The spirit animals for July are the Cow, Beaver, and Swordfish. Keep reading to learn more about these unique and inspiring members of the animal kingdom.

July & Spirt Animals

Summer is here, it is time to celebrate, be more carefree and enjoy the outside. Even if you are in southern hemisphere of the world, it is still a good time to celebrate the end of autumn. Wherever you are, July is all about introspection and spending time with your loved ones.

The spirit animal discussed below will help you find inner harmony and explore all aspects of yourself.

The birthstone of this month is the ruby. It’s a revered stone in most cultures around the world due to its deep red hues. The most popular symbolism of the ruby are passion, good fortune, and physical healing. These are strong themes associated with the month of July.

Furthermore, the birth flower associated with July is the water lily which symbolizes purity, pleasure, celebration, and peace.

For those of you new to this concept, a spirit animal is a spirit guide that takes on the characteristics of an animal. They are here to protect you, motivate you, guide you and help you be aware of your inner qualities.

July Animal Spiritual Guides

Practice visual meditations consistently to connect with your spirit animal. These spirit animals will help you cultivate a sense of inner freedom and guide you to practice self-care more often.

1. Cow

If you find yourself overwhelmed with work or working too hard at climbing up in the world, the cow may be the spirit animal you need. The cow can help you balance your responsibilities, perspectives, and external circumstances. It does this by giving you the strength to not lose touch with your innermost self.

The cow connects you with the feminine energy. We live in a masculine dominated world that forces us to always be on the go. The feminine energy helps to balance the masculine energy by cultivating our feelings and be aware of the feelings of others.

The cow also helps you balance your emotions, and teaches you to maturely deal with obstacles. This animal guide helps you get through the hard times of your life, by giving you the strength to persevere.

The cow is a spirit animal connected to Mother Nature. If you love being in nature and find yourself energized or at peace after being in nature, then this is a great animal guide for you.

Furthermore, the cow celebrates communal relationships, and communities doing things together. Such as going to family gatherings, community fairs, or helping the community in any way you can!

This is also a great spirt animal to accompany you if you want to reconnect with your inner child. For example, the cow celebrates when you do activities that make you feel joyous as a child. Even if it is something as mundane as playing puzzle games with your family. This is where the strength you gain with this guide comes from.

The strength comes from what would make the younger version of yourself happy and fulfilled.

Overall the cow symbolizes generosity, maturity, nurture, abundance, self-love, and strength. And since July is all about physical healing, self-care, and introspection it is not surprising that the cow made it onto this list.

2. Beaver

Beavers are colloquially known as the engineers of the ecosystem. The way it modifies its environment to suit itself is the same way these dam-builders encourage you to change your environment for your betterment.

The beaver does this by influencing you to practice self-care. For example, changing your environment by maybe remodeling your home can help you be excited for life. Excitement for life helps with manifestations as it attracts new beginnings for you.

The beaver is an animal guide that shows you how your personal space is a reflection of who you are and should look in a way that inspires you. Since this amphibious animal symbolizes creativity and wisdom, it pushes you to work with what you have and to inspire others to do the same.

Overall, the beaver symbolizes relationships, cooperation, creativity, and wisdom. This is a spirit animal that will teach you to be dedicated to your goals and to honor your own feelings in the process. The beaver does this so that you can avoid burnout.

If you are struggling with manifesting something into your life then the beaver spirit animal is the guide to awaken your manifesting abilities. The beaver encourages you to go through the motions with faith, to believe in yourself and to and take inspired action.

3. Swordfish

There isn’t one way to do self-care. There are several ways, and one of them is building up your self-esteem. This is something of which the swordfish spirit animal can help you with. The swordfish also helps you gain attention, respect and admiration from others.

The swordfish does this by awakening the part of you that adores having fun. It teaches you to be more carefree and to not hold others’ opinions of you so highly. Instead, this spirit animal encourages you to be confident, assertive and focused on self-improvement.

This spirit animal celebrates when you put your own wants and needs first, instead of what has been imposed on you. The swordfish celebrates healthy communication, and it encourages you to communicate your truth to others and yourself.

Since July is all about self-care, the swordfish is a great companion to have this month. This is a spirit animal that pushes you to create an environment for yourself that does not cause you stress. It also encourages you to enjoy every moment.

