Mercury retrograde begins on the new moon in Leo on August 4. That’s not all! The August 19 full moon in Aquarius is beyond compare. It is fully loaded and hot-wired for action!! The prior week can be instigating and or set a domino into play as Mars in Gemini springs to action on August 14, 15. I’ve covered the August transits in detail for you here:
August 4, New Moon in Leo, Venus enters Virgo, Mercury begins retrograde:
Venus enters Virgo on the new moon in Leo, just 2 hours before Mercury in Virgo begins a retrograde cycle (to August 28). With just one week left for the Paris Summer Olympics, athletes may feel added pressure to put on their best show. I am sure you will agree – we are all feeling the drive to go for the gold where-ever we can find it!
Venus correlates to our essential needs and matters of survival (material, emotional). It is the planet of relating and relationships, worth/net worth, value(s) and self worth. Venus in Virgo can wrestle with all of the above as it seeks to improve, to mend the heart, to obtain and sustain, to fulfill yearnings and needs.
Despite the backtracks, breakdowns, and added challenge that Mercury retrograde can produce, the cycle holds benefit too. Mercury retrograde in Virgo can help you to better pinpoint the deficit and/or the necessity. Once you are made aware of the shortfall or pitfall, the next step is to figure out what would serve you best. Can you improve your results, your odds? Yes, you can. Putting you to task, the new moon sets the backdrop for creative solutions and for bettering your best.
Mercury retrograde: August 4 to 28:
Mercury retrograde tours two signs this time. The retrograde cycle begins in Virgo (4:06 Virgo) but will complete in Leo (August 4 to 28).
Here is the run down:
August 4 to 14: Mercury travels retrograde in Virgo.
August 14 to 28: Mercury retrograde revisits Leo.
August 28: Mercury retrograde ends (21:24 Leo)
August 28 to Sept 8: Mercury transits Leo (by direct motion)
September 8: Mercury enters Virgo (surpasses the starting degree of retrograde as of Sept 12)
September 26: Mercury enters Libra.
To August 14, Mercury retrograde features Virgo. Added attention is focused on health, healing, repairs, improvement, and fix-it projects of all kinds (actual, personal/emotional). Adjustments, added flexibility, work, effort, or time can be necessary. The unfinished or what is missing may also clamour for attention. It can be time to tackle that which has been previously sidetracked or sidestepped, or to address that which has gone unsaid. As is typical, the retrograde cycle is well used to revisit, resume, repair, or rework.
As stated above, Mercury retrograde in Virgo can target the deficit. Attention is drawn to that which is flawed, weak, in need of repair or healing. Its time to get it cleaned up, off the list, or altogether eliminated. Having said that, efficiency can be challenged. During Mercury retrograde, there is a propensity to get waylaid or distracted, to waste time, energy, or resources. As best you can, simplify. Try to take it in stride. Put off anything that is overly complicated, that has too many moving parts. Too much of anything is unwise at the best of times. It is doubly so when Mercury travels retrograde. Do not over-compensate or overshoot. Instead, aim to keep it real, and reasonable.
Added safeguards are always the recommendation for Mercury retrograde. Do not take chances with your health or safety. Do not ignore warning signals. Does your car need servicing? Have you backed up your computer, saved your passwords, etc.? Problems to do with mechanical, electrical, technology, health, (yours or your pets), work-related issues, and labour strikes are typical of this transit. Although Mercury retrograde in Virgo puts the attention on the minus column, the true intention is to help you to navigate your way back to the plus column. As you work your way through the issues or challenges, the process will help you to qualify what is workable and what is not.
What do you have that is going well for you? What assets do you have to work with? What is more aligned with what you really want, with what is most natural for you? What (or who) lights you up?
Are you happy and thriving? Starting August 14, Mercury retrograde in Leo puts the spotlight on getting back in touch with your beating heart and what matters most to you. To live your best self, your best life – what does that mean to you? Do you feel in love, the love? If not, what can you do to make it happen? This transit is well used to regroup and recenter yourself. (The place to start? Self honoring, self love.)
August 14 to 28, Mercury retrograde in Leo calls attention to the need to gift yourself more, to play more and enjoy more. A vacation can be well timed (even if it is just a vacation from the worry or the mental chatter.)
Mercury retrograde in Leo also shines an added light onto loves and loved ones, matters of heart, physical vitality, creative endeavour, speculative venture, revitalization projects (career, personal, health), recognition, success (whatever that means to you), personal reward and fulfillment. Pleasure, play, entertainment, and romance top the list too.
All the “re” words are applicable for any Mercury retrograde cycle (i.e. repeat, revisit, revise, rework, redo, revitalize). If it worked well previously, it can again. If you did not meet with success the last time, try again. Once you are better informed (have the experience to back yourself up), there is a greater opportunity to improve your odds or better your best. Sometimes better success comes on a second (or even third) try.
During Mercury retrograde, it is better to undertake temporary plans and decisions, rather than to aim for long term or long range. Note that under the current stellar backdrop, something conceived or triggered at the start of August can be a work in progress until the middle of October. It could take that long to sort yourself out, to get it off the ground, or to get to the next implementation phase. Plan accordingly!
Saturn/Jupiter Square: First of three key turning-point checkpoints:
Saturn (crystallization, consolidation) and Jupiter (growth, expansion, increase) work as a planetary pair. Together, they represent the intertwining of the receding past (our historical reference point) and the ever-evolving potentials of the future as it is experienced in real time (the present).
Saturn/Jupiter cycles record the evolution of our social/economic/political destiny in terms of historical eras and chapters. The larger framework spans 795 years, with sub-cycles of 240 years (variable by 40 years or so either side), and shorter 20-year manifesting cycles that shape the trends of contemporary reality.
