Dates
June 21–July 22
Symbol
♋ (The pincers of a crab)
Description
The fourth astrological sign in the Zodiac, Cancer marks the first month after the summer solstice. Cancer is based on the giant crab called the Karkinos that harassed Heracles during his fight with the Hydra. This constellation has been represented by a number of different creatures throughout the ages, though usually one that lives in water, and always one with pincers and an exoskeleton — the scarab beetle by the ancient Egyptians, a crab or snapping turtle by the ancient Babylonians, a water beetle by the Persians, a crayfish by the Romans, a lobster by the northern Europeans, and a crab by the Greeks.
Traits
Cancerians are home-loving and devoted to family. Their nurturing nature makes them supportive and protective of people close to their heart. They are sensitive, emotional and romantic. Cancerians are sympathetic and compassionate toward other people’s situations and like to offer their help.
Strengths
They are appreciative of art and literature. Cancerians have a talent for the arts and are well-read. Their gentle and caring spirit makes them great listeners and people turn to them when faced with tough life choices.
Weaknesses
On a bad day, Cancerians can be antisocial. They can be moody, overemotional and tend to overreact. They are overly imaginative, which makes them prone to fantasy.
On Relationships
Those born under the sign of Cancer are deeply romantic and caring with a great deal of emotional power and depth. When in love, they will fall deeply and will surround their partner with the full force of their feelings. They don’t “do” superficial relationships or casual relationships — their emotions run much too deep to permit such frivolity. Cancerians are sensitive, sensual and imaginative lovers with a strong sense of intuition.