The summer solstice and the full moon in Sagittarius

June brings two events many of us like to mark: the full moon on June 3 and the summer solstice on June 21. Together they’re a chance to reflect, let go of what we’re done with, and set intentions for what comes next.

The full moon on June 3

Astrologers place this full moon in Sagittarius, the sign of the Archer. In astrology, Sagittarius stands for exploration, truth and optimism, a thirst for knowledge and a wider view. Its full moon is read as a time to take a leap of faith and go after what’s true for you.

Astrologers also point to the rest of the sky that week:

• Mars is in Leo, in a trine with the full moon. In astrology Mars is courage and action, and Leo adds boldness and creative expression. Astrologers read the pairing as fuel for facing what scares us and turning it into strength.
• Venus, in Cancer, sits opposite Pluto, in Aquarius. Astrologers link Venus with love and Pluto with transformation, and they read the opposition as a time to look tenderly at old heartaches, see what they taught us, and turn that pain into wisdom.
• Jupiter is in Taurus and Saturn in Pisces. Astrologers call Jupiter the ruler of Sagittarius and read it here as a call to slow down and savor our growth, while Saturn, the planet of discipline in astrology, asks us to look at our commitments.

The summer solstice on June 21

The summer solstice is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, and after it the days start getting shorter. People around the world have long celebrated it, and many of us take it as a symbol of light at its fullest: a time to enjoy the season, celebrate how far we’ve come, and recognize our own light.

Because it’s a turning point in the sun’s yearly cycle, the solstice also works as a marker of transition, a time to leave behind what we don’t need and move toward what’s new.

Sun and moon together

Many people read the pair as a balance. The full moon asks us to seek truth and face our fears; the solstice invites us into the light. The sun stands for action and the moon for reflection, so this is a time both to act on what we’ve learned and to pause and reassess.

Some ways to use it:

• Set intentions. Write down what you want, and spend some time meditating on it.
• Let go of what holds you back: outdated beliefs, fears, old blocks.
• Connect with other people. Full moons and the solstice have long been times for gathering, so share what you’re learning and listen to what others are learning too.
• Get outside. Notice the long summer light, and step out at night to see the full moon.
• Look honestly at your beliefs, fears and dreams. Acknowledge how you’ve grown, and notice where you still have work to do.

As we go through this time, let’s remember to be patient with ourselves.