Cancer

Cancer is the fourth sign, a cardinal water sign ruled by the Moon. It embodies the archetype of the mother, the home, and the emotional foundations of life. Think of the person who remembers exactly what you ordered last time and has a blanket ready before you mention you're cold. That's Cancer at full strength. The Sun transits Cancer from late June through July, beginning at the summer solstice when daylight peaks then starts its retreat -- fitting for a sign that creates warm, enclosed spaces against the outer world. At its best, Cancer offers unconditional nurturing and emotional intelligence. Its challenges include moodiness, clinginess, and emotional manipulation when threatened. Jupiter is exalted here, expanding Cancer's generosity. Mars is in fall -- direct aggression doesn't come naturally, so Cancer fights sideways, through guilt or silence. Moon in Cancer is fully at home, giving a powerful emotional radar that picks up what others are feeling before a word is spoken.