Your July Chakrastrology™ Update: Summer Power
This month, fire up your energy with core-focused workouts and by embracing passion and playfulness in your life.
Chakrastrology is based on the principle that each of our chakras (energy centers) is ruled by a planet, and that by working with both, we experience greater health and well-being. This wisdom is rooted in ancient texts and brought to life in a modern context. By looking at our chakras in terms of the planets, we get a major advantage in working with them and in seeing what’s influencing them now.
The ancient wisdom of the chakras reveals that there are “energetic hot spots” within the body where we store our experiences, emotions and beliefs. When we don’t examine these deeper elements of the self, then eventually imbalances in these areas manifest as physical sensations like tension or chronic pain. This is the inherent link between mind and body, and the chakras provide us a road map for unlocking it!
To take this understanding further and to see how our chakras are being influenced by the outside world, we look at their connection to the planets, which are yet another ancient body of wisdom. In alignment with the alchemical idea “As above, so below,” we watch the planets above us for insight into what’s happening within us. For millennia, astrologers have witnessed the influence of the planets on our day-to-day lives.
By recognizing the intrinsic links between the planets and areas of our body (the chakras), we also get invaluable information about how to optimize our health and well-being. This comprehensive system, known as chakrastrology, bridges the gap between outer and inner, and helps us make sense (and greater health).
July 2017
July represents summer in full swing, and with a dominance of Cancer energy, we find ourselves awash in ocean vibes and the desire to feel our feet in the sand. Whether we are able to get there physically or metaphorically, our minds and hearts are captivated by the energy the water holds. The zodiac sign of Cancer inhabits us all in some capacity, whether it’s our sign or not. The sun, in the sign of Cancer, encourages us to explore the depths of our soul and immerse ourselves in nurturing playfulness! This is only enhanced by the sun’s move into Leo later in the month, whose love of fun encourages us to explore the world with childlike wonder.
Dominating our Chakrastrology chart all month long is Mars, who sits snugly next to the sun helping to illuminate our focus, drive us toward our goals and even perhaps explore our lustful desires. Mars is sexy, there’s no doubt about it, and no better time to turn up that heat than summertime! If you’ve had your eye on someone, this is a great time to explore that relationship. Or, if you’re in a committed partnership, use Mars’ energy to re-ignite the passionate flame between you.
With Mars’ energy prominently fixed on our consciousness all month long, we focus on the power chakra, located at the solar plexus. This is a great opportunity to examine your individuality and your place in the world. Are you passionate about what you’re doing now? Are you avoiding your own success or playing small? Is there a way you can allow yourself to shine brighter?
For many of us, the best outlet for our talents is our career, and that gets an extra added boost on July 9th, with the full moon in Capricorn. Nobody loves work like Capricorn, and a full moon encourages us to do some focused housekeeping in regards to our work life. It is time to take advantage of any opportunities to shine in the workplace, and aim for the goal that will allow you to showcase your talents in the best way possible. If there is a promotion available, charge toward it. If there is conflict at work, be patient and calculate the most strategic move. If you feel like it’s time to make a big shift in your career choice, this is also a great time to gather your wits about you and carefully plan your next move!
As the month continues, and we swing into the energy of Leo (on the 22nd), it’s time to rev up the revelry and enjoy ourselves. Get out, have fun, laugh and play! With the Mars chakra energy still in the mix, try a competitive sport or compete with yourself in your workout routine. Fuel the fire of Leo (and the solar plexus) with some heavy-hitting core work and try to have a good time while doing it!
On July 23rd, the new moon in Leo encourages us to take stock of where we can infuse more playful energy into our lives. If we’ve gotten too serious, haven’t taken a break in a while or have forgotten to smell the roses, use this new moon energy to clear out the “serious” in favor of the “fun.” Commit to finding balance in your life, and forego any workaholic tendencies that were illuminated earlier in the month with the Capricorn full moon. Follow flashes of insight and inspiration that tell you where your bliss lies, and take advantage of the power of the Mars chakra at the solar plexus to move forward into embodying joy!
Recommended activities
This month, anything that fires you up or targets your core are perfect ways to invigorate the dominant energy of the solar plexus chakra this month! Try a Crunch Time or BODYPUMP class at your local 24 Hour Fitness, or insert some Pilates (which always focuses on core) into your fitness routine. If you need some down time, and relaxation, try an after-work savasana with some scented candles to invoke the fiery energy of the month in a more passive way.
July Chakrastrology meditation
Mars dominates all month long, even as we slide from watery, sensitive Cancer in early July to jubilant Leo later in the month. Mars rules the solar plexus chakra, which houses our sense of identity, place in the world, and how we work with others. The energy of Mars lends a strategic and focused energy that helps us to gain crystal clarity on whether we are in alignment with our highest goals. Try this meditation to connect with your goals!
Sit in meditation, and light a candle. Set the candle in front of you, and before closing your eyes, focus on the flame. Visualize the focused flame of energy at the solar plexus, and silently ask yourself, “What do I want?” Close your eyes and remain in quiet contemplation. Let any answer arise without judgment or skepticism. The answer may come in the form of a thought, sensation, image or feeling. Whatever answer you receive, accept it and silently ask yourself, “How do I get it?” Sit quietly as the answer comes to you. When it does, place your hand over your solar plexus and make a silent commitment to yourself to follow through on this goal. Close your meditation by writing down three steps you can take now to listen to your inner voice, and act upon it in the world!
Mantra of the month: I am empowered and ready to be my best self!
Solar plexus chakra smoothie recipe: Mango, pineapple, banana and coconut water
July’s Chakrastrology focus
Solar plexus chakra + Mars
Focus: Empowerment
Location: Solar plexus, stomach, middle back, digestive tract
Core mantra: I am empowered.
Self-care practice: Lighting a candle
Sanskrit name: Manipura (jewel in the city)
Mars rules the solar plexus and is the drive and passion behind us charging forward in life! Its energy directs us and fires us up for working in the world and shining our light for the benefit of others.
Photo credit: andreusK, Adobe Stock