How are these cycles determined? Every 20 years, Saturn and Jupiter form a seeding conjunction in a particular element (fire, earth, air, water). This cycle will wax and wane through to the next Great Conjunction. In 1606, Johannes Kepler discovered how three successive conjunctions form a near-perfect triangle when plotted along the zodiacal circle. (Each element hosts three signs, i.e. the fire signs are Aries, Leo, Sagittarius.) Saturn and Jupiter will reconvene in this same element triplicity over the 200-year sub-cycle (of 20-year rotations) and then shift to a new element trigon. These 200-year sub-cycles are referred to as “The Great Mutation”. (An overlap in the shift from one element to the next will produce a variance of years as is noted above.) Four sub-cycles, one each in the elements, add up to an 800-year era-defining cycle. Every eight hundred years, the Great Mutations of Saturn and Jupiter will come full circle through all four elements (fire, earth, air, and water). Over an age (24,000 years), these larger cycles will have incorporated all twelve signs of the zodiac as seeding or inception markers and will then start anew.
The present cycle started on the winter solstice, December 21, 2020, at the very start of Aquarius (00:29 Aquarius.) Astronomically speaking, this was the closest meeting of Saturn and Jupiter since 1623. This Great Mutation (conjunction) marks the end of two hundred years of the earth element cycle and seeds the next 200-year cycle of actualization through the air element.
(The 1981 Great Conjunction in Libra gave us a brief introduction to the air element trigon. Nasa launched the first space station shuttle, Sandra Day O’Connor made history for being the first woman to be appointed to the USA supreme court, IBM launched their first PC to the use Microsoft DOS program, Diana wed Charles.)
The next 200-year cycle holding court in the air element is one that will revolutionize social, political, and economic ideologies, including the way we relate, create, place value, and find meaning. Everything, everywhere, all at once – we are on an acceleration threshold regarding our daily existence – regarding life on the planet and life of the planet. The mind is the most powerful tool we have. Let us hold to hope, that we – as individuals, as intelligent beings, as social creatures, as custodians of the planet and as a light source for each other – are smart enough to figure out how to make the world spin better than we are doing right now!
In addition to the halfway point of any cycle, the quarter crossings are also of significance. They are critical intersections of time in terms of the crossroads, crises, and the choices they prompt. The quarter turn shapes, defines, and accelerates the circumstances of today’s reality and the direction forward. We are at the threshold of this intersection now. It will extend from August 2024 to summer of 2025. There are three checkpoints in the cycle: August 19, December 24, and June 15. Each dates times a next stage of the process.
Jupiter correlates to schools of thought, to beliefs, philosophies, and cultural norms of our everyday life. Where-ever it goes, a Jupiter transit will always enlarge the scope. Jupiter’s one year transit through Gemini, also sets trends and mobilizes matters to do with transport industries, trade and commerce, import/export, currency markets, all facets of media, communication, and social interaction.
Saturn correlates to reality and its dictates, to the limits of time and mortality. Saturn also describes the structure of consciousness, in other words, the conditioning and judgement patterns that form the baselines of how we construct reality. Saturn looks to gain control and security, to establish conformity, consistency, and consensus. Jupiter loves the freedom to explore, to wander and travel. Saturn looks to get it nailed down. By transit, Saturn/Jupiter shape the culture, beliefs, and philosophies of our contemporary ideology, the norms of our every-day reality.
Jupiter enlarges the scope. Saturn clamps down on it. This planetary pairing places us at a pivotal intersection of time – the past and future are now at a clash point. Where does it go from here?
What does this Saturn/Jupiter transit mean for you personally? Saturn’s transit through Pisces dissolves the past and what is diminishing in purpose or lifeforce but does not give a well-defined sense of how to play it next. What it does do, is build from the potentials that are ripe and ready for their time has come moment. Saturn can require that you relinquish some of your ideals, or that you let go of something long cherished. It can be hard to let go of hope especially regarding something or someone that you viewed as holding significant potential. Sometimes the act of surrender incorporates a difficult sacrifice. In hindsight, you are likely to find it was worth the price, that what you did surrender proves to be less of a loss and more of a gain. That shift of perspective can be worth its weight in gold.
The unfolding of time is the resource to work with. Let the experiential track be your best informant. Jupiter in Gemini puts many variables into play. It is multi-platformed, multi-dimensional, multi-tracked. Jupiter is considered in detriment in this sign, as it can scatter too far and wide. Under this planetary influence, it is easy to get overwhelmed or overloaded with too many things to juggle or consider. It is easy to get distracted, to get waylaid on tangents and sidetracks that go nowhere. Jupiter in Gemini fairs best when you allow spontaneity to guide you. Take it day by day, go step by step. It is a learn as you go transit.
Although Saturn/Jupiter are currently at work on the restructuring of your long-term future, you cannot see the outline just yet. Progressively, the ripe and ready potential, the best option or avenue will make itself crystal clear. Give it the time it requires to come forward to reveal itself. You might find that results will far exceed, outrun, or outdistance what has come before.
There are three pivotal threshold crossing points to navigate over the next ten months. The dates are August 19, December 24, and June 15, 2025. The first two Saturn/Jupiter alignments (square aspect) occur in Pisces/Gemini. On June 25, Saturn in Aries square Jupiter in Cancer (at 1:18 Aries/Cancer). The first and last alignments will hit the action switch in a full throttle way. Start and finish will give us quite a kick.
The Saturn/Jupiter alignment on August 19 is especially notable/catapulting. coincides with a deck’s loaded, wired-up full moon in Aquarius. Anything goes, and it probably will. We will see this reflected in the social and political happenings, mass events (devastation) and weather extremes. Expect volatility (major losses) regarding the money markets too. The Paris Olympics end August 11. The US Democratic Convention runs August 19 to 22. The action peak of the month happens from August 14 – 22 (could start or extend a few days on either side).
