Cosmic Weather Forecast (August 2011)

Cosmic Weather: August 2011 Astrology by Jane Lyle

It’s holiday time for many of us. We can’t wait to take a break from the dramas, tensions and worries of the year. But, almost inevitably, August does not look much like a sleepy, uneventful month for the world.

Crumbling structures do, however, mean new ones can eventually replace them. Extreme weather events disrupt our sense of security too. Time for the bold and the brave to step forward. Cherish peaceful moments, they are precious.

1st August: Unusual love stories and innovative creativity fire up many of us today. But while we’re busy playing with our new toys we may not notice the intensity building up as the storm clouds gather on certain horizons. The financial world is coming under yet more pressure to change, reinvent, and even revolutionise the way we do business globally. Nuclear power is another big area for debate now, and over the next few years. We will ask, “Is it really the only alternative? How safe is it?” Meanwhile, visions of spiritual growth and inspiring dreams of a better future are also tested over the next two weeks. What is real? What is a delusion? The same questions apply to new love affairs, money-making schemes, miracle cures, and charismatic leaders. 

2nd August: Who can help you manifest your dreams? Who shares your goals and interests? It’s a day for reaching out to others in some way and not avoiding or neglecting those who are on your side. Transport and travel disruptions are likely too - allow time, prepare for confusion at ports, and when waiting at passport control.

3rd August: Mercury, ruler of Gemini and Virgo, turns retrograde today until 26th August. A positive time to sort out your paperwork or review your plans. But, as always, expect some computer shenanigans and confusion or delays when travelling or making dates with others this month. Mars enters the water sign, Cancer today, meeting Neptune and spinning dreams of erotic bliss for some. Scandals hover around military secrets, health care, hospitals, deception and spying.

4th August: Sometimes we have to negotiate and make adjustments. This might be an excellent time to begin, but don’t expect instant results.

5th August: Dream-weaver Neptune backs into Aquarius for the very last time before re-entering Pisces early next year. Taking time to look at your dreams and visions of the future now helps you decide what to pursue later on. Internet crimes and scams could be in the news.

6th August: If you’re an Aries, Cancer, Libra or Capricorn (or have planets in those signs) you’ll be looking again at situations you were dealing with last year - and between now and August 15th you’ve a chance to come to terms with something, or resolve it. Expect temper tantrums! The same applies out there in the big wide world. The fixed signs - Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius are focusing on love, art, luxury and passion. Turbulent emotions and over-spending are very possible.

8th August: Mercury enters Leo again, travelling back towards July’s thoughts and communications. Say it again. A good day for established, older artists, musicians and creative thinkers - they have something to say about changes and improvements to our world. If you’re a creative person, speak up!

9th August - 11th August: Well, many of us are feeling irritable or even angry over the next few days leading up to the full Moon. Sudden hostilities or outbreaks of violence centre upon resentments about modernisation, energy sources, and military control.

13th August: The full Moon rises in detached, yet thoughtful Aquarius, and the Perseids meteor shower should be sparkling through the sky. Inventors and physicists may amaze us with news of some developments or discoveries. A good time for all of us to learn something new or consider another way of doing things. There’ll be more in the Moon Diary.

15th August: Comet 4SP/Honda=Mrkos-Pajdasakova is only six million miles away from the Earth around now. If you’re in the southern hemisphere you should be able to see it. Traditional astrology would say it portends dramatic news for that side of our planet. No, I don’t think it will crash into the Earth. But we wouldn’t want it to be any closer really.

16th August: Strong emotions and romantic declarations burst out of their hiding places, there’s a sense of urgency for many of us and passionate desires will not be denied. If you’re a Taurus, Leo, Scorpio or Aquarian (or have planets there), this could be you. Between now and the 22nd August there is yet more tension around us, and the strong possibility of extreme weather events, big earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

18th August: Artistic and spiritual inspiration flows for many of us despite the uncertain atmosphere, or perhaps because of it. Grab hold of your dreams and wrestle them to the ground before they melt away.

20th August: Conventional thinking about love and relationships is fine if that works for you. But some people need to find their own path, and this is a positive time for those of you who need to express your individuality or find someone who loves your free-spirited soul.

21st August: Venus enters Virgo, sign of beautiful tailoring and mad diets. Amongst other things. 

22nd August: It’s all about connections again, and finding friends and colleagues who can share ideas and innovations with each other. Is there someone you’ve overlooked?

23rd August: The Sun enters Virgo today. So happy birthday month to you all.

25th August: An important day as Saturn - representing structure, law, and caution, meets Neptune, representing spiritual values at best, delusions and lies at worst. This is the third meeting, linking back to October 2010 and March 2011.  Ancient mystics thrive under this influence, but those who deceive or mislead others could be in big trouble. A world leader or prominent person may give in or resign around now.

26th August: Many of us will be relieved to know that Mercury turns direct today. Confusion lessens, but continues to trip us up until 9th September. Just be extra-focused and all will be well.

27th August: It’s a crazy idea, but it just might work. That’s the kind of thing to expect today.

28th August: Strong wills, deep love, power and control are in the atmosphere around us. No time for wimps, basically.

29th August: A brand new Moon in Virgo wants everything to be witty and stylish - not to mention spick and span. Off you go then.

30th August: There’s much joy and fun to be had at social events, sports events, and lovers’ meetings. Enjoy yourself.  If only to avoid the stress of listening to yet more depressing or worrying financial news.  Jupiter turns retrograde in Taurus, travelling backwards until 25th December. A good time to review investments, property deals, or home improvement plans.

31st August: Comet Elenin should be visible in our skies around now. I hope it grows a spectacular tail, but I fear it will not be that dramatic - at least not yet. What happens in the autumn when we pass through its tail could be more than interesting though.