As the celestial bodies move through their respective orbits, they occasionally meet, forming a sacred connection astrologers call an “Aspect”.

When observing the cosmos from our earthly perspective, two planets form an aspect as they connect at a particular angular distance.

Two planetary bodies, representing two distinct parts of the psyche, witness each other for a brief moment in time. As the planets meet in this sacred union, they freely communicate, sharing their unique perspectives, motives, and desires, informing and influencing each other.

The nature of the planets’ correspondence is determined by both the planets involved and the angular distance of the aspect they create.

Aspects such as trines (120°) and sextiles (60°), are more harmonious and easeful. Conjunctions (0°) intensify both planets involved, while squares (90°) and oppositions (180°) produce more of a tension which seeks a path of resolution.

By observing the aspects the planets form throughout the month of August, we gain insight into which parts of ourselves, on an individual and a collective level, are being activated, and how. With this information we can cultivate moments of mindfulness throughout the month that allow us to tune into these various energies and use them to empower our lives.

The Moon Maiden (1923) Frank Dicksee & Seashore under a full moon (ca.1890) Albert Nikolaevich Benois

August 1st

AS ABOVE: The Full Moon in Aquarius

SO BELOW: August begins under the light of the Full Moon. In the sign of Aquarius, the water bearer, the moon pulls into focus the principles that form our life philosophy. This full moon brings to light our values, our morals, and the very ethics that we live by.

This provides us with a time to reflect on how our life-principles actually serve us; where our beliefs and our boundaries may be too rigid or too soft. We can use this moment to let go of those mindsets that no longer benefit us, and instead invite a new, broader perspective to take their place.

Furthermore, we are tasked with considering the vision that we have for this world, and the power of group effort in making shared dreams a reality. We are to take inventory of the gifts and the resources at our disposal, and how we can use them in collaboration with others to make our communities a better place for all.

Affirmations for the Full Moon in Aquarius:

Even the smallest acts of kindness can make the world feel like a better place.
Changing my beliefs and my worldview is a strength, never a weakness.
I operate from a place of empathy, kindness, and consideration for others and for myself.

Opportunities during the Full Moon in Aquarius:

To put consideration towards the beliefs and principles we normally take for granted.
To replace outdated perceptions and beliefs with new, more informed views.
To reflect on how we can make an impact in the lives of others using our gifts, time, and resources.

Jupiter, Heinrich Friedrich Füger & Mars, Guercino

August 1st - 8th

AS ABOVE: Mars trine Jupiter

SO BELOW: As the red planet Mars, the ruler of action and assertion, forms a harmonious aspect to the expansive and grandiose Jupiter, we can feel confident in our ability to channel our ambition into action.

We are empowered to take calculated risks and mindful leaps of faith. Tuning into this energy, we may initiate new endeavors with the follow through to see our projects through to completion.

Jupiter’s wisdom informs Mars’s drive and ambition, tempering martian passion with jovian perspective. We are invited to reflect on what matters most to us, to pursue our loftiest dreams and to put our plans in motion, but to also consider the impact our actions have on the people around us; the ripples and waves our actions cause and how we can be mindful of others in our pursuits of passion.

Affirmations for Mars Trining Jupiter:

I can work both smart and hard.
My ambition tempered with my consideration for others and for the world around me is what allows me to succeed.
I am the creator of my own reality, but not the only person who finds sanctuary or inspiration there.

Opportunities during Mars Trining Jupiter:

To take the first step in pursuing our dreams and trusting that we have what it takes to succeed.
To find our inner drive and passion, then channeling it into a productive purpose.
To trust that spontaneity and leaps of faith can indeed lead to something wonderful.

Study For Mercury, Isidore Pils & Chronos, Giovanni Francesco Romanelli

August 2nd - 7th

AS ABOVE: Mercury opposite Saturn

SO BELOW: Fleet-footed Mercury opposes the slow moving giant, Saturn, inviting us to take a much needed moment of pause. This opposition signals a time to value meticulousness over haste, to take the necessary care needed to ensure that all loose ends are neatly tied and that all pieces are perfectly in their place.

This planetary opposition allow us to put ourselves under the microscope so we can refine our more intellectual abilities. Thus we are empowered to be mindful of our words, to define and refine our communication styles, to harness and sharpen our skills, and to broaden our skill sets.

We are tasked to consider how we are progressing towards our long term goals and to identify the knowledge and skill gaps that we must meet in order to achieve them. Then we can seek to educate ourselves, to expand our minds and fill ourselves with the knowledge needed to get where we are meant to be.

Affirmations for Mercury Opposing Saturn:

I don’t know what I don’t know, but once I do, I can learn.
Sometimes to speed up, I have to first slow down.
I am racing against nothing else but my own worry. Everything has its time and season.

Opportunities during Mercury Opposing Saturn:

To slow down and cultivate some mindfulness before racing on to the next thing that demands our attention.
To hone our communication style to ensure we are effective and tactful in expressing our viewpoints.
Engaging with our curiosity to learn new things, and add more knowledge and more skill to our repertoire.

August In Stars: The Astrology of The First Week of August 2023