**August 19: Full Moon in Aquarius (27:15 Aquarius)
Keep on watch for the full moon of August 19. One way or another, it will kick-ass. The full moon could even be life-altering. Watch the week prior, especially August 14, 15, for a major rev up of action. Mars in Gemini continues to build pressure and momentum from the start of the month. On August 14, the day that Mercury retrograde revisits Leo, Mars/Jupiter (conjunction) in Gemini take flight. This is a “pump up the volume” transit. More people, more traffic, more news, more action, (more talking heads) are everywhere. Watch for Mars/Jupiter to significantly escalate what is already building steam. On August 15, Mars/Saturn in dynamic tension (square) call for a big push. The pressure mounts. Added effort and exertion is necessary to get it over the hurdle, to surpass the restriction, stress test, or timeline. These few days could be a matter of forging ahead despite all. This week and next could set a backdrop for the brakes to come off, for a question to get answered. There can be an unleashing, untethering, or “push-past, off and running, no time to waste” of significance.
A full moon in Aquarius, an acceleration archetype, will always trigger something unexpected. Of course, it will not be surprising to see significant headlines regarding politics, or weather extremes. The unpredictability factor is greatly heightened for this full moon. There is a long list of potentials regarding what could transpire: a sudden and unexpected turn of events, market volatility, something exciting, disruptive, rogue, or shocking (announcement, news, information based, an event, rebellion, geo-physical action, an accident), a breakthrough, innovation, or discovery of significance, a breakup (divorce), a sudden departure (or transition of someone of note), a social/public events, trends, or protests, something of note regarding violence, radicalism, terrorism, etc. Freedom, independence, liberation, and emancipation fall under the Aquarius archetype. Aquarius also rules aviation and space travel, atmospheric conditions (dry, drought) air quality, technology, the internet, social contagion. Anatomically/physically, Aquarius rules the brain, the respiratory system, dehydration, stress, strokes, ruptures, calves, ankles (and broken bones).
Noting that Mercury is still travelling in retrograde motion, it is wise to safeguard all you do on-line. The potential for a computer or internet outage, interruption of or some such is within range.
The full moon is absolutely stacked. It is a circuit breaker/break the glass ceiling full moon. Let me repeat, the unpredictability factor is especially high. The extraordinary could come to pass. The full moon happenings could have a global impact. Watch for a domino of events, for the money markets to swing from one extreme to another, (could be an absolute roller coaster), for lives to be turned upside down, for fortunes to be made or destroyed in the blink of an eye. Mercury reaches the midpoint peak of its retrograde cycle on August 18 (inferior conjunction with the sun) to begin (or rather jettison into) a next phase of development regarding what is already in the works. Additionally, Mercury/sun and the full moon in Aquarius are in dynamic angle to Uranus. On the extreme end, this high stress transit could produce an eruption, sudden volatility, and panic. On this same day, Venus in Virgo is in dynamic angle to Jupiter (square) and Saturn (opposition). A loss or demise could be significant. A government, or governing body could collapse or be over-thrown.
August 19, Venus/Saturn (opposition) can signal an ending of note. It may be a matter of running out of time, funds, options, steam, support, or hope. What is weak will give way (anything from mind/intellectual/ideological constructs to physical structures too -i.e., institutions, buildings, or health). Under pressure, Saturn/Venus can diminish the value or worthiness, cause it to evaporate or disappear, or produce a loss of significance. Watch for speculative markets to respond to this transit.
Set against the full moon backdrop, these few days can be a mix of coming up empty and needing to scramble fast, of cutting loss in order to make a quick regain – and of opportunity in disguise. It could be a field day for opportunists at both ends of the spectrum.
To the plus, Venus can present an opportunity to turn the deficit, devalued, neglected, or discarded into profit. In other words, there is an opportunity for a quick turnaround or bounce back. In this regard, there is no time to waste. Abandon the sinking ship. Decisive action leads to gain, if not instantly, then either soon or a bit later. If you find yourself in the thick of it, don’t panic into action. Give yourself time to work through it. Take a breather, if even for just a moment. When uncertainty prevails, start by eliminating what is weak, overly complicated, or has too many variables. Don’t bank on that which requires an overly long-term investment, or that is too far down the road to be able to see clearly or that you can’t nail down now.
Again, keep an eye on August 12 to 20. Expect this time to produce an extraordinary chain of events, to impact the world or your personal life in some catapulting or life altering way.
End of the month:
Ceres ends retrograde on August 26 in tight orb to the transiting to the lunar nodes (karmic axis). Dialing up karmic recall, and including themes of loss, grief, and abduction to the dark side, Ceres has been in dynamic tension (square to the nodes) since March and continues through October. A resurrection, regenerative archetype, Ceres themes are intensified, not only due to its alignment with the karmic axis, but also due to its travel in out of bounds declination. (Out of bounds is a renegade influence that calls for one to put formidable will to task to overcome and conquer.) Ceres now sets to work; the focus is on resurrection, regeneration, and breaking chains that bind. Mercury ends retrograde on August 28 and continues in Leo to September 8. Starting August 29, Venus in Libra, a peace-maker influence, enhances relationships, social connection, and finances. In general, the transit can assist you to find a better balance and ease for yourself. As August ends, Uranus and Sedna are slowing to station before turning retrograde (Sedna begins retrograde in Gemini on September 1. Uranus in Taurus begins retrograde on September 2.)
