Get ready for some serious shapeshifting…

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With half the planets spending much of the month in Taurus, Leo and Aquarius, August emphasizes fixed energy. Fixed signs land in the middle of seasons, and they’re known for their loyalty, resolve and persistence. But since they’re prone to sticking with something or someone and not budging, they’re more than a little stubborn! As they form squares and oppositions (hard angles that produce tension) to each other, your instinct may be to stand firm. Try to be judicious in choosing when to persevere and when to bend. You can make the most of the dogged determination that’s in the air without getting into pointless battles. Strive to master this fine art in August!

LEO

July 23–August 22

You could have a problem with authority when feisty Mars runs into impertinent Uranus in your ambition angle on the 1st, but this combustible combo can also indicate a sharp turn in your career path. Maybe you’ll quit your job with nothing else lined up and set off in a totally new direction — possibly working for yourself. Impulsive behavior can draw unwanted attention, so tread carefully. But don’t hesitate to launch an exciting professional endeavor or take an unorthodox approach to achieving your goals. On August 7th, a Venus-Neptune confab hints that selflessness and empathy can lead to a soul-to-soul connection, while letting go of a desire can facilitate spiritual healing. Mars reaches a stalemate with Saturn that day, however, making it seem like someone is standing in the way of your career advancement or personal progress. Resist the urge to keep racing ahead. Take negative feedback under advisement. A killjoy could be a blessing in disguise, since constructive criticism will hone your strategy. Maybe you need to toggle between chasing goals and meeting personal obligations for a day. With Venus and Pluto going toe to toe on the 8th, you’re juggling relaxation with work and will want some time to yourself. Although you’re tempted to drift, try not to resent your commitments when duty calls. Otherwise, it will be harder to get along with people. You might take it personally if someone wields their authority over you on the 11th when the Leo sun goes up against rash Uranus. Take a break from responsibilities to do your own thing. You’re in no mood to cater to anyone else’s whims. If you can’t pull that off, keep juggling work and play as best you can. That same day, Venus dances into Leo for a three-and-a-half-week stay, putting you in a friendly, flirty, warm mood. You can draw people into your orbit with zero effort now. Dress to please yourself, get out and enjoy life, and turn on the charm with the object of your affection. That night, a full moon in your interpersonal angle can push you to make things more official in a relationship or call it quits. This lunation encourages you to strike a better balance between me and we in all your one-to-one connections. Since Saturn is in the mix, it might be time to ask yourself how much work you’re willing to put into a particular relationship. Then on August 14th, a sun-Saturn faceoff can make it seem like someone is acting as a roadblock once again. You could feel like you have to choose between putting yourself first and honoring your promises to others. Look for a mutually agreeable compromise, and don’t let this bump in the road deflate your spirits. Fortunately, Mars and Pluto are in sync that day, so the hard work you’ve put in to accomplish a goal should pay off. Your drive may earn you weighty responsibilities, and you’ll have the ability to work effectively with colleagues. If you’re pushing for changes that serve a greater purpose — like helping others or improving work conditions or wellness — you’re likely to have success. It’s also a useful time for going after a different job, particularly if this change has been a long time coming. On the 18th, Venus’s chemistry with Jupiter implies that the appeal of new experience — like a flirtation with someone who’s totally different from you or a trip to someplace you’ve never been — will be irresistible. Familiar pleasures won’t suffice, so relish the unfamiliar. Mars segues into your network realm on the 20th for a prolonged stay, encouraging you to shift your energy from solo projects to collaborations for the next seven months. It’s time to be a team player, so seek out people with common goals and ideals, then join forces to make things happen. Sometimes it’s challenging to meld Martian drive and team spirit, making it all the more essential that you find others who are aiming in the same direction as you. The sun exits your sign and begins its lap through your worth province on August 22nd, turning your attention from who you are to what you have and what you need. You’re apt to identify with your finances and possessions in the coming month and should weigh what is most valuable to you. On the 24th, Uranus does an about-face, offering you a chance to regroup over the next five months if career commotion has kept you on your toes lately. Maybe you’ve changed your mind about what you want to do with your life. In that case, this phase lets you mull over options rather than leap into action. Venus has a tiff with Uranus on the 26th that suggests you’re projecting a different image than you assume you are and you’re impatient to get where you’re going. On the same day, the sun’s disagreement with Mars can spell conflict over money, possessions or values, especially if your ego is wrapped up in what’s yours. Digging in your heels will probably only make matters worse. See if you can find common ground. The new moon of August 27th beckons you to craft a budget, set financial goals, shuffle your priorities and develop a new stream of income. The next day, Venus in Leo faces off with Saturn, so you could be exuding warmth, but you’re getting the cold shoulder. Or maybe you’re in an agreeable mood while others are being difficult. Don’t take it personally if people aren’t easily swayed. See if there’s any lesson to be gained from this temporary strain on relationships.

