A new moon in festive Leo amps up possibilities for fun in the sun around August 2. Beneficial restraint from Saturn indicates this is more in line with scheduled playtime; instead of playing hooky, consider booking a day off for some R&R. Relaxation is an important part of recreation under this lunation’s contact to restorative Neptune. How about a spa day? But with Neptune’s involvement, it might be better to take it easy with the mimosas to avoid hangovers.

Jupiter in Virgo makes a final opposition to Chiron in Pisces on August 12 but this energy will be active most of the month. Take a macro view of wellness matters and also look discerningly at both your own and others’ healing and wellness philosophies; Jupiter in Virgo can be a bit of a “wellness evangelist” and it’s possible to subscribe to a health philosophy that frankly isn’t truly serving your healing process. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to wellness; a personal truth shouldn’t be mistaken for a universal truth when it comes to a health “gospel” of some kind. Perceptions of what is or is not healthy can be easily skewed. Speaking of distorted perspective, hypochondria can be another effect of this influence, so be careful not to let a minor wellness issue be blown out of proportion. On the other end of the spectrum, ignoring a chronic or big health issue can be equally problematic. Back up to take in the whole picture and strive to walk a middle ground that is neither neglectful of nor overly concerned with health. Be aware that it is entirely possible under this energy to go overboard with something theoretically “good” for you that actually isn’t. Again, moderation and balance are key.

Minor stress hits for Venus between August 11 and 16 suggest an approach to love and money matters that is not too analytical, frugal or fantastical. Think back to March and ask yourself if anything significant was going on in either area. It’s possible to err too far the other way now. Perhaps, in one instance, you were being too trusting or not paying attention and now you are potentially veering too much toward being too critical or logical. Avoidable errors in judgment can be made via overanalyzing fiscal or romantic situations, which can prematurely shuts the door on opportunity and growth. Say yes to discernment and no to projecting negatively when it isn’t legitimately warranted or substantiated. August 17 through 27 is a fantastic period overall for love and money, though; this is especially true if you need a good reference from someone in an influential position for a potential job or a diligent worker hoping for a raise, bonus or promotion. Just watch the potentially overreaching vibe, though, as Mars and Saturn also link up this week (exact on August 24). Be careful of “punching above your weight” scenarios where it’s entirely possible to rub someone with more clout the wrong way.

The Aquarius Full Moon on August 18 is a complex lunation made extra wild by contact to Uranus, so strange and shocking may become norm. Social circles are highlighted by this moon; it’s an especially good time for ladies to get together since the Moon is also in close proximity to “feminista” Pallas Athene. The energies of this lunation are best channeled toward some kind of social or political activism, as there is power in groups now. This activism may involve discussion about schooling, politics and/or health. Lastly, it bears mentioning that Mercury turns retrograde in Virgo on August 30; it’s a good idea to be on top of wellness, nutrition or fitness matters ahead of this event.

A practitioner of Western Tropical astrology, Alethea Hunt has been practicing for more than 17 years. Connect with her at 203-917-6312, [email protected] or EmpoweredDestiny.com.