August 4: New Moon in Leo, 4:12 am (12:34 Leo)
August 19: Full moon in Aquarius, 11:25 am (27:15 Aquarius)
August 4: Mercury in Virgo stations retrograde: 9:55 pm (to August 28)
August 4: Venus enters Virgo: 7:22 pm
August 9: Juno into Libra: 9:35 am
August 14: Mercury retrograde revisits Leo: 5:15 pm
August 22: Sun enters Virgo: 7:54 am
August 24: Vesta enters Virgo: 4:35 pm
August 25: Ceres in Capricorn ends retrograde: 00:38 am (7:29 Capricorn)
August 28: Mercury ends retrograde in Leo: 2:31 pm (21:24 Leo)
August 29: Venus enters Libra: 8:22 am
**Please note all times listed are PDT, please check your local time.
Dates to watch: August 2 – 4, 7, 14, 15, 18 – 20, 22, (**12 – 22**), 26 – 29,
ARIES March 19/20 – April 19
From Aug 4 to 14, Mercury retrograde in Virgo can put you to work on something that requires immediate and hands-on/full-on attention. It could be health (yourself, a loved one, a pet) or work related. Someone could need your help. Tackle it one step at a time. Concentrate on what you can do, do not stress on the rest. Go as easy on it and on yourself as best you can. Mercury retrograde in Virgo is well used for fixing, healing, cleaning, and clearing it out of your way. Ditch the time or money wasters.
August 14, 15 prompts a major shift of direction, attention or momentum. It will be time to move forward, get going, or to thinking about tomorrow. These few days could see you jump right into it, then immediately pivot, or launch onto something next or secondary. These dates can take you over the hump and onto something fresh. The start or end of a vacation is also well timed.
August 14 (to 28), Mercury backtracks into Leo. On the same day, Mars/Jupiter (conjunction in Gemini) light a fresh spark. Expect this week and next to be mobilizing, perhaps in a sudden sprint way. August 18, 19, the world action intensifies. Watch for an escalation of market trends, the news, and talking heads. The full moon in Aquarius can take you by surprise or by storm. To the plus, you could spring into action in a fortuitous, timely, turn the corner way. On the personal note, something sudden or spontaneous can overtake you. A conversation, impulse, instinct, or inspiration can get the ball rolling fast. It could domino into something more. Know that opportunity can be fleeting. In the moment is your best play. A striking first impression can make an impact. Go with your gut. Keep your eye on August 12 to 22. As stated above, the best way to play it is to stay full present and make the most of each moment.
Mars, your ruler, will continue in Gemini to September 4. This transit keeps you well on the go with several things to juggle at the same time. Keep open to exploring. Entertain possibilities. Focus on today, on the immediate moment, and trust the future will sort itself out in due course. A few months from now you will gain the clarity and sure foot you seek.
TAURUS April 19 – May 20
Mercury retrograde is on tour in Virgo from August 4 to 14. Beyond the backtracks that are typical of the transit, there are positives to draw from. This first half of the transit is productive for self examination, for stripping away excuses or rationales that keep you going around the same bend. Mercury retrograde in Virgo puts added attention on your health, your career, and on matters of heart. It also puts the spotlight on both necessary and desire improvement.
What do you want? What do you need that you do not have right now? When you take a realistic assessment, what steps can you take to extract more benefit or wealth from your current status quo? In your estimation, is it impossible to get the goods out of where you are now? Whether the answer is yes or no on that last question, change is necessary. Even if you are entirely satisfied with yourself and your current situation, the bottom line is that there is always room for improvement.
On another note, Mercury retrograde in Virgo is well used to tackle your to-do list, to clear your clutter, and for catch-up and top ups, regarding projects and relationships. Your pets can always use more TLC too. Health (pets included) and work-related matters are also on the checkup list. Mercury retrograde could necessitate that you take the test again, that you get recertified, etc. A second opinion or second try can be wise. August 14 to 28, Mercury retrograde is good for a personal regroup and for implementing better quality self care. Put more time and attention toward enjoyments. (Life is short, do not let the moment pass you by.)
Aug 12 to 22 can take you through a lot in a short period. August 14, 15 and 18, 19 set circumstances into full swing. You could surpass a significant hurdle or restriction and find yourself fast tracked onto a next step or chapter. You could feel prompted to look for better options, more guidance, more support. You might not be able to rely on the way it has been up to this point. The past is receding fast, and the future is writing itself as we speak. You could initially find yourself on the short end or at a loss but see it as an opportunity to make the necessary improvement. To the plus, there is opportunity to make a significant improvement where it counts the most.
GEMINI May 20 – June 20
The new moon and the start of Mercury retrograde on August 4 puts an added spotlight on home and family. A new home life situation can require adjustment. Use Mercury retrograde to reconnect, revisit, repair, replenish, or renovate. Ditch the time or money wasters. Take time out to catch-up with yourself, to recenter, and to rejuvenate from the inside out.
From August 14 forward, Mercury retrograde dips back into Leo. This second half of the month can put more attention on social matters and relationships of significance (friends, siblings, clients, colleagues). Can you improve your golf swing or your appearance? Sure, you can. This part of the retrograde cycle favours a short trip, more pleasure and play. You deserve more of the good stuff. Gift it to yourself. Why you are at it – why not strut your stuff? Positive attention and feedback can come your way.
Mercury retrograde in Leo (August 14 to 28) also puts more emphasis on manifesting and success – (i.e. making money and career ambitions). In general, the retrograde cycle can inspire you to scout for new avenues, options, and solutions. Upgrades to your resume, portfolio or services are also worthwhile. August 14, 15, could see you spring into action, perhaps suddenly or unexpectedly. Mars in Gemini keeps you especially game, driven, and motivated. A personal breakthrough is possible. A fast track and quick results are likely. There’s very little time between instigation to finish – or start and stop (or rather, stop and surpassed).
August 18, 19, keep on watch for the unforeseen or out of the blue. The hot-wired for action full moon on August 19 (and the few days pre and post) can produce something unexpected and overtaking. You may have an opportunity to make an important revision, correction, or to repair or heal. Someone may be key in this regard. If it does not pan out, there is likely something on the way that will work, solve, or produce better.
Following the intensity dial up of the middle of the month, the end of Mercury retrograde on August 28, and Venus in Libra, starting August 29, place the month onto to a relatively smooth finish.