VIRGO

August 23–September 22

On the 1st, Mars crosses paths with Uranus, daring you to take a leap of faith, with or without a net. You’re ready to burst out of your comfort zone, and that’s a good thing — as long as you don’t take unreasonable risks or embrace radical views. This is the perfect time to fight for a humanitarian cause related to liberation and the rights of individuals. It’s also ideal for boldly pursuing a path to greater consciousness, awareness, knowledge — even enlightenment. If you need to stand up for what you believe in, speak your truth! You might also set off on an impromptu adventure or launch an entrepreneurial endeavor. On the 7th, Venus’s vibe with Neptune coaxes you to go with the flow and form organic connections based on sincere, soulful feelings. You could be inspired to see someone in a new light or do something sweet for a friend. A Mars-Saturn skirmish that day could stop you in your tracks when you’re about to gamble. That can work in your favor, as it compels you to ensure any risks you take are calculated ones. None of this leap-and-the-net-will-appear optimism where Saturn is concerned! First do your due diligence. As Venus and Pluto lock into an opposition the next day, you may find it more challenging to get along with friends if you want different things. Romantic sparks with a platonic pal are a possibility, and the attraction won’t be easy to resist. Seek middle ground between personal pleasure and group interests. But remember you can’t make everyone happy! Although you might feel like lying low while the sun hibernates in your retreat corner, his run-in with Uranus on the 11th can trigger a conflicting urge to break out of a rut, have new experiences, broaden your mind, meet people and travel. Part of you wants peace and quiet, while another part wants to shake things up. Find healthy escapes that, at the very least, transport your mind. Don’t overbook yourself in the next few weeks because Venus sneaks into your retreat corner that same day, increasing your desire for alone time and private time with someone close to you. That night, the full moon nudges you to take better care of yourself by dropping time-wasting or unhealthy habits and stressful duties. A work project could come to fruition now. On August 14th, the sun’s opposition with Saturn implies your workload or your health can prevent you from unwinding the way you want to and deplete your already low reserves. Try to stick to a regular schedule and get adequate rest so you don’t burn out. In contrast, a Mars-Pluto coalition that same day favors visiting a place you’ve never been to before, trying new things, having an adventure and taking more risks. You’ll get deep satisfaction from expanding your mind and broadening your horizons, so it’s important to push past imaginary limits and learn what you can about the world. Having exciting new experiences can transform you and strengthen a bond — making this a good time for a solo journey or romantic getaway. Venus’s vibe with Jupiter on August 18th convinces you to seek peace and quiet. You might make a kindhearted sacrifice for someone you care about and improve your relationship. Mars climbs to the peak of your chart on the 20th, where he’ll be hovering until next year, revving up your ambition. Keep your eyes on the prize, and go after your goals with determination, sticking to a game plan. Try to work independently whenever possible, since you’ll be in no mood to answer to anyone. The sun’s arrival in Virgo on August 22nd marks the beginning of your birthday season and infuses you with vitality. It’s easy for you to make a strong impression now, as you’re oozing charisma and verve. Focus on yourself and ponder what you want out of the next six to twelve months. On the 24th, Uranus goes off the grid for the next five months, slowing the flood of realizations and allowing you to sort through them. If you’re envisioning big changes involving travel, education or an entrepreneurial venture, this next phase is perfect for narrowing down the possibilities and contemplating which path forward is right for you. Venus has a dustup with Uranus on August 26th, reinforcing the friction between your desire to let go and drift and your yen for adventure. You could also feel inspired to help someone but aren’t sure if you’re seeing them in an accurate light. The sun is at odds with Mars that day, so you could be a little too driven to achieve your objectives. Convince yourself to slow down and navigate more methodically through established channels, or you might get into an unwarranted dispute. Try not to take anything personally. Your energy is great, but the world may not meet you halfway now. The new moon lands in your sign on the 27th, representing your yearly fresh start. This lunation offers the perfect excuse to reinvent yourself in a big way. Whether it’s time to debut a different look, launch a bold personal endeavor or let a neglected side of yourself move to the forefront, here’s your chance to reboot and move into the next year better than ever. On August 28th, a Venus-Saturn opposition can lessen the joy of retreat by reminding you of your obligations. But getting the necessary stuff done will take some pressure off, allowing you to balance duty and relaxation.

