Last month ended in the fog of a Mercury retrograde while we were still reeling from the intensity of the eclipses. This month, we have an abundance of grounding energy with Mars, Venus and the New Moon in the progressive sign of Virgo. Labor Day weekend is filled with planetary energy so pick social engagements wisely.

Mars begrudgingly enters Virgo on September 5. Our warrior planet takes a break from the battlefield and goes back to the drawing board. Virgo is a practical sign often reasoning with our instinct to do combat. Use this energy to strategize and pay attention to the details. Remember some things are worth fighting for and some things are simply not. Meticulous Mars in Virgo can help us make this distinction.

Mercury goes direct on September 5, ending the retrograde period. Now is the time to clear up any miscommunications that occurred while Mercury was moving backwards.

On September 6, we have a Full Moon in mystical Pisces. This sensitive water sign encourages us to tap into the subconscious and pay attention to our dreams. Pisces is a very intuitive sign so heed that inner guide; follow your gut instincts.

Venus joins her lover Mars on September 19 in the pragmatic sign of Virgo. This boost of rational reasoning will help us sort through complicated relationship issues. For the next month or so, both male and female energies will be flavored with a sense of practical wisdom.

The New Moon on September 20 will boost all the functional Virgo energy so use it to start a new 28-day cycle. Virgo is extremely competent and capable. Tap into this energy to set an intention for the autumn season.

The Sun enters Libra on September 22 and transitions us into a more balanced lifestyle. Now that the summer months are over, we are moving into a more structured schedule. Utilize all the Virgo energy this month to get organized and plan for the transition from independent Virgo—where all possibilities are examined—to the scales of balance where things are very black and white. Moderation is key while diplomatic Libra is embodying the Sun.

Michele Leigh is an astrologer, author and podcaster. A practitioner of ancient astrology and planetary magic, she is an active member of OPA, the Organization for Professional Astrology. Connect at DarkMoonAstrology.com.