“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.” – Anaïs Nin
From vacation adventures to picnics with friends to warm late nights — I hope everyone is already enjoying all these beautiful summer days have to offer. The world is in full bloom! There are endless possibilities if we have the courage to greet the Sun, show up, and shine!
The Sun, our giver of life, loves being in its home sign of Leo. Here it shines without shame— radiant, bright, and confident. This is the second Fire sign of the zodiac, harassing the power of persona. It guides our outer self: how we move about, how we present ourselves to others, how we express our emotions, and how we engage with the world.
During Leo Season (July 23-August 22) the Sun draws out the expressive, vigorous, and immersive spirit within us.
Known extroverts, Leos love to be loved. Their naturally charismatic, energetic, supportive, and charming qualities can make them great friends and leaders. Like the Sun, they bring people into their warm, radiant presence.
Of course, the lion represents this fierce Fire sign. Dubbed “The King of the Jungle,” lions have been a symbol of power throughout history. Great leaders, like King Richard I of England, have gained the title of “Lion Heart” for their bravery in battle. Proverbs 28 begins, “The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion.”
So what makes the lion so fearsome? A Somali proverb reads, “Even the brave are scared by a lion three times: first by its tracks, again by its roar, and one last time face to face.” Yes, its great size, strength, and speed lend to its power, but even at rest these magnificent animals innately know their mighty worth. They uphold a commanding, courageous, and regal status.
The lion’s power is unheeding. Its courage is loud. Its strength is rewarding. Still another proverb reminds us, “There lies a lion in every heart.”
Leo season invites us to expressively embrace our unique gifts and passions; unlocking the bravery and guidance of our own Lion Heart.
This New Moon in Leo (July 28) ask yourself: What sets your heart on fire? What makes you excited? What draws out the best in you? What draws out the worst in you?
Like the lion, Leo’s biggest vice is pride. Pride leads us to hunt for external validation, personal distractions, and ego boosters. Often when this isn’t received, we can feel insecure and threatened becoming defensive, combative, or avoidant. The lion’s natural defense is to attack; as astrology author, Chani Nicholas writes, “A Leo unloved is dangerous.”
Take heed. When feeling insecure, be more mindful. Remember, criticism does not have to be personal. Not everything will provide immediate gratification. Being scared is simply the first step to being brave. The Sun shines whether acknowledged or not.
Begin to notice what triggers your defenses. Allow yourself compassion and humility; understand your insecurities or shortcomings, not as a personal weakness that must be defended, but as a humble opportunity for growth and wisdom.
This healing energy is enhanced as Chiron, an asteroid body that orbits between Saturn and Uranus, goes retrograde from July to December.
Greek mythology tells the story of Chiron, the Wounded Healer: The Centaur son of Titan God Cronus and the nymph Philyra was abandoned at birth and left to fend for himself. Later, he was adopted by Apollo and learned great skills, like music, archery, medicine, and prophecy. Chiron’s wounds of abandonment made him more empathetic, kind, and thoughtful. His inner pain allowed him to become a great healer and teacher. He is known to be the most wise and just of all the centaurs.
As Chiron enters retrograde, take time to reflect on how your wounds can become a source of deep empathy, humble strength, and insightful wisdom. Author Tanaaz Chubb writes, “This level of healing work is about transcendence, rather than trying to “fix” ourselves in order to be worthy. We are already worthy, regardless of the wounds that live within.”
Also, remember from my previous article Saturn, the Teacher, continues its transformative retrograde in Aquarius until October.
The Aquarius Full Moon (August 11) also seems a great pairing for this Leo season and Chiron Retrograde. The Air sign Aquarius is generous and nurturing as it dispenses collective knowledge, guidance, and healing. This aligns beautifully with Leo’s ability to tap into our talents and create positive experiences for ourselves and our loved ones. Still, Aquarius energy, like Leo, can be selfish— forgetting the needs of the individual to favor the collective whole, or in Leo’s case the immediate need for satisfaction.
During this full moon, find a balance between your own need for validation and your authentic confidence. Be mindful: Are you fighting something your pride is threatened by? Where and why is your self-esteem threatened? Where can you find healing?
Explore ways to sincerely embrace and express your emotions and thoughts uninhibited by persona or pride. You may engage in fun, but meaningful conversation, try something new you are not immediately good at, or use your unique skills or talents to assist a friend.
Leo’s are driven to celebrate and be celebrated. This energy is most powerful when directed in a loyal, passionate, and supportive way that not only allows you to shine but inspires others to shine too.
If you cannot first give yourself the vulnerability, kindness, and appreciation you want another to provide for you, you’ll never find true self-acceptance. This is the time to boldly embody your lion’s courage. Set a long-term intention of facing your wounds with humble compassion in order to heal and transform to your brightest potential.
Be bold. Be brave. Shine your light!
Image by Darkmoon_Art from Pixabay
