We've finally made it to one of the most anticipated, or dreaded depending on your perspective, time of year. Eclipse (and retrograde) season is upon us ready to bring about sweeping changes in at least one area of our lives.
The month begins with Mars moving into Leo on the 1st granting our mojo back after the planet of action painstakingly drudged its way through Cancer over the past month and a half. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse in Cancer invites us to create new foundations for ourselves specifically related to emotions, home, and family. Venus, planet of love, moves into cozy Cancer on the 3rd making you more inclined to cuddle up at home with bae. On the 7th, Mercury officially goes retrograde for the 2nd time this year. This time the planet of communication is backpedaling through Leo. Watch out for temper tantrums and find a more productive way to channel your inner diva.
Excessive amounts of energy are best utilized for getting into the details of old projects that you've placed on the back burner.
On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde for the next several months opening up old wounds related to the "lone wolf syndrome" while providing a new perspective that serves as the healing balm needed to mend our hearts and open us up to connection. The emotional intensity kicks up a notch on the 16th, thanks to a Full Moon lunar eclipse in Capricorn forcing us to purge old narratives that perpetuate the belief that we are unworthy of being accepted due to our achievements and social status (or lack thereof) in the world. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th and you may have to revisit an important conversation or agreement made in June. The month closes out with a bang as the Sun and Venus move into feisty Leo heating up matters of love and putting the spotlight on your talents. The New Moon on the 31st represents a defining new beginning with Mercury direct supporting your progression towards fame and fortune or at least more popularity amongst others.
Check out what the month of July has in store for each of your zodiac signs below:
Aries
Aries (3/21 - 4/19)
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
The month starts on a high note with your ruling planet, Mars, moving into Leo. Over the next month and a half, your energy will be exerted towards adventure, romance, and creativity. The New Moon solar eclipse on the 2nd has you reassessing your needs for security. This is a good time to begin your house hunt or start your fertility plan. Venus moves into Cancer on the 3rd, making you more inclined to enjoy the comfort of your home with bae. If you're in a commitment, you may consider moving in with your significant other. Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th, giving you a chance to revise creative projects and revisit hobbies that help you connect with your inner child. On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde until December inviting you to heal any core wounding related to the "lone wolf syndrome".
Instead of succumbing to the isolation, reach out instead. Even the most independent sign of the zodiac needs a pack to call their own.
The Full Moon lunar eclipse on the 16th opens up a new portal for you that requires you to release self-sabotaging beliefs that block your success. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th and the rest of the retrograde is best spent reviewing your budget or refining your knowledge about your source(s) of income. July closes out with the Sun and Venus moving into Leo, making you even more popular than usual. Your creativity hits a peak at this time of the year so use the energy wisely. The New Moon on the 31st signifies a promising, new opportunity that gives you a chance to step into the spotlight. Get ready for your big debut, Aries!
Taurus
Taurus (4/20 - 5/20)
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On the 1st, Mars moves into Leo for the next month and a half which can make you a little more short-tempered than usual. Breathe and count to ten before unleashing the wrath of the bull. Exercise is your best friend during this transit. The New Moon solar eclipse and Venus in Cancer invites you to take on a new approach to communicating your needs to others. Instead of lashing out, try taking on a more vulnerable approach instead. On the 7th, Mercury goes retrograde reminding you to be mindful of any short-distance travel. Chiron, the wounded healer, goes retrograde on the 8th and the next several months will be spent healing emotional wounds related to feeling separate from God.
Your dreams will be quite revealing, potentially providing insight into past life karma that you're working out in this lifetime.
On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse supports your desire to dissolve into the oneness of the Universe. Profound spiritual insight is likely and learning through your travels can help you make sense of your place in the grand scheme of things. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th, bringing your focus to nurturing your relationships with your siblings and close friends. You're quite poetic under this influence so finding a creative outlet to express your sentimental feels in beneficial at this time. The month closes out with a bang with the Sun, Venus, and New Moon in Leo lighting up your home and family life. Connecting with your roots can help you tap into your gifts and Mercury going direct on the 31st will help you recognize the healing power of sharing your talents with the world.
Gemini
Gemini (5/21 - 6/20)
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The month begins with Mars moving into your house of learning and communication. You can get a lot done over the next month and a half, especially if you work in the media. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse encourages you to flex your hidden gifts and talents for financial gain. Venus moves into the same part of your sky the following day, making you a magnet for people and opportunities that are attracted to your compassionate, big heart. On the 7th, Mercury goes retrograde, giving you a chance to review that blog post or book you've been working on. On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde and the next several months brings your attention to resolving emotional wounds related to friends and feeling connected to the collective.