LIBRA

September 23–October 22

When Mars and Uranus align on August 1st, brewing sexual chemistry could suddenly ignite, or grenades might be thrown in a close relationship. Emotions are bound to be intense and combustible, so you might need to retreat to your corners and cool down. Passionate sparks can be fun, but they can also be a flash in the pan, given Uranus’s erratic nature. You could free yourself from a fear or other psychological barrier now or courageously move on from a loss, wound or crisis. This is a great opportunity to finally break the emotional chains that bind you. On the 7th, a Venus-Neptune alliance persuades you to maintain a high profile so your helpfulness and creativity gets noticed. Plus a workplace romance might be in the cards. However, that day’s Mars-Saturn standoff suggests you could experience a push-pull dynamic in a close relationship. Maybe one person is ready to dive deep into intimacy, while the other wants to wait and see. Or one part of you is ultra-focused on a passion project, emotional issue or love interest, and another part isn’t sure about putting all your eggs in one basket. You have a lot to contribute, and whatever test you’re facing will empower you to understand yourself better and get out of your own way. Venus goes head to head with Pluto on the 8th, so you’ll need to keep an eye on your mood. Turbulent emotions can make it harder to charm people in power or present a pleasant image in public. Deal with the rumblings in your psyche so you don’t erupt at the wrong time. If you get caught in the middle of parental discord or other family drama, resist the temptation to play peacemaker! A sun-Uranus dustup on August 11th means give-and-take won’t be even-steven, and you could become impatient with someone who’s not meeting your expectations. Friction over pooled resources, trust, money or jealousy could crop up. After Venus arrives in your network zone that day, you’ll thrive on group activities like nights out with friends over the next few weeks. That night, a full moon may heat up a love affair to the point of blastoff or grand finale — and a creative project could culminate as well. Find pleasurable outlets like a spontaneous getaway for this passion tsunami. The sun-Saturn faceoff on August 14th may exacerbate self-inhibition and make you feel like you don’t fit in or stand out enough. Spend time with people you have something big in common with. That day’s Mars-Pluto conference could produce a few different results. Sex can stir deep emotions, while grappling with a challenging issue in a close relationship can change your home life for the better or mend a troubled mood. It’s worth it to face a psychological problem, crisis, wound or loss head-on. Courageous self-examination can fortify your inner security and help you to move on. If you need support from a partner, parent or roommate, they’re likely to come through, especially if you’re honest and direct. Venus-Jupiter harmony on the 18th can help you have a great time socializing or help a friendship blossom. If you have a partner, this is a good time to hang out with each other’s friends as a couple. On August 20th, Mars rockets into your exploration zone, beginning a seven-month period that will rev up your wanderlust and embolden you to push the envelope. It’s time to take some risks in the interest of learning and growing, so don’t be too cautious. Explore uncharted territory, get on the frontlines fighting for a worthy cause, do something that scares you a little! As the sun sneaks into your retreat corner on the 22nd, your solar year starts winding now. This is a month for recharging your battery and reflecting on the past. With Uranus going rogue on the 24th, changes in a close relationship, erratic outside resources (like a loan or partner’s income) or tremors in your psyche will ease up. The next five months give you a chance to ponder the most empowering path forward. Your ruler has a spat with Uranus on August 26th that suggests someone might catch you by surprise — or you might hook up with a platonic pal. Enjoy the moment without reading too much into it. If an individual is acting fickle or detached, give them space. Sex, sharing and interdependence can trip you up now. Focus on cultivating mutually beneficial connections, learning what you can from others and allowing them to be themselves. Right after that, a sun-Mars skirmish could mean your focus is divided between the past and the future. Subliminal impulses might provoke you to state your beliefs quite strongly or do the wrong thing for the right reasons. Tuning into what’s going on deep inside you can keep you from getting into hot water. The new moon of August 27th prompts you to begin a new spiritual practice; crack open a dream journal; start a volunteer effort; step back from the world and enjoy your solitude; and release anything that is weighing on your soul. You need peace of mind so you can move into your new year next month with a clean slate. On the 28th, a Venus-Saturn opposition can make you feel too self-conscious to relax around people, or it can generate tension between your social life and your love life. Respect your feelings, but don’t fixate on them, as they’ll subside soon enough.

