Weekly Energy Forecast: July 21–27,2025 "The Sharp Edge of Truth"

"Spirit and Truth" - Delores Develde

There are certain weeks in our lives when the energy flows like a gentle tide, guiding you softly toward what’s next, almost as if the universe is conspiring to ease your journey forward. This week, however, is decidedly not one of those weeks. Instead, this is a week where words land hard, like stones thrown into a still pond, creating ripples that disrupt the calm. It is a time when choices resonate with a profound echo, reverberating through your mind and heart long after they are made. The tension is palpable, and your nervous system can feel the friction before you even open your mouth to speak, as if the very air is charged with the weight of unspoken truths and unresolved conflicts.

The Five of Swords rises prominently as the central archetype during this tumultuous time — a card that serves as a symbol not just of conflict and strife, but of the often overlooked consequences that emerge in the aftermath of such battles. This card poses critical questions that demand our attention: What are you truly fighting for in this moment? What have you already sacrificed or lost in this ongoing struggle? And, perhaps most importantly, is the cost of remaining entrenched in this battle truly worth the bruises, both visible and invisible, that you may sustain? It challenges us to reflect on the nature of our conflicts and to consider whether victory is worth the toll it takes on our well-being and relationships.

Last week’s Mercury turn to retrograde in Leo served as a significant spark, igniting a period of introspection and reevaluation. It compelled us to pause mid-sentence, to take a moment to reconsider the narratives we are spinning and the egoic impulses that drive us to insist on being right at all costs. This retrograde phase is not merely a time of confusion; it is an opportunity for clarity, urging us to examine the stories we tell ourselves and the motivations behind our actions. Adding to this complex energetic landscape is Saturn’s retrograde in Aries, which brings an additional layer of weight and responsibility. It demands that we approach our lives with integrity, urging us to take ownership of our choices and to act with a sense of duty toward ourselves and those around us. And now, as the Sun enters Leo, it casts a bolder, more declarative light on the emotional and relational messes we have left in our wake, illuminating areas that require healing and resolution.

Together, these energies create a powerful reckoning, one that invites us not to fight harder in our conflicts but to listen deeper to the underlying currents of our emotions and relationships. It is a call to engage in self-reflection and to seek understanding rather than further discord. This week, the universe encourages us to slow down, to take a breath, and to truly hear the voices of those around us, as well as our own inner voice that may have been drowned out by the noise of conflict.

Sometimes, the real strength lies not in the relentless pursuit of victory but in the courageous act of walking away — not out of defeat or resignation, but in a devoted commitment to your own peace and well-being. Recognizing when to disengage from a battle that no longer serves you is an act of wisdom and self-love. It is about prioritizing your mental and emotional health over the need to prove a point or win an argument. In doing so, you may find that true empowerment comes from choosing peace over conflict, allowing space for healing and growth to flourish.

Current Energetic Climate

The Five of Swords isn’t always a welcome guest, but it is an honest one, often arriving at moments when we least expect it. This card serves as a full on reminder of the consequences that arise when we’ve expressed too much or, conversely, when we’ve held back our thoughts and feelings. It highlights the emotional turmoil that can develop when we find ourselves rooted in relationships, contracts, or roles that demand we shrink, contort, or compromise our core values, all in the name of maintaining harmony or keeping the peace. The irony lies in the fact that, while we might think we are winning the argument or securing a temporary truce, the reality is that such victories often leave everyone involved feeling wounded and emotionally drained. The aftermath of these encounters can feel like a battlefield, where the scars of conflict linger long after the dust has settled.

