Finding Alignment: Cancer–Leo Cusp

Helping us navigate this planetary transition

I find myself once again reflecting on how much change is taking place in both our inner and outer worlds. Whatever unfolds, I believe the more aligned we are with ourselves, the more gracefully we can meet life's challenges.

Many astrologers point to this time as being influenced by several significant planetary movements, as well as the transition between the signs of Cancer and Leo—the astrological cusp. There are plenty of excellent sources exploring the astrology behind this shift.

Rather than focus on the planets themselves, I'd like to turn to the Tarot. The Major Arcana offers two powerful archetypes that correspond with these signs: The Chariot (Cancer) and Strength (Leo). Both cards speak to our capacity to overcome obstacles, yet they express that power in very different ways.

I'll also pull a Tarot card to offer guidance on how we can stay aligned while moving through this transition.

The Chariot encourages us to take the reins of our lives with calm confidence. It reminds us to act with purpose, trust our intuition, and move forward with determination while remaining emotionally centered.

Strength, on the other hand, invites us to harness our inner fire—our passion, courage, and instinctive energy. While Strength is about gathering up our forceful energy – our passion, lust and courage. It utilizes using mind over matter.

VII Chariot

• Qualities: gaining control, “getting one’s act together,” confidence, triumph, overcoming obstacles by will

• Element: Water

• Anatomy: chest

• Astrology: Cancer

• Reversed: a control freak

• Musings: change, induced growth

VIII Strength

• Qualities: asserting will, power, strong desires, intense emotions, courage to take risks

• Element: Fire

• Anatomy: solar plexus

• Astrology: Leo

• Reversed: overpowering, overwhelming

• Musings: lustful, passionate, exciting, and willful

Elementally, The Chariot moves through the qualities of Water, while Strength expresses the transformative energy of Fire.

To support us in staying aligned while navigating change, I pulled the Nine of Earth.

The Nine of Earth reminds us of the joy that comes from being fully present in our lives. It speaks of contentment, confidence, maturity, and the satisfaction of living in harmony with who we are. Rather than striving for more, this card encourages us to appreciate what is already flourishing.

Nine of Earth

• Expressive Movement Qualities: Earth with Earth

• Dance Pace: Moderate

• Chakra: Earth/Root — grounding and stability

• Physical Focus: Lower abdomen

• Astrological Influence: Venus in Virgo

• Intention: Embrace the delight already present in your life.

• Movement Invitation: Imagine yourself walking through a beautiful, well-tended garden. Pause to smell the flowers and appreciate what you have.