Horoscopes for August 2020
Words: Emma Vidgen // @emma_vee
Image: Mathew Coyte // @mathew_coyte
Styling: Charlotte Stokes // @charlotte__stokes
It feels like four seasons in one month in August, with a mix of excitement, drama, productivity and setbacks. On the upside, this year has been pretty one note (read: crap) so variation is better than non-stop hardship.
The full moon in Aquarius (3 August) looks especially electric, with the potential for major disruption, shock revelations or unexpected disturbances as the balance between the collective good and individual freedoms reaches boiling point.
I love the new moon on 19th which is super potent and has so much get-up-and-go to ignite a spark to help you bring a something personal and creative into the world.
Virgo season helps us get grounded (22 August), before things really slow right down when Mars and Saturn square (24-28 August). Expect further restrictions and limitations on our movement, as well as heightened frustration and aggression at the loss of freedom.
It’s going to be a big month, so be kind to yourself and remember we all handle this challenging weather in different ways.
PS I recommend reading your rising sign instead of your sun sign for the most accurate horoscope – this article explains why.
Wishing you a creative month
Emma xx
+ ARIES AND ARIES RISING
The sky is primed for unexpected news or opportunities connected to your creativity, friends and cash flow early in August as Uranus makes a series of big aspects. There’s potential for a sudden stroke of genius that could translate to financial opportunity so pay attention to any unexpected “pings”. The full moon on the 3rd could stir up some surprises, especially with friends so don’t be shocked if you hear from a long-lost mate out of the blue.
Things feel a little more fiery mid-month (13 – 15) when Mars and Pluto inspiring assertiveness and confrontation at work, even from those who are usually easy going. It’s the sort of astro weather you take in your stride, but run-ins could escalate quickly so be mindful heated words could have big repercussions particularly at work.
Creativity and inspiration are in focus for the new moon on 19th, with extra juice from Mars and Mercury giving maximum manifestation power. Artistic pursuits, creative outlets or even babies could be the focus . The days that follow will be super productive as Virgo season approaches (22 August) offering lots of buzzy lets-get-on-with-it energy.
As the month closes out, things grind to a halt from the 24th onwards. Work projects or career plans could slow down as Saturn squares Mars. Tensions rise between 25 – 30 August so don’t be surprised if your work from home arrangements feel especially sensitive that week. The frustration will be visceral. Schedule some solid workouts because your best medicine will be to sweat it out.
+ TAURUS AND TAURUS RISING
August kicks off with a bang thanks to Uranus – the planet of unexpected surprises – activated in the lead up to the full moon on the 3 August. You’ll be in the flow with creative inspiration which could bolster some big changes in your career and/or home and family life.
Mid-month feels a little more tense as Mars and Pluto square, causing a fiery mood. Arguments could escalate quickly between 13 and 15 so be extra careful unless you’re ready to really have it out. It could be explosive, but it could also clear the air and transform the dynamic. The new moon on 19 August is ideal for setting intentions around your home and family life. Carve out time to get clear on what you want your living situation to look like. More space? Less space? More time at home? A new home altogether? With Mercury and Mars in the mix, it’s got extra juice to give your dreams clarity and focus.
After a fiery few weeks, things settle down as Mercury (20 August) then the sun (22 August) shift to Virgo. Your creativity will be matched only by your productivity. Expect to feel inspired to get down to business and make shit happen.
Things slow down around the 24th when Mars squares Saturn bringing with it serious frustration and delays. Try not to get too down if all your good work seems to be grinding to a halt. Use the time to make adjustments and get your ducks in a row, it will be worth it in the long run.
+ GEMINI AND GEMINI RISING
Communications and extended family will be the focus the first three weeks of the month as the rest of Leo season brings plenty of fiery, extroverted energy. The first few days could be a little unstable in the lead up to the full moon on the 3rd August.
Relationships with friends could feel tense in the second week of the month as Mars square Pluto, turning mountains into molehills in record time. If you’re not in the mood for a fight tread carefully.