This card is undeniably one of tension—both inner and outer. The energy it brings can manifest as heightened miscommunications, where misunderstandings bubble to the surface, causing egos to flare up and old wounds to be reopened. In these moments, the air is thick with unresolved issues and unspoken words, creating an atmosphere that can feel charged and volatile. However, beneath this tumultuous exterior lies a deeper invitation: a call to examine where you are investing your energy in ways that no longer serve your true self. It encourages you to reflect on whether the need to prove your point or to be right is overshadowing the more critical aspect of protecting your inner peace and emotional well-being. With Mercury in retrograde, communication becomes even more precarious; words may be misinterpreted, messages may go unsent, and past conversations may resurface—not as a means of torment, but as an opportunity for growth and a chance to respond with greater awareness and consciousness than before.

This week, the focus shifts away from the need to be right and instead emphasizes the importance of being real and authentic. It’s about taking ownership of your role in the dynamics at play without sacrificing your own sense of self in the process. This is a pivotal moment to reassess how you engage with others and to strive for a more genuine connection that honors your true feelings and beliefs.

As the Sun prepares to transition into Leo, you are called to show up boldly, but with a heart full of integrity and authenticity. Leo, the sign that embodies sovereignty, self-worth, and the courage to shine brightly, also serves as a reminder to be wary of performative power. Instead, it urges you to embrace a form of radiance that is rooted in authenticity rather than mere appearances. This is a time to celebrate your individuality and to express your true self in a way that uplifts not only you but those around you as well. The energy of Leo invites you to step into your power, but it also emphasizes the importance of doing so with compassion and a genuine connection to your heart’s desires.

Key Astrological Influences

Mercury Retrograde in Leo (began July 17) - This retrograde phase presents a significant challenge to the way we express ourselves and communicate. In the fiery sign of Leo, Mercury retrograde brings forth deep-seated stories about visibility, the need for validation, and an innate desire to be genuinely heard and understood by others. During this period, you may find yourself tempted to either speak impulsively without fully considering your words or, conversely, to withdraw entirely from conversations and interactions. The key to navigating this energy lies in the practice of pausing — not out of fear or apprehension, but from a place of commitment to achieving clarity and understanding. This is an opportunity to reflect on what leadership, self-expression, and courage truly mean to you on a personal level. It encourages you to be courageous enough to revisit difficult conversations that may have been left unresolved. Furthermore, it calls for a generous spirit to forgive any misunderstandings that may arise, particularly when pride takes the forefront of communication.

Saturn Retrograde in Aries (began July 13) - The retrograde of Saturn in the bold sign of Aries brings with it a slow, steady heat that can feel like a spiritual bootcamp focused on maturity, resilience, and the right use of willpower. Aries, known for its desire for action and immediate results, finds itself in a tug of war with Saturn, who imposes a ‘not yet’ energy. This dynamic encourages you to strip away the layers of what you’ve been pursuing and to rebuild your aspirations from a foundation of integrity and authenticity. This retrograde period invites you to confront essential questions: Are your goals truly rooted in your ego, or are they reflective of your essence? Are you actively leading your life in a purposeful direction, or are you merely reacting to past wounds and traumas? If feelings of frustration arise during this time, allow them to serve as a tool for refining your focus and intentions. Remember, Saturn is not merely a punisher; rather, it acts as an architect, helping you to construct what is real and meaningful in your life.

Sun in Leo (July 22) - As the Sun enters Leo, its home sign, we are invited to return to the essence of our hearts. The energy of Leo encourages you to take up space in the world, but to do so with a sense of soulfulness and authenticity. Following the emotional currents of Cancer season, the arrival of Leo reawakens a sense of confidence, ignites our creative fire, and brings forth joy. However, it also prompts us to engage in necessary introspection regarding our identity, leadership roles, and visibility in the world. How do you express yourself genuinely without resorting to protective armor? How can you show up boldly and authentically while ensuring you do not harm others or yourself in the process? Leo season teaches us that true power emanates from within; it is not derived from external applause or validation, but rather from a deep alignment with our true selves.