This transit is meant to align you with a more authentic tribe that celebrates your eccentricity and acknowledges the value that you bring to the group.
On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse serves as a breakthrough in your personal narrative that helps you see your power more clearly. This can also be a time in which you, or someone around you, is exposed for manipulating their power. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th, encouraging you to make peace with a situation that damaged your self-esteem. Self-validation is the remedy, Gemmie. Short-distance travel is favored over the next month and Mercury going direct on the 31st supports a smooth process in reaching your destination. The month closes out with a New Moon on the 31st, making this the perfect time to start that YouTube channel! It's time to get your message out there!
Cancer
Cancer (6/21 - 7/22)
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Your birthday season begins in extravagant fashion with Mars leaving your sign and entering into Leo on the 1st, making you extremely motivated to get in your bag this month. If you're in the midst of a job hunt, Mars is working in your favor to help you overcome any obstacles in this realm. On the 2nd, there's a powerful New Moon eclipse in your sign. Make a wish for what you'd like to experience in the year ahead! Venus, planet of love + money, also moves into your sign on the 3rd, making you even more alluring and fortune. The cosmos fully supports you getting the big chop or revamping your wardrobe to represent the new and improved you. Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th, making this the perfect time to review your budget and salary.
Are you selling yourself short? It's time to start charging what you're worth!
On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde, helping you to resolve any emotional wounds related to your father (or the masculine as a whole). Unpacking your own internalized patriarchy can be beneficial for healing the distorted expression of the masculine energy. The Full Moon lunar eclipse highlights your key relationships. This may be a time in which you consider tying the knot. However, this celestial event can make or break energy in your relationships as well. If there's been a toxic person lingering in your energy, this Full Moon will help you make a clean break. On the 19th, Mercury dips back into your sign and you may be experiencing some deja vu when it comes to an important conversation that was initiated last month. July closes out with a finale as the Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd with Venus following shortly behind bring you popularity and good luck if you're willing to come out of your cozy shell. The New Moon on the 31st can brings good news about an opportunity that will allow you to express your unique personality. Don't be shy, babe! You were made for this!
Leo
Leo (7/23 - 8/22)
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Hey, there, gorgeous! The month debuts with Mars moving into your sign which graciously returns your mojo after a slow-paced month in June. The next month and a half is setting you up for major breakthroughs particularly regarding the way that others view you. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse encourages you to surrender old beliefs about yourself to make way for the newer, more empowered version of yourself. Venus moves into this same part of your chart on the 3rd which makes love matters a little more hush-hush.
Your dreams hold the key to who your next romantic prospect or even some past-life, relationship karma that you need to address.
Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th and will be backtracking through your sign, just pay attention to the fine print if you have to sign any contracts during the retrograde. On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde in Aries and for the next several months you're focused on resolving outdated spiritual beliefs that have made you feel shamed or outcast. The Full Moon lunar eclipse on the 16th may bring a finality to your existing routines. On the 19th, Mercury dips into Cancer, making you sleepier and more introverted than usual. Don't push yourself too hard during this last leg of Mercury retrograde. On the 22nd, the Sun moves into your sign along with Venus on the 27th which will be showering you with blessings over the next month to come. The New Moon in your sign on the 31st is the perfect time to make a wish for what you want to experience in the year ahead with Mercury direct pushing your plans full steam ahead.
Virgo
Virgo (8/23 - 9/22)
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The month begins with Mars moving into a quieter part of your chart, stirring up inner conflict between you getting shit done and you sleeping the month away. Don't fret if you're lacking energy this month. Your drive is bound to pick up again once we transition into your birthday season. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse welcomes new friendships along with a revived sense of connection to the collective. Venus quickly follows behind on the 3rd and for the next month and a half, you're aligning with your soul tribe who will play a role in your mission over the next year.
On the 7th, Mercury goes retrograde amplifying your dream state with reminders of past-life talents and self-sabotaging beliefs that hinder you from expressing them.
Chiron, the wounded healer, goes retrograde on the 8th drawing you deeper into your psyche to help you heal from any traumatic experiences that made you feel like an outcast. On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse lights up your life with adventure and romance. If you're dealing with a fickle connection, you may decide to end it in the pursuit of something more stable. This is the perfect time to release any creative projects you've been working on. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th and your focus in nurturing old connections that you've been neglecting. On the 22nd, the Sun moves into Le,o with Venus following on the 27th, encouraging you to rest up for a busy birthday month. The New Moon on the 31st, supported by Mercury direct, helps you recognize what beliefs and habits you need to release to step into a more expanded, fearless version of yourself.
