August brings a burst of fresh energy as the month kicks-off with a full moon in inventive and avant-garde Aquarius on the first. Leo season is indeed lighting the fire in all of us. Things may get intense, as the most dramatic aspect of your August 2023 Horoscopes is not Mercury or Uranus retrograde, but two full moons! We start and end the month on an emotional peak. Watch out for some drama as Retrograde Venus gets combative with Uranus around August 8, but the new moon in Leo brings in lively and wild vibes on August 16— if we don’t get ahead of ourselves.
The real action starts come Virgo season, as the Sun moves into this particular and composed earth sign on August 23, Mercury stations retrograde here. Aspects of our day to day may begin to go haywire. Mars forcefully moves into Libra on August 27, and we may be especially motivated by love and passion, but bold and brash behavior is not likely to bring results. We must learn to take a delicate approach. The full moon in Pisces may come to our rescue, as we become greater in touch with our soul.
August 2023 Horoscope Important Dates:
Full Moon in Aquarius- August 1
The weirdos are out! This is a day where we can let our individuality shine through. It could prove to be a day of great progress for many. There is an emphasis on getting innovative when it comes to problem solving. A time of celebration, we should commemorate just how drastically we’ve evolved.
New Moon in Leo – August 16
As the Sun and Moon meet in fiery Leo, we are feeling vivacious and playful. We are overcome with a bold confidence in ourselves— but we must be careful not to get too wild. Both luminaries will drastically square sporadic Uranus and it’s a jungle out there! Ultimately, it may be our own dramatic behavior that leads to a potential downfall.
Sun Transits Virgo & Mercury Stations Retrograde in Virgo – August 23
A two for one special! As the Sun moves into meticulous Virgo we may become particular, orderly and organized. Unfortunately, perfectionist tendencies don’t work as messenger planet Mercury stations retrograde in Virgo, its home sign. We must learn to roll with the punches and find ways to be resourceful over the coming weeks.
Mars Transits Libra – August 27
Our passions get stirred as Mars moves into this love and partnership oriented sign. Thrills of the heart may be in store for many, and we are especially motivated by love. That being said, a soft approach is the best one. We don’t want to come off as too intense.
Uranus Retrograde in Taurus – August 28
Uranus, “The Great Awakener,” the planet of chaos, the unexpected and innovative stations retrograde in the last decan of Taurus. This is the first time we’ll experience Uranus moving backward in the most evolved section of this stead-fast and serene sign. The events of our lives may calm down, but our higher consciousness is just getting started. For the rest of the year we can gain personal clarity and alter our perceptions.
Full Moon in Pisces – August 30
Emotions swell like the ocean waves as the full moon in Pisces illuminates our souls wants and needs. We’re all taking a deep dive into our psyche. For some, this can be a scary or uncomfortable experience. We must put the focus on finding our center and zen to make the best use of this lunation.
Leo
An important relationship milestone might be reached alongside the full moon in Aquarius on August 1. The right people boost your self-esteem and express gratitude for your generous nature. It’s not about what either brings to the table, but more about what you’re working towards. You might face a let down or set back as Venus becomes entangled with erratic Uranus on August 8. Don’t let a minor inconvenience discourage you, because your devotion will almost immediately pay off. The new moon in your sign on August 16 is a time to retreat inward and focus on yourself. Your ultimate aspirations may be on your mind, and you could be in need of a little motivation to chase them. This is your moment to find it. Beware of scams around August 21— given the planetary energy of Mars and Neptune, you’re more likely to be fooled or taken advantage of. You’ll come to your senses as the Sun moves into Virgo and your Second House of money and self worth on August 23. Your attention is directed on making your income work for you, but as Mercury goes retrograde the same day, you may have to bring a halt to nonsensical spending. It may be a good idea to seek the advice or perspective of others as Mars enters Libra on August 27, as connecting with like-minded people will have a positive effect on your ambition. As Uranus stations retrograde at the top of your chart in Taurus, you may deepen your dedication and explore strategies for obtaining your goals. It could be time to introduce some innovation. However, the full moon in Pisces on August 30 is the perfect time to hide away and go on a retreat. Whether it’s solo with a lover, relaxation and rejuvenation are key.