CANCER June 20 – July 22
Where does your heart lie? How do you make a better success out of this moment in time? Mercury’s retrograde tour can find you questioning yourself more. Take quality time out for a personal regroup or to heal. There is no better place to be than right where you are. The next few weeks are best spent focusing on yourself and your personal priorities.
You will feel a significant energy and motivational shift mid month as Mars in Gemini revs up with Jupiter (conjunction) and Saturn (square). August 14, 15 can see you on a quick bounce back and/or significant breakthrough. What sets in motion may be a preliminary trigger for the full moon action of August 18, 19. At the very least, watch for this full moon to give you a fresh perspective, a new opportunity or angle to try. You could find benefit or value in something previously discarded or overlooked. A replacement or revamp spells improvement. As of August 22, you can feel a sense of moving past and moving forward. For the most part, the last week of the month should prove to be on a smooth roll-out.
LEO July 22 – August 22
When you listen to your beating heart, what message do you hear? Are you getting what you feel you deserve out of your efforts and involvements? The new moon in Leo on August 4 is accompanied by the start of Mercury retrograde. Use the month ahead to work on bettering your best, to do more inner or physical healing, or to gift yourself more. Mercury retrograde is always well used for introspection. Too, watch for instinct and intuition to vie for your attention. You are wise to pay heed to these fresh insights, impulses, and triggers.
At a starting gate? Mercury retrograde can show you right away whether it is a worthwhile undertaking or not. On the other hand, you can run into complications right up front. If you can solve them in quick order, it could be a sign that there is merit in taking it further. Mid month (Aug 14, 15 and 18, 19) can be qualifying in this regard.
Mercury retrograde revisits Leo from August 14 to the end of the retrograde cycle on August 28. This part of the cycle is revitalizing. It can see you on a positive gain or upswing. During the second half of the month, there is an opportunity to repeat a success or springboard from it. On the other hand, what ends is a done deal. Don’t look back. The stars will also support you to start completely over. You will not come up empty handed though. You will readily find more to work with and toward. Mercury in Leo will extend (in direct motion) to Sept 8.
You will feel the fullest impact of this month’s dynamic stars if you are born on or near August 14, 15, or August 18, 19.
People to see, places to be, things to do – to September 4, Mars in Gemini, keeps you active and on the go. August 14, 15, you can tackle, cover, or gain more than average, and in short order. Mars gains an energy or momentum infusion from Jupiter (conjunction) and surpasses an invisible (or visible) barrier, impasse, or checkpoint timeline with Saturn (square).
Something has got to give way, and it probably will, likely in a no-turning-back, blow the lid off, shake-up way. August 18,19 could be life-changing or prompt a reversal of fortune. The full moon in Aquarius and in dynamic tension to Uranus (square), puts the action into full swing on the world stage, quite possibly in an unexpected, shocking, disruptive, eruptive, extreme, even explosive way. A market crash or power outage is entirely possible. Watch for major headlines from politics, finance/speculative markets, and weather extremes. Several other planets make significant contributions. Mercury/sun are in dynamic tension to Uranus, Mercury reaches the midpoint peak of the retrograde cycle (forms an inferior conjunction with the sun) while at the same time both planets are in dynamic tension to Uranus. Beginning their 10-month jackhammer mandate, Saturn/Jupiter (exact square aspect) form the first of three meetups, with Venus in Virgo also in tow (Venus opposes Saturn while squaring Jupiter).
August 18, 19 (and the days near by) can be a turnaround moment of significance for you. It may be a time to cut your losses and move on, to ditch what is not serving you well enough, to completely redirect your attention and efforts. If you find yourself at an unexpected loss, look for a hidden advantage. If you cannot see it now, you will see it in time. If the market crashes, it could provide an opportunity to buy for a bargain or a steal. On another note, Venus on trigger for this full moon could surprise you with something medical, or with something from the past (recent, long ago, or karmic from another lifetime) that was not completed, that needs correcting, healing, or a do-over.
August 22 through the end of the month should keep you moving forward at a good pace. August 27 to 30, in general, the stars set a backdrop for piecing it together easily and well.
VIRGO August 22 – September 22
If you are born on or near August 23 – 28, you may feel the impact of Mercury’s retrograde more than if you are born later in the sign. Of course, that statement will depend on your individual chart. The transit of Mercury only makes it to 4 degrees of Virgo before turning retrograde on August 4. In general, the usual is to be expect from the retrograde cycle. If your birthday falls within the above-mentioned dates, the retrograde cycle can put added attention on health, and overall well-being. There is always more you can do to improve your exercise program, diet, or habits.
Time out for to replenish and regroup is a beneficial use for Mercury retrograde. Are you satisfied with your job, your status quo? Reconsider your career options. It could be time to sign up for courses and to upgrade skills. Even though you may feel a need to get on with it, you may not feel ready to do so. That is okay too. As of the middle of the month, motivation (and/or need) is likely to gain significant traction.
If you are born on or near September 9 to 12, you will feel this month’s Mars transit (August 14, 15 at full swing), plus the Saturn/Jupiter transit (you’ll be grinding through this transit for the next 10 months).
August 14/15, Mars/Jupiter (conjunction) and Mars/Saturn (square) put the key in the ignition in a major way. Mercury retrograde leaves Virgo and revisits Leo on this day too. There can be a need to spring into action on a moment’s notice. The transit could translate into a well-timed instinct. You might need to take charge, or to “grab the wheel from another.” You could find yourself facing a sudden role reversal or shoe on the other foot moment. On another note, initially, there can be a tendency to excess, to bite off more than you can chew, to inflate, exaggerate, overshoot, over-estimate, or overreact.
The full moon in Aquarius on August 19 could disrupt your day in a major way. Several other planetary alignments make for an intense start to the week. Anything goes – or blows! Watch for an exceptional or extraordinary turn of events. So much can happen in the blink of an eye. This full moon can put you to the test, and challenge you to keep going, despite feeling that the odds are stacked against you. You may not feel you have enough of what it takes, but that’s when you get to prove yourself wrong. On the other hand, you may feel that another is not showing up for you as required or desired. It can fall on your shoulders to accomplish what is needed for the right here and right now.