Libra
Libra (9/23 - 10/22)
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
The month begins with Mars directing most of your energy towards your social networks and your long-term vision for your life. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse, followed by Venus entering in Cancer on the 3rd, brings in new career opportunities and increased social status. When it comes to taking on a leadership role, a softer approach works more effectively. Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th, giving you the chance to catch up with friends you haven't heard from in a while. This is also a good time to revise your plans regarding your long-term goals that have the potential to change the world.
On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde which helps you resolve painful emotions related to a significant relationship or your experience with relationships as a whole.
On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse stirs up some tension in the home or with family. You may decide to move out of an overbearing environment around this time. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th and this time is best spent re-strategizing your approach to leveling up in your career. Be mindful of power struggles with your boss during this time. Remember to breathe and count to 10 before sending that angry email. The New Moon on the 31st invites you to let yourself be seen in all of your glory. Making new friends that truly embrace all of you—diva included—is favored. Mercury goes direct the same day, encouraging more vulnerable expression that could land you in the public eye.
Scorpio
Scorpio (10/23 - 11/21)
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Career matters take precedence this month with Mars transiting through Leo for the next month and a half. If you've been struggling with gaining traction towards your goals, Mars is here to help push you forward. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse invites you to embark on a spiritual journey that could involve international travel and foreign affairs. Venus moves into the same part of your chart on the 3rd, attracting opportunities for expansion. You may find yourself taking on the role of teacher or spiritual guide for those seeking guidance and comfort. Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th, giving you a chance to re-strategize your path to success. Just be mindful of miscommunications with your boss.
On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde, encouraging you to resolve any health issues (mental and emotional included).
The Full Moon lunar eclipse on the 19th can bring a project to completion, making this an opportune time to share your creation with the world. Increased social media engagement is favorable. This lunation can also help you break through limited beliefs and bad communication (self-talk included) that undermines your personal power. On the 19th, Mercury dips back into Cancer, giving you a chance to revise any written work you plan on releasing to the public. The Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd, making you a force to be reckoned with when it comes to climbing up the social ladder. Venus shortly follows behind and you may find yourself attracting (or attracted to) someone with a whole lot of power and influence. The month comes to a close with a New Moon blessing you with a new job or promotion. Mercury goes direct on the same day pushing your travel and publishing plans ahead.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius (11/22 - 12/21)
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July begins with Mars moving into your sister sign on the 1st over the next month and a half, most of your energy will be exerted towards higher learning and spiritual evolution. As the philosopher of the zodiac, you may find yourself taking on the role of guru in the lives of others. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse invites you to embrace more intimate connections which will require some vulnerability on your part. Venus moving into the same part of your chart on the 3rd has you attracting people that can help you face your fear of letting others see the more sensitive side of the wise sage.
Chiron goes retrograde on the 8th, encouraging you to clean up house when it comes to any unresolved emotions inhibiting your authentic self-expression.
Connecting with your inner child is an important part of this process. On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse can bring in some long-awaited good fortune while also encouraging you to reassess whether you're getting paid what you're worth. Mercury dips back into Cancer on the 19th and your feels are running deep. It may be time to finally tie up some loose ends by revisiting that important conversation. The Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd with Venus following behind. Over the next month, your online presence is undeniable. People can't help but be attracted to the wisdom you share. On the 31st, the New Moon, supported by Mercury direct, encourages you to go back to school or plan for a pilgrimage that will empower you spiritually to help others level up. It's time to step into your role of light worker!
Capricorn
Capricorn (12/22 - 1/19)
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The month begins with Mars moving into your house of intimacy, the psyche, and transformation pushing you to break through any barriers that prevent you from emotionally connecting with others. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse closes out a cycle of not-so-fulfilling relationships and invites you to reevaluate what matters to you most in partnership. Venus, planet of love and money, has the potential to align you with a significant new connection that brings out your softer side. Mercury goes retrograde on the 7th, which will force you to come face-to-face with the skeletons in your closet. Therapy is suggested if this process is too intense to go at it alone. Chiron goes retrograde on the 8th, stirring up mommy issues and bringing generational patterns to the forefront that need to be resolved.
