This month's astrology shows an open path to purpose. We're facing and overcoming fears by moving through a period of uncomfortable growth. We start the month with arguably one of the most important transits of the year as Mars meets up with Uranus and the North Node in Taurus.

Anytime the transiting North Node is punctuated in our astrological story, we take big steps forward to align with our purpose, which means moving through some of our most daunting triggers. It's a process of letting go; for some of us, this is quite literal. I have heard from so many who are making big moves, embarking on a career change, and committing in love. Some of those changes feel sudden and unexpected, like when you wake up one day and know it's time to sell your house. These are the kinds of seemingly erratic shifts we're seeing now. They're not impulsive moves, though. 

Uranus is the planet of freedom and progress. The North Node is the point of purpose. Our souls' deep-seated desires aren't always known to us consciously. Sudden changes could mean realigning your higher self to shine your divine light brighter in the world.

August 1 kicks off the month with Mars, Uranus, and the North Node all standing together like threshold guardians, asking you if you're going to stay in your comfort zone or if, instead, you're willing to answer your call to adventure. I recommend the latter, even if it pisses people off. When we act with courage and align to our purpose, we're going to ruffle a few feathers -- that's the first test we often have to pass to level up in all ways. 

Through the end of the first week of August, we adjust to those changes that took place between July 28 and August 1. On August 7, Mars forms a square aspect with Saturn, allowing us to confront limitations and break free. We are faced with old issues of unfairness or restriction. We might see the true colors come out in people we thought we could trust, or we could become frustrated with people who represent authority figures in our lives. 

On a social front, Mars activates the ongoing Saturn/ Uranus Square, a feature of last year's astrology. That challenging aspect brought the past and present together in a collision, forcing us to examine the broken systems in our world. A square aspect represents tension but doesn't show us simple or immediate solutions. We take one step at a time toward addressing our significant concerns. The global polycrisis, the dangerous effects of capitalism, and injustice in all the ways it ripples from one system to the next. As the Sun moves through Leo, it highlights some of these themes, giving us a double whammy -- a universal wake-up call. 

The Sun is energized in Leo, the sign it rules, and you can certainly feel it here in the northern hemisphere. It's hot. The astrological Sun is our heart's calling. It's our conscious will -- what we think we want or sometimes what we know we need. The Sun is also how we shine our light in the world and express our creative energy.

With the Sun so prominent in this month's astrology, we are all looking at our unique contributions. What makes us individuals? This inquiry reaches a head at the Aquarius Full Moon on August 11. It is such a fascinating lunation because of its square with Uranus and the nodes. Any chart points at the 90-degree point between the two nodes show us a gateway we have to traverse to integrate the past and the present-- to be whole.

It is easy in contemporary culture to think about the self as the ego. This lunation encourages us to see beyond individualism. The Self is the spark of divine inspiration that we are. We cannot have a sense of self outside of our relationships because they inform us of how our gifts are received and how our talents are appreciated. That feedback helps us structure a sense of identity. Our egos always go back and forth between belonging and individuation. 

On August 11, Venus enters Leo, and the planet of balance and beauty inspires heartfelt connections but asks us to be clear about how we might be insecure in our relationships. August 11 has a lot of astrological activity. The Sun and Moon are square Uranus and the North Node, representing a time for testing our limits and breaking free from our comfort zones. 

A Mars sextile Neptune transit offers spiritual meaning for our challenges. It also gives us hope as we identify the dreams we want to manifest. It is a stubborn lunation with a Grand Cross pattern between fixed signs. We want to hold tight to a position or be inflexible about making some change. 

We're at a standstill for a few days, and then, on August 14, the Sun opposes Saturn, bringing some of the more difficult August storylines to a conclusion. After that, we have some relief. 

If you have a chance to get away or to take some time off, the first part of the month would be best. You can relax and be in the flow rather than push against resistance. 

On August 20, Mars enters Gemini, the sign in which it stays until March 2023. Mars in Gemini fires up our words and gives them more punch, which is great if you pitch a proposal or roll out a new communication strategy. Be mindful with interpersonal communication. It's easy to say something that could have lasting implications. 