Photo by Abet Llacer
Virgo
You might be feeling feisty, when the people around you kind of just want to chill out. What’s a restless Virgo under the full moon in Aquarius on August 1 to do? You could put your energy to good use and accomplish a task or two. Once you tucker yourself out a bit you’ll be on the same laid-back wavelength. Stay aware around August 8, as someone you thought was on your side might have a nasty surprise. Let them know you’re wise to their ways and they should back off. Your relationships may be going fine but you could need some alone time under the new moon in Leo on August 16. This is the perfect period to connect with your inner child and follow the spark of curiosity. Remain conscious of your tendency to be overbearing or micromanage around August 21. While your intention is to help, you might come off as controlling thanks to a haze initiated by Mars and Neptune. By the time the Sun moves into your sign on August 23, you feel revitalized and confident. Not so fast, as Mercury stations retrograde you still have to take a deeper look at your relationship to yourself. Mars moves into Libra on August 27 and you could get caught up in material pursuits. Act from a place of knowing your value, instead of the desire for money or clout. The way you view things could undergo a shift as Uranus stations retrograde on August 28. Your higher consciousness could get a little louder. Open your heart and mind to new experiences. The full moon in Pisces on August 30 should be spent with something special. There are few things that are more precious than the people we share our hearts with. Express your gratitude to someone you love.
Libra
Be careful what you wish for, it just might come true under the full moon in Aquarius on August 1. Things may not appear like you expected, instead of focusing on feeling let down, feel the power in getting what you wanted. You might find yourself at the center of some drama around August 8. Venus gets into a tiff with chaotic Uranus, and creates a commotion out of left field. You may have to defend your honor or intentions. But, the dust settles by the new moon in Leo on August 16. You can wipe the slate clean with a close-knit group of friends and carry on as good as new. Try as you might, it could be hard to focus or get complicated work done around August 21, as Mars hits a roadblock with Neptune. Go easy on yourself and stick to simple tasks. Virgo season arrives with the Sun’s transition into your chill-out zone on August 23. It might be best to take some time off to relax. As Mercury stations retrograde on the same day you have the opportunity to do some deep inner healing. Throughout this period you may be attempting to release the past and find zen in the here and now. However, zero-chill Mars moves into your sign on August 27, giving you a burst of extra energy. It might be hard to stop once you get started on something, but you’ll want to find a balance between work and leisure. Uranus stations retrograde on the following day and you could unexpectedly connect with someone from the past. You could also suddenly become more interested in spirituality or pick up a new practice. The month ends with the full moon in Pisces on August 30, making it an ideal time to commit to a wellness goal. Health is wealth!
Scorpio
The month starts with public acknowledgement. Under the full moon in Aquarius on August 1, you could be recognized for your talents and contributions. It behooves you to not take all the credit, as a leader is nothing without their team. Don’t put so much pressure on a lover or relationship, because around August 8, lover-girl Venus is in a pressure cooker with Uranus— if things blow, it will be a mess you don’t want to clean up. You may find yourself chasing a new goal under the new moon in Leo on August 16. This is a good time to set those benchmarks and get your intentions straight. You might have to work out some issues with a close friend or significant other around August 21. Venus is at an unfavorable angle to Jupiter and the situation might appear bigger than it seems. Some TLC might be needed. Your social life picks up as the Sun moves into Virgo and your 11th House of Friendship on August 23. Mercury stations retrograde on the same day, although your calendar may be filling up, scheduling issues might ensue, so be prepared. You could enter chill mode as Mars steps into easy-going Libra on August 27. Think less action and more relaxation. This may also be a good time for one-on-one hang-outs or activities. Someone close could help you reach a higher level of consciousness on the following day. Uranus stations retrograde and the calamity of interpersonal relationships will calm. This will give you a chance to focus on the real meat and potatoes of strengthening your connections. Throw caution to the wind for the full moon in Pisces on August 30. The only thing on your mind is having a good time. Life is meant to be lived.
Sagittarius
Be prepared for an astounding adventure under the full moon in Aquarius on August 1. Whether you’re jet-setting to an exotic location, or trying a new activity in your own backyard, it’s all about fresh experience. It certainly is an ideal time to skip out on the mundane! There may be some obligations you can’t avoid around August 8. As Venus isn’t getting along with Uranus, you might not be in the mood to rise up to the tedious task that lies ahead. Just remind yourself it will benefit you in the long run. By the new moon in Leo on August 16, you could find yourself stepping into a leadership role. Whether it’s at work or an outside organization, it feels good to be recognized for your wisdom. The week of August 21 is likely to start on a rough note— you may very well be doing some damage control. While it’s no fun, there is no one better for the job than yourself. The Sun grooves into Virgo, and your hard work could land you the label of hero. This might put a lot of pressure on you as Mercury stations retrograde the same day. It may feel like your reputation is at stake, but finding ways to work smarter, not harder should be the goal. Don’t feel like you have to live up to someone else’s expectations. Mars moves into Libra on August 27 and this can be an excellent time to network or spread the word. Use any existing connections in your favor. The electric buzz of everyday life should simmer down as Uranus stations retrograde on the following day. This period of a chaos free environment can be used to your advantage. The full moon in Pisces on August 30 will be a time of emotional renewal. Your journey and accomplishments have caused you to grow, so be sure to recognize that.
