“What seas what shores what grey rocks and what islands
What water lapping the bow
And scent of pine and the wood thrush singing through the fog
What images return O my daughter. “ TS Eliot
The influence of the sea god Neptune is strong throughout the month of August. The planet Neptune rules water and the watery dream life of individuals. Neptune’s influence provides dreams, visions and inspiration to artists and mystics. Neptune also rules addiction – often referred to as a derailed spiritual journey.
August 1- the 6th Venus trines Uranus. This is an aspect which governs “love at first site” experiences as well as innovation and experimentation in affairs of the heart and relationships. This planetary pair loves surprises, spontaneity and relationships that foster freedom and individuality. If you are open to a new relationship this is a good time to be aware of what is going on around you. Heed synchronicity. Expect the unexpected. If you are in an existing relationship that could use some spicing up this would be the time.
From the 1st through the 11th there is a strong influence towards excess as the Sun and Venus square Jupiter. Watch for overindulgence and overspending as with Venus involved some alluring things may be on the table.
Mercury stations the retrograde on August 2. As with all planetary stations it is wise to heed any info that comes to you two or three days on either side of the station. This is a fertile time for creative and spiritual work as the veils between the worlds are thin. It will also be a time when information we may have overlooked can be revealed and when perceptions can be more profound. There will be help and guidance with projects and endeavors that are consciously undergoing reform – individually and collectively.
Mercury will be retrograde from the 2nd through the 26th, so use this period to rethink, reconsider and revise. Take extra care with travel and communications this month as with Neptune’s influence mental clarity may be harder to maintain than normal.
On the 3rd Mars moves up to a trine with Neptune – again making this a good time for creative and spiritual work. It is good under this influence to strengthen the immune system.
From the 3rd through the 19th Mars will be transiting the Cardinal Cross making this a volatile time. This is a good time to focus on staying grounded and aware as tempers can flare and impulsive acts create problems.
On the 4th Neptune retrogrades back into Aquarius. This is a humanitarian aspect which encourages us to collaborate and cooperate with others to move the world a more just and sustainable direction.
From the 21st through the 29 the Sun and Venus will move into an opposition to Neptune. Neptune will cast his gossamer veil over daily life at this time of the month as well. Double check details as it may be more difficult to separate fact from fiction. Pay attention to intuition and guidance from higher planes. Make extra time for mediation and creative projects.
On the 25 Mars will square Saturn – the aspect that astrologers sometimes describe as driving with the brakes and gas on. It is often a time of frustration. It can be a time when significant work is accomplished as long as obstacles and delay are anticipated and worked with.
Mercury will station direct on the 26th and the New Moon is on the 28.
“I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each…
I have seen them riding seaward on the waves
Combing the white hair of the waves blown back
When the wind blows the water white and black.” TS Eliot
All times mentioned are EDT. Sign up for Amelia’s free monthly astrology forecast on her homepage www.ameliashea.com.