New Moon in Leo (July 24) - This New Moon shines brightly through the heart-center, illuminating the potential for new beginnings. In Leo, the sign that embodies sovereignty, creativity, and the essence of the inner child, this lunation serves as a cosmic reset — a profound call to return home to your inherent power, radiance, and self-worth. It invites you to plant seeds that are deeply rooted not in the need for performance, but in a foundation of authenticity and genuine self-expression.

This moment is not merely about being seen for what you do; it is about being recognized and appreciated for who you truly are at your core. Following last week’s initiation of Mercury retrograde and the onset of Saturn’s reflective journey, the Leo New Moon serves as a reminder that clarity does not always emerge from the intellect. Instead, it often arises from the depths of the heart. Allow your deepest desires to resonate more powerfully than your doubts and uncertainties. Let joy serve as your guiding compass during this transformative time. This moon phase is a potent opportunity for setting intentions related to creative expression, cultivating self-trust and visibility, healing the inner child, embracing bold heart-led leadership, and releasing the habit of people-pleasing in order to reclaim your inner light. However, it is important to note that with Mercury still in retrograde, there is wisdom in holding your intentions with a sense of softness and gentleness. Avoid the urge to force a manifestation; instead, focus on how you can embody your intentions. Show the universe the person you are becoming — not by shouting your aspirations from the rooftops, but by demonstrating your commitment to living in alignment with your truth.

This lunation gently whispers to you: Let your light take up space. Allow your heart to be your guiding force.

Themes for the Week

The Truth After the Battle - The Five of Swords serves as a powerful reminder that conflict often leads to profound clarity. This week is bound to bring a series of intense and sharp conversations that force you to confront difficult truths about yourself. You might find yourself engaged in inner reckonings that reveal where you’ve compromised your own values or betrayed your own needs in the pursuit of maintaining peace with others. It’s important to acknowledge the grief that may accompany these realizations; allowing yourself to feel this sorrow is a critical step in the healing process. However, it’s important to avoid spiraling into despair. Instead, focus on alchemizing these difficult truths into something transformative. Recognize that these insights are not punishments; rather, they are clean cuts that help to remove the clutter from your life, paving the way for clearer boundaries and a deeper sense of self-respect. Embrace this opportunity for growth, as it can lead to a more authentic and empowered version of yourself.

Leadership Without the Mask - As both Saturn and Mercury are in retrograde, coupled with the vibrant energy of the Leo sun, there is a powerful invitation to revisit and redefine what authentic leadership truly means in various aspects of your life — including your work, your relationships, and your inner world. Take a moment to reflect: Are you merely performing strength, putting on a façade to project an image of confidence, or are you genuinely living it from a place of authenticity? Consider whether you are seeking recognition for the mask you wear or for the truth that lies beneath it. This week presents a unique challenge to lead without the pretense of a mask. It calls for you to take up space confidently without overshadowing or silencing the voices of others around you. Strive to be bold in your actions and decisions, but do so with compassion and understanding, avoiding any brutality that may arise from unchecked power. This is an opportunity to cultivate a leadership style that is both authentic and inclusive, allowing your true self to shine through.

Restoring the Inner Sovereign - With the Sun in Leo, we are reminded that true sovereignty is not synonymous with dominance or control, rather, it is fundamentally about devotion to oneself and to one’s values. Reflect on the choices you would make if you genuinely believed you were deserving of care, joy, and ease in your life. Consider where you have been silencing your inner truth in order to maintain harmony with others, and ponder the potential transformations that could occur if you were to stop doing so. This week is an opportune time to reclaim your space, your voice, and your self-respect — not through forceful actions, but through a fierce alignment with your true self. Embrace the power of devotion to your own needs and desires, allowing that energy to guide you towards a more authentic existence. Your sovereignty is a reflection of your commitment to honor yourself, and it is time to step into that power with confidence.