Capricorn
A handsome payday could make its way to you under the full moon in Aquarius on August 1. It’s okay to have a little fun and you deserve this luxurious treat. Just be sure to set a boundary with yourself. Be careful about what you disclose around August 8— Venus picks a fight with Uranus and this isn’t the best time to share secrets, as they could come back to haunt you. The new moon in Leo on August 16 could open a door in an intimate relationship. You might also take a deeper interest in occult practices, finding that you spend hours knee-deep in research. Try to let go of expectations around August 21, Venus viciously squares Jupiter, and you might be in for a major let down, particularly in romance. Try not to let it get you, you’ll come to a better understanding by the time the Sun moves into Virgo and illuminates your Ninth House of the Higher Mind. You tend to have a bit of a pessimistic view, but as Mercury stations retrograde, it may be time to review your disposition. Test out some positive psychology and see how that works. Mars moves into Libra on August 27 and you’ll become extra motivated in your professional sphere. You might find yourself with a sweet new deal by the time this transit is over, so start making those important phone calls and sending those pitch emails. Uranus stations retrograde on the following day, so it’s important to find a way to decompress in your leisure time. It might be fun to experiment with anything that expands your consciousness or helps your physical well-being. The full moon in Pisces on August 30 is an excellent time to express yourself. Spend this evening journaling out your thoughts and feelings, or painting just cause. Any sort of soul expression will do!
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Aquarius
The full moon in Aquarius on August 1 may poke you to advocate for yourself. If you need to speak up about your desires in a special relationship this is an ideal time to do it. Sharing deeper parts of yourself comes easier under the current cosmic alignments. Emotional issues might ensue out of nowhere around August 8, as Venus engages with your radical ruler Uranus. The only way out is through, and this could require you to embrace your sentimental side. The new moon in Leo on August 16 might just spark some romance. Whether you’re just getting started or rekindling a flame, the drama that previously ensued will fall away. The events around August 21 may require you to get raw with another person. Being more vulnerable gets a little easier as the Sun moves into Virgo on August 23. The type of bond you’re looking for takes work, and now you’re feeling up to the task. This will likely be an experimental phase, with some growing pains as Mercury stations retrograde on the same day. It might be time to review your romantic approach or let go of any preconceived notions about what love should be. Mars moves into fellow air sign Libra, and you’ll suddenly be up for an adventure. This is a wonderful time to explore your curiosities or book an action-packed getaway. Uranus stations retrograde on the following day, and you can use some time off from the hustle and bustle. The next few months should bring you a greater level of self-understanding and acceptance. The full moon in Pisces may bring a special gift your way. Let abundance come to you, and know that you are in fact worthy of it.
Pisces
Seek tranquility to start off the month. The full moon in Aquarius on August 1 sets the perfect mood for a retreat from everyday life. If a lover wants to tag along, let them, but a solo mission will also suffice. Unexpected costs or bills could arise around August 8 and might throw a wrench into some of your plans. Try not to let it bring you down. You might be looking for a fresh start in your health or daily routine by the new moon in Leo on August 16. This is an ideal time to make a commitment to your overall wellness. You can start with a burst of energy and enthusiaism. Watch out around August 21, as aggressive Mars faces off to your ruler Neptune, a significant other or close friend may be extra combative. There is probably a deeper issue, and you’ll come to your senses by the time the Sun enters pure Virgo and your relationship zone. If someone always comes to your rescue, it could be time to return the favor. Mercury stations retrograde on the same day and you can start to work on any communication issues you may be experiencing. Single Fish might reconnect with a lover from the past— perhaps the one that got away. No matter what romantic situation you may be in, things are about to get steamier as Mars saunters into partnership oriented Libra on August 27. It may even be too hot to handle, especially when Uranus stations retrograde on the following day. You might need more time to process the events of your life before getting involved. Place a greater importance on the little details of relationships. The full moon in your sign on August 30 is a good time to stop and recognize just how far you’ve come, how much you’ve grown and plan what’s next on your agenda.