Others' ideas inspire us. We want to speak more passionately. With Mars and Gemini, we also need more play. It's a good time to join a sports team or participate in recreational activities. 

The Sun enters Virgo on August 22 and cools down some of the August heat. Virgo is the sign of choice and discernment, making the end of the month favorable for creating new schedules, routines, and organizing your life. 

As Mercury enters Libra on August 25, we have a way of mediating conflicts by bringing balance to hot-button topics that have been pressing throughout the year. This transit happens just days before the Virgo New Moon on the 27th, a lunation that has us returning to work and focusing on our daily responsibilities. Mercury is prominent in this lunation as the dispositor of Virgo. So, it offers us the hope for softening troubled spots in our relationships. 

We can be more willing to clear any clutter in our minds and environments. It's a good time for some house cleaning, literally and metaphorically. Think of the end of August as a time of preparation for an active close to the year. How can you restore peace? Through presence, which means simplifying your life. Let that be your focus as you head into September. 

ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 19):

Under the fiery Leo sun, you rise above challenging circumstances like a champion. You can wrestle your inner saboteurs and free yourself from limiting resentments or frustrations. As you take charge of your life in new ways, you better understand the value of boundaries. Because Mars rules your sign, you get to feel this more than others. So, here's an encouraging message: be confident as you take bold steps forward in your life. The Sun shines in Leo until August 22, and when the Sun moves through a fellow fire sign, you feel more invigorated than at other times in the year. 

Use that dynamic energy as a creative force. Direct it carefully, so you don't spin your wheels or become consumed with a project that lacks pizzazz. 

Jupiter is shining in your sign, making this a time of manifestation. You'll feel an expanded sense of possibilities until May. The projects, relationships, and priorities you invest in right now will rocket launch to the next level early next year. 

The Full Moon on August 11is a lunation of profitable opportunities. Professionally, you are in a phase of rallying support and building a team. Jupiter is the planet of earth angels, and with Jupiter in your sign, anyone you meet could be an angel in disguise. Keep an open mind when you meet someone new. Let the universe surprise you. Also, remember that the manifestations Jupiter promises are often more intangible, like the deeper yearnings we feel but can't always articulate. Let your experiences be your teachers. 

Taurus (April 20 – May 20):

Gather ye rosebuds while ye may,

   Old time is still a-flying;

 As part of your horoscope homework, I encourage you to read the poem, “To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time” by Robert Herrick, slowly and deeply.

At the start of this month, Mars, the planet of passionate action, meets up with Uranus. Let your imagination go wild for a few moments, considering what in your life needs to change. What circumstances require a little bit of extra courage in letting go? Make the first week of the month your time to welcome radical change. Then, use the rest of August to recalibrate, ground, and center. 

The Full Moon on August 11 is a mind-expanding lunation. You can see new horizons, making this an excellent time to plan a trip. Wellbeing is a multi-layered pursuit that involves diet, exercise, rest, and taking time to smell the roses. Your ruling planet Venus enters Leo on August 11, making this a time of interest in spending on things you might otherwise resist. Your sign has a reputation for being frugal—every dime matters. But then, you may splurge on big-ticket items like art, designer clothes, and gourmet food. This month showcases those tendencies. If you're on a budget, consider purchasing after the Sun enters Virgo on August 22.

 The Virgo Sun at the end of the month emphasizes everyday acts of service. Find ways to be more attentive to your loved ones or seek opportunities to become more involved in your community. This month, you don't have to struggle through resistance to feel a sense of purpose. Make it your mission to let beauty, enjoyment, and love be your indicators of success. 

Gemini (May 20 – June 20):

You were born under the sign of the master decoder, puzzle solver, and mental gymnast. Each day, we are faced with new puzzles to solve in our lives and in the world. And while it's exciting to master a skill or develop a solution to a global crisis, if we're not having fun, it can feel pointless. So, prioritize playful banter, exciting conversations, and joy this month. 

The Sun shines in luxuriating Leo until August 22. Leo is a passionate fire sign that awakens a hunger within us for experiences beyond the mundane. It's the sign of leadership and persuasive speaking, making this the perfect time to shine your brilliant light in the world. Remember, we are born creators. If we are not using our creative impulses in a way that feels fulfilling, we can use those same impulses to generate drama in our lives.

