Welcome to Leo Season
Welcome to Leo Season
July 22-August 22
As time moves deeper into the Summer months, we emerge from the cool, comforting shell of Cancer, and courageously step out into the warm, sun-lit world of Leo. During this time, we shift from the element of water, which always flows to the lowest point, to the element of fire where the flames are always lifting upward. With this upward movement towards the Heavens, more than any other element, Fire resides in the realm of Spirit.
Fire, Fixed, Yang
Fire is born from a spark of light. Something ignites it. It requires fuel to burn, and as fuel is added, it burns bigger and brighter. A key theme of this element is inspired transformation.
All of the fire signs have a yang, extroverted quality. They naturally exude warmth and light. At their best, they dance through the world with confidence, inspired and expressive. At their worst, fire burns out of control, leaving a path of destruction.
Leo’s contribution to the Fire signs is that of joyful, heart-centered self-expression. They shine brightest in their authenticity, exuding playfulness, enthusiastically sharing their light with the world. The challenge comes when their presence becomes an image to maintain rather than true self-expression.
As a fixed sign, Leos embody a capacity for sustained energy and unwavering commitment. Once a Leo commits to a path, they demonstrate exceptional loyalty, often to a fault. This dedication extends to their relationships, as they also expect the same high level of loyalty from friends, family, and loved ones.
Leo's transformative nature manifests as a gradual, evolutionary process throughout their lives. Their personal growth is slow, steady, and consistent, telling a powerful story of continuous self-evolution. This is key to understanding the Leo archetype.
Ruled by
The Sun
In Astrology, the Sun represents the fundamental essence and the central organizing principle of one’s being. The Sun is the creative life force that shines on all things equally without review, requirement or expectation.
The Sun is a luminary, and its primary gift is that of illumination. It is a steady, constant source of light. Throughout time, in many mythologies and religious traditions, awareness and consciousness is symbolized by light.
In the birth chart, the Sun is the heart of the chart, the wellspring from which everything originates and to which it ultimately returns. It embodies the core identity, the unique gifts and individual talents, as well as the trials and tribulations one encounters during the life journey.
It's important to understand that the Sun, and the sense of self, may not be immediately apparent, particularly early in life. It can be undeveloped, obscured by layers of cultural and familial conditioning. While one might assume you simply "are" your Sun sign, the reality is that you grow into your Sun sign.
Often, this growth is catalyzed by challenging experiences that compels you to confront the difficulties of your natal Sun. Many times, it is through realizing and embracing the gifts of the Sun that you overcome the obstacle. This process requires a conscious decision to fully step onto the path of pure potential, embarking on a personal "solar journey."
Understanding this journey is crucial to grasping the Sun's role in life. It fuels the individuation process and holds the key to self-development over time. The lifelong pursuit of self-awareness and conscious identity development is central to comprehending the Sun's profound contribution to your life.
“The old fashioned images of kings and queens beloved of fairy tales are well suited to Leo...majestic, proud, at best having a sense of their own dignity, at worst seeming rather self-important, haughty, and proud. Just as a king can only be king if he is recognized as such by loyal and faithful subjects, achieving some kind of recognition from others is key to the Leoine psychology. ”
The Leo Gift: The King & The Queen Archetypes
The King or Queen archetype is central to understanding the sign of Leo, a sign that embodies a fascinating blend of regality, charisma, and a deep-seated need for affirmation. It's a powerful archetype, resonating strongly with Leo's ruling planet, the Sun.
Just as the Sun is the center of the solar system, Leos naturally gravitate towards a central role. They are often the magnetic force around which social circles, projects, or family dynamics revolve. This isn't necessarily an egoic grab for power, but a natural emanation of their confident and charismatic energy.
There's an innate sense of authority and leadership that comes with the Leo King/Queen. They inspire confidence and are often capable of rallying others towards a common goal. The Leo thrives on being seen and acknowledged. This isn't superficial vanity; it's a fundamental expression of their solar energy. They want their unique gifts, talents, and contributions to be recognized and celebrated.