On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse in your sign supports you in freeing yourself from an old identity that no longer empowers you (if it ever did). It's time to ditch the underdog complex and step into the winner's circle.
On the 19th, Mercury dips back into Cancer for the remainder of the retrograde which has you feeling nostalgic about an old partnership (romantic or business). Don't be surprised if an ex pops up around this time. The Sun moves into Leo on the 22nd, along with Venus trailing behind on the 27th. This is a deeply transformative time for you, but it may feel like your process is on full display. Sharing your heartache and struggles can be just what others need to see from you for you to experience more closeness in your bonds. On the 31st, the New Moon encourages you to put your best foot forward when it comes to embracing the trials that have grown you into a wiser, more authentic, and more empowered version of yourself. Mercury goes direct on the same day, helping you get clear about what you will and won't stand for in relationships moving forward.
Aquarius
Aquarius (1/20 - 2/18)
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This month's focus is primarily on your relationships with Mars directing your energy towards connecting with others in a more authentic way. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse encourages you to make some changes to your daily routines, diet, and fitness regimen. Venus moves into this part of your chart the next day which could have you receiving a lot of attention in the workplace from people that feel drawn to your caring spirit. On the 7th, Mercury goes retrograde and you'll be revisiting conversations that took place last month with your significant other or business partner. This is also a favorable time to work out kinks in an existing contract.
Chiron goes retrograde on the 8th and the next several months will be spent finding your own voice within the conditioning imposed upon on you by others. Healing long-standing issues with siblings is also favored during this transit.
On the 16th, the Full Moon lunar eclipse closes out a major chapter of your life regarding your experience with your father or the masculine energy as whole. This is a good time to release any distorted beliefs associated with masculine energy. On the 19th, Mercury dips back into Cancer inviting you to revisit an old routine that benefitted your emotional well-being. This can be as simple as writing in your journal every morning or night. On the 22nd, the Sun moves into your opposite sign with Venus in hot pursuit on the 27th. Get ready for that summer romance of a lifetime. The New Moon on the 31st represents the start of a beautiful, new partnership. If you're looking for a business contact, you'll likely meet a charismatic person to join forces with during this transit. July closes out with Mercury going direct, helping you find the flow in your new and improved lifestyle.
Pisces
Pisces (2/19 - 3/20)
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
July begins with Mars moving into Leo on the 1st and for the next month and a half, your energy is exerted towards improving your health. On the 2nd, the New Moon solar eclipse invites you to nurture your inner child and your creativity. Venus moves into this part of your sky on the 3rd, bringing in an influx of dating prospects or reviving the romance between you and bae. On the 7th, Mercury goes retrograde encouraging you to revisit an old routine that benefitted your health and well-being. This is the perfect time to start working out again or trying that plant-based lifestyle you've veered away from.
On the 8th, Chiron goes retrograde for the next several months helping you resolve emotional wounds related to your self-esteem and body image.
The Full Moon lunar eclipse on the 16th highlights your social network. This could be a time in which you part ways with an old friend group to create space for people that are more in alignment with you and your mission. If you're not interested in revisiting the past, this is a good time to wrap up a creative project you've put on the back burner. You've got all the inspiration to create a masterpiece. On the 22nd, the Sun moves into Leo with Venus following behind. You're on the receiving end of good vibes and fortune in the workplace. If you're open to love, the gym and health and wellness conferences may be your best bet for meeting someone. The month ends with a New Moon on the 31st inviting you to commit to your vitality by implementing better habits that benefit you holistically.
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Mercury enters Aries from April 16 until May 10, and what you were trying to see through or understand better while Mercury was retrograde here last month, you are experiencing a breakthrough now. Mercury in Aries is insightful and courageous, and people are more likely to speak their minds and initiate conversation with this energy. Mars then enters Leo from April 18 until June 17, reminding us that sometimes it’s okay to be a little more selfish and to focus on what you need right now. Mars in Leo brings forth confidence, creativity, and passion, and brings an exciting energy to charge of your life and advocate for yourself.
Taurus Season officially begins on April 19, bringing some earth sign energy into the mix, grounding and nurturing what you are creating in your life right now. On April 27, we have a New Moon in Taurus, and this is an abundant and fruitful New Moon. This is one of the best New Moons of the year for you to set your intentions for your financial world and a time for seeing new opportunities for abundance. On the last day of the month, Venus moves into Aries until June 6th, and love requires a little more passion, independence, and excitement during this time.
Overall, April is a month of feeling things through, taking more intuitive risks, investing in yourself, and balancing your needs with the needs of your relationships.