SCORPIO

October 23–November 21

On the 1st, a close encounter between Mars and Uranus in your interpersonal angle could trigger a burst of action that changes a relationship. You might simply get into an argument, but it’s likely that there’s more to it. If you’ve been in a holding pattern with someone for quite a while, this planetary pairing can push you out of it, since it demands progress. Perhaps you’ll finally call it quits if a connection has gone as far as it can go. Or you’ll realize what needs to happen in order for you to make a partnership work. Uranus is a big proponent of independence, so you might break a codependent pattern now. With Venus and Neptune harmonizing on the 7th, an adventure could prove truly transcendent. Get out of your routine and open your heart to the idea of someone new if you’re looking for love. Since the sun and Mars are squabbling that same day, private insecurity, domestic duties or family obligations can get in the way of partnership, though. Emotional baggage and old patterns will make it hard to fight fair. Resist the temptation to get defensive. Try to identify the role you play in an interpersonal dynamic. Then aim to take back what you’re projecting onto others and own it. The next day, a Venus-Pluto faceoff suggests that overthinking an unfamiliar pleasure can act as a killjoy. Don’t let a compulsion for control keep you from exploring more of what the world has to offer. Even though you’re focused on achieving your objectives, relationship ups-and-downs or unpredictable people can cause you to take your eye off the ball when the sun spars with Uranus on August 11th. You could get bossy, especially if someone tests your patience. Try to give people lots of leeway and remember they may not share your agenda. With Venus climbing to the peak of your chart that day, you can charm higher-ups and earn accolades for creative work in the weeks to come. It’s relatively easy to get along with colleagues and maintain a positive image now. That night’s full moon reminds you that attending to whatever is going on inside you or in your home will allow you to go out into the world and succeed. Your living situation might be undergoing a change, or a family member may need you. But if you’re overwhelmed with emotions, grab alone time to decompress. On the 14th, a sun-Saturn opposition can again test your ability to balance goals and home life. You’re trying to shine but may need to overcome the past, emotional insecurity or a family or domestic issue in order to do so. Try not to succumb to a morose mood. Your co-rulers, Mars and Pluto, mesh that day, and you can take advantage of their chemistry by recruiting a partner to do something with. A collab or shared activity will improve your mindset. If you need to work through differences with someone, get the problem into the open and deal with it thoroughly. Asserting your position will feel empowering. Venus’s harmony with Jupiter on August 18th makes it easy to get along with authority figures. Enjoy the underrated pleasures of learning on the job and being productive! Mars dives into your intensity-and-sharing realm on August 20th for an extended stay, prompting you to delve deeply into an important personal bond, passion project or emotional issue. Your libido may go into overdrive, as you focus intently on having something that it feels like you can’t live without. Emotions will run hot, but you’re not necessarily meant to be calm, cool and collected during this transit. Once the sun shows up in your humanity province on the 22nd for its annual monthlong visit, you’ll be inclined to identify strongly with your tribe. Team up with like-minded people and funnel your energy into group efforts that you care about. After Uranus starts to backpedal across your interpersonal angle on the 24th, a rollercoaster relationship could stabilize somewhat, or you might face fewer curveballs from other individuals — which should make your interactions less nerve-wracking. If you’ve been swept up in a whirlwind courtship, it’s likely to seem less frenzied for the rest of the year. Venus’s quarrel with Uranus on August 26th implies you might not make the impression you intend to, so don’t be too attached to getting a specific response. Partnership isn’t the most reliable path to success now, and relationship challenges can hinder self-promotion. You might have to change your strategy with someone so you can save face. Plus, a sun-Mars spat that same day points to tension between friendship and intimacy or between integrating with a group and focusing on one person or project. On the 27th, a new moon could inspire you to expand the circle of people in your life. In the coming month, you can make new friends, secure professional contacts, join an organization, add something to your bucket list or launch a philanthropic endeavor. New hopes and wishes will lead you to form new connections, bringing some fresh faces onto Team Scorpio. Then on the 28th, Venus goes head to head with Saturn, alluding to private insecurity that can hamper your ability to please the right people. Or domestic obligations could cut into desired facetime with higher-ups. You can overcome this dilemma with some form of compromise.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22–December 21