If you’ve been dreaming about writing a book, starting a blog or sharing your voice with the world, the new moon on the 19th is extra potent for intention setting. The days that follow will bring a burst of productivity too as Mercury and then the sun shift into Virgo a (around 20 and 22 August respectively) so make the most of it and start that first chapter.
When Mars squares Saturn (24 – 28) issues from earlier in the month, especially around friends or colleagues could pop up again. Expect delays, frustrations and “no” to be the word of the week. The best way to work with the energy is to use delays to go back to the drawing board and refine your plans. Take a break and make time for fun on 27th when Neptune and Venus rendezvous, bringing some much needed feel-good vibes to the end of the month.
+ CANCER AND CANCER RISING
The first few days of August deliver plenty of “where-did-that-come-from” energy thanks to Uranus – the planet of disruption and rebellion being triggered. This could manifest around money, with the full moon on the 3rd offering some surprise insights around your cash (both your own and any shared assets).
There’s the potential for volatility at work and with your partner between 13 and 15 when Mars squares Pluto, especially if you’re coupled up. Relations could feel extra sensitive in the days that follow as the moon opposes Jupiter so proceed with caution.
Use the action-packed first fortnight as inspiration for new intentions on the new moon on 19 August. This lunation is super-charged, so capitalise on the energy by setting goals – especially around your relationship with money where this moon is focussing for you. In the days that follow, you’ll be on fire, making lists and getting stuff done as the sun follows Mercury into Virgo (22 August).
The pace will shift the final week, as Saturn in Capricorn – aka Captain Boundaries – squares off against Mars in Aries aka Mr Get Shit Done. Tension or conversations from the second week may resurface and manifest as roadblocks particularly in your relationship and work. The “no” will leave you feeling extra sensitive as Venus opposes Jupiter (25) and Pluto (30). Take it easy and use the setbacks as an opportunity to slow down and give yourself a little bit of space.
The 27th offers perfect weather clear your diary and schedule some much needed self-care – whether that’s a day under the doona, a face mask or just minimal screentime – take time out to treat yourself and dream a little dream.
+ LEO AND LEO RISING
You’re coming in hot with unexpected inspiration thanks to a series of squares involving Uranus during the first few days of the month. The stroke of genius culminates with the full moon on the 3 August which could shed light on your relationship and inspire an unexpected move on the job front.
There’s plenty of drama the second week of the month (10 – 17) kicking off with some unexpected news connected to your professional life. There’s the possibility for tension to be blown out of proportion at work between 13 and 15 when Mars squares Pluto. When the moon opposes Jupiter, the fallout from the previous days will require some delicate handling.
The new moon in Leo on 19 August is super juicy for making things happen thanks to extra help from Mercury and Mars. Set intentions around your overall direction, image or your health, and make the most of the following days which should feel super productive as Mercury moves into Virgo (20 August) followed by the sun (22 August).
You may feel like you’re losing momentum as Mars squares Saturn in the last week of August (24 – 28). Best laid plans could be put on ice as you’re forced to go back to the drawing board. Use the roadblock as a chance to regroup and refine your plans and perfect your approach.
+ VIRGO AND VIRGO RISING
You’ll be feeling a little more low-key than usual for the first weeks of August as the sun moves through Leo. There’s a kind of crazy, chaotic vibe to the first week of the month with Uranus stirring up lots of change and surprises. As a sign who enjoys a little bit of structure, the rocking and rolling – which culminates with the full moon on the 3rd – might be a little unsettling.
Diplomacy will be the order of the day(s) come mid-month when tensions reach fever pitch and misunderstandings have the potential to become major dramas. Issues around shared assets, property or tax could be a sore point so proceed with caution.
Clear your diary for an evening of solitude and introspection on the 19th when a juicy new moon in Leo invites you to set new intentions. There’s the potential to set big goals and go for them (thanks to Mercury and Mars in the mix) so carve out the time to get clear on what you want to call in.
