In the early hours of 25 July, our next New Moon arrives. From an astrological perspective, it offers a refreshing and welcome reprieve from the retrograde clash currently taking place. Here's what you need to know.

When is the July New Moon?

The New Moon will technically fall on 25 July for Australians. But the exact time that the Moon disappears from the sky depends on your time zone. For Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Hobart, the New Moon comes at 5:11am AEST. Darwin and Adelaide can expect it at 4:41 am, while in Perth, it will arrive at 3:11 am.

Of course, with this early, early morning timing, the Moon will appear to be new on the evening of the 24 July; even if the exact moment it disappears is technically on the following day.

What will the July New Moon in Leo mean for you?

New Moons are considered a point of emotional reset. The reason why so many pay attention to the movement of the Moon (sometimes more so than the current season of the Sun) is that the Moon rules over our inner and emotional selves. It is a celestial body deeply connected to our intuition, our deepest feelings and emotional energy. So, when the Moon is full, we feel invigorated, energetic and maybe even moody or tense. But when the Moon is new, it's as if the volume has been turned down and our inner dialogue is quieter and less chaotic.

In this way, New Moons are the energetic low point of the Moon Cycle. The point where we can bring the previous cycle and its themes to a tidy close, and prepare ourselves for a fresh chapter. Think of it as a way to wipe your emotional slate clean and feel renewed. In addition to their cleansing energy, New Moons are also a moment that invite manifestations. Arguably, this is the best point in the Moon Cycle to set intentions and focus on bringing your dreams into reality. Light a candle, journal, meditate or simply write your manifestations in a notepad. Whatever helps you clearly articulate your intentions for the future.

As the Moon will be in Leo at this time, we will be reminded that there is a deep comfort to be found in being our true selves. Leo is ordinarily a sign that craves attention and when its influence falls over the Moon, it can make us desire praise and approval. But these sentiments will feel empty if they are gained through a false projection of who we are. Instead, wrap yourself in the confidence offered by the Fire sign and choose to be exactly who you are. It means any connection or praise you receive will be ultimately more meaningful.

On the other side of this self-confidence boost, you will need to be mindful of how you accept feedback and constructive criticism at this time. Leo energy is notoriously headstrong, and if you already have strong Aries or Leo placements in your charts, you may feel less receptive to the ideas of others and convinced it's your way or the highway. You need to remember that feedback when delivered by someone who has your best interests at heart –whether that be your partner, a friend or your manager at work – should not be immediately rejected. The emotional calmness brought about by the New Moon and the confidence of Leo means that critique can feel a little like water off a duck's back. This is not necessarily a bad thing. But at the same time, take a moment to sit with constructive words, rather than immediately tossing them aside.

Mercury is in retrograde and Venus squares off against Mars

Elsewhere in the sky, Mercury has just recently joined Saturn, Neptune and Pluto for a backwards spin across the sky. And this particular Mercury Retrograde is hitting us right in our interpersonal relationships. There is a tug-of-war between your needs and the needs of those around you, and in many instances, selfishness is coming out on top. You will need to carefully manage your reaction to these situations so as not to cause a ripple effect. Think before you speak, and take extra time to mull over any difficult conversations.

While our inner selves will be feeling the Moon's pull toward authenticity and a quiet, cleansing confidence, we will also have to contend with a Venus Mars square. This volatile placement hits us directly in our love lives, heightening libido and keeping sex on the brain at all times. It's never been more true that there is a fine line between love and hate. This particular aspect reads exactly like a romance novel where enemies might just end up becoming lovers. Any sexual tension may finally come to a head at this time, like releasing the a pressure valve. And while any relationships formed around this time haven't exactly been built to last, there's no shame in enjoying the moment.

Image: Maryia Shedava on Unsplash