Fine-tune your intentions by feeling them in your heart. What compels your curiosity? What inspires you to act? Let the Aquarius Full Moon on August 11 be a turning point, and dive into the deep end. 

The Sun moves into Virgo on August 22, and family and home projects may be more a focus than your career. For some of you, this may mean saying goodbye to a child going off to college or making a move. Celebrate the bittersweet sensations of those life passages. 

Make time to explore new destinations in whatever ways you can, especially at the Virgo new moon on August 27. This lunation emphasizes belief, faith, and wonderment. Open your mind to fresh ideas, and know that your relationship commitments are necessary to evolve.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22):

Home. The emotional bonds of family, a sense of warmth and comfort, and a feeling of security follow you wherever you go when you find home within yourself. As a Cancer, this is a theme in your life story. How can you feel more at home with yourself? The Sun shines in Leo and illuminates questions of worth, personal value, and possessions. It moves you to root into your present-day life and celebrate where you are and who you've become. 

The Full Moon on August 11 opens discussions about money, including how to balance earning and spending within partnerships. Cut through limiting beliefs and allow yourself to receive. Emotional security and financial stability go hand in hand for you. When financial fears rise into conscious awareness, your confidence seems to ebb and flow like the tides. 

What dreams do you long to revisit? On August 11, Venus enters Leo and adds sparkle to your life. Create, design, and decorate.

Your intuitive gifts excel this month, and they could lead you to discover an investment opportunity. As Jupiter moves back through Aries, it highlights the possibility of career advancement. Stay focused on your long-term goals, and trust your gut with the details. You may have a breakthrough by the New Moon on August 27. 

In relationships, you're discovering the interplay between giving and receiving with Pluto in your opposite sign, but really, you're learning about power dynamics. If you find it uncomfortable to let your guard down, ask yourself why you fear being vulnerable. Then, practice in both small and big ways. The people in your life love you; give them the gift of letting them show you!

LEO (JULY 23 - AUGUST 22):

As a Leo, your ruling planet is a luminary—the Sun. When others look at you, they see this light. Try to remember, Leo, that you are light. You do not need to feel insecure or less than. You are more than enough. During this time, the Sun's full potential and power—a primary energy source—is at your disposal, making it a good time to invest in projects that inspire joy and fuel your feeling of purpose.

Relationships are a primary focus, with Saturn in your opposite sign going retrograde. The Aquarius Full Moon on August 11 emphasizes the importance of your one-on-one relationships, especially since Venus enters Leo that same day. Do yourself a favor and look at Botticelli's painting The Birth of Venus. Let that image be a model for how you move through the month. Flow, receive, and relax. Trust that all circumstances will work out, and allow luck to be on your side, especially on August 18 when Venus makes a harmonious trine with auspicious Jupiter in Aries.

Mars moves through Taurus until August 20, bringing the heat to your career. You could have a stroke of genius that results in instant manifestations of abundant thoughts. Dream big, Leo! You've got the Sun shining right on you in the best possible ways.

Let's rewind to the first part of the month. Our relationship planets Venus and Mars will make contact with the North Node destiny point and our planetary change-agent Uranus. Clear the road of psychic debris or obstacles on your path. You're living in a time of excellence, and you're pushing beyond boundaries to excel. Don't hold yourself back or allow fear to keep you stuck. Move!

Virgo (August 23 – September 22):

As a driver of an electric car, I've learned about the importance of recharging batteries. Once on a road trip, I came down to my last few miles before finally finding a charging station. It was tense for a few moments! Life is like that, too. Does your body ever just stop when you're tired? With mental Mercury moving through your sign from August 3 – 25, recharge your body by stilling your mind. 

The Full Moon on August 11 highlights the axis between our creative impulses and how they fit into the collective whole. Questions of work and service run through your awareness. How can you feel more purposeful in everyday work scenarios? Saturn is going retrograde in your sector of daily duties, making this the perfect time for foundation-building. Be patient with your progress.