Knowing When to Walk Away - The Five of Swords imparts one of the most challenging lessons of all - sometimes, the greatest power lies in the ability to retreat. This retreat should not be viewed as a sign of defeat, but rather as an exercise in discernment and wisdom. It is crucial to recognize when a conversation or a conflict is no longer yielding fruitful outcomes. Understand when the fight you are engaged in is costing you more than it is worth, and learn to identify those moments when the situation compels you to choose between your peace of mind and your pride. In those instances, prioritize your peace. Let the act of walking away be seen as your personal revolution, a statement of self-respect and self-preservation. Embracing this lesson can empower you to make choices that align with your true values and well-being, reinforcing your commitment to living authentically.

Tarot Insight: Five of Swords

Light Seer's Tarot - Chris-Anne

The Five of Swords serves as a profound reminder of a painful yet pivotal truth in our lives — that not every battle we encounter is worth engaging in, and not every victory we achieve carries the sweetness of success. This card encapsulates the complexity of conflict and the nuanced nature of human interactions, highlighting that sometimes, the cost of winning can outweigh the benefits.

When we go deeper into the meaning of the Five of Swords, we discover its capacity to illuminate the necessity of confronting toxic patterns that may have taken root in our lives. It encourages us to name unspoken truths that linger in the shadows, often causing more harm than good. This card can act as a catalyst for change, urging us to walk away from situations, relationships, or environments that have become corrosive to our well-being. The liberation it offers comes not without a price; clarity may bring forth feelings of grief as we acknowledge what we must leave behind. Yet, this clarity is essential for personal growth and healing, as it allows us to reclaim our power and prioritize our mental health.

In its shadow aspect, the Five of Swords serves as a cautionary tale against the perils of fighting merely for the sake of being right. It sheds light on the phenomenon of empty victories, where the triumph may leave us feeling hollow and unfulfilled. The card speaks to the bruised egos that often accompany such conflicts and the scorched earth left in the wake of relentless battles. It poses critical questions: What are you truly trying to prove in these confrontations? And at what cost are you willing to pursue this need for validation? The card invites introspection, urging us to consider whether the temporary satisfaction of winning is worth the long-term consequences on our relationships and our self-esteem.

This week, take a moment to observe where your nervous system feels heightened — those moments when your heart races, your palms sweat, or your mind spirals into anxiety. Pay attention to conversations that seem to lead nowhere, where misunderstandings fester and resentment simmers just beneath the surface. Let these instances serve as indicators of deeper issues at play; they are not invitations to escalate tensions but rather opportunities to pause and reflect. Remember, you don’t have to win every argument or prove your point at all costs. The true challenge lies in maintaining your sense of wholeness and integrity amidst conflict. Prioritize your emotional well-being over fleeting victories, and choose the path that leads to peace rather than discord.

Ritual for the Week: “The Sovereign’s Mirror”

You will need:

• A mirror (handheld or full-length)

• A candle

• A journal

  
  

Step One: Create the space

Begin this transformative journey by lighting a candle, allowing its gentle flicker to cast a warm glow in your surroundings. Find a comfortable seat before your mirror, a reflective surface that will not only show your image but also serve as a portal into your inner self. As you settle into this space, take a moment to breathe deeply, inhaling the calming scents of the candle and exhaling the distractions of the outside world. Gaze softly into your own eyes, allowing yourself to truly see who you are beyond the roles you play and the masks you wear. Let the noise of daily life fall away, creating a sanctuary of silence where you can connect with your authentic self. This is your moment to cultivate stillness, to embrace the serenity that comes from self-acceptance and awareness.

Step Two: Speak your truth

With the space now sacred and your mind quieted, it is time to speak your truth aloud. Say with intention: “This is who I am when I’m not performing.” Allow your voice to resonate in the air, each word a declaration of your authentic identity. Speak to yourself as you are — messy, radiant, whole. Acknowledge the complexities of your being, the beautiful imperfections that make you uniquely you. Take this opportunity to name the truths you’ve been swallowing, the thoughts and feelings you’ve hidden away for fear of judgment or misunderstanding. Let your voice reclaim space in your life, filling the room with honesty and vulnerability. This act of self-affirmation is not only liberating but also a powerful step towards embracing your true self.

