by Michael O’Connor
Life Coach Astrologer. Website ~ Email ~ Book a Reading
1-800-836-0648 Guiding Your Future Probabilities & Possibilities…
Horoscope for August 2024
The New Moon occurs on August 4 at 12 Leo 33. Venus and Neptune at the critical 29th degrees of Leo and Pisces, respectively, and Pluto hovering at 0 Aquarius, all lend to an overall complex lunation cycle. It occurs in context to other complexities as well, so it should be quite clear what August generally implies. Of course, life occurs on many levels and the emphasis of these themes are largely that of the larger social dynamic, and the human condition, in general. Positively, from complexity comes artistry and genius.
August is a Universal 16/7 month. In Numerology, 16 is symbolic of the will, creative intelligence, and sense of responsibility to take a deeper dive into investigation and research and to understand matters better. It can also be described as an ardent sense of truth guided by a moral obligation to set the record straight, whatever the specific focus. The challenge includes the will, strength, and ability to allow new perspectives to refine or altogether replace existing ones. 16 is also categorized as one of the 4 karmic numbers implying that the pressures to be mature and responsible come from within and outer circumstances tend to be rather swift if the task is evaded. It also implies what can be described as a relentless process, ensuring that the lesson is learned well.
Astrologically, this theme and destined process is indicated by Mercury and Venus in critical-analysis-Virgo. Mercury entered its ruling sign on July 26 and Venus will do so on August 5, just as Mercury stations (appears to stop) prior to turning retrograde. By August 7, Mercury will conjunct Venus, while retrograde, forming a complex mini cycle that will last just over 7 months when on March 11, 2025, they will once again form a conjunction in Aries with Venus taking its turn as the retrograde planet.
Mercury/Venus conjunctions in a Natal Chart are symbolically indicative of heightened creative abilities. When one or both planets are retrograde, the overall theme becomes more complex. In turn, the sign they are in, the exact degree, and aspects made to other planets all contribute to the finer details of the overall theme. In this case, Mercury is very well placed in its own ruling sign of Virgo. So, the retrograde cycle in and of itself, in association with Virgo, can be understood to be strong and positive. Venus in Virgo, however, is not so well placed and tends to produce what can be described as a sour and/or bitter flavor compared to its more common pleasant sweetness.
Mercury will then re-enter Leo on August 14th and complete its retrograde cycle there until August 28. Mercury is not so well placed in Leo and the issue is exacerbated when it is retrograde. The tendency is for people to become inordinately identified with their perceptions and opinions. Mercury will remain in Leo, until September 9th, gaining speed and momentum all the while. During this time, the Sun will have entered Virgo on August 22.
Adding to the plot, Mars will form a conjunction with Jupiter at 16 Gemini also on August 14 to begin a 27-month cycle. That exact degree also reveals a complex theme that will color the entire cycle which can be basically described as an excited, energetic, edgy determination to get to the heart of the matter in terms of truth and justice, whatever its focus. Since the exact time of the conjunction will occur with Venus, Saturn, and the Moon all in hard aspect, forming what is called a Grand Square, it significantly contributes to the potency of this seed event activating the entire cycle.
At month’s end, Pluto prepares its re-entry back into Capricorn for its last passage through the last degree of Capricorn completing the cycle that began in late January 2008! Capricorn is symbolic of governments and the social order in general while Pluto is symbolic of themes of regeneration and transformation. Take a moment to reflect upon just how much the world has changed since that time! It was 2008 when the real estate bubble burst and the economy began to change drastically and has continued ever since.
By the last day of August, just as Pluto re-enters Capricorn for its denoument, Uranus will turn retrograde, joining Saturn, Chiron, Neptune and Pluto, Venus will enter Libra and Mercury will turn direct again in Leo. The themes associated with retrograde planets essentially implies the deepening of destined themes, especially if they initially formed an exact aspect with a planet in your Birth Chart. But all of that is for another time, unless I hear from you personally to examine how these dynamics are activating your personal themes of destiny.
Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19) A more playful and energetic cycle is underway, in the forefront. In the background, critical thinking, and analysis to understand and integrate themes of ending and disintegration indicate a more complex layer to the plot.
Taurus (Apr 20-May 20) Home is where your heart is, especially this month. Naturally, family dynamics are featured. Creative improvements are a central focus and will likely be directed to both relationships and home.
Gemini (May 21-Jun 20) Variety is the spice, and you are determined to get your share at this turn. On one hand, a weave of social activities is directing your focus. Meanwhile, inspired by existing beauty, you are moved to create more.
Cancer (June 21 – Jul 22)
A review of what and who is most important to you is a current focus. This focus will likely enter more complex waters as the month progresses. Get ready for a deeper dive than you have perhaps done for a while. Summon the courage to be true to your heart.
Leo (Jul 23-Aug 22) An assertive, even punchy lead supported by sober, critical thinking is indicated this month, a trend that will become progressively stronger. You will assess the worth and value of multiple considerations.
Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22) Although you are happy to remain busy behind the scenes, you will also be more outwardly expressive than usual. Your focus will be guided by practicality, and making improvements to uplift and beautify is emphasized.
Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22)
Stepping into a new version of yourself, a new sense of individuality is a source of excitement. A significant change in your lifestyle is also indicated. You feel a new sense of freedom, but if anything is blocking it, you will confront it, assertively.
Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21) A breakthrough in your public and professional life is immanent. It could also manifest as an apparent breakdown if you are resistant to the noticeable changes that are destined to occur at this time.
Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21) You are in an adventurous mood. Yet, practical considerations are also featured. With strategic awareness and determination, achieving both is possible. Some edgy factors are also lingering so aim to be more patient and diplomatic.
Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19) A deep and potentially complex cycle is underway. Its purpose is to push you to reconsider your priorities. Fortunately, a philosophical mood is supporting a wider perspective. Either way, it will require some extra effort.
Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18) A new sense of excitement on relationship fronts is brewing. It does involve some complexities requiring deeper analysis. Aim to be true to your intuitions and not simply pay lip service to choices you feel cautious about making.
Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20) A creative dynamic to fix, repair, refine, and improve has entered the next phase, which could prove even deeper than the recent one. Fortunately, you are in the mood to do what it takes to get to the bottom of things.