Cancer The Caretaker © Jo Jayson 2025
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Cancer The Caretaker – June 21-July 22

Cancer is one of the four cardinal signs that welcomes in a new season, beginning their cycle on the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere. Cancer is a water sign, ruled by the moon, and gets its name and symbol from the Greek name for crab ‘Karkinos’.

Much the same as their close water siblings, Pisces and Scorpio, Cancerians are also deeply emotional, sensitive and intuitive. Ruled by the moon, which is closely associated with water and emotions, they often find their emotions not only run deep but can move in cycles, causing moodiness and changeability.

Cancerians are known for their innate compassion and empathy towards those in need. They are a prime source of comfort and support to those close to them, particularly their children and families. The family and the home are their center, where they feel the most secure with the deepest of loyalty. Fiercely protective, they are the nurturers of the zodiac, and their maternal instincts make them the most loyal and caring of parents. Such is the intensity of a Cancerian mother, they often need to make sure they practice self-care because of the tendency to sacrifice themselves and their own wellbeing for those they love.

Their deeply sensitive character often can be perceived as shy and reserved, and can be hurt easily which leads them to retreat into their shell for safety. Introverted by nature, they avoid conflict and confrontation, preferring small circles of close loyal friends. Like the crab, Cancerians will draw back into themselves when they do not feel secure or understood.
Because of their tender vulnerability their feelings can easily be slighted which in turn can make them defensive, passive aggressive and ‘crabby’ - only to withdraw back into their shell to brood. Cancerians need to be careful they don’t fall into self-pity or become possessive and suspicious due to their overly sensitive nature. Like their fellow water sign Scorpio, they can hold grudges for years struggling to let go of their hurts. On occasions, if very wounded, they can become manipulative, sometimes vindictive due to their hypersensitive hearts.

Creative and imaginative, they are easily contemplative and perceptive. Cancerians are guided by their big hearts and clear intuition, held dear by others for their committed loyalty and reliability and loved dearly for their tender care and gentle nurturing.

© Jo Jayson