When Mars and Uranus come together in your efficiency corner on August 1st, you could feel stifled by your job, bored with everyday life or weighed down by duties. You may spot a unique opportunity to make a change that will increase your productivity going forward. Think in terms of tech solutions, since Uranus rules technology; there are endless lifehacking options out there! It’s possible that you’ll run into a conflict at work or have an urge to quit, but getting really involved in interesting tasks and adopting a fresh approach will probably prove more useful. Unless of course you’re in a dead-end job that’s limiting your potential. This planetary map does dare you to break free from your routine. On the 7th, Venus vibes with Neptune, hinting that one-on-one time with a loved one in the privacy of your home can be romantic and/or soothing. Alone time can help you to center yourself and feel more at peace with life. Work smarter, not harder when Mars provokes Saturn that day, causing you to find fault with what you’re doing. It makes sense to refine your approach, but don’t get stuck in analysis paralysis. The point is to keep going on a more focused track, not to talk yourself out of actions completely. Try not to take critical jabs at people or stress yourself out with a negative mindset. A Venus-Pluto standoff the next day can impact a relationship if concerns about getting what you need overshadow your craving for closeness. Don’t be stubborn or try to gain the upper hand. See if potent desire can be transformed into a strength. On August 11th, the sun’s discord with Uranus can throw a wrench in your plans. Your wanderlust or hunger for new experiences may be thwarted by evolving circumstances, or an inability to concentrate might hurt your effectiveness. You’re likely to feel scattered and could grow frustrated with limitations. But Venus lands in your exploration realm that same day, highlighting the appeal of difference. In the next few weeks, you’ll want to mingle with a wider range of people and enjoy more of life’s possibilities. That night’s full moon can bring information to light, a writing project to fruition or a flood of thoughts and busyness. Words and emotions are intertwined, nudging you to express how you’re feeling. A sun-Saturn faceoff on the 14th gives expansive thinking a reality check. It’s good to ensure you’re not venturing too far out on a limb, but don’t let fear and pessimism dominate — and thus limit possibilities for growth. Clipping your own wings would be a mistake. Mars collaborates with Pluto soon after, implying that your hard work will have a positive effect on your finances or self-esteem. You might devote a lot of energy to an effort involving your belongings — for instance, doing a big purge, then selling, donating and recycling various items. If you’re busy at your job or handling daily duties, you’ll get the sense that your labor is paying off now. It’s a good time to take a planned step toward a goal and hopefully boost your income. Venus clicks with Jupiter on August 18th, coaxing you away from comfort and sameness. Adventures will be incredibly fulfilling — and maybe romantic. Archers know there’s more to life than sticking to the tried and true. Taking a chance can bring you happiness. After Mars crosses your interpersonal angle on August 20th, he’ll activate your one-on-one relationships for the next several months. This is a phase for getting grievances out in the open and addressing them directly. Look for chances to engage in activities with other individuals. Pairing up will be much more fruitful than flying solo, so work out with a companion or snag a partner in crime for your next adventure. Once the sun ascends to your ambition angle on August 22nd, you’ll be primed to make a splash in your profession or in public and boost your standing. Don’t be shy, Sag — shine your light! After Uranus pivots retrograde on the 24th, your everyday life should calm down a bit for the rest of the year, giving you an opportunity to evaluate stressors that are making you feel frazzled. If you’ve taken on new responsibilities or experienced changes in your health, now’s the time to fall back on routines that steady you, like a daily morning run. Venus tussles with Uranus on August 26th, calling for you to stay flexible if your workload, health or some inescapable detail threatens to curtail the pleasures of broadening your horizons. However, your restlessness can push you to overthrow the status quo without a second thought — and that might not be such a bad thing! Also, the sun and Mars are going at it that day, which could pit your personal ambitions against joint efforts. The new moon on August 27th invites you to set new goals, start a fresh chapter in your career, create a business plan or turn a corner on your life path. You could assume a high-profile role, a leadership position or bigger responsibilities soon. On the 28th, a Venus-Saturn opposition can make you think twice about exploring new pleasures. Weigh risks, but don’t let negativity prevent you from enjoying more of what life has to offer.

CAPRICORN

December 22–January 19

Mars and Uranus have a rendezvous on August 1st that fires you up to take a risk for the sake of love, happiness or creative fulfillment. You could jump into a romance or jet off on a thrilling adventure without overthinking it. You might also get out of a love affair if you need more space. You’re inclined to put your personal stamp on whatever you do now and aren’t too concerned with the fallout. Get in the driver’s seat and enjoy the sensation of going wherever you choose. Venus’s harmony with Neptune on the 7th can help you relate to people one-on-one with empathy and compassion. Under this influence, you may need to remind yourself not to view others through rose-colored glasses, though. A run-in between Mars and Saturn that same day signals that practical concerns can compel you to pull back on the throttle. You may not have the funds (or other resources) to do exactly as you please and will need to adapt to whatever reality you’re faced with. Or perhaps you’re not feeling confident enough to follow through on a risk you were about to take. Don’t put too much on the line if the moment doesn’t feel right. When Venus goes up against Pluto in Capricorn on August 8th, make a point of keeping your interactions aboveboard. You’re inclined to maintain harmony, but not when it means ceding too much control. If you’re drawn to someone now, you have the power to change each other. Make sure it’s for the better! On the 11th, you could be zeroing in on an important relationship, endeavor or personal matter, but with the sun battling Uranus, an impulse to enjoy the lighter side of life might send you off on a tangent. After Venus segues into your depth-and-merging sector that day, you’ll start to crave closeness and will want to feel accepted as your authentic self. If you’re alone, it’s a good time to focus on loving yourself from the inside out. That night’s full moon can trigger an influx of income or a mood-driven shopping spree. New work developments can pay off, and if you’re not making great use of your talents and skills, look for other job opportunities. You could hesitate to share and worry about not having what you need when the sun and Saturn face off on August 14th. Try not to focus on deprivation, or you might put a barrier between you and another person. When Mars jibes with Pluto that day, a targeted risk is actually favored, and you could successfully pursue what you desire. Chase after experiences that make you happy; bring more love into your life; help you express your feelings and personality; or allow you to fulfill your creative potential. These powerful experiences can trigger a shift deep within you. A romantic encounter might feel life-altering, while showing off what you have to offer the world can make you feel like a superstar. You have tons of mojo now — use it well! On August 18th, a Venus-Jupiter confab suggests your underlying desire for security and comfort can facilitate closeness or self-love. Prioritize your personal life and don’t hesitate to hole up at home. With Mars arriving in your efficiency corner on the 20th, you’ll feel ready to get down to business. For the next several months, you can zero in on essential tasks and plow through your to-do list. Productivity and health are extra important, so you’ll be busy at your job, exercising and making yourself useful in general. You’re more interested in getting stuff done than making a name for yourself while the doer planet is in this service-oriented part of the chart. But you might feel competitive with a coworker or take on too much and stress yourself out. Work solo and methodically whenever possible. On the 22nd, the sun’s arrival in your expansion corner fuels you to keep broadening your horizons. Seek out unfamiliar experiences that will enable you to learn. After Uranus turns retrograde on August 24th, any upheaval connected with your love life, creativity, children, hobbies or individuality is likely to subside. If you’ve been all over the place trying to date, enjoy life, stand out from the crowd and express what’s inside you, now you have a chance to slow down and ponder all that is new in your life, where your heart lies and what makes you happy. An urge for independence can disrupt closeness on the 26th. A Venus-Uranus scuffle can send shockwaves through your personal life if a sudden flirtation or sexual encounter comes out of leftfield. Expect the unexpected and allow for plenty of freedom. Don’t assume too much too soon. Infatuation and rebellion can blend, generating a plot twist. That same day, a sun-Mars battle implies that part of you wants to break out of your routine and explore, while another part of you is driven to do what must be done. Direct yourself to determine the top priorities. A new moon on the 27th can inspire you to take a leap of faith; plan a big trip; launch an entrepreneurial mission; embark on a new course of study; institute a new mantra to live by; or do something else that requires courage and promotes growth. Since Venus opposes Saturn on August 28th, a fear of not having what you need can prevent you from sharing openly, while a fear of not being enough can inhibit closeness. Although it’s understandable to protect your interests, don’t let worry win out!