Something unexpected to do with work, health, or your ability to function and to continue “as normal” could take a hit. Keep your schedule or intentions open ended so you can drop and run if there is need. By the same token, the full moon (week and the week prior) could trigger something to jump on/go for. If the batch of transits accompanying this high stress full moon does not trigger something for you directly, you will feel the impact indirectly (i.e. a market crash, an outage, a strike, or interruption of services). Someone or something may be/need to be replaced (a new person in charge, a specialist, advisor, helper). There may also be a need to renew a licence, loan, a status, passport. Another round of tests, or more steps or hoops to jump through regarding a legal matter is also within possibility for this full moon.
Past August 22, relationships are on the upswing. Hosting the end of Mercury retrograde (August 28) and Venus leaving Virgo for Libra, you should feel that things smooth out well over the last week of the month.
LIBRA September 22 - October 22
To begin, Mercury retrograde is mostly a background influence for your sign. You could feel it as a subtle influence, as an awareness that there is more in play, but that you can’t put your finger on it. The transit could also prompt a feeling of being at loose ends, a lack of focus or motivation, uncertainty, confusion. More privacy and alone time is wise. To the plus, Mercury retrograde in Virgo, August 4 to 14, sets a good backdrop for a vacation, or for taking quality time out to rest, heal, and to catch up with yourself.
From August 14 onward, the action shifts in a significant way. On this day, Mercury retrograde backtracks into Leo for the remainder of the retrograde cycle (to August 28). Mercury will continue Leo to September 8. This transit puts added emphasis on social activity, the politics of the day, and on the special people of your life. Additionally, this second half of the retrograde cycle can see you questioning your goals, involvements, and career aspirations. Something or someone that looked good to you in the past may no longer hold appeal. On an inner/subjective note, Mercury retrograde can make you even more aware of how much you have grown and changed.
Coinciding with Mercury retrograde on a sign change, August 14, 15, Mars sets into high gear, first amping up with Jupiter (conjunction) and then drilling through with Saturn (square). Mars/Jupiter gets it up and running, Mars/Saturn, pushes through to the next level. It may be an ambitious task, but Mars/Saturn can and will do it. Mars/Saturn applies the necessary force to break down the barrier and surpass that which stands in the way. The biggest hurdle to push past can be the uncertainty, the unknown, the untried. Mars/Saturn, a push-forth transit, requires you to apply maximum effort to get yourself over the hump, to get fully onto that next page. Both Mars and Jupiter in Gemini trigger good foresight. Trust your intuition. Let the moment be your best informant. Mars/Jupiter is also well used for a vacation, travel, for scouting around, marketing, outdoor activities, for following inspiration, instincts, and for making the most of the moment.
August 18/19 delivers a full moon in Aquarius, with Uranus (ruler of Aquarius) in dynamic aspect (T-square). A full moon in Aquarius will always be one to watch (for the unusual, unexpected, disruptive, stimulating, exciting, opportune). This one is even more so because of several significant contributors. Mercury retrograde in square to Uranus is trend setting and fast tracking; it sparks action. Mercury’s retrograde status is signature for the re-writing of history. Saturn/Jupiter, a reality defining/shaping transit regarding the social, economic, cultural, political fronts, make the first of three exact alignments. Saturn/Jupiter is the signature influence that will dictate the evolving reality for the next 10 months. Venus in Virgo in dynamic tension to the Saturn/Jupiter transit (opposition Saturn, square Jupiter) serves to further the breakdown and redesign of worth and value (monetary value too). Venus draws attention to the weak elements, flawed evaluations, justifications, or rationalizations (the weak, and flawed individuals too). This fully loaded/hot wired full moon is under maximum stress. The exceptional or radical can come to pass. The experience can be catapulting, liberating, enlightening, shattering, and accelerating. Aquarius dials up added action and volatility on the social and political fronts. It is a breakthrough, rollercoaster, or shatter the sound barrier influence.
The full moon in Aquarius is likely to mark an exceptional few days of headline news. The influence of Aquarius will always add an element of surprise. To a large extend, your sign is favourably aligned with the full moon and some of its added contributors (Mars, Jupiter). Hopefully, that translates into something welcome and opportune for you. Venus in Virgo on trigger could bring something unforeseen to the surface that could be well timed. Something discovered or uncovered could present a hidden opportunity or advantage. It could be safety, security, work, or health related (pet included). You could spot a mistake or something missing, which could translate into a saving grace. There can be an opportunity to correct, find, or improve. Something undervalued or overlooked could be a worthwhile investment (time, money, heart). Someone could surprise you too. By August 28, Venus exits Virgo for Libra. This attractive Venus transit brings added attention and good feedback your way. Use this transit time to make yourself look good, to enhance your appearance and presentation/what you already have on the go.
SCORPIO October 22 - November 21
There’s always room for improvement. The start of Mercury retrograde coincides with a new moon in Leo on August 4. With a bit of rework, there is a potential to build from a previous success (re career or a personal achievement). At the start of something significant? You may still have kinks to iron out, or a modification to do regarding expectation or the timetable. There may be something to fix, solve, discard, or to cross off the checklist first.
It is important not to get too far ahead of yourself, especially while Mercury is retrograde. To August 14, Mercury retrograde can set a backdrop for an error in judgement, or for something hidden or omitted to become a problem. As of August 14, Mercury retrograde backtracks into Leo. A potential folly is one of over confidence, or of assumption without shoring it up first. Of course, it is not a given that you will run into such problems.To the plus, Mercury retrograde can see you improve and gain. (There is a potential to make a good thing better yet.) Mercury retrograde is an appropriate influence for turning your attention elsewhere, for taking time out for a personal regroup, or for spending time with family, friends, and people (and projects) who matter to you most.
