Hitting the snooze button this time of year is compelling. Between the cold winter mornings, the shorter days and a bed so warm it beckons you to stay, it can be hard to resist that internal voice urging you to stay cozied up a little bit longer. As we move past the Winter Solstice, the days gradually grow longer, signalling a time of renewal and growth. This aligns perfectly with the nurturing energy of the upcoming new moon in Cancer.

Even though this week’s new moon is in the comforting and nurturing zodiac sign of Cancer, it’s not the time to retreat home with your favourite takeout and rom-com. Instead, it’s your celestial invitation to put your needs first and create new habits that promote self-care and well-being. As much as I’d love to say this is an opportune time to Feng shui your home (which you can if you want to), it’s actually a potent time to dive into your emotions and explore what's currently driving you, cultivating willpower in the process. The new moon is on 6 July 2024 at 8.57 am AEDT. Here’s how you can use it to level up.

The significance of the Cancer new moon

You don't need to be an astrologer to harness the energy of the lunar cycles. Knowing the new and full moon dates in a lunar calendar month can act as powerful reminders. New moons are a beneficial time to create new goals and set intentions, whereas a full moon acts as a check-in point representing a moment to make any adjustments to finish the month strong. When we have a new moon in Cancer, it's an ideal time to embrace our internal world, our emotions and our intuition. It presents a moment for us to reflect on current rituals and routines and ask ourselves, "Am I just going through the motions and do I require a routine reset?" With Venus also in Cancer during this lunation, the focus on relationships and self-love intensifies. Venus encourages us to nurture our connections while reminding us that true harmony begins with taking care of ourselves. It's about prioritising the connection with your inner self and recharging your emotional batteries for the ultimate health reset.

How to put yourself first for your zodiac sign

Fire Signs: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

Fire signs, you are known to be dry and hot in Astrology. This means you have a strong desire for independence and passion. Harness this energy by focusing on group activities; join a new fitness class or look for a strength training activity that promotes healthy competition. If you’re looking to overhaul your nutrition, opt for nourishing your body with protein-rich foods. You're also known to easily cultivate energy and vitality, so consider swapping coffee for Matcha or tea one day a week if you've been reaching for that second or third cup of coffee!

Earth Signs: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

Earth signs, you are known to be cold and dry in Astrology. This means you tend to slow down at certain times of the year to conserve vitality. Harness this energy by focusing on nourishing your body from the inside out. Avoid too many starchy vegetables or foods high in sugar and instead opt for leafy green vegetables and keep your water bottle full to stay hydrated. You're also known to have a practical and grounded nature, so get organised and book your workouts in ahead of time, so you don't stay stagnant for too long and feel lethargic because of it.

Air Signs: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

Air signs, you are known to be warm and moist in Astrology. This means you're receptive to the world around you, and connectivity (in all forms) is a great source of expansion. Harness this energy by incorporating movement into your day, so you don't spend too much time in your head or staring at a screen. A 10-minute walk after every meal is a great way for you to take advantage of this. You're also known to be intellectual and filled with ideas, so consider switching to red lighting at sunset to support your nervous system and promote melatonin production for a good night's sleep.

Water Signs: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

Water signs, you're known to be cold and moist in Astrology. This means you're sensitive and emotional, likely even feeling sleepier this time of the year. Harness this energy by prioritising mindfulness practices and incorporating them into your daily routines. Listen to music, engage in guided meditations, or take long magnesium salt baths to restore your equilibrium. You're also known to be more susceptible to the common cold or flu, so turn up the heat with regular sauna sessions or opt for spicy foods, as both will strengthen your immune system.

Kristy Gray is an Astrologer who helps you attain your desires using the power of your stars. Through her signature formula, Astrostrategy®, Kristy combines essential tools, profound insights, and empowering actions to help you gain momentum and step into your potential. Ready to explore astrology for deeper self-exploration? Your celestial initiation starts here.