Guest article by Dorene Carrel

August is highlighted by a Blue Moon, along with Mercury turning direct and later entering its own sign of Virgo.  August begins and ends with two full moons, which are important points of reassessment that indicate how far we have come and where we still need to go.  Creative and emotional energies are very strong this month. We are still under the July New Moon in Cancer, which brings issues connected with security, home and family.

The first Full Moon occurs on August 1 at 10 Aquarius. This lunation is aligned with Mercury in Leo, which provides more focus on analysis and communication. The Leo/Aquarius polarity emphasizes the functions of creativity, courage, independence and progressive change. It also involves balancing the needs of the self with the good of the whole community. The favorable aspects to Uranus, Jupiter, Ceres and Mars give us more strength to integrate personal changes, follow inner guidance and move forward at the right time.  The Sabian symbol keynotes for this degree: “The need to rely upon inner inspiration and guidance at the start of new developments” and “The power of tradition as it shelters the beginnings of individual self-expression” indicate that we can now gain more trust in our intuition and spiritual support.

On August 7 Mercury turns direct at 1 Leo 36.  We still have a few weeks left (before Mercury changes signs) to focus on taking a more heart-centered approach in our communications. With the direct station, we can confidently move forward with plans and goals.  Venus moving into Cancer this same day provides more sensitivity and nurturing for ourselves and others.

On August 15 Mars aligns with Saturn in Libra, which can bring misunderstandings in relationships and financial dilemmas. These can be worked through with a patient and practical approach.  A significant t-square pattern also occurs on this day when Venus opposes Pluto and squares Uranus, again triggering this ongoing aspect.  This pattern can indicate sudden, unexpected changes in relationships, based on a need for more independence and freedom.

The New Moon occurs on August 17 at 25 Leo.  Leo is a dynamic fire sign, which bring a focus on creativity, generosity, self-confidence and risk-taking. This lunation makes a challenging aspect to Uranus and Pluto, which heightens the elements of both change and renewal.  What creative changes can we make with more confidence this month?  The favorable aspects from Mars and Saturn should ensure better timing for our actions.  The Sabian symbol, “After the heavy storm, a rainbow,” promises that we can now reap greater rewards from being patient and meeting obstacles with courage and resolution.

August 18-22 contains favorable Mercury, Jupiter and Mars aspects. This is a good period for creative ideas, communicating with others and attracting more prosperity.  Acting on one’s ideals is also favored.  With the Sun entering Virgo on August 22, we should feel more grounded and stable.  On August 23, Mars moves into Scorpio, providing more emotional strength and fortitude.  August 24 contains challenging Neptune aspects that can bring confusion, so best to put off any important decisions until another day.

On August 31, the second Full Moon occurs at 8 Pisces 34.  As this lunation aligns with Neptune and Chiron, there is more focus on the Pisces traits of inspiration, compassion and sensitivity, as well as forgiveness and release of old wounds.  The shadow side is being deceptive and playing a victim/martyr role. This lunation is favorable for visualizing your dreams, while staying surrendered and open to the highest outcome. Favorable aspects to Mars and Pluto will deepen our experience and help us stay energized.

The Sabian symbol keynotes for this degree: “ The urge to express one’s individualized sense of value regardless of tradition,” and “Intense mobilization of energy and skill in the drive for success in any social performance affected by the competitive spirit” suggest that we are being called forth to express our own unique talents and abilities at this time.

A significant transition also takes place this day when Mercury enters Virgo, after several weeks of being in Leo.  We can best use this practical mental energy to be more organized and discerning, especially in the areas of health and work.

September brings the second Uranus/Pluto alignment. Stay tuned!

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Dorene Carrel is a professional astrologer with over thirty years of experience, offering birth chart, transits/progressions and relocation astrology readings.  She is certified in Astrocartography.  For more information, contact Dorene at dorenea5@yahoo.com.  Paypal accepted.  Donations also appreciated.