Leos are known to be incredibly generous, both materially and emotionally. They possess a large heart and a desire to uplift and empower those around them. Like a benevolent monarch, the Leo archetype feels a strong sense of responsibility for their "kingdom" – their loved ones, community, or even their creative projects. They are fiercely loyal and protective of those they care about, offering a safe and encouraging space.
Known for their authentic self-expression and passion, Leos can be incredibly inspiring people! The Leo King/Queen encourages others to find their own light by showing what's possible when one fully embraces their authentic self. In essence, the Leo King/Queen archetype is about owning one's unique brilliance, leading with a warm and generous heart, and courageously embracing the spotlight, not just for personal glorification, but to inspire and uplift the world around them.
The Leo Paradox: Beyond the Spotlight
When considering the way that Leos frequently take on a central role in their families, communities, or professions, it's easy to misinterpret this as a purely ego-driven need for attention. While this might occasionally be true, I believe there's a deeper, more vulnerable dynamic at play.
It takes immense courage to step into the spotlight and boldly share your authentic voice—a quintessential Leo image. In these moments, they are at the mercy of their audience, with no guarantee of applause or praise. Therefore, a significant shadow aspect of the Leo dynamic isn't just about seeking attention; it's about a profound need to feel loved, appreciated, validated, and praised by others.
“The “I know what’s best for you” pattern afflicts many otherwise warm-hearted and honourable Leos. They mean well. Really, they do. Their advice is helpful, and they offer it freely, and are incredibly generous with their time and their efforts to assist you. The trouble is, you might not have asked for it. Sometimes that generosity is genuine, and nobody in the world can be as generous and open-handed as Leo. But when the shadow creeps in, it isn’t all genuine. There’s an ulterior motive at work....Leo loves to be needed; he loves to feel people depend on him.”
This underlying need can sometimes lead Leos to gravitate toward situations where validation and praise are guaranteed. They might take on the role of a savior or hero, subtly creating a sense of indebtedness in others, thereby solidifying loyalty and affection. Even more challenging, this role of hero or savior then becomes an image that they must maintain. Collecting needy people and rescuing victims, or offering advice, becomes a shadow dynamic of image maintenance and superiority.
Ultimately, the Leo's drive to be at the center of the action—delegating tasks, leading the charge—comes with the inherent risk of being disliked or unappreciated, which is incredibly challenging for them. Beneath their outwardly proud and confident demeanor lies a deep-seated fear of not being liked or valued. It's precisely this vulnerability that defines their true courage: the ability to face that fear and still bravely step into a leadership role.
The Leo King/Queen archetype is not something one is born fully into, but rather a journey of self-realization. It involves consciously developing self-worth, refining one's unique talents, and learning to lead with integrity and authenticity. The ultimate goal is to embody true inner sovereignty – to rule one's own "inner kingdom" with wisdom, generosity, and a secure sense of self-worth that isn't solely dependent on external applause. This means recognizing their inherent value, even when the audience isn't cheering.
Journaling Questions for your Consideration:
Identify the Leo house of your chart. How does the Leo part of your chart tell a story of slow, steady, and consistent transformation?
How does it hold a central storyline that’s been developing all along?
What does authentic self expression mean to you? And how do you step into it?
Where do you play the hero? How does this guarantee loyalty?
What is your relationship to the King or Queen archetype? Where is your kingdom? Who are you faithful subjects?
What type of King or Queen are you? What characteristics do you lead with?
What inspires you and how can you share it with the world?
Go outside in the sunshine. Play. Be joyful.
Important Dates to Consider During Leo Season
July 22 2025- Sun Enters Leo, Moon in Cancer
July 24 2025- New Moon at 2-Leo opposite Pluto at 2-Aquarius
July 31 2025- Venus enters Cancer
August 7- Mars Enters Libra
August 9- Full Moon in Aquarius
August 11- Mercury in Leo stations direct
August 12- Venus conjunct Jupiter in Cancer