Overall, the swordfishes’ bodies are made for speed. As a spirit animal, it teaches you to cut through all the background noise and to finally hear yourself! This oceanic creature guides you to do this in a way that does not feel emotionally taxing, as a few of us use life’s background noise as a form of escapism.

Conclusion

July is a beautiful month wherever you are in the world. It’s a time of introspection and focusing on bettering oneself. The beauty of this world is hard to miss this month. With warmer weather in the northern hemisphere, and cooler and moodier weather in the southern hemisphere.

Since this month is all about you, why don’t you explore the deeper meanings attached to above spirit animals and see how they relate to your own life? You can use this month’s energy to better yourself with the guidance from these inspiring animals.

Spirit Animal Guides

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The post July Spirit Animals: Animals that Represent July Babies appeared first on Metropolitan Girls.

Photo: larkspur. Larskpur represents the month of July as its birth flower.

What Zodiac Signs Are Found in July?

The month of July houses two zodiac signs: Cancer and Leo. Besides these two signs, there’s also the Cusp of Oscillation or the Cancer-Leo Cusp which refers to the transitional period between Cancer and Leo.

July Zodiac Signs

1. Cancer ♋ (June 21 – July 22) – The Crab
2. Leo ♌ (July 23 – August 22) – The Lion
3. Cancer-Leo Cusp ♋ ♌ (July 19 to July 25) – the Cusp of Oscillation

1. Cancer Star Signs ♋ (June 21 – July 22) – The Crab

The first zodiac sign in July is Cancer, the sign of the Crab. Cancer is the fourth sign of the zodiac. It is preceded by Taurus and followed by Leo. Cancer is considered the Major July Sign for it rules over half of July.

Cancer’s symbol, the Crab, is said to have an ancient root. Some believes the symbol was inspired by the Scarab, a crab-like mythological creature that symbolizes immortality in ancient Egyptian culture.

Cancer is the cardinal water sign. Partly because they’re connected to the water element, many Cancerians are empathetic and sensitive. Many of Cancer’s strengths of weaknesses are also amplified by its ruling planet in Astrology – the Moon. The Moon represents feelings and emotions.

People born under the Cancer sign typically have strong ties to their homes and families. They value human connections more than on material comfort. Some famous Cancer figures are Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, Elon Musk, Khloe Kardashian, the late Princess Diana, and Tom Cruise.

Facts about Cancer

General Characteristics

The water element is a source of strength that drives Cancer forward. Cancerians are usually the glue that holds a family or a group of friends together. Its ruling planet, The Moon, bestows on Cancer the natural connection to human emotions. They’re highly empathetic and have a strong sense of self-awareness—be it their appearance or inner feelings.

Cancer men and women are sensitive and protective in nature. They’re also inquisitive and curious about the big questions in life. Unlike Gemini’s curiosity, Cancer usually looks for wisdom. Questions such as what is the true meaning of life fascinate them.

Strengths

One of Cancer’s greatest strengths is the ability to be kind and considerate to everyone without prejudice. They enjoy giving gifts and spreading joy. Sometimes these gifts are physical, often, they’re gifts of kindness.

Cancerians are known for preserving and maintaining family ties. They have a strong attachment to their home and family. Cancerians have the potential to be excellent psychics and psychologists.

Weaknesses

The need for an emotion anchor can sometimes cause Cancerians to confine themselves physically and mentally. This is one of the reasons why some Cancer natives find it very difficult to leave their comfort zone. This attachment could become a vulnerability and can sometimes lead to toxic relationships.

Since they are capable of absorbing emotions quickly, regular mental detox and cleansing is essential to a Cancer native’s mental health.

Cancer Articles

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2. Leo Star Signs ♌ (July 23 – August 22) – The Lion

The other July zodiac sign is Leo. Leo is the Minor July Sign for its reign is shorter than Cancer. Placed in the fifth place in the zodiac wheel, Leo is the fixed fire sign. Since the Sun is their ruling planet, its no wonder that many Leos love to be the center of attraction.

The zodiac sign of Leo is usually depicted in the form of a lion. The lion represents courage, honor, and bravery.

The Leo constellation is made up of many stars. Among them is Regulus—the brightest star in the Leo constellation and one of the brightest objects in the night sky. The name Regulus means the little king in Latin, a subtle hint at Leo’s attraction to pride, authority, and leadership.