Read for your sun and rising sign below to see what April has in store for you.
AriesKyra Jay for xoNecoleARIES
April is your month to shine, Aries. With the chaos of March now over, you are starting to see the progress of where life is and how everything has turned out even better than you were expecting. The month begins with the Sun in your 1st house of self, and you are feeling more confident, courageous, and in tune with yourself. With a Full Moon in your sister sign on April 12, relationships are also coming full circle for you now, and you are claiming your peace this month.
Mercury finally goes direct on April 7 and then enters your sign from April 16 to May 10, and this is going to clear up any miscommunications that you have been through. With Mercury now in your sign, your conversations are lively, your mind is inspiring, and you are thinking one step ahead. Before the month ends, Venus enters your sign from April 30 to June 6, and love is also moving forward for you now. Overall, this is a month where you are experiencing some happy outcomes and loyal support.
TaurusKyra Jay for xoNecoleTAURUS
April is a month of passion and purpose, Taurus. You are living in your abundance, and are focused on valuing yourself and the things you are bringing to fruition right now. Venus, your ruling planet, goes direct on March 12 after being retrograde in your financial house since March 1, and you are moving into the month experiencing more opportunities and also feeling more respected in what you are accumulating for yourself and standing your ground on.
Taurus Season officially begins on April 19, and it’s all about you right now. This Taurus Season is smoothing things out for you in love, with new relationship developments unfolding and life flourishing for you. The New Moon this month is in your sign on April 27, it’s time for a new beginning. You are truly embracing your strength in April, making things happen for yourself, and no longer doubting your future and what is possible for you.
GeminiKyra Jay for xoNecoleGEMINI
This month is all about the options becoming available to you now, Gemini. With your ruling planet Mercury going direct at the beginning of the month on April 7, you no longer feel as held back or out of place as you may have in the past weeks. With Mercury now direct, your thinking is clearer, and you are seeing the opportunities in your career and professional world that you may have missed before.
The more you can embrace your authenticity, the less time you will spend doubting how others perceive you, remember that this month.
On April 12, there is a Full Moon in Libra, highlighting the romance in your life and bringing forth understanding and compassion within your close relationships. You are letting go of old attachments or self-doubts that haven’t been serving your love life, and are growing closer to your own heart in the process. Before April comes to an end, Mars enters your 3rd house of communication, and you are overall leaving the month focused on your progress, your vision, and taking up space because you deserve to.
CancerKyra Jay for xoNecoleCANCER
This month is all about balancing your time and energy wisely, Cancer. You are being reminded not to overwork or overwhelm yourself in April, and to focus on doing the things that are within your control right now. The Sun is in your 10th house of career for most of the month so you are feeling really passionate about the things you are developing in your life right now, but it’s all about finding the right balance between your personal goals and your needs in your relationships as well.
The Full Moon in Libra on April 12 will be a time to devote your energy to self-care, close loved ones, and overall getting some time to decompress. You are ready to let go of the things that don’t make you feel safe or nurtured and are receiving an emotional renewal right now. The New Moon in Taurus at the end of the month is a time to focus on your intentions on your community, friendships, and aspirations in life, and to pay attention to where you can create more abundance here.
LeoKyra Jay for xoNecoleLEO
Things are turning around for you for the better, Leo. April is a dynamic month, and you are owning your inner alchemist. With a Full Moon in your 3rd house of communication on April 12, you are getting the messages you have been looking for and the mental clarity you have found is bringing closure to some of your close relationships. This month is about being flexible and trusting the changes that are happening for you right now.
On April 18, Mars enters your sign until June 17, and this is huge for you. You began the year with Mars retrograde in your sign, so you are getting the opportunity now, to rewrite some of the things that weren’t working for you at the beginning of the year. You are overcoming previous obstacles, and experiencing a breakthrough in your life this month. Before April ends, there is a New Moon in Taurus, highlighting your career, reputation, and professional life. This is a good New Moon to set your intentions for what goals you want to come to fruition for you now.
VirgoKyra Jay for xoNecoleVIRGO
This month is all about building new foundations in your life, Virgo. You are feeling more supported and in tune with your own inner needs and interests, and it’s bringing you closer to people and systems that resonate. Your ruling planet Mercury goes direct this month on April 7 after being retrograde for the past few weeks; bringing more clarity, understanding, and compassion to your partnerships in life. You are focused on love this month and are working together with others to make your dreams come true.