AQUARIUS

January 20–February 18

You could have an urge to defy tradition when Mars aligns with Uranus in your foundation angle on August 1st. It’s a chance to sever ties that bind and uproot yourself from soil that isn’t nourishing you. Confront the past, old patterns and childhood hurts and liberate yourself from emotional baggage. Pent-up anger could come bursting out, and if there’s conflict, a relative or roommate is likely to be involved. Try to stay conscious of your fast-changing mood and resist lashing out defensively. On the 7th, Venus’s vibe with Neptune can move you to put aside your own needs and let your spiritual values take the lead. You can help others and might produce creative work too. But since Mars and Saturn are feuding that day, you could get in your own way. If you’re feeling prickly, dissecting a bad mood won’t be easy because your motives are mostly unconscious. Chances are you’re slipping into old behavior — and fear, pessimism or a related symptom is making it worse. Don’t let anyone push your buttons. Set boundaries and spend your energy pulling yourself together, however that looks for you. You might, for example, get really into cleaning the house. The next day’s Venus-Pluto opposition compels you to keep tabs on those troubling emotions you want to sweep under the rug. Your relations with others and your ability to enjoy what you’re doing will suffer if you don’t deal with what’s bothering you. On August 11th, the sun squabbles with Uranus, and this time, your mood, family matters or your home life could disrupt your rapport with another individual. If you do find yourself struggling, , press pause again and attend to what’s going on at home or inside you. With Venus crossing your one-on-one angle that day, you’ll soon feel like spending time with individuals you care about and should have an easier time maintaining smooth relations in the three and a half weeks that follow. That night, the full moon lands in Aquarius, flooding you with feels and reminding you to put yourself first. Spell out what you need, and if that doesn’t work, carve out alone time to decompress. If you’re sooo over someone or something now, this is your chance to let go and move forward. On the 14th, the sun’s standoff with Saturn in Aquarius can cause you to shut people out unintentionally. You may seem aloof when you’re simply focusing on your goals. Stay as self-aware as possible and understand that the gap between you and others can be bridged, even if your frame of mind doesn’t facilitate connection that particular day. Hours later, a Mars-Pluto collaboration motivates you to tackle a domestic project, confront an entrenched pattern of behavior, deal with a family issue or unpack your emotions. Working from home or on your home, confronting your own compulsions or facing a challenge in your family or home life can bring about significant shifts. Dark, complex feelings could bubble to the surface, and it’s worth your while to process them. When Venus syncs up with Jupiter on August 18th, a positive attitude — and possibly a change of scene — can elevate a relationship and keep your spirits high. Express your love and affection without holding back. After Mars races into your joy house on August 20th, life gets a lot more fun! For the next several months, you’ll be inclined to go out and play rather than staying in and getting stuff done. It’s your turn to pursue what you desire — whether that means romance, good times with friends, creative fulfillment, or pleasurable activities like hobbies. On the 22nd, the sun’s entrance into your depth house nudges you to zero in on a relationship, passion project or emotional conundrum and give it a lot of attention during the month that follows. Your ruler, Uranus, does a U-turn on the 24th, and for the five months that follow, your underlying anxiety should ease. If changes have been sending shockwaves through your family or home, things should settle down enough for you to recenter yourself. And if you jumped into a change involving your living situation too fast — like a redecorating spree — now’s the time to slow down and rethink it. Recent mood swings should start to even out; examine what’s knocking you off-balance and what you need to change in order to feel more comfortable in your own skin. If you get pulled away from a date or other social plans on August 26th because of a mood swing or a development on the home front, be ready to change things up in response. It might be your own underlying urge for independence and change that is impacting a relationship or your ability to get along with people. Take an honest look at your innermost emotions. A sun-Mars spat that day can also generate tension — in this case, between a relationship and your own self-expression or between sex and romance. The new moon of August 27th hints that a new sexual relationship, research project or investigation might be around the corner. A fresh outside resource like a grant could become available to you in the months that follow. Plus, this lunation offers a good excuse to make a fresh start after a crisis or loss. And finally, Venus’s faceoff with Saturn in Aquarius could make you want companionship and at the same time seem standoffish. Try to balance discipline and fun, and don’t isolate yourself to the point of loneliness when you’re feeling shy or serious. Build a bridge if there’s a moat around you!