The people of Leo are very ambitious. They are drawn towards the limelight and leadership positions. This is not often discussed, but they appreciate showmanship. They love to make an entrance and are very outgoing individuals.  Some of the famous Leo celebrities are Chris Hemsworth, Daniel Radcliff, Jennifer Lawrence, Christopher Nolan, Jason Momoa, and Joe Jonas.

Facts about Leo

Characteristics

Leos are more inclined to have an alpha personality with intense energy around them. They tend to possess a very active front and keep themselves engaged with the outside world. Yes, they’re like to be extroverts. The influence of the Sun makes them young at heart and crave adventures. Leo individuals possess multiple talents and artistic skills.

The fixed fire element influences Leo natives to be passionate and tenacious in the field of their choosing. The leadership exhibited by the Leos is one of their greatest attractions. Since they love to be wild and free, many Leo individuals will thrive as musicians, movie stars, and performers.

Strengths

Leos are born leaders. Their primary strength is the courage and confidence they exhibit. Born under the influence of the Sun, Leos are said to be happy and carefree individuals. They always light up the party. Their optimistic thoughts help them overcome the obstacles and challenges of life. People who have Leo as their zodiac sign are very loyal to their friends and partners.

Weaknesses

One of the major flaws of Leos is that they may be overpowering or dominating at times. In some cases, people might even find them intimidating. Another less-desired trait is Leos have great pride in themselves and will be fixed on their opinions. It might be very difficult for them to accept their fault. They are always right and hate to be wrong.

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3. Cancer-Leo Cusp ♋ ♌ (July 19 to July 25) – the Cusp of Oscillation

People born between July 19 to July 25 might experience a unique astrological phenomenon. They are born on the Cancer-Leo Cusp—where they get a little bit of the emotional character of Cancer and the fiery nature of Leo. The result is a dramatic, independent, and sometimes self-contradicting personality.

The Cancer-Leo Cusp is also known as the Cusp of Oscillation. Individuals born on this cusp are influenced by both the Moon and Sun. If your new friend is a Cancer-Leo cusper, they might seem reserved at first, but you will learn how outgoing they can be when you get to know them. Since the Cusp has both the water and fire elements, the decisions and likings of the individuals can be quite confusing—even to themselves.

Some of the established Cancer-Leo Cusp people are Matt LeBlanc, Woody Harrelson, Jennifer Lopez, Marlon Wayans, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Eriq La Salle, Shawn Michaels, Albert Brooks, A.J. Cook, and Josh Hartnett.

Facts about Cancer-Leo Cusp

Characteristics

Individuals born on the Cancer-Leo Cusp tend to experience emotional and intellectual fluctuations due to the influences of the Moon and the Sun overlapping. Mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation can provide the cuspers the stability of mind during distress.

Cancer-Leo cuspers are open to new adventures and trying new things but they will have a little skepticism in the back of their mind. They love to explore the world but they also really love the comfort of their home. These individuals are artistic in nature, many cusp-borns went on to become renowned artists.

Strengths

The life of a Cancer-Leo Cusp is never dull. These individuals are their own motivators and self-critics. They perfectly analyze themselves. They have a great memory and tend to pay a lot of attention to the details. They have the perfect romantic sense and they’re passionate lovers.

Weaknesses

Finding an emotional balance might be a little difficult for the Cancer-Leo cusp. One of the significant flaws of these cuspers is that they tend to get hurt easily and do not take criticism very well. They cannot stand betrayal and will hold grudges for a long time. Other people’s words also affect these cusper way too much than they should.

 Zodiac Signs of July

Two zodiac signs share the rule of the seventh month, also known as July. Cancer the water sign is empathetic and has an innate connection to emotions. Leo is a fire sign that is a born leader of the pack and can’t thrive without being in the spotlight. The astrological gray area as Cancer transitions into Leo is known to some as The Cusp of Oscillation and it is a less-defined zone where its natives spot varying degree of traits and personalities from both Leo and Cancer star signs.

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July & Birthstones

July is the seventh month of the Gregorian calendar. It is summertime in the northern hemisphere and winter in the southern hemisphere. July used to be called Quintilis, before it was renamed to honor Roman general Julius Caesar. July’s birth flowers are the Larkspur or the Water Lily. Two zodiac signs share the month of July. They’re Cancer and Leo. In the US, Independence Day is celebrated on July 4th each year.

Birthstones are an age-old tradition and there are beliefs about what each gemstone’s properties and effects entail. Although these beliefs can’t be proven scientifically, they can certainly give you a positive psychological boost. One thing is certain, wearing or owning your special birthstone makes you feel good.