Mid-month, Mars moves into your 12th house of closure and endings, and there is a journey of healing that you experience until June 17. You are motivated to understand yourself better and are looking at the past more right now in order to do so. This is a month of recovering and healing from what has been, for new foundations to be built upon. The New Moon on April 27 is a beautiful way to end the month, as you are getting glimpses of a new, abundant, adventure that is ahead of you.
LibraKyra Jay for xoNecoleLIBRA
This is a big month of closure for you, Libra. The Sun is in your 7th house of love for most of April, and your heart is in the right place. With Venus, your ruling planet, going direct on April 12 after being retrograde since March 1, you are finally able to take a breath. You are not experiencing as many obstacles when it comes to communication matters and you are feeling like you have the tools you need to move forward right now.
The Full Moon of the month is in your sign on April 12, and you are ready to let go of what isn’t working for you. You have been through a lot recently and have gained the clarity you need to let go of old attachments. Venus moves into your house of love before the month ends, and you are leaving the month feeling more in tune with where things are moving forward for you, rather than what you are leaving behind. Your heart moves through a journey in April, and your emotions are showing you a lot.
ScorpioKyra Jay for xoNecoleSCORPIO
April is a month of success, progress, and dreams coming to fruition, Scorpio. You are focused on your health, your priorities, and creating space for the new beginnings that you are creating in your life right now. The Full Moon mid-month is a big closure moment for you, and you are owning the fact that you have healed and you are no longer the same person you were in the past. This is a month of stepping into your power and feeling supported in doing so.
Mid-month, Mars enters your 10th house of career and public life and you are shining within your purpose. Over the next month and a half, you are going to be gaining some new opportunities that will be serving your professional life and goals. This is the month to show up and to let your skills, talents, and authenticity shine. On April 17, there is a New Moon in your opposite sign, Taurus, and you are leaving the month with some pleasant surprises in store for you in love as well.
SagittariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleSAGITTARIUS
April is a new beginning for you, Sagittarius. You are focused on putting the action and effort behind your goals, and you are being proactive within the opportunities that you are looking for right now. With a Full Moon in your 11th house of aspirations mid-month, you are letting go of the way you thought things would play out for you and are owning a more abundant version of things.
On April 27, there is a New Moon in Taurus, which will be highlighting your health and what your body needs more of right now. This is a New Moon to set your intentions for your everyday life and to create a new, beneficial routine that will make things easier for you at the end of the day. Before the month ends, Venus enters your 9th house of adventure, and you are leaving the month with your sights set high. Travel plans are likely, and this is a good time to create some new plans for yourself.
CapricornKyra Jay for xoNecoleCAPRICORN
April is about putting one step in front of the other with patience and dedication and trusting the decisions you are making for yourself right now, Capricorn. The Sun is in your 4th house for most of the month, and you are yearning for your safe spaces, comfort foods, and loyal people. Giving yourself more time to decompress, take care of yourself, and ground your energy is essential this month.
Mars enters your 8th house of transformation mid-month and will be fueling your need for some change, excitement, and emotional rejuvenation over the next month and a half. You are entering an impactful moment of the year for you, and you are motivated toward change right now. The New Moon at the end of the month is in a fellow earth sign, highlighting the romantic new beginnings you are entering now. Overall, this month is a process, and you are opening new doors while finding gratitude in what is here for you now.
AquariusKyra Jay for xoNecoleAQUARIUS
April is about giving yourself time to process, accept, and gain a new perspective, Aquarius. You are being guided towards friendship, connection, and community, and are understanding what may be creating the discord in your life that has been distancing you from that. The Full Moon this month is happening in Libra on April 12, and you are ready to let go of feeling like you have to do it all at once or all alone. This month is a reminder to take your time with all the experiences you want to have, trusting that they will come to fruition for you.
Mars enters your house of love and partnership on April 18, and you enter a passionate and steamy time. Romance is in the air for you as you move through the month, and you are spending more of your time with those who you want to move forward with. Venus also moves into a relationship area of your chart before April ends, and you are surrounded by love and community. Overall, this month is showing you that you are not alone and you don’t have to go through the heavy stuff alone either.
PiscesKyra Jay for xoNecolePISCES
This is a month where your heart is shining, and you are feeling in tune with the progress you have made in your life and within your relationships, Pisces. You are owning your value, your worth, and the beauty of who you are, and are ready to leave the past behind. With Mercury and Venus both going direct in Pisces this month after being retrograde in your sign for the past few weeks, you are in a better space than you have been, and there are fewer obstacles and miscommunications in your life.