Virgo season brings more order and you’ll be feeling inspired from 20th onwards and in your element ticking off lists and getting shit done. Don’t be surprised if all that productive energy starts to falter in the final week of the month (especially 24-28 August) when Mars squares Saturn. This is classic “wrong way go back” weather, when grand plans will hit the skids or require more finessing before you can go full steam ahead. Use the time to take a break and improve your strategy. You’ll take it in your stride a little better than most signs, so be mindful those around you might not handle the setbacks quite so graciously…and cut them some slack.
+ LIBRA AND LIBRA RISING
Your preferred MO (balance and harmony) may be a pipedream early this month when Uranus promises to instability and plenty of curve balls. A surprising opportunity might bring an unexpected introduction or social connection in the first week of August. The full moon on the 3rd could turn your perspective on your friendships and creativity completely upside down. The volatility may leave you feeling edgy but remember change isn’t bad – it’s just…different.
As Mars moves to square off against Pluto, stress with your relationship and family/home life could reach boiling point. The mood is intense, and disagreements could escalate quickly so be prepared for more drama than usual.
The new moon on the 19th serves up fiery clarity (Mercury) and major motivation (Mars) to help turn over a new leaf with friends. If you’ve been wanting to expand your circle or start a new social hustle (like a book club) this is a great moon to make it happen. Virgo season (22 August) brings renewed focus and productivity and you’ll be feeling in the flow and may want to lock yourself away and work, work, work.
Momentum will start to ease around 24 when family commitments or expectations force you to cool your jets and put grand plans on hold, at least for a little while. The delay will have you feeling mad with frustration, but the momentary setbacks will give you time to refine your larger goals.
+ SCORPIO AND SCORPIO RISING
Chances are you’re not a huge fan of change but the first week could deliver some surprise moves and/or news for your partner. The changes could inspire a fresh perspective or opportunity at work especially on the 2nd, while the full moon on 3rd could shed new light on a situation involving your home and work life.
There’s a little saltiness in the air mid-month (13–15 August) when Mars and Pluto make a square. This aspect sets the mood for things to get heated v quickly so be mindful silly disagreements could become major drama, particularly with siblings/extended family.
Take inspiration from the first week of the month to set intentions around your career when an extra potent new moon on 19 August invites you to get clear on where you’re going professionally.
Relations should feel a little less explosive from 20 August onwards when Mercury moves into Virgo, followed by the sun on 22nd. The shift into an earth sign will feel more grounded and productive, and bring friendships to the foreground.
Issues that popped up mid-month could cycle back around in the final week of August; this time causing limitations and delays (as opposed to big fights). Your day-to-day routine will be restricted as a result, so be prepared for frustration and try to find some positives in being forced to slow down and lay low.
+ SAGITTARIUS AND SAGITTARIUS RISING
Nothing bores you like routine, so at least August is anything but boring. The month kicks off with unexpected inspiration and maybe a little instability, especially when it comes to your daily routine and schedule. Stay open to unexpected changes to your work life, inspiring a new perspective on communications, extended family or even local travel plans when the full moon in Aquarius on 3rd squares Uranus.
There’s tension in the air mid-month (13–15 August) when a square between Pluto and Mars promises fireworks. Your desire to have fun or stay true to a creative vision will clash with financial realities, causing major fall-outs.
On the 19th, a new moon in Leo invites you to start afresh and set new intentions around learning and spirituality. This new moon is especially juicy thanks to supportive aspects form Mars and Mercury, so take some time dreaming up what seeds you’d like to sow for the future.
Virgo season brings a new lease of life to your career, and you’ll be on-fire feeling extra productive from the 20 until 24 August. The aftermath of the prior week’s blow-ups (from 13-15) could trigger major setbacks from 24 August onwards. Expect a lot of “no” and a need to go back to the drawing board and start again. It’s frustrating but revising your plans now will set you up better in the long run.
