Important astrological energies for the month of August 2016:

• New Moon with Sun and Moon in Leo occurs on August 2, 2016.
• Jupiter in Virgo quincunx Uranus retrograde in Aries on August 13, 2016. This is the third time this aspect occurs. The other two times were November 5, 2015 and March 6, 2016.
• Saturn in Sagittarius turns stationary direct on August 13, 2016.
• Full Moon with Sun in Leo and Moon in Aquarius occurs on August 18, 2016.
• Mercury in Virgo turns stationary retrograde on August 30, 2016. It will remain retrograde until September 22, 2016.

Hold On to Your Values

By Misty Kuceris ©2016

The month of August starts with a vengeance as Venus forms a trine to Uranus retrograde and a quincunx to Chiron retrograde in the early morning hours, EDT, and Mercury forms a trine to Ceres in the afternoon EDT on August 1st.

Because of the early morning hours of the Venus aspects, you may not realize that the world is moving rapidly around you. But moving it is. This is a day where you need to understand your value systems and how they relate to people who really don’t think the same way you do. It’s important to pay attention to those small details in life so you don’t accidently say something that hurts another individual. You also need to realize that unexpected circumstances are going to crop up in your relationships as well as your financial situation. As a matter of fact, you need to be very cautious with any financial dealings today.

On the plus side, you may run into some people you haven’t seen in a while. Or, you may meet someone new and exciting who brings different perspectives into your life. In that sense, it could be a good day for relationships.

When Mercury forms the trine to Ceres in the afternoon EDT, life seems to have settled down. You find yourself thinking about your home and how you want to make some changes so it feels more comfortable to you. You look at life more realistically. You know when to compromise so you can solve problems. Even your relationships with people improve. Everyone is more willing to listen and work together.

On August 2^nd, Mars enters the sign of Sagittarius a little less than three hours before the new Moon occurs. Mars enjoys the energy of Sagittarius. There’s a lot to be done and you feel ready to do it. You just need to be cautious that you don’t rush into things too quickly and find yourself in over your head.

The excitement that you felt when Mars entered the sign of Sagittarius continues as the new Moon, with Sun and Moon in Leo, occurs. You want to take risks. You want to enjoy life. You want to share this enjoyment with other people in your life.

The new Moon is separating from a trine to Saturn retrograde and moving into a quincunx with Neptune retrograde. On one hand, you’ll be able to balance your excitement by realizing that things you did in the past can create a secure foundation for you. On the other hand, you need to re-evaluate your dreams and make some adjustments so you can find success. You also need to let go of any fears which have prevented you from moving forward.

As Venus enters the sign of Virgo on August 5^th, you want to make some changes in your daily routine so you can move forward into the future without any fears. While Venus isn’t comfortable in the sign of Virgo there are positive attributes to this placement. You’re willing to work for what you believe in. You’re willing to help out other people in your life. You also understand that by taking care of your health and financial matters it becomes easier for you to achieve your goals.

There is one area where you need to be careful: Do not let your fear of missing details get in the way of accomplishing your goals. Sometimes you want to be perfect, but that doesn’t really happen in life. As long as you realize that you’re doing your best, you will find success.

On August 6^th, Mercury forms a square to Saturn retrograde and the energy of the mutable T-square begins. You’ll feel it between today and August 8^th.

When Mercury forms a square to Saturn retrograde, you feel as if you can’t really speak your mind. Other people are critical of your thoughts, or so you feel. In reality, it’s you who is critical of your thoughts. You’re trying to censor your words before they can even be communicated with others. Or, you’re trying to give people too many details which aren’t that important.

Because this square is the start of a mutable T-square, you are placing too much emphasis on trying to get your concepts across perfectly. But, as is the case with mutable energy, situations are still in flux. By trying to get your concepts across too perfectly, you’re missing the opportunity to receive valuable input from other people.

This mutable T-square energy continues on August 7^th as Mercury forms an opposition to Neptune. Other people are going to question some of your premises. They may feel as if you aren’t presenting your ideas clearly. Or, they may feel you don’t have all the facts. It’s true that when Neptune is involved with Mercury there is a tendency for facts to be obscured. Either they aren’t grounded in reality or they are yet to be discovered. It’s better if you just keep thoughts to yourself as you continue to research and get more information.