August 14 to 22 mark the action peak of the month. August 14, 15, Mars sets into action in a full swing, enlarged in scope way. Watch for a surge of travellers, seekers, sellers, and crowds. Mars/Jupiter (conjunction) can spark an impulse, a flash of inspiration, or something spontaneous. Mars/Saturn (square) requires significant muscle and grit. It is a push come to shove influence (i.e. strenuous, the pressure is on, force and exertion required). Action at the right time could produce a quick result, a goal reached, or a breakthrough of significance (a wall comes down, a major hurdle is surpassed).
August 18 Mercury is at the turning point peak of its retrograde cycle (forms an inferior conjunction with the sun), while also triggered by Uranus (square). This date could provide a significant jumpstart or head start to the August 19 full moon action. (It is likely that the week before will have already gotten the ball up and rolling.)
Uranus is in dynamic angle (square) the fully loaded full moon in Aquarius on August 19. Additionally, several other major transits punch up the action, including the Saturn/Jupiter aspect I discussed at the top of the column in the month’s overview. In (inferior) conjunction with the sun, Mercury retrograde is at the midpoint peak of its retrograde cycle and on dynamic trigger (square aspect) with Uranus. Watch for something unexpected to burst forth/reveal itself and/or to cause disruption, eruption, added volatility, something sudden and shattering, a breakthrough of significance. (Mercury retrograde/Uranus is an earthquake influence.) Venus in Virgo eliminates what is too weak or flawed to continue. For some folks, this full moon could produce a stark reality check, even a life altering event. On the other hand, that which is meant to be can solidify in a fast-track, no turning back way. (If the markets take a dive, there will be money to be made!)
SAGITTARIUS November 21 – December 21
Just when you think you have it under control, that you have fixed what was needed and/or can walk away from it, Mercury goes retrograde. More work, effort, or time is required, but some things and some people are worth it. On the other hand, some are not. The month ahead is qualifying in this regard.
August 4 to 14, Mercury tours retrograde while in Virgo, the sign of health, work, and working it out. You may find you are not getting enough attention where it matters most. You might feel you are not getting enough information, instruction, or help. During the retrograde cycle, it is often wise (or necessary) to seek a second opinion, to try another specialist or service provider. Trial and error, or more research can be warranted. Clarity is the result of working your way through an elimination process. The better choice or best option can prove itself, as early as of mid-month onward. Watch the weeks of August 12 and Aug 19 for events and circumstances to point/define the way forward.
August 14, 15, Mars/Jupiter and Mars/Saturn could get the ball rolling in a major way. It could be a change of pace, a get-away, something spontaneous, or something that requires immediate action. Things can shape up quite quickly, take on a life of their own. You could make significant progress with something or someone that has been a challenge as of late. You could be proud of yourself for getting handled and/or getting to someplace worthwhile.
Also keep watch on August 18, 19. These dates are full stacked. Expect the unexpected! Anything goes. Uranus in dynamic angle (square) to the full moon in Aquarius punches up the excitability, stress, uncertainty, intensity, and volatility. Uranus and Aquarius, are a wildcard and shockwave influence, can be eruptive, disruptive, opportune, and/or unpredictable. We will see this play out regarding social, political, and economic action, and weather extremes. (The Democratic convention coincides with the month’s peak stars.) The exceptional/the extraordinary could come to pass. The out of the blue could produce a breaking point. The unexpected could shattered reality or show up as an opportunity of a lifetime. The jettisoning full moon could see fortunes gained or fortunes decimated, seemingly in the blink of an eye. Several additional contributors add to this exceptional/destiny comes calling full moon. Sun/Mercury retrograde arrives at its midpoint peak while also in square to Uranus (produces the unexpected, shattering, revealing, shocking, volatile, or opportune). Venus in Virgo serves as an additional trigger to reality shaping Saturn/Jupiter alignment (first installment of three exact alignments spanning the next 8 months. See the month’s intro for an outline of this important staging influence.)
August 18, 19 the full moon could suddenly shift your plans, priorities, circumstances, career goal, or a key relationship.It could prompt disruption regarding your home-life or sense of security. (It is not a given, but an accident in the home is within the potential’s range too, so please be careful.) The full moon could cause heightened stress or anxiety, or a sudden onset of a health issue. (Stomach and digestive issues are among the possibilities.) You may feel a circumstance or relationship is out of control or beyond it. A creative solution and out of the box thinking can point you to higher ground/a better outcome.
This full moon could jettison a turning point regarding your career, or a family member, or circumstance. You could get clearer on which way to play it, on what needs to be healed or improved upon, what is worthwhile and what is not. The writing on the wall could indicate that it is time to let it go, give up, and move on. To the plus, you may be able to take advantage of the moment, to retrieve, re-establish, revamp, clean up, or clear away to a benefit, to colour in/top up on what’s missing, to gain from lowered interest rates, to scoop a bargain, or to fill a vacancy.
CAPRICORN December 21 - January 20
Mercury turns retrograde on the new moon in Leo August 4. The typical advice for the retrograde cycle is worth repeating. Put extra attention/due diligence to details, actions, the divulging of information or opinions, to safety, security, health, and healthy boundaries. To the plus, the cycle is well used for a personal regroup or getaway and for self care. Take time out from your everyday concerns. Gift yourself more. You have earned it, you deserve it. Claim it for yourself.
Mercury begins retrograde in Virgo but as of August 14, Mercury retrograde will dip back into Leo. August 14, 15, Mars hits a significant mobilizing track, first with Jupiter (conjunction), then with Saturn (square). These days are optimum for setting wheels in motion, for a change of course, attention, or momentum. In the moment is where it is at. Spontaneity, instincts, intuition, and ambition are your best tools to use. Go big, go all in/all the way and gain. A breakthrough, results, and progress can be made in short order. By the time you get this intersection of time, you will have more information to go on.
