 to July 22, this period gives us the opportunity to come down and dive into our deepest feelings. Because where Gemini is outwardly curious and draws information from the world around us into their mind, Cancer draws us inward to feel the heart of it all.
Cancer is the divine mother archetype of the zodiac. Also known as the caregiver, healer, or nurturer, this cardinal water sign rules the heart and home and is known for its emotional sensitivity and fierce love. Sometimes it’s hard like the outer shell of a crab, other times it’s free-flowing like salty tears from the sea. Either way, Cancer is one of the most emotionally intelligent aspects of ourselves and reminds us that honoring our feelings is not only important, but also a sign of profound strength. No matter your sign, this season will likely have you feeling more connected to your own emotional depths and how that translates into your self-love practices, your relationships with loved ones, and your home space.
Adopt the retrograde look
This year, the start of Cancer season not only coincides with the solstice, which marks the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, but also with a few other notable transits. Mercury retrograde will end on June 22, when it turns direct. Meanwhile, Jupiter retrograde, which will last the next 4 months, will begin in Pisces. And on June 25, Neptune, ruler of dreams and the psychic unknown, will also join in the retrograde action.
When a planet is retrograde, it means that, due to its proximity to Earth, it appears to be moving in the opposite direction in the sky. Astrologically, the influence of a given planet affects us differently than when it is direct, and that influence tends to be more introspective in nature. With all this retrograde action happening at once, it’s very likely that you’re feeling exhausted and in need of some extra downtime. So while the idea of summer is invigorating, you may be craving a little bundle of joy, curling up with loved ones, or taking some quiet time to yourself. And I say trust that instinct: This is a time of relaxation and rejuvenation. There’s no need to force anything, especially if arbitrary external expectations don’t align with how you’re feeling in your inner world.
All of this means for us that this is the perfect time to reevaluate how we grow, how we expand our projects and dreams, and how we nourish ourselves to be able to make them come true. Rest and Take care of yourself to give yourself and your dreams space to grow if you want to take the next step.
Here are some ideas to help you get in touch with your inner Crab and get into the spirit of Cancer season:
Give your home space some love
The Crab’s home is an extension of himself; he carries his shell with him wherever he goes. While Cancer doesn’t carry his home everywhere—even though home isn’t always a physical place—he knows that a well-maintained home is of the utmost importance to his well-being.
Give your home space some extra love by giving it a deep clean and declutter. Clear out that drawer of clutter. Reorganize your closet and donate what no longer fits. Buy those frames and hang your artwork in them. When your home is healthy, your heart will be, too.
I love summer, I have a blast
Despite all this deep, dreamy introspection, Venus will join Mars in Leo on June 27. These planets are full of passion and sexuality on their own, but when paired and lit by Leo’s fire, they could very well spark some intense summer love heat in you. The conditions are ripe for flirting and adventure. If you’re feeling adventurous, get caught up in the fun and see what happens.
Take care of yourself for the common good
Cancer energy invites us to be gentle and sensual with ourselves. This tough yet tender sign represents the divine mother in all of us. And a good mom knows how to take care of herself as much as she does her offspring. Whether it’s something as simple as treating yourself to that fancy coffee you haven’t had in a year due to the pandemic or spending a luxurious spa day, you deserve it. Make the extra effort to fill your own cups now so they can spill over into the cups of others.
Prepare a meal for or with your loved ones
As much of the world continues to open up and lift restrictions on gatherings, the possibility of gathering with loved ones becomes more and more possible. What better way to care for your loved ones than to come together and literally feed them?
Whether it’s a small gathering at home or in the garden, a potluck and barbecue in a public park or a picnic on the beach, this season has always been a time for gathering with friends and family over a sunny feast. This year will be even more special, given how long it’s been since most of us were able to look at other faces around a table.
Use. More. Lubricant.
Cancer has a bad reputation for being the crybaby of the zodiac. In fact, I caused a bit of controversy a few months ago when I suggested that a good lube was the most Cancer product in the BBoutique. (While I won’t comment on the irony of crybaby Cancers in this regard, I stand by that selection.)
Using lube, whether on yourself or your partner, shows that you care about taking your pleasure to the next level. It’s basically Cancer’s sensuality and compassion in a handy little bottle. Like Cancer’s energy, lube is all about making sure you and your lovers feel as good as possible. More than any toy, lube is most likely to do this. Even if you’re already aroused, it will increase your chances of reaching orgasm. It makes a good thing great and good things even better.
Honor this Cancer season: be generous with the lube and Really Do you smell.