The Wheel of Light
Monthly Newsletter - July 2022
Each of the planets that we use in astrology, with the exception of the Sun and Moon, periodically turns retrograde. This means that they appear to slow their normal daily motion until they seemingly stop for a day or two. Then they start slowly moving in the direction they just came from. As one might expect, any new expression of the energy associated with that planet is restricted. It’s as if we are forced, or have the opportunity, to retrace our steps. Where are we? How did we get here? And what are we going to do about any of that now? This month Jupiter will retrograde on July 28 and will remain in that direction until November 23, 2022.
Jupiter represents the principal of expansion. Attitudinally it is probably the most positive, optimistic and joyful of all the planetary energies. Behaviorally it is adventurous, curious and prioritizes any activity that promotes consciousness expansion. When retrograde, however, any growth or expansion is slowly withdrawn. An element of restraint begins to accompany what otherwise might be enthusiastic progress. Jupiter is oriented toward the future. After turning retrograde, any projects we began when Jupiter was direct now appear to need more time to plan and execute. Jupiter is not a particularly grounded energy. Its idealism often causes it to overlook the details that will determine success or failure of a project. When it is retrograde, it becomes obvious that without focusing on the practicalities of those activities, success will either be minimized or prevented. This will be especially true in the house that Jupiter is transiting in your natal chart. The challenge is making sure that activities in that area don’t stagnate during the retrograde period.
When a planet is retrograde, it is time to pause, review, reflect and, if necessary, revise our strategy and behavior. With Jupiter, it’s not only about the nature of the project. It’s also about making sure that what we are doing, and especially how we are doing it coincides with our morals and ethics. In Jupiter’s quest for high-minded advancement, personal integrity is key. Being truth-oriented, Jupiter is usually not inclined to do whatever it takes to succeed. It prioritizes how we are doing something above achieving the end product. If we find that our quest is no longer interesting, we can let go of that project and substitute another one. Even if the original goal still has meaning, we still need to check in on our manner of achieving it. If we find ourselves out of integrity, we need to at least change our methodology and possibly the goal itself.
Jupiter represents the principal of abundance. When it is retrograde, we could focus on what we lack. In turn this could dash our hopes and dreams for the future. One could respond to this awareness by becoming depressed. An alternative, although an equally ineffective reaction, is by acting out in an overly dramatic way. This might cathartically clear the air, but does nothing to get clarity about the situation. Neither depression nor drama fixes the problem. There is still no positive forward movement. This is an example of the need to regroup and redefine. Where are we going and what do we intend to do once we get there? Looking at our ethics as well as the viability of the destination are positive ways of taking advantage of the retrograde period.
Jupiter retrograde could also stimulate experiences that are unfamiliar or which exacerbate already challenging circumstances. For example, if we tend to be unaware of our emotional reaction to a person or situation, we may find ourselves in a situation that requires emotional clarity both in awareness as well as expression. This could lead to increased self-awareness and internal growth but it the changes won’t necessarily be easy or obvious.
Jupiter retrograde is also an opportunity to update our spiritual or philosophical path. In the big picture, this could pertain to our connection to Spirit. But, more subtly it could also pertain to our expectations of ourselves, other people or life itself.
Aries (March 21-April 20)
Aries: This is a time to slow down and appreciate the simple things in your life that bring value and meaning to you. Striving to slow down your mental process could lead to clearer thinking which would, in turn, minimize communication challenges that might come up in late month.
Taurus (April 21-May 21)
Taurus: Take advantage of the season by getting outside and enjoying physical activity. This could be in nature, from gardening to camping or any other activity that is enjoyable and active. Mid-month on is a good time for social activities, especially involving relatives and neighbors.
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
Gemini: Early month is a time of focus on practical matters, especially those that involve finances. Contemplate your long -range financial goals and ways you intend to accomplish them. Clarity might not come until later in the month and, even when it does, there could be resistance to implementing new actions. Stay the course and be patient.
Cancer (June 22-July 22)
Cancer: The full Moon in Capricorn on the 13th brings emotional perspective and clarity of direction in terms of emotional fulfillment. With new realizations in this area, consciousness could be enhanced through activities with a partner and friends. It could also provide inspiration on your spiritual path.
Leo (July 23-August 23)
Leo: Mid-month could bring creative inspiration and opportunities to act on it. There could also be contention or confrontation with a partner or good friend. If you have deep feelings for that person try to work it out by being open and vulnerable assuming that the other person is willing to do the same.
Virgo (August 24-Sept 22)
Virgo: This is a good time to focus inward. Seeking emotional health and psychological clarity can lead to consciousness development and spiritual growth. Quality time alone is important. It could lead to both clarity of consciousness as well as the opportunity for creative expression which could in itself be a vehicle for inner growth.
Libra (Sept 23-Oct 23)
Libra: Confusion, idealism and excessive expectations could provide challenges for you this month. Growth can come from being practical and discerning. Your daily harmony may be challenged, but clarity in areas ranging from career to health to spiritual path could all manifest by responding positively and effectively to these challenges.
Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)
Scorpio: Relationship issues are in high focus for you this month. It could be a good time to start a new relationship. But there could be challenges with a pre-existing partner that could pertain to problems that you have been previously unaware of or simply not dealing with. Growth can come by being open and honest about your feelings toward the other person even if doing so could leave you feeling extremely vulnerable.
Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)
Sagittarius: Jupiter is your ruling planet. Once it retrogrades it’s time to focus inward. Reviewing intellectual interests, philosophical points of view and relationship needs are good ways for you to respond and take advantage of the energetic circumstances this month.
Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20)
Capricorn: The full Moon in Capricorn on the 13th is a time to get in touch with deep, intense and powerful emotions. This could bring clarity that requires you to change your manner of dealing with and expressing feelings. Growth can come by practicing being more spontaneous and less reserved.
Aquarius (Jan 21 to Feb 19)
Aquarius: This could be a low-key month for you. It’s a good time to observe others, using their example to alter or enhance your own behaviors. Research and contemplation are paths to clarity and growth.
Pisces (Feb 20-March 20)
Pisces: Opportunities for creative and artistic expression abound for you this month. Challenges could come either through relationship or financial issues. Growth comes from being practical and realistic in these areas. There are plenty of enjoyable outlets that are viable without having to resort to magical thinking.
Rio Olesky has been studying astrology since 1967 and has been a practicing professional astrologer since 1976. The author of Astrology and Consciousness, A Manual for the Modern Mystic, and The Astroreader, Rio offers weekly classes through Zoom. You can call Rio at 707-887-1820. Check out his website: www.starwatcher.com.