PISCES

February 19–March 20

Mobilizing Mars and zany Uranus are on a collision course in your thinking-and-talking corner on August 1st, steering your thoughts and conversations in an unexpected direction. You could change your mind on a dime or land in an argument before you’ve weighed whether it’s worth it. If you’re tempted to say something that’s really bold and out-there, it could come flying out before you know it. Try not to do any damage with your words. What’s the best use of this mashup? Come up with cutting-edge strategies and confidently sell people on your genius ideas. You’re actively thinking outside the box and can get other innovators onboard now. Venus is in cahoots with Neptune in Pisces on the 7th, favoring romance, play, creativity and other forms of self-expression. Give yourself permission to enjoy life and let people see the real you. Love is likely to be dreamy and imaginative, not concrete and literal, so don’t try to ascertain the real nature of a connection. Let it transport you and fill you with joy. On a very different note, that day’s Mars-Saturn conflict can make you your own worst enemy when it comes to standing up for what you think. Private doubts and fears can undercut your assertiveness. Even if you’re the one getting in your way, you might feel irritable. That’s bound to come across in conversations, so take your emotional temperature before you end up in a testy debate. Venus and Pluto move into an opposition the next day, which might spell peer pressure that affects personal pleasure. Don’t give others too much power over you. Follow your heart! When the sun clashes with Uranus on August 11th, you could get anxious and distracted. Give yourself timeouts to clear your head. Otherwise, you might shoot off on a tangent and have a hard time getting back on track. After Venus enters your productivity corner that day, you could start to use your artistic skills more. In the next few weeks, enjoy helping others and consider working on a relationship problem. That night’s full moon serves as a reminder to tune into the needs of your soul. Don’t neglect your inner life by pouring all of your energy into the outer world. This lunation also offers an opportunity to forgive and forget so you can heal. Surrender to the divine will of the universe, releasing whatever (or whomever) is no longer serving your growth. Pay attention to your intuition, your dreams and your imagination — and trust your gut. With the sun and Saturn going head to head on the 14th, wrapping up old business may take temporary precedence over moving ahead with your current agenda. Nagging regret, guilt, doubt or melancholy can wear you out, and you’ll benefit from scheduling downtime to reset. But you’ll bounce back! That same day, a productive encounter involving Mars and Pluto enables you to sell your ideas to a group; reach out to people and make powerful contacts; and team up to improve your community. If you’re proactive and assertive, you can make significant headway on a new goal or an endeavor that benefits others. Plus, you could change a friendship for the better if you make the first move. You have the gift of persuasion under this influence and may launch a fruitful collaboration. Surround yourself with people who push you to achieve your dreams. Venus gels with Jupiter on the 18th, boosting your confidence and creativity. A job well done can help you feel good about yourself, and liking what you’re doing can enhance your capacity to provide for yourself. On the 20th, Mars dips down to your foundation angle for a months-long sojourn, where he’ll be keeping you busy on the home front and possibly triggering disagreements there as well. Perfect time to take on an impressive domestic project — but make a point of clearing any big changes with housemates to minimize friction. After the sun crosses your interpersonal angle on the 22nd, you’ll direct more attention to your one-on-one connections. People have the ability to energize you in the coming month, so don’t go it alone too much. As Uranus pivots retrograde on August 24th, your revved-up brain and everyday life will gradually slow down, and you won’t have as much nervous energy. If you’ve been on edge trying to take in unexpected info and adjust to a different reality, this is your chance to review what you’ve learned and mull over your view of new developments. Venus’s tiff with Uranus on the 26th implies that relations at work may hit a snag. Do your best to think on your feet and come up with creative solutions to problems. Indecisiveness can make it more challenging to enjoy what you’re doing, and building breaks into your routine could be the antidote. That same day, a quarrel between the sun and Mars suggests one-to-one relationships could be affected by family, home life, underlying anger and old behavior patterns. In this case, you’d probably benefit from burning off some energy through exercise or a domestic project. On August 27th, the new moon suggests that a new partnership of some kind could be in the pipeline, or you could make a bigger commitment in your current relationship. If a Venus-Saturn standoff on the 28th causes you to doubt your ability to do the work you want to do or makes you hesitate to help someone, you can listen to your reservations — but don’t let them rule you.