You have been through a journey of understanding yourself better through your goals, perspectives, and interests, and have been committing yourself to your authenticity. On April 27, there is a New Moon in Taurus happening, and this New Moon is a good time for communication matters, getting your message across, and for your creative pursuits. With the clarity you feel within your mind and heart right now, you are making a lot of progress in April and feeling pleased with where life is headed.
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I thought that it was important to address this term for a couple of different reasons. One is for the reason that is mentioned in the origin story of sobergasms that I will address in just a sec. Another is because…people who are in long-term committed relationships? I think it’s pretty safe to say that, unless they both have some sort of substance abuse situation going on, most of them have sex some, if not most of the time, without alcohol (and certainly without drunkenness) being involved. Those who engage in casual/recreational sex, though? Well, I’ve got some stats included in this piece that will show you how much alcohol and copulation go hand in hand in a lot of those instances.
And although some studies say that casual sex (i.e., hook-up culture) isn’t quite as rampant as it was, even just a few years ago, at the same time, let’s not act like it isn’t still happening. Hell, every time we hop on social media, we see evidence (and sometimes fallout) of that. Plus, while many people are out here declaring that they don’t want or need marriage anymore (chile) — do you hear them saying that they feel the same way about sex?Yeah…exactly.
With all of this being said, let’s take a moment to look into what sobergasms are really all about and why, if you are sexually active and are not in anything serious, you should strongly consider having (more of) them.
The Origin Story of Sobergasms Is…
GiphyAight, so here’s the backstory of sobergasms. Last year, right around the holiday season, the sexual wellness brand Lovehoney decided to partner up with an alcohol-free drink company (CleanCo) to create a mocktail (I will share the recipe in just a sec) — you know, a cocktail that doesn’t have any alcohol in it. They did it because their UK (where they are based) research revealed that people tend to drink almost 40 percent more during the holidays (in the US, Americans reportedly drink twice as much as they usually do around that time).
If you add to that the fact that Lovehoney conducted their own study which cited that 64 percent of participants have admitted to having sex while being intoxicated and yet only 20 percent said that they actually enjoyed it.
And that was the main motivation for why Lovehoney came up with sobergasms: it’s a way to encourage people to be more intentional about going without drinking (so much) so that they can engage in the kind of sex that they will actually find to be pleasurable; especially since their findings also discovered that only 29 percent of men and 11 percent of women have consistent orgasms when they are drunk compared to 45 percent of men and 15 percent of women who do when they are sober.
As I thought about all of this, I decided to go on my own fact-finding mission about alcohol and its relationship to sex. It helped me to come up with even more reasons to cosign on sobergasms — and I’m hoping that it will do the same thing for you.
Before I share 10 interesting stats, first, the recipe for the mocktail that Lovehoney and CleanCo came up with:
Sobergasm Clean Drink
25ml fresh lime juice
50ml CleanCo Clean T
1 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tbsp hot honey
Sea salt, chili flakes, and lime for garnish
You can click here for thorough instructions on how to make it. Over on this side of the pond, we’re pretty big on mocktails ourselves and so, if you'd like to test out some other recipes, check out “10 Spring/Summer Cocktails (& Mocktails) That Your Vagina Will Truly Enjoy” and “Sexy Sips: 8 Fall-Themed Mocktails That Are Aphrodisiacs Too.”
And while you’re pondering which mocktail you would actually like to try first, let’s get into some other reasons why oftentimes “less is best” when it comes to mixing sexual activity with alcohol consumption.
10 Stats to Keep in Mind When It Comes to Mixing Sex with Alcohol
GiphyWhen it comes to how many people partake in alcoholic beverages, Gallup cites that 65 percent of Americans who are over the age of 21 claim to do so. Out of those, the average amount of drinks that they consume on a weekly basis is around four. The preferred drink of choice? Wine (31-35 percent) with liquor being a close second (30 percent). Now factor all of this into your mind as you read the following information about alcohol and its relationship to sex:
1. One study revealed that almost 30 percent of participants were less safe when it came to their sexual decisions due to them having alcohol in their system.
2. About half of the sexual assaults that happen on college campuses involve alcohol whether it’s the perpetrator, the victim, or both.
3. Among college-aged women, when they are having sex while in a relationship, alcohol is involved 20 percent of the time. When it’s casual sex? Alcohol is involved 53 percent of the time (heavy drinking happened a whopping 36 percent of the time).