“Birthstone” is a broad term for any gemstone that represents one’s birthday, birth year, day of birth, zodiac sign, and birth month. Although the most popular birthstone for July is Ruby, it is important to understand that a birthstone list is flexible. At a different time or in a different culture, you’ll likely find that the birthstone for your birth month is entirely different. For the purpose of this article we’ve picked three birthstones for July: ruby, onyx, and turquoise. Let’s take a closer look at these marvelous July gems.

Birthstones: July

1. Ruby

Above: Cut ruby. Credit: Amila Tennakoon @ Flickr

Ruby is the modern July birthstone. Its designation as a July gemstone and rise to popularity are relatively modern history. Without exaggeration, ruby is one of the most famous gemstones there is, alongside diamond, sapphire, and emerald.

While ruby is known for its blood-red color, it can also exist in pink. However, no other color ruby exists besides red and pink. The reason for this is simply a matter of definition. Ruby is defined as the red variety of gem family corundum. And corundum varieties of other colors are called sapphires. Gem-quality ruby is transparent but don’t let that from stopping you to collect this gorgeous red stone.

The name ruby traces its origin to Latin word rubeus which means ‘red.’ The word later became rubinus in Medieval Latin and subsequently rubi in Old French, before getting adopted as ruby in English.

As a gemstone with ancient history, ruby has meant different things to different people. But most commonly, ruby is a symbol of good fortune, wisdom, and health. Perhaps because of its signature red color, ruby is believed to have strong healing power. While ruby isn’t as hard as diamond, it is the hardest colored stone. For this reason, some believe that ruby can protect its owner from harm and illness.

Ruby is also said to be the stone of love and passion. Ruby’s red hue makes it one of the best gemstones that represent romance. Maybe that’s one of the factors why ruby is a popular engagement ring gem.

2. Onyx

Above: Cross section of an onyx stone showing a beautiful “eye” pattern. Credit:
Robert M. Lavinsky @ Wikimedia

Onyx is a traditional July birthstone. Known as the black gemstone, onyx is a close sibling of agate. Both onyx and agate are banded varieties of chalcedony. Onyx’s banding is said to be parallel. A signature look of onyx is that of a black stone with white bands. However, the bands’ intensity and pattern can vary greatly depends on the formation of individual rocks and the cutting of the gemstones. The red variety of onyx is called sardonyx.

The July stone Onyx symbolizes strength, boldness, balance, and self-confidence. It represents the strength of the mind, making it an ideal stone for those who are (1) always looking for a challenge, and (2) in need of a confidence boost.

The black gemstone cleanses the body of negative energy after a long day at work and boosts one’s energy to face the next day with renewed vigor. Onyx is believed to bring a sense of fulfillment in work and life, making it an appropriate gift for anyone who is building a career or business.

As a semi-precious stone, onyx that is not gem-quality is sometimes made into flower vase and tableware.

3. Turquoise

Above: Turquoise from Nishapur, Iran. Credit: Sonia Sevilla @ Wikimedia

Turquoise is a spiritual July birthstone. It is a precious stone known for its unique colors that are in shades of blue-to-green. While ruby was named after the color red in Latin, turquoise took a different direction—a teal-like color is named after it.

Etymologically, turquoise was derived from French word turquois which means “Turkish” because the gemstone was brought to Europe from Persia through Turkey.

Turquoise symbolizes peace, happiness, calmness, and fluidity. Because of its color, the gemstone is believed to have an affinity to water and air. This means turquoise is connected to steady movement, flow, and progress. Naturally, this makes turquoise a powerful gemstone in one’s Feng Shui toolbox.

The July gem Turquoise is believed to be a stone of good luck and a protector stone that dispels negative energy. It is also said to bring peace, happiness, and health to its owner. Turquoise is commonly used for jewelry making: rings, earrings, necklaces, etc. Turquoise has been used by civilizations for thousands of years for its color, durability, and beauty.

It is reported that the ancient Egyptians used turquoise to treat ailments such as insomnia, depression, and anxiety. Some believe this stone can change color with mood or health. While the connection hasn’t been proved, it is true that turquoise can change color. This is because it is a porous stone and its composition which contains metals such as aluminum, copper, and iron—elements that could change color through oxidation and chemical reaction when exposed to other substances.