Aries
You’re the life of the party under the full moon in Aquarius on August 1. It might all fall on you to set the vibe and get your peeps to loosen up. Try as you might to keep the optimism flowing, you may run into a block around August 8. Venus is not getting along with Uranus and you might have to deal with some unexpected financial issues. While you can’t ignore your responsibilities, you might finally be able to chill out by the new moon in Leo on August 16. Take care of business, but treat yourself a little in the process. You’ve got a strong work ethic to finish out this week, and even you might be surprised at what you can accomplish. As Virgo season approaches, you may have to cut back on spending, and it could feel as if there is no end sight as Mercury stations retrograde in rigid Virgo and your Sixth House of work and health on August 23. With the Sun’s transit on the same day, you might have to shift your mindset around how you work. This marks a three-week period of deep reflection on how you handle your labor and wellness. Mars moves into Libra on August 27 and things could really heat-up in a particular relationship. You could be bickering more than usual. As Uranus stations retrograde on the following day, the chaos that typically follows you around subsides. You can calm your mind and really zen out for the full moon in Pisces on August 30. You find power and peace in choosing not to react.
Taurus
Celebrate a recent accomplishment under the full moon in Aquarius on August 1. You might feel like there is a much higher level to reach, but it’s important to hype yourself up at this time. Your ruler Venus squares Uranus on August 8, leaving you a bit out of whack. This is a good chance to take a sudden deep dive in understanding your true feelings. By the new moon in Leo on August 16, you’ll be ready for an emotional renewal.This may be a strange but liberating experience; just go with it! If you start to relate to yourself in a new way, you could feel out of place with certain people around August 21. By the time the Sun enters Virgo on August 23, you just want to have some fun. It can be hard to define what that is as Mercury stations retrograde on the same day. This can be an ideal time to explore new hobbies or revive ones from the past. The next few days present the perfect atmosphere to get lost in a favorite past-time. Until Mars moves into level-headed Libra on August 27 and your to-do list takes priority. After a few lackadaisical weeks, your tasks may have piled up. If you’re feeling stressed, erratic Uranus stations retrograde the next day. It may become easier to find your inner calm. In doing so, you could reach a higher level of consciousness or self-awareness. The month ends with the full moon in Pisces on August 30, gather with those you feel a special connection to.
Gemini
The full moon in progressive Aquarius on August 1 could welcome you into a new environment. While it’s grand and exciting you might be in the middle of an adjustment period. Don’t worry about learning all the ins and the outs just yet! Don’t put too much pressure on yourself as Venus faces off with Uranus on August 8. Going too fast and furious could lead to a short circuit. Try to connect to the bigger picture of it all. You could have a new message to spread by the new moon in Leo on August 16. Running on purpose and a dream gets you far right now, just remember to take some necessary breaks. You might become oddly emotional about something as bold Mars opposes lucid Neptune on August 21. It’s best to not make a big stink, but instead let it out in private. Your passion and devotion, either to a relationship or project, could grow stronger once the Sun enters Virgo on August 23. However, there are likely some details you’ve overlooked as Mercury goes retrograde on the same day. Rethink your approach. The next couple days are ideal for sorting out any kinks. Mars moves into Libra on August 27 and you can finally let loose and enjoy the end of summer. As Uranus stations retrograde on the following day you might prefer a chill scene. Take a couple days to lounge around and do absolutely nothing. In this state, you tend to get your brightest ideas. As the full moon in Pisces rolls in around August 30, you might make some drastic edits to your end goal. That’s the beauty in being a mutable sign— you aren’t afraid to alter the course.
Cancer
An abrupt awakening could be in-store for you under the full moon in Aquarius on August 1. Reality challenges the picturestic vision in your head. Gaining clarity on the truth of matter is liberating and sets you free to focus on what’s next. You may notice yourself seeking isolation around August 8— that’s okay! Venus looks at odd-ball Uranus in a funny way and you’re just not up to dealing with others. Do your Cancer thing and retreat into your shell. Chances are you’re ready to step out and shine again by the new moon in Leo on August 16. You may be careless about how others perceive you, which makes you ooze confidence and coolness. Avoid getting too existential or preachy around August 21, though. Mars isn’t getting along with Neptune, making it all too easy to cross a line. As the revitalizing Sun enters Virgo on August 23, you might attempt to become a more effective communicator. Whether it’s issues with a partner or at work, look at this as means of self-improvement as Mercury stations retrograde the same day. You could start to reflect upon some recent situations and your approach to them. Mars enters Libra on August 27, causing an increase in passion or ambition when it comes to your home. Whether you’re working on a project or hunting for your dream abode, you can make great strides at the moment. However, you might have to be realistic when it comes to ideals and hopes as Uranus stations retrograde the following day. When you expect nothing, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. The full moon in Pisces on August 30 may call for some sort of spiritual retreat. Whether this is a solo mission at home or a small zen getaway, let yourself be rejuvenated.
About the Author/s
A writer and astrologer, sustained by iced coffee, sunsets and decorating her home. For more on her services and where her insights can be found, visit cosmickait.com.
