Pisces Full Moon Wraps Up August

   The chart for this afternoon's Full Moon shows a conjunction of the Moon to Neptune in Pisces, opposed by a conjunction of the Sun and Jupiter in Virgo. This polarity at the Full Moon brings added weight to our need for moderation, practicality and discernment. The Pisces theme of self-sacrifice and impressionability is enhanced by the Moon/Neptune union. This is good for creativity and spiritual pursuits, but doesn't bode well for the tendency toward self-sacrifice and being unrealistic, especially when it comes to dealing with others. Opportunities abound for disappointment or expansion depending on your outlook.

   On the other hand, the Full Moon can illuminate where you can best be of service to your fellow man or community. Ask yourself what your particular skills are and what concerns you most in the current environment. Then, using moderation of course, step into the flow of using your abilities to make a difference in the world around you. Avoid self-indulgence, unrealistic expectations of yourself and others and any feelings of not-being-good-enough.

   The power of the Sun riding with giant Jupiter in Virgo increases the possibility for criticism and judgement as well as promoting attention to detail and good discernment, it's your choice which way you choose to go! There are certainly difficulties all around us and as our compassion grows and we realize more and more that we are all in the same boat here, it's crucial that we maintain some emotional stability and be as practical as we can be. How important is it? Can I change this? What can I change...? In other words, don't jump ship or let anyone else pull you down while trying to keep things on an even keel.

    While Venus has been retrograde, (she'll go Direct Sept. 6th), I hope you've been identifying what and who really matters to you. Getting your values aligned while Venus is also aligned with Mars in Leo can help move things forward, both in personal relationships and financial concerns. Know yourself and what is important to you and keep working towards that. There's a lot that can be accomplished with this Leo boost of creative energy.

    With the Virgo/Pisces polarity strong, it's important to focus on what you want to have come into your life, not what you don't want! In other words, no pity parties just because you feel let down or frustrated. Everyone is trying to take care of themselves right now and while the boundaries are blurred you need to set your limits and have realistic expectations. Keep the faith and do what you can to overcome sadness or loss, while not impinging on others. Look forward, not back and keep applying your skills and abilities to achieving positive growth. Energy follows thought.... what do you want to manifest?!
   
   Remember to keep the faith, keep your head in the stars and your feet on the ground~

Leo New Moon

   Today's new Moon at 22 degrees of the Fixed Fire sign Leo, has a lot of hopefulness attached to it for creating a fun-filled month ahead that is filled with self-expression and a bit of risk-taking! The positive influences here are feeling brave and being who you are, as well as recognizing that playfulness can be the breeding ground for creative new projects. This is a good time for relaxation, but not letting down one's guard. Breakthroughs are possible as we evolve with new insights and associations!

   The New Moon chart shows this morning's harmonizing trine to independent Uranus, good for thinking outside the box and helping us break through limiting habits or past patterns. Let your intuitive side surface as you use your original ideas and allow spontaneity to help move you forward. Pay attention to supportive new acquaintances as they may be a strong catalyst now.

   The drama and limelight associated with this regal sign also has to deal with the shadowy side of things that may be lurking within our hearts, bank accounts or in the people and situations surrounding us. I can hear you thinking... Oh, why do you have to be such a party pooper, Suzanne?!  Well, that may have to do with the very close conjunction of Venus to the Sun and Moon... which is a great thing, right? Yes, usually... however, this ruler of love, money and beauty is moving in Retrograde motion, back over territory already covered in the recent weeks past!

   So, how do we deal with this snafu? Pay attention, don't put all your eggs in one basket and tie up loose ends from the past which may be holding you back. Remember that Venus was riding with expansive Jupiter just a short time ago and both were square to restrictive Saturn? Well, that is the territory being revisited for three more weeks, until Venus goes Direct again. Even after she gets  moving forward, it'll take another month to move out of her shadow phase.

   Cautious optimism and taking baby steps to remove obstacles will put you in good stead in a few weeks time. Mars' recent entry into Leo helped to shake things up and add to the excitement of summer fun, drama and creativity. As you adjust to the energies of this New Moon chart, remain cautious, know your options and don't jump into any new commitments of the heart or finances just yet. Circumstances become clearer and situations for moving forward will appear in a month's time.

   In the meantime, enjoy the summer and remember to keep your head in the stars and your feet on the ground!