ARIES

March 21–April 19

It’s incredibly tempting to splurge on a whim when your ruling planet, “just do it” Mars, gets together with irreverent Uranus in your worth realm on the first day of the month. But you could finally tackle a possession purge now, getting rid of a ton of stuff you don’t need and freeing yourself from the weight of clutter. Or you might jump into budgeting mode and liberate yourself from bad financial habits. There’s a possibility that the actions you take now will have a positive influence on your self-esteem, especially if the gauge has been stuck on low lately. Watch out for disputes over money and belongings, though, since this combustible planetary pairing can explode out of nowhere. On the 7th, Venus in your domestic angle forms an alliance with Neptune in your retreat corner, giving you a green light to indulge in escapist pleasures at home. You deserve some downtime! But you can’t expect others to cosign when you act in your own best interests. That’s the takeaway message when Mars quarrels with Saturn in your group province that same day. If you push, you’re likely to hit a brick wall — especially where money, possessions and other resources are concerned. Your instinct now is to do what’s necessary to secure what you need. If you require the stamp of approval from a group, make sure you’ve covered all your bases. Balance relaxation and goals the next day when Venus and Pluto face off in your comfort and ambition zones. You may need extra time to recharge your battery. On the 11th, erratic confidence or finances can color your self-expression when the sun quibbles with Uranus. Be flexible in the way you use all kinds of assets. Try not to attach your emotions to specific needs. You could gain insight now into what is really most valuable to you. With Venus sashaying into your joy zone that day, you’ll soon start to feel more sociable. The three and a half weeks that follow are a favorable period for fun, creativity, romance and leisurely pursuits like hobbies. That night, a full moon could spell drama in your squad or you might enjoy an epic night out with your whole crew. If a friend needs you, let them lean on you for support. Do your best to balance group interests with your desire to be yourself. On August 14th, the sun and Saturn are at odds, which could make it hard to feel accepted by a group. Constructive criticism can help you to polish your creative self-expression, but maintain firm boundaries so that your personal sense of fulfillment isn’t at stake. The good news is your dynamic ruler, Mars, colludes with Pluto in your ambition angle that day, prompting you to use everything you have going for you so you can make progress in your career or towards a goal. This collaboration only occurs every couple of years, and it will enable you to make a strategic move in the right direction if you tap into your talents and utilize all of the tools at your disposal. Venus meshes with Jupiter in your sign on August 18th, coaxing you to lead with your heart and make personal fulfillment a top priority. You deserve to be happy and loved, and focusing on your own growth isn’t selfish. On the 20th, Mars promenades into your thinking-and-talking corner for a lengthy stay, nudging you to speak up, assert yourself and promote your ideas. Over the course of the next seven months, you’re bound to get busy with local travel, daily interactions and learning as you go. Let your curiosity lead you to discover new experiences, places, people and knowledge. After the sun cruises into your efficiency corner on the 22nd, you’ll be more motivated to get a lot done and to do everything in front of you to the best of your ability during the month that follows. Then after Uranus begins to backtrack on the 24th, ups and downs in your self-worth or finances should level out a bit for the next five months, giving you an opportunity to figure out the best way forward. But that unevenness can impact your fun when Venus and Uranus spar on the 26th. Pleasure, creativity and romance may be all over the map that day. Fortunately, you’re capable of riding out these bumps in the road and enjoying life regardless. The sun will be feuding with Mars that day, so you should guard against being too aggressive with colleagues. Your drive to get things done could conflict with your own ideas for how to proceed. Grab some alone time to get organized and determine a winning strategy. The new moon in your productivity corner on August 27th may inspire you to launch a job search; streamline your schedule; try a different diet or workout; introduce a positive habit into your routine; adopt a pet; make medical appointments; or learn a skill. On the 28th, Venus and Saturn go head to head, which might pit personal pleasure against group obligations. It’s also possible that your friends won’t be totally onboard with your love life under this planetary opposition. Don’t allow peer pressure to steal your joy, but listen to constructive feedback if it’s offered.