August 8^th is a better day as the energy of the mutable T-square comes to an end when Mercury forms a conjunction to the Moon’s North Node. But before that occurs, Venus forms a trine to Ceres.

There is a synergy between Venus and Ceres. Venus represents the passion that a person feels while Ceres represents the protective nature of an individual. With Venus in Virgo, you feel passionate about making certain that your daily routine functions well. It also represents the need to feel as if, through compassion, you can do things that make life easier for others. Meanwhile, Ceres in Taurus represents the importance of knowing how to live your values and impart these values to other people. Perhaps the most important result of this trine is that you understand that through compassion you help other people find their way while honoring your own value system.

When Mercury forms a conjunction to the Moon’s North Node, start thinking about your future goals and what changes are needed in order to achieve those goals. Approach situations in methodical and incremental steps. Make certain that your expectations are realistic. The biggest lesson over the last few days from this mutable T-square is to understand how to maintain realistic expectations so you can achieve your goals.

When Mercury forms a trine to Pluto retrograde on August 10^th, you increase your focus on matters that are important. You have a drive to succeed. You want other people to understand what you mean, not just what you say. You know how to go into the depths of your subconscious mind and pull out what’s important. This is a good day for self-awareness.

Just be careful when you express your passion for your ideas. You don’t want to come across as someone who isn’t open to other concepts. And, you don’t want to create the appearance that all you care about are your own ideas.

If you were too “pushy” with your ideas on August 10^th, you might find that other people start rebelling on August 12^th when Chiron retrograde forms an opposition to Jupiter. People may think that your ideas are too grandiose and they let you know. Instead of listening to what they are trying to say, you take offense. But, hold back. Don’t take their words as criticism. Instead, listen to what they have to say. They may be trying to convey something very important and valuable.

On August 13^th, Jupiter forms a quincunx to Uranus retrograde around 5:01 am EDT; Mars forms a quincunx to Ceres at 5:21 am EDT; and Saturn turns stationary direct at 5:50 am EDT. Later in the day, around 10:17 am EDT, Venus forms a square to Saturn.

Jupiter, Uranus retrograde, and Mars are all planets that indicate action is often taken without considering of future consequences. Decisions are made quickly without determining the facts. Thoughts stray towards what can be done now, not later. Mistakes can be made, especially in the area of your relationships, finances, or job situation since Venus and Saturn are also involved.

This is not the first time that Jupiter is forming a quincunx to Uranus in this cycle. This is the last time, so its energy could be more elevated that before. The previous two times that this quincunx occurred was on November 5, 2015 and on March 6, 2016.

Once again this quincunx indicates that you need to take your time to consider your spiritual values and not rush into situations. While both planets indicate that you want to take risks and are willing to do so, that may not be such a good idea. You need to be careful because too many people are willing to go after what they want without being considerate of others.

This could be a very difficult time for the United States. In the chart set up for Washington, DC, Uranus retrograde is elevated in the tenth house. There could be problems with leadership. There could be upsets in the Presidential campaign. Jupiter is in the third house indicating that some scandal may be revealed.

As Mars forms a quincunx to Ceres, you may feel as if your environment is at risk. You may feel that no matter what you try, you can’t succeed because you’re not getting support from others. Instead, you feel as if you’re being prevented from achieving your goals. While you may want to confront other people with your frustrations, this is not a time to let anger direct your actions. You won’t achieve anything, only more frustration.

Saturn turning stationary direct may be a blessing in disguise. When Saturn was retrograde, you felt as if you couldn’t move forward. Now with Saturn turning direct, you feel as if some weight has been lifted. But this change of direction could also be a curse. You may suddenly feel as if it’s all right to express your frustration with situations in life. Too much is changing and you’re not quite ready for it. But if you tap into the balance that Saturn in Sagittarius can provide, you’ll find things are easier for you. In some ways, Saturn isn’t really comfortable in the sign of Sagittarius because Sagittarius is a sign that indicates the expansion of boundaries while Saturn is a planet that indicates constriction and cultivated growth. As a mutable sign, Sagittarius needs to stay constantly in flux, embracing change, especially future change. As a stabilizing planet, Saturn wants to hold on to the past in order to build a stronger foundation for the planet and personal lives.

