August 2020 Horoscopes: Embracing Your Plutonian Power, Transforming Paradigms, and Caring for Your Relationships.
Hello dear readers,
I hope that you’re coming into this month with a spring in your step. The heat has a way of cooking up the summer action. You may feel as if your energy wants to go in one direction but you are being pulled in another. The transits of Pluto, Saturn and Jupiter in Capricorn have put us in a unique place to let go of the paradigms of the past.
Questions to ask yourself this month: How are we reconstructing our lives? How are we channeling our energy? Are the actions you’re taking a result of your trauma or of your inner truth? All relevant.
On several fronts it looks like this month brings us closer to personal victory. We’ll have a chance to look deeper into creating egalitarian changes in our lives on the 3rd during the Full Moon in Aquarius. Take an unconventional approach as opposed to being predictable and sticking to the rules. This full moon is an opportunity to use new outside the box approaches to old problems. On the 19th, the New Moon in Leo will bring confidence and creativity to the forefront giving us the extra push we need to be victorious.
Mars planet of confrontation and Pluto, the planet of power and transformation square up this month bringing with them some interesting questions about the future. But before we get into it let’s learn a little bit more about Pluto. Knowing your Pluto placement will help you have a better understanding of how this Mars square Pluto pairing will affect you this month.
Pluto:
Pluto moves so slowly through each sign it is considered to be a “generational planet”, meaning it defines a generation. It shows us where the intense cycles of creation and destruction will come from in our generation. And brings some insight as to how we relate to people outside of our generation. It highlights our key struggles and successes as individuals and as generations. It also teaches us how we can use our personal struggles and rebirths to transform society for the better. In essence it shows us how our vulnerabilities and strengths once tested can be wielded.
Gen Z’s Plutos are in one of the following signs:
Sagittarius, sign of philosophy
Capricorn, sign of social status
or Scorpio, sign of cycles of life and death/reincarnation
Millennials Pluto placements are in one of the following signs:
Scorpio, sign of cycles of life and death/reincarnation.
Libra, sign of partnerships
or Sagittarius, sign of philosophy
Gen X’s Pluto placements are in one of the following signs:
Virgo, sign of health
Leo, sign of pleasure
or Libra signs of partnerships
Baby Boomers Pluto placements are in one of the following signs:
Leo, sign of pleasure
Virgo, sign of health
or Cancer sign of home
The Silent Generation’s Pluto placements are in one of the following sings:
Cancer, sign of home
Leo, sign of pleasure
or Gemini sign of communication
Find your Pluto Placement by using the table below!
Because of the Mars in Aries and Pluto in Capricorn square, the part of you that craves to take action might come up against some unforseen roadblocks. Carefully laid plans may fall apart. You may even feel that you’ve had some unusually bad luck. Don’t make decisions based in fear of losing something or losing control during this time. Wait it out. You got this. Step Back. Take a breath. Remember who you are, where you are, what you are capable of. All you have to do is be exactly who you are at this moment. Try to comfort yourself by acknowledging the situation and saying to yourself: Okay, that was unfun. So…what’s next?
The Mars square Pluto pairing will bring out an unusual amount of assertiveness in people in the coming month. So sure, maybe people are feeling motivated to achieve their goals, they feel the pressure, ambition is stirring, the drive to succeed is ramped up. But there is another aspect to assertiveness which is less pleasant - now is the time to practice patience with irritants and interruptions because there might be a lot of them. There is a sort of buzzing energy to this month. You know, kind of like a fly buzzing around your head at 2AM. And Mars in Aries causes an increased tendency to lash out and squash that bug flat as a pancake. But if that bug is your boss or your friend or your child you obviously cannot squash them like they are a bug. It can be easy to give in to anger and resentment. It can be easy to believe that the bug circling your head is personally out to get you. But these intense emotions pass. And if you lash outward at others, you’ll be left to deal with the fallout. Impulsive decisions based in anger can lead to reckless behavior and misuses of power. To avoid potential fallout with the people you love, put extra care into your relationships both at home and at work. Focus that aggressive, assertive energy into creating exactly the life you want, into your larger ambitions, not into #winning a single argument. Seek resolution through negotiation and communication.
When conflict arises- if you approach the problem with honesty- no matter the outcome you will have a personal victory. Being honest about you are and who you want to be, and what you want opens you up to greater happiness. I really cannot stress enough how important honesty will be this month in our relationships. This month honesty is the literal difference between whether Pluto lends it’s death or rebirth vibe to your relationships. It is the difference between true connection and misunderstandings that could spiral out of control.