The month begins with Mars and Venus activating Uranus and the North Node in Taurus. Uranus is the change-maker of the Zodiac, and the North Node is the point of destiny. If you feel uncertain about the future, be mindful of not forcing change. Let things flow. It is a time to integrate the past and present to resurrect unfulfilled dreams and envision new ones. Mars enters Gemini on August 20, bringing you enthusiasm for finishing projects. 

With the Sun in your sign after August 22, you have a boost in confidence, and others will notice! At the Virgo New Moon on August 27, can you release holding on to pain from the past and fall in love with your life as it is right now? Regret stirs a desire for dedicated action. Let this be your guide at the end of the month. 

Libra (September 22 – October 22)

Stop everything, take a deep breath, and observe your inner world. Is there a song playing in the background of your mind? As someone who's quite clairaudient, I often have a soundtrack running nonstop, and when I draw my awareness to my thoughts, I often think of them as divination tools. The music in my head connects to everyday occurrences and gives me intuitive insight into my inner world. So, observe the richness of your interiorities and then find a container within which you can share them with others. The parts of us that speak through our stream of consciousness want to be witnessed. 

This month, be open to uncertainty. Love the unknown and travel there frequently. The rays of the Aquarius Full Moon on August 11 illuminate your sacred soul connections. Your divine sources of guidance are all around, and you can feel them close by. 

The Sun moves through Leo all month long, igniting your passions and giving you an elegant way with words. It's time to market yourself and reach out to new audiences. You're establishing yourself as a guide for others—a leader in your field. Be brave in conversations, especially on August 27 when the Virgo New Moon invites you to be bold in expressing yourself. Spend time with like-minded people and plant the seeds for the community or collective you dream of building. 

It's been a year of exponential growth, and you've discovered all the facets of your beauty. You have overcome fears, and now you are ready to take on new commitments even if you have butterflies in your stomach just thinking about the possibilities on the other side of the horizon. Trust and allow.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21):

You, of all people, know that anything worth doing is worth doing well. That's because you were born with the tenacity of a fixed sign, meaning your sign is one of four that emphasizes staying true to commitments, grounding, and letting your roots grow deep into the earth. This month you're going to need that tenacity. Slowly but surely, you make your way, progressing to the next level of plans, goals, and dreams. Let your attention be focused on the everyday tasks that, pulled together, lead to great feats.

Big things are happening. You are experiencing the rapid change many of us did at the end of July as change-master Uranus met up with the North Node point of destiny in your opposite sign. You might have felt like the universe was handing you a wild card. Your responses to the circumstances that unfolded will determine the pathway forward, especially at the time of the Aquarius Full Moon on August 11.                                                           

Last month's emphasis on lunar nodes could have meant sudden changes in your home and family life. Or perhaps a career-related shift that will result in a cascade of other changes. We are all going through it at the same time; you are not alone. That said, your Sun is feeling the pressure more than others. So, this month, find time to relax. Make gratitude a way of life and lean on your support structures.

The Sun enters Virgo on August 22 and lights up the social sectors of your chart, making this a favorable time to become more involved with your community or to find ways to share your gifts with the world.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21):

What's stopping you from having an adventure? Clear obstacles from your path to a new horizon. The Sun shines in Leo until August 22. The fire-sign energy features prominently in our astrological story. Fire is the element of passion and action, two things you have in plentiful supply. The Full Moon in Aquarius on August 11 adds the right mix of inspiration and action, allowing you to be bold in envisioning what you will create next with your precious life energy.

Can you feel the mix of wonder and possibility? If not, here is a pep talk for you. Your sign is ruled by Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system. Jupiter's expansive influence gives you a can-do attitude about anything in life, from starting a new business to eating a second piece of chocolate cake. At the beginning of the month, let this be your predominant mindset. Things start to change after August 22, when the Sun moves into Virgo.

Take stock of home-related projects or career-oriented tasks you want to accomplish in the next six months. The end of the month punctuates Saturn themes. Stability. Structure. Taming the go big or go home ferocity of Leo season. Recruit helpful supporters of your mission and hire help if you need it. 