Metaphysically, Sagittarius is the ending sign for energy that is activated by Saturn. Sagittarius rules the ninth house, a succeedent house, while Saturn rules both the tenth, an angular house, and the eleventh, a cadent house. While Sagittarius represents the shifting of energy from grandiose schemes to earth-bound realities, Saturn represents the initiation of energy where concepts need to be incorporated into the status quo. Now that Saturn is turning direct, it’s important for you to understand what past mistakes occurred so they are not repeated in the future. At the same time, it’s important to sit down and create plans so that future growth can occur in a positive manner.

When Venus forms a square to Saturn stationary direct on August 13^th, the energy of another mutable T-square begins. It will end on August 15^th. It’s very important for you to understand what’s valuable in your life. You may feel as if some of your value systems have shifted. Or, you may feel as if you don’t have the support you thought you did. Rather than taking action today, wait for a few days to see what is and is not still important. The reason for this is because Venus will form an opposition to Neptune tomorrow and a conjunction to the Moon’s North Node on the 15^th.

When Venus does form that opposition to Neptune on August 14^th, you are confused about what’s important. You hear people say different things. You hear distortions of the truth. You feel as if other people aren’t taking your needs into consideration. You even feel misunderstood. The best approach is to let the energy float around you without making any commitments to people or circumstances. Do the best you can to put off any decisions until tomorrow when Venus forms the conjunction to the Moon’s North Node. Keep in mind that distortions in the truth can either come from outright lies or from withholding important information. This is especially true if you need to make any financial decisions.

As Venus forms a conjunction to the Moon’s North Node on August 15^th, the mutable T-square ends that began on August 13^th comes to an end. You feel a sense of relief. You start getting an understanding of how to move into the future without losing your sense of values. You begin to get more of the real information instead of the mistruths. If you trust your instincts today, you’ll do well.

Calmness returns to the world on August 17^th as Venus forms a trine to Pluto retrograde. You feel better about yourself. You find ways to bring love and caring into your life. You feel passionate about others and want to help them.

You’re able to understand yourself better today. You know how to go into the depths of your subconscious mind and pull out information that’s important. You’re willing to let go of past pain so you can move on into the future.

You may even meet someone who is special. This could be a love interest. It could be a friend who understands your needs and is willing to support your goals.

You’ll also find it easier to get rid of junk from your life. You’re willing to move on and not hold on to a past which is painful. You realize that hoarding things gets in the way of your ability to do your daily routine.

The full Moon which occurs on August 18^th has the Sun in Leo and the Moon in Aquarius. You may find yourself struggling between wanting to interact with other people and wanting to be left alone.

The Sun forms a trine to Uranus retrograde and the Moon forms a sextile to Uranus retrograde. This indicates that you really are better off just letting other people solve their own problems and not getting involved. Even if you came up with solutions, other people won’t listen since the Mercury/Jupiter conjunction forms an opposition to Chiron retrograde and a quincunx to Uranus retrograde. People believe what they want to believe. They’ll even do everything possible to justify their belief systems even if those belief systems are based on falsehoods.

This is a time period where you really do need to think for yourself. You need to view any situations in your life from as many perspectives as possible. If you have to make a decision on any important matter, make certain that you have all the facts. You don’t want to rush into any situations without understanding the possible outcomes and how those outcomes will affect you in the future.

When Mercury forms an opposition with Chiron retrograde on August 19^th, be very cautious with your words. You don’t want to say anything which could inflict pain. If you feel frustrated, try to maintain silence until that frustration passes. If you have to speak up, try to be compassionate with your words and listen to the other side of the story. If you feel as if other people are attacking you, try to let them know the impact of the attack without attacking them back.

Later in the day, Mercury forms a quincunx to Uranus retrograde. Information is coming at you very fast. You don’t know how to respond. Or, perhaps because it’s coming so fast, you don’t have time to respond. Worse, the information is not consistent. Every time you think you understand, the information changes. This is not a good day to make decisions because there is too much information which conflicts. You’re better off waiting until August 22^nd when Mercury forms a conjunction to Jupiter and the Sun enters Virgo.