Last but not least, on important astrological movements: in August the dwarf planet Eris and Black Moon Lilith are coming into play. There is a shift that is happening in Mars- a shift to a more balanced approach to masculinity- a hero’s journey is taking place, a deep dive into the ego, an exploration of individuality and the self, for the purpose of moving towards a more egalitarian attitude. Mars, the planet of war, of masculinity, of confidence and energy is being pushed in the direction of becoming more accepting of both it’s feminine and masculine qualities. Mars is letting go of patriarchal values and a moving towards Aquarian paradigms. Embracing the Yin and Yang of the world. Embracing the feminine and masculine in equal measure. We’ll see a movement away from toxic masculinity and a move into healing masculinity in ourselves and those around us. People with prominent Aries and Scorpio placements will feel this most deeply during this time. Explore the masculine/feminine balance that feels right for you. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Don’t be afraid to try new things and find out that they’re not for you. Either way you learned something new.
All in all this month the big themes are that of taking a wider perspective, embracing the source of our power, honoring our potential for both creation and destruction, transformation in the workplace, growth in our personalities, and caring for our connections through genuine honest communication.
As always, I invite you to reflect on astrology as a tool for reflection and self-awareness. It is a tool we use to take the temperature of the world and reflect on how we might respond. Horoscopes allow us to reflect on ourselves and our world. It helps us pay attention to our moods and relationships and opens us up to finding new ways to navigate our thoughts and actions. It’s important to remember that anything I write here is meant to be used as such a tool and not as a prediction. The stars and planets do a lot of talking, but ultimately we each must decide our own path in life.
Artwork: Denae Manion
Aries
Lovely Aries, Mars is in your sign for the rest of the year! Meaning your sense of self is simultaneously evolving and becoming more grounded every day. When Mars meets with Eris and Lilith this month you may find your feminine and masculine qualities desiring to come into balance. It’s time to accept that your love of baking and your love of fixing cars don’t stand in opposition to one another, they stand in perfect harmony equally valid, equally an expression of your gorgeous inner truth. This is 2020. Your life is your life. Your sense of self is allowed to evolve! Play! Do what sounds like fun! Nourish your inner child! Draw on the walls! Add some color to your home! Stay busy! DO THINGS. Prioritize. Get creative with your finances! Love unconventionally! Dip your toes into entrepreneurship! Start a Patreon! Download TikTok! Don’t spend your energy in places that take too much of it. You’re in a unique place in space and time! Redefine yourself! Spend your energy in places that make you feel genuinely fulfilled and excited about life.
In your relationships: Your relationships are looking well-fed this month Aries, your partners find your jokes and your loyalty ~sexy~. During the Mars-Pluto square this month it will be important to find ways of expressing your feelings without making others responsible for them. When you find yourself feeling triggered and you feel the sudden powerful urge to put your coworker’s entire desk in jello, or the next time your romantic partner(s) step on your toes- ask yourself if your response is a reflection of past trauma or an expression of your inner truth. Instead of reliving and recycling through trauma try directing that energy into solutions based on open communication and negotiation.
Artwork: Denae Manion
Taurus
Change often equals chaos in your world dear Taurus. I know that it feels like things change so quickly and so often right now. You may be tempted to tune it all out, to take a sabbatical for the sake of living at your own pace. But you’ve been progressing so much in your ability to go with the flow, by taking things as they come. It’s okay dear Taurus, the danger might not have gotten any less but you control the amount of fear and worry you spend on it. You're being called towards your true purpose, towards an abundant life, now is not the time to dig your heels in, it is the time to charge forward- one step at a time. You have a knack for seeing through to the truth-don’t accept untruths because “you always have” or because you prefer the aesthetic it creates. Model authenticity for those around you.
This month try to be like a bull dancing with the breeze. Channel your frustrations with the state of the world into problem-solving and learning - make it fun! Whatever it is that you’re interested in, spend more time doing it! Play music, study astrophysics or quantum mechanics, take a boxing class, journey into your subconscious, start a new business! Pay attention to your intuition this month, destiny has turned up the volume, and if you pay attention you might catch the melody. Allow yourself to be curious about the unknown. Follow the music. Try to maintain a healthy diet and exercise this month and your energy will stay high all month long.