4. 42 percent of college students binge drink and 400,000 of them have sex without using a condom while consuming alcohol.
5.One study revealed that almost 72 percent of college students regretted their sexual decisions at least once. Out of the ones surveyed, almost 32 percent said that alcohol was involved when they did.
6.Of people aged 18-25, more individuals regretted having sex while having alcohol in their system than they did when it came to weed or ecstasy.
7. Women tend to participate in “non-traditional” sexual acts and masturbate more when they are intoxicated than when they are sober.
8. Although a small amount of alcohol in a woman’s system can arouse them sexually, high amounts will decrease it and can even make it harder for them to become naturally lubricated.
9. Alcohol increases the probability of having more sex partners for women.
10. Alcohol can make it more challenging for women to climax.
When you take all of this in, although I certainly appreciate how Lovehoney has brought to our attention that too much alcohol can make sex less physically pleasurable, as you can see, it can also make coitus more risky, potentially more dangerous and it can cause us to make some pretty unwise decisions, if we’re not careful as well.
And so honestly, this additional intel should further solidify why you should be uber cautious and super careful if you are going to bring alcohol into the picture when it comes to having sex with another person — again, especially if it’s recreational sex. Because even though intercourse, on average, lasts between 3-7 minutes (Google is right there), that small window of time can result in a lifetime of consequences that you may not wish to experience.
Besides, it’s not like sober sex doesn’t have its own benefits…
5 Benefits of Having Sex While You’re Completely Sober
GiphyYou know what’s interesting about the word “sober”? It doesn’t just mean that you aren’t drunk; it also means that you are “rational,” “self-controlled” and “level-headed” — and yes, when you are about to have sex with someone who you aren’t in a serious, long-term or exclusive sexual relationship with, it’s best that you are all of these things. Because while alcohol can initially make you feel like sexual activity will be more fun, sober sex has the following five proven things to offer.
1. You can better trust your decisions. Recently, I watched a video of four women who taped and posted themselves driving drunk. Moments later, all of them were ejected from the vehicle that they were in and only one survived (and she is in critical condition). Imagine if they could go back in time and go without having alcohol in their system before getting in that vehicle. SMDH.
When it comes to today’s topic, no matter what pop culture tries to tell you, any act that can potentially result in you conceiving or contracting something that doesn’t have a cure is serious as all get out. That’s why, especially when it comes to casual sex, you want to make sure that you go into the act as level-headed as possible — and you can only really do that if/when you are sober.
2. You can clearly articulate your needs and expectations. We’ve all seen a movie (or personally know someone) where a woman got tipsy and wanted to do certain sexual things; however, as alcohol began to affect her system even more, she wasn’t sure if she wanted to go further or not. When you’re sober, it’s so much easier to articulate what you want/don’t want and what your expectations are. T
hat said, there are so many people who have sex-related regrets and a big part of the reason is because alcohol totally clouded their judgment and sometimes altered their thoughts and words. Definitely something to (always) keep in mind when it comes to consuming alcohol in the presence of others.
3. You’re more present. I also want to make sure that I touch on some of the things that prompted Lovehoney to come up with sobergasms in the first place. As far as the purely pleasurable side of sex goes, ask anyone who has a satisfying situation in their bedroom and I’m willing to bet that one thing that they will advise is to not overthink the experience and to remain in the moment.
When you’re intoxicated, your mind tends to be all over the place. When you’re sober-minded, it’s easier to remain focused.
4. Sex definitely tends to be more pleasurable. I’ve already shared with you that you are wetter and it’s easier for you to climax when you don’t have a lot of alcohol in your system. A part of the reason is that, since your brain is your biggest sex organ, it’s important to keep in mind that alcohol has a way of negatively affecting the communication pathways of your brain; when that happens, it can cause your moods to become erratic and you tend to become less coordinated too.
Not well-lubricated. Not climaxing. In a bad mood. Do those that sound like the keys to an awesome sexual experience? Right…absolutely not.
5. There is a lot less regret. Once you have sex with someone, you can’t take it back. That’s why it’s so important that you go into the act feeling like this is something that you really want to do (the person and the acts included); you significantly decrease the chances of you having this type of certainty when you’re not sober. And sexual regret can sometimes be one of the hardest things to get past.
____
Sobergasms. Although there seem to be new terms that come up daily, one that I can definitely get behind is that. Because it encourages everyone to be sober-minded and sexually responsible in order to ultimately have a more fulfilling sexual experience.
And I will certainly raise a mocktail to that.
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