August 18, 19, could fast track you in a major way. There is almost no time between yesterday and today, or between what was and what has already hit the ground running. Intensity, stress, atmospheric volatility, and excitement are on the dial up. The unexpected is too. The full moon in Aquarius is in dynamic angle to Uranus, ruler of Aquarius. Several other planetary contributors make these few days ones to watch. If it comes to a push-come-to-shove trigger point for you, know that immediately following the action, there is significant opportunity to take full advantage of the moment. Venus in Virgo helps to you make a significant improvement, or to take advantage of something that has been under-valued or under-rated. These transits are also appropriate for downsizing. Go in search for better opportunities (work, relationship, education, or lifestyle), for a better advisor, lawyer, or specialist. Seek additional training or aim to upgrade to your education, or to get more hands-on experience. It may be time to read the writing on the wall, to say goodbye to someone, to cut your losses and move on, to walk away from a fight/conflict you know you cannot win.
AQUARIUS January 20 – February 18/19
Mercury retrograde begins on the new moon in Leo on August 4. At the start of the retrograde cycle, it is always wise to put extra flexibility in your schedule and plans. The week of August 4 is ideal for prioritizing one on one time with a loved one. Reward yourself. Ditch the work, relax more, enjoy more.
To August 14, Mercury tours retrograde in Virgo. Refocus your attention, away from the minus column and onto the plus. What’s good, what brings you joy? Let worry take a back seat. It will not get you anywhere, anyway. (Worry is like a rocking chair, it goes nowhere.) Play up on the good stuff. Fully embrace right here and right now. Concentrate on what you have going for you, not against you. A vacation from the work is well timed too.
As of August 14, the momentum shifts big time as Mercury backtracks into Leo to finish retrograde in this sign. After the past few weeks of prioritizing the personal, intimate, and private, it is a time for you to resurface, to engage with your social world again.
August 14, 15, Mars/Jupiter (conjunction) and Mars/Saturn (square) hit full tilt. These few days get it/you/them into full flight. A little goes along way. The ball rolling gets up and rolling in a major way. Allow instincts, impulse, and spontaneity to lead the way. Opportunity exists in every breath you take. The moment can deliver beyond expectations. These few days also set a backdrop for surpassing a milestone, a barrier, or roadblock. Once the corner is turned and/or the foundation is laid, there will be no slipping back.
August 14, 15, delivers a preliminary surge of momentum. August 18, 19, marks the highpoint peak of the month. The full moon in Aquarius is in dynamic angle to Uranus (square) and is accompanied by several major planetary alignments. Mercury/sun reaches the midpoint/turning point of the retrograde cycle while in dynamic aspect (square) to Uranus. Planetary pair Saturn/Jupiter arrive at the first of a triple pass meet-up (spans 10 months, see the August overview above for more detail). Venus in Virgo forms a dynamic angle (forms a T-square) to both Saturn and Jupiter. Wow – that is a fully hard-wired full moon. I cannot remember seeing a set up like this! To be sure, one way or another the effects of this shake up/wake up full moon are inescapable. Whether direct or indirect, we will all take a hit.
You are likely to feel the fullest impact of these two peaks of the month if your birthday is on or near February 6 to 8, or Feb 13 to 15 (or close by). This is a “firing on all cylinders” full moon. The unexpected, extraordinary, or exceptional can happen. The lid could blow off, the glass ceiling can be shattered. What it reveals in the wake, changes everything. The action or reaction track can be sudden, abrupt, or instantaneous. The full moon could spark a push come to shove, or grab and go moment, a necessity, a crisis, a premonition/foresight, sudden revelation, a saving grace, or an opportunity of a lifetime. Although it might have been the works for some time, things can change dramatically in the blink of an eye. The eventfulness of circumstances/of life will continue to unfold and develop over the coming weeks and months but know that a significant no turning back threshold is surpassed as of this full moon.
PISCES February 18/19 to March 19/20
The start of Mercury retrograde on August 4 could see you change your mind about someone or something. You could get better clued in regarding an enmeshment issue or regarding someone who is not holding up their end. As you know by now, a key piece of advice for the retrograde cycle is not to make any major decision or purchase until after the retrograde is over. It is quite okay to renew a contract or licence, to retake a test, etc. A second opinion or more research is always wise. Do not act on an assumption, read the fine print, check the warranty, make sure you have enough facts, that you fully understand what you are getting into. If you need to make a commitment, where possible, build in added flexibility, make provisions for the unexpected. reseen that could be necessary.
Mercury retrograde in Virgo can see you question whether you are getting enough out of a relationship, an employment contract, a recreational or social activity, training program, health, exercise, a diet regime, or your meds. A learning curve or renovation project can require trial and error before you get your bearings straight. An elimination process is often the best way to find answers and clarity. Over the month ahead, you will discover more than you know now. Watch for a domino effect to move it/jettison you forward. August 14, 15,18, 19 are the peak action dates of the month. Expect to experience and to surpass more than is usual, perhaps unexpectedly. The full moon in Aquarius could surprise you with something unforeseen. You could have a brilliant insight or discovery that completely alters your viewpoint, your tactics, or your involvement. The influence could produce a domino effect, or a sudden snap, breakthrough, or realization. Either way, Mars (August 14, 15) and the full moon in Aquarius (August 18, 19) could jettison you in a significant, abrupt, even life-altering, way. You can feel the strongest impact of Mars (August 14, 15) and the full moon (week of August 19) if your birthday falls on or near March 7-9, or March 16 – 19.
Rose on Guiding Stars EA Radio
Audio of Rose’s appearance on Kristin Fontana’s Guiding Stars Evolutionary Astrology radio show, broadcast on Wednesday’s at 10 AM Pacific, 1 PM Eastern on www.healthylife.net