It's that time again when we brace ourselves for any error in communication, information, travels and technology, and knowing when these periods take place can help you to plan projects in advance in order to stay on-track.

This time Mercury retrogrades in Leo and Cancer, and when retrograding in Leo it can trigger passionate displays of expression that are sure to cause reactions from you and from others. Leo is a fire sign, and during this period you are apt to say what you feel without a great deal of discretion. Willpower is strong but there's a thin line to being aggressive and pushy. So instead, internalize your strength and passion, and release it through artistic mediums such as painting, writing, or music, but be careful with your spending habits at this time.

Between July 21 - August 2, Mercury retrogrades through the home-loving sign of Cancer, and even though you may not be particularly talkative now, you may feel a great deal on a more sensitive or emotional level. What could happen at this time is that you become a bit touchy about subjects in your conversations and dealings with others, which can lead you to retreat from social gatherings. A key to solution; Use this period for more 'hands-on-projects' in your home, or be around family, but avoid signing contracts on a new house.

At the end of the day, Mercury retrograde has a bit of a bad rep, but it's actually a very good time to get in touch with your own thoughts and progress. It's all in the power of mind!
~ Christine K.H ~

The Solstice marks a turning point, a shift in our manifested and unseen realities, and is the bringer of a heightened awareness in nature and consciousness. Most cultures of the Northern Hemisphere mark Midsummer in some ritualized manner, and in ancient times, the Summer Solstice was a fire-festival of great importance, which ritually honored the sun.

The law of attraction and any sorts of magic is well used today, perhaps using affirmation to draw the things you seek into your life. This is also a time for reflection and to turn the page, so look back on the time at the Winter Solstice. Where were you then in your life? What has happened, month by month, since then? Look at all areas of your life; Relationships, family, work, social life - Was it a time of growth, establishment or was it a time when you released something?

Make a ritual for yourself. First, whatever you don't want to take with you into next cycle, be it feelings, behaviors, people or situations, then write it down on a piece of paper and burn it. Next, light a candle for the things you WANT in your life, write it down and save it somewhere hidden.

This is a time when the Cosmos is holding and supporting us, when we’re allowed to release anything, we’ve been keeping in. Magic comes when we surrender into trust. So leave it to the Universe, try not stick your nose into it during the process, and wonders will unfold when and where you least expect.
 
Spark your inspiration and Happy Summer Solstice and Midsummer!
~ Christine K.H