In conclusion, the tradition of birthstones have a rich history behind them and they can be much more than just gems for jewelry. These gemstones are the perfect gift for your and your loved ones in the month of their birth.

Birthstones by Month

January Birthstones | February Birthstones | March Birthstones | April Birthstones | May Birthstones | June Birthstones | July Birthstones | August Birthstones | September Birthstones | October Birthstones|  November Birthstones | December Birthstones

Birthstones by Zodiac Sign

Aries Stones | Taurus Stones | Gemini Stones | Cancer Stones | Leo Stones | Virgo Stones | Libra Stones | Scorpio Stones | Sagittarius Stones | Capricorn Stones | Aquarius Stones | Pisces Stones

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The July Flowers

What are the birth flowers of July? What are the meanings of these flowers? Why do these flowers represent July babies? Could it be just a coincidence? Or is it seasonality? Find out the answers to these questions in this article dedicated to the July flowers.

July is the seventh month of the year, which means that Earth has traveled halfway in its annual trip around the sun. It’s a time of reckoning, of what we’ve done so far, and what we’ve left to do. If you haven’t spread enough love and positivity during the first half of the year, then now is the perfect time to try harder. Now let’s take a look at two flowers that are the most popular birth flowers for people who’re born in July.

1. Larkspur

Larkspur is the primary birth flower for those born in July. It got its name from its long petal that resembles a silver prick spur of a medieval knight and claws of the Meadowlark bird. Larkspur is an annual flowering plant of the genus Delphinium, which was established by Swedish botanist, Carl Linnaeus.

In Greek mythology, Delphinium was believed to have sprung from the blood of Ajax. He was a god and a hero who perished in battle during the Trojan war. The Greeks then named the flower, Delphinium because its blooms bear a resemblance to a dolphin’s nose. The larkspur plant is well-known for its delightful towering spike of flowers in blue, white, purple, and pink. It is mostly used as décor at home and establishments because of its beauty. Adorning your home with this pretty larkspur flower will never fail to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your interiors. Although it has to be handled carefully for all parts of the larkspur plant contain poisonous alkaloids.

In general, the larkspur flower symbolizes love, devotion, and positivity. There is no better way to express your love to a July born than the towering beauty of a larkspur flower. It can brighten any day and can guarantee a smile on the recipient’s face. If you see that your loved ones are sad or stressed, sending them larkspur flowers will encourage them to be strong and remind them to be positive. It will not only boost one’s mood, but it can also improve a person’s overall health once the negative emotions are released.

Larkspur comes in different colors, each with its own unique symbolism. The blue larkspur is a classic symbol of elegance. White can encourage a happy disposition to the recipient. The purple hue represents first love, which makes it a suitable flower for young lovers. The pink hue signifies fickleness because of its irregular shape and tinged color. It is fascinating to get accustomed to the art of flower symbolism. If you can speak the language of flowers, you will not only appreciate the beauty of each bloom but also maximize your presence with the attached symbolism.

2. Water Lily

The water lily is the second birth flower for those born in July. It is an aquatic flowering plant of the family Nymphaeaceae. These aquatic beauties are popular ornamental plants due to their distinct beauty and fragrance. The water lily features a cup-shaped floating flower on top of its large floating leaves. The world’s largest water lily can be found in the great Amazon basin. Its gigantic floating leaves which are measured at the expanse of 10 feet and a stalk of over 20 feet long.

Its ever delightful flower emerges to the surface on long stalks. We can’t help but be amazed to see this solitary flower above water surfaces with no trace of its root or stem. Water lilies are actually attached to an underground long stem just beneath the water. They are not only a beauty to behold but are also powerful purifiers. Water lilies can clean the water and preventing the growth of algae and can even absorb toxic metals in water.

The water lily symbolizes purity, chastity, and splendor. It is a flower named after the nymphs, a mythological spirit believed to inhabit rivers and woods. Hence, they are chosen to embody the characteristics of these imagined spiritual beings. Those who were born in July may inherit the characteristics of this magical birth flower. From dirt and mud, water lilies grow and emerge on the surface to become a beautiful fragrant lone flower sitting like a queen on top of its large leaves. Like a water lily, a July born can also demonstrate patience which is key in making better decisions and imbibing positive thinking.

The larkspur and water lily are also birth flowers for July Cancer and July Leo.

Birth Flowers by Zodiac Sign

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