Step Three: Journal

Transitioning from spoken words to written reflections, take a moment to gather your thoughts and feelings in a journal. Reflect on what you’re no longer willing to fight for in your life — perhaps it’s the need for validation, the pressure to conform, or the exhaustion of living up to others’ expectations. Acknowledge these burdens and release them onto the pages. Simultaneously, contemplate what you are ready to protect at all costs. This could be your peace of mind, your creative expression, or the relationships that genuinely nourish your soul. Write freely, allowing your pen to flow without judgment or restraint. This exercise is not just about documenting your thoughts; it’s about creating a tangible record of your journey towards self-discovery and empowerment.

Step Four: Seal it

Conclude this profound exercise with a powerful affirmation that encapsulates your commitment to yourself: “I do not fight to be seen. I stand in my truth, and that is enough.” Repeat this affirmation with conviction, feeling the weight of each word settle into your being. Let it serve as a reminder of your inherent worth, independent of external validation. As you seal this experience, visualize the energy of your truth radiating outward, reinforcing your sense of self and your decision to live authentically. Embrace the knowledge that standing in your truth is a courageous act, one that not only empowers you but also inspires others to do the same.

Affirmation for the Week

“I protect my peace with clarity and compassion. I lead with heart. I choose myself, first and always.”

"The Spirit of Truth" - Delores Develde

Final Thought

This is a week that may feel like standing in the heat of your own truth — sharp, uncomfortable, and strangely clarifying. The experience can be akin to standing in the middle of a blazing sun, where every ray illuminates the shadows that you’ve tried to avoid. The Five of Swords doesn’t ask you to be fearless; rather, it implores you to embrace honesty in its rawest form. It challenges you to confront the pain that has been simmering beneath the surface, to articulate what’s no longer serving you, and to recognize the compromises you’ve made within yourself — compromises that were often meant to sidestep conflict or to gain the fleeting approval of others. This week, you are encouraged to delve into the depths of your emotions and to acknowledge the truths that you may have been reluctant to face.

But you’re not here to live a life that fits neatly into other people’s expectations. This is a profound reminder that your journey is uniquely yours, and it should not be confined by the limitations or desires of those around you. It’s essential to recognize that your authenticity is paramount; it is what makes your existence vibrant and meaningful. Embracing your true self means stepping away from the mold that society or others have crafted for you and instead forging your own path, one that resonates with your inner being.

With Mercury retrograde pulling you inward, prompting reflection and introspection, and Saturn retrograde asking for structural alignment in your life, the universe is orchestrating a cosmic invitation for you to take radical responsibility. This responsibility is not about shouldering the burdens of everything and everyone around you; it is about being accountable for the integrity of your own path. The Sun now blazing through Leo serves as a powerful reminder of your inherent strength and creativity, urging you to shine brightly in your own truth while navigating the complexities of your relationships and responsibilities.

This is the week to pause before reacting, to take a moment to assess whether the conversation you’re about to enter will genuinely contribute to your personal growth or if it will merely serve to reopen old wounds that have not yet healed. It’s a time to practice mindfulness with your words, to be intentional with your energy, and to be fiercely protective of your inner peace. Allow the discomfort you feel to reveal where new boundaries are needed in your life. Let the tension that arises show you where your personal power has been leaking away, often unnoticed. And as you navigate through these feelings, let the clarity that follows be the healing balm that helps you reclaim your voice — not as a weapon to be wielded in conflict, but as a prayer that resonates with your deepest desires and truths.

You are not obligated to fight every battle that comes your way. You are not required to explain your healing journey to anyone, nor do you need to justify your choices to those who may not understand. You are allowed to walk away from situations that no longer serve you… and still call it love. This week, embrace the power of choice, and remember that prioritizing your well-being is a form of self-love that deserves to be honored.