When Mercury forms the conjunction to Jupiter and the Sun enters Virgo on August 22^nd, you find it easier to communicate. You have a good idea of what you need to say. You find a way to present information that makes sense. At the same time, don’t start pontificating to make your point. If you present the information clearly, other people will listen. If you start justifying your words, other people will feel that you’re trying to steer them in a direction they don’t want to go.

With Mars forming a conjunction to Saturn and Venus forming an opposition to Chiron retrograde on August 24^th, you feel sluggish and very cautious. Usually when Mars is in Sagittarius, you are willing to take risks. But, not today. Today you need to take steps to stabilize your life and make certain you have a firm foundation. This is especially true as Venus forms that opposition to Chiron retrograde.

With Venus in Virgo and Chiron retrograde in Pisces, you might feel critical of your actions. You may feel as if you can’t respond well to circumstances in your life. But, if you take time to stabilize your life and proceed calmly, you’ll see that you can get things done. You won’t be stuck in negativity.

In some ways it’s a blessing that Venus forms a quincunx to Uranus retrograde on August 25^th. This energy will make certain that you don’t stay stuck in negative situations. Each time you want to hold back, something unexpected happens. While you don’t want to start any new ventures because of the unexpected, you do want to be open to new concepts that you didn’t consider before. That is the blessing of Uranus.

But don’t run off and implement any new ideas on August 26^th, as Mars forms a square to Neptune retrograde on August 26^th. You still need to pull back and determine what is realistic. You need to consider various ways of implementing your dreams without putting yourself at risk. If you try to move forward, you’ll be confused about the right direction to take. But, if you spend time in meditation, you’ll actually be able to pull up some information from your spirit guides that can be understood tomorrow when Venus forms a conjunction to Jupiter.

Today, August 27^th, you’ll find value in your long-term plans as Venus forms a conjunction to Jupiter. You’ll find other people are willing to give you the support you need if you ask them. You’ll feel good about your plans and have the confidence to put them into action. You may even meet someone special who can help you. This is a good day to take risks with either your finances or your relationships. You’ll find some very special rewards.

When Mars forms a square to the Moon’s Nodal Axis on August 29^th, you need to find that balance between your future desires and your immediate needs. At times you may feel fearful about old situations or people surfacing from your past and bringing up incidents you don’t want to re-experience. At other times, you push yourself too hard because you expect that you can do everything on your own. The key is to find a balance between your fears and your future concerns. Take time to release those fears so you can move on with your future.

As Venus enters the sign of Libra later in the day, you feel more comfortable with your actions. You know how to negotiate with others. You are willing to hear what other people have to say. You don’t feel as if you need to push your agenda. You will if you have to, but you’ll do the best not to.

Mercury in Virgo goes stationary retrograde on August 30^th when it is at 29º 04’. It’s as if you could feel Mercury approaching Libra and to start building coalitions with other people. But it doesn’t quite get there yet. Instead, with Mercury retrograde in Virgo, you need to review your daily routine. You need to find ways to make certain that you are taking care of your own needs. And, one of those needs is knowing the facts in any situation you’re involved with. This will be an interesting Mercury retrograde with Mercury in its own rulership. What it means is that people need to take time and understand what is driving the world. You need to take time to understand what’s important for you to feel healthy in your own world. You need to know the facts and you need to know the truth. Mercury will go stationary direct on September 22^nd.

As the month of August ends, Ceres turns also turns stationary retrograde on August 31^st. It will re-enter the sign of Aries in retrograde motion on October 13^th and it will remain retrograde until December 9, 2016.

Usually when Ceres is in Taurus, you want to make certain that you take care of others. You feel financially responsible for people in your life. At the same time, it’s important that you understand how important your value system is in your life. At the same time, since Ceres is retrograde, you don’t want to be so stuck in your belief system that you are unwilling to compromise. You want to find common ground so you can work with others. There is a danger that everyone believes they are right and the other person is wrong. As with Mercury retrograde, take time to understand what’s important in your life. Be realistic about your goals and achievements. Reach out to others so you don’t have to take on all the responsibilities on your own.