+ CAPRICORN AND CAPRICORN RISING
There’s a little less pressure on you the first 10 days of August as the fixed signs (Leo, Aquarius, Scorpio) bear the brunt of the astro weather. The first few days could bring creative inspiration, especially on any joint commercial projects so stay open to brilliant ideas or unexpected opportunities. The full moon on the 3rd shines a light on your financial situation, and with Uranus in the mix, the revelation may not be what you were expecting.
Tension on the home front could make the middle of the month a little heavy going. With Pluto squaring Mars (13–15 August) there’s the possibility that little disagreements turn into major blow-ups, fast. Rest assured the volatility lets up around 19 August when a new moon in Leo invites you to lay new ground rules around shared cash, assets and property.
The fiery fierceness of Leo season eases around 22 August when the sun moves into Virgo. A renewed focus on learning and spirituality will have you feeling in flow and ready to get on with things for a few sunny days.
There’s potential for contentious issues from mid-month to resurface in the final week of August as Mars square Saturn (24–28 August). This time the feeling is of frustration and people digging their heels in rather than full-blown arguments. A sextile between Venus and Neptune on the 25th provides a dreamy moment of reprieve to escape the ongoing frustrations. Plan something fun and creative with your partner – even if it’s just taking the day off work and staying in bed all day.
+ AQUARIUS AND AQUARIUS RISING
Strap yourself in and get ready for a wild few days to kick off August as Uranus promises plenty of surprises on the home and family front. Big changes in your family or living situation could inspire inspiration and a new perspective. The energy culminates on the 3rd when a full moon in Aquarius could shed light on your relationship bringing new insight and a chance to let old baggage go for good. Stay open to unexpected opportunities.
The middle of the month feels a little less fresh as Mars in Aries sets the scene for a case of foot-in-mouth, particularly from the 13th and 15th. A showdown with Pluto promises fireworks, and careless words could be taken the wrong way.
A new moon in Leo on the 19th provides the perfect opportunity to wipe the slate clean on the relationship front. Set some new intentions based on any genius insights you had earlier in the month. As Mercury then the sun cruise into Virgo (20 and 22 respectively) look forward to a burst of productivity and renewed clarity especially around joint finances and property.
Delays and setbacks could arise in the final week of August when a square between Mars and Saturn sets the stage for disruption. Communications with extended family could reach a stalemate and you may find any big ideas are on hold while you go back to the drawing board. Use the hold-ups as an excuse to take your foot off the gas after what has been a pretty epic four weeks.
+ PISCES AND PISCES RISING
Your health, work and daily routine take centre stage for the first few weeks of the month as the sun moves through Leo. Unexpected news or creative inspiration could strike in the lead-up to the full moon in Aquarius on 3 August. Capitalise on the genius-at-work vibes by having your journal close by and pay attention to any out-of-the-blue downloads. That million dollar idea could strike when you least expect it!
Speaking of cash, you may have felt like you’ve been burning through money the past month (thanks to Mars in Aries) and the unexpected expenses could pile up around mid-August (13 – 15). The result is a volatile mood where things could be blown out of proportion, but there’s also the potential to clear the air if you’ve been stewing over something. When Pluto’s involved the outcome will be transformative if nothing else.
A new moon on 19 is a great reset for intention setting around your health and daily routine. If you’re looking to turn over a new leaf and start a daily practice this is the moon to put it down in writing. With Mars and Mercury lending a hand, it has the potential to give you extra motivation to follow through and start something new. The next day Mercury moves into Virgo, bringing a focus and clarity to the way you communicate with your partner. It’s a welcome change, bolstered when Virgo season begins on 22 August. You might also feel energised to roll up your sleeves and get stuck into projects, especially those involving partnerships (both romantic and business).
Progress slows in the final week of the month when money matters could throw a roadblock (24 – 28). The frustration will be felt by everyone and manifest differently so try to keep calm and surrender to the enforced slow down. Expect some people to handle the setbacks better than others and know sensitivities will be running high making relations a little more tender than usual. The 27th offers a dreamy reprieve from the chaos, so make the most of it and clear the decks to let your creativity be the priority all day.