Virgo is the sign of discernment, and the Virgo New Moon on August 27 supports your realistic sensibilities. Think of the metaphor of a tree -- the deeper down the roots grow, the wider the treetops branch out. It's what you're doing in your life to stabilize and root down to grow in prosperous new directions. 

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19):

The Sun moves through luxuriating Leo until August 22. Domesticated cats are relatives of lions, Leo’s royal feline symbol. Cat people know you can't chase a cat. Curious cats have an independent streak and live life on their terms. This month, when it comes to pursuing anything—a relationship, the purchase of a house or car, or work lead-- rather than expending energy in pursuit, allow things to flow to you. Apply a little bit of effort and then relax and trust. 

The Sun shines in a sector of your chart related to magic and mystery. Eliminate worry, as this emotional wavelength moves us from mystery to anxiety. The more we fret about what could go wrong, the more we live in the future instead of the present. When we are synched with the forces of nature in the present moment, life flourishes even in dramatic times. Presence is the inception point of peace.

Remember that on August 11, when the Aquarius Full Moon shines in your self-worth and material security sector. Perhaps this is a good time to change your relationship with money. How do your daily activities support your sense of abundance? Do they reinforce safety or threaten your wellbeing? Make changes where you can, and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself in work or family situations that seem out of balance.

The Sun enters Virgo on August 22. What fun to think about travel! Expand your horizons by starting a new book, signing up for a workshop, or going back to school. The Virgo New Moon on August 27 brings those ideas into form, and you may be suddenly aware of the next steps to take toward your path of purpose.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18):

Janis Joplin sang, "Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose." Have you ever reached a point of non-attachment about future outcomes? Nothing to lose doesn't mean that we don't care. Instead, it means that we understand that we are fundamentally okay within ourselves and are part of an unfolding spiritual story. Freedom comes from non-attachment when we don't know the outcomes of our circumstances, but we accept the reality of the present moment. Aquarius is a sign of freedom, and I encourage you to think about freedom in this way throughout August.

Relationship commitments are going through their tests and trials, especially around the Full Moon on August 11. Mercury is in Virgo from August 3 through 27, making communication an important theme. Stay present through any storms, and you could see glimpses of rainbows as the light of understanding peeks through even the most turbulent discourse.

Be aware of your energy early in the month as the Sun moves through your opposite sign, Leo, especially August 1-4. You may need more rest and time to recharge. The Sun moves into Virgo on August 22, ushering in a time when responsibilities feel focused but not burdensome. For some of you, this is back to school time. You are settling into a routine, meeting new people, and reconnecting with friends who are returning from adventures. 

Can you find freedom in an everyday routine? Uranus, the modern planet associated with your sign, goes retrograde on August 24, bringing themes of innovation to the forefront of your mind. Let your interests inspire creativity. Uranus is a barrier-breaking planet that wants nothing more than progressive change. Be open to surprises.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20):

You were born under the wateriest of the water signs. Water being the element of emotions means you're driven by invisible waves of energy and vibes in the atmosphere. You are sensitive to the feelings of others and the astrological happenings that color our life experiences. Even when you put on a tough exterior, you are feeling it all. When the emotional waves shift, remember to stay true to your commitments and work on building a routine to take a step-by-step approach for everything you do. 

The Sun shines on your creative projects and self-expression. You have discipline with Mars moving through grounded Taurus, and at the start of the month, it meets up with rebel, change-maker Uranus, signifying a time when inspiration meets genius. Lean into solid support systems for grounding and to help reach completion. The Aquarius Full Moon on August 11 is a mind-opening influence, allowing you to see aspects of your health or life story in a new way. It is a healing lunation cycle that completes a process that started six months ago. You'll notice things coming full circle right now.

On August 22, The Sun enters Virgo, and it rallies you to get excited about partnering with others in business or romance. You may feel caught in a pressure cooker with some of your current relationships. The stabilizing force of the Virgo New Moon on August 27 offers the chance to ask clarifying questions. It's a time for letting go-- of decluttering in your physical and mental spaces.

On August 1, Mars in Taurus joins change-maker Uranus in a dynamic conjunction that activates the courage needed to move through challenging circumstances like a champion.