In the home and in your relationships: Get in the hang of embracing states of disruption. The universe tends towards disorder, it’s a key element of evolution. How can you use states of disorder to evolve? Where is home? Who makes you feel safe? Home is where the heart is. This month you may be drawn to old friends or old hometowns. What positive influence did those things have on you? How can you honor that and bring it forward into your future? Singles have the right energy to find new loving partners this month. But an already coupled Taurus should be aware that there may be some rocky days ahead. My advice to you is to be as honest as you can. Whatever it is that’s going on just be real about your feelings. Even if it’s embarrassing or scary or not what you think you’re supposed to feel. Don’t hold on to old wounds out of stubbornness. On the 23rd new insights will begin to emerge that paint a clearer picture of the way forward in your partnerships.
Artwork: Denae Manion
Gemini
What do you have to tell the world this month gentle Gemini? Mars is large and in charge right now and as a result, it’s time to use that warrior energy to your advantage. It’s time to share what you’ve seen during your journey behind the curtain. Shake off any feelings of powerlessness. Risk may be involved but the truth will stand either way and you have an opportunity to help others see through the illusions which are considered popular truths. Now is a good time for learning and teaching! You love information and when you’re excited and inspired you can sell your ideas to anyone. Throw yourself into your talents, jump start your career, write a book, dig deeper into an intellectual passion, take a journey on a spiritual path, and keep it real. Get excited! Go boldly in the direction of your dreams, be aggressive about achieving your goals at work but avoid conflict by being fair and sticking to the facts. Give them the real 411 and you will gain their trust and respect.
In your relationships: Things are looking pretty harmonious this month Gemini. There are opportunities for new beginnings this month. Find like-minded people and take a leadership role. If you’re not sure what that looks like spend some time engaging in mindfulness and meditation. Mutual appreciation and gratitude will go a long way in your relationships this month. Healthy relationships are about celebrating each other’s success, not resenting it. Keep things romantic by dressing up and having a special date night with yourself or with your partner(s) - even if you’re still quarantined in the house. Accept intensity as a natural part of life, things can’t always be light-hearted. You shine bright Gemini, bring harmony and peace with you everywhere you go. Share some of your light with others this month. Show loyalty by being that person who mentions their friend’s name in a room full of opportunity. You single Gemini’s have an opportunity to find a potential partner this month that might help your future financial prospects.
Artwork: Denae Manion
Cancer
The stars are doing all kinds of things in your world right now sensitive Cancer, but don’t worry too much. This month is all about finding a balance. Release doubts, share your feelings, communicate your truth. Be real with the people around you about your boundaries. Let them know that it’s important for you and everyone around you that you can be proactive about caring for yourself. Explain that you can do this mindfully, you can do this while having fun even! Summer is here and the heat can be beat believe it or not. Have a picnic with your closest friends, write a book, release your own fashion line, share your life’s story on Reddit, release whatever it is that you NEED to say into the world. Release anything that is just to hard to carry by yourself anymore. Holding it in doesn’t help anyone.
Having a routine that feels healthy and keeps you whole will be key this month. Having self-discipline especially around finding ways of moving in the world that allow for true happiness and catharsis. Having self-discipline in any financial or work-related endeavors will also save you a lot of drama this month. Try to invest in yourself more this month. Buying yourself a new suit or a nice dress for work is an investment in both your financial and emotional health. When you look good you feel good, so go ahead and buy a new set of pants and shirts. Try not to break the bank it will only add to your stress instead of taking away from it. Instead set a budget and stick to it. Make a commitment to make a routine of doing something you love doing, something that gets you into a state of flow, and stick to it whether it’s perfecting your jump shot or writing that book you promised yourself you’d write. Self-discipline can determine destiny. Make it a routine, make it a source of fun and you won’t be tempted to skip out on yourself.
In your relationships: Steer clear of people who drain your energy and make things more complicated than they need to be. You might feel a bit sensitive this month so it can be useful to take a step back from any drama and just spend time with the people it’s easy to spend time with. Take some time to recharge! Remember you are responsible for your emotions and part of being responsible is being proactive about caring for yourself.
Artwork: Denae Manion
Leo
Honor yourself this month Leo! It’s your season and you are a star! Honor all the parts of you from your inner child to your generous heart, to your bold drive, your creative mind, your intellectual capabilities. You may come up against some trouble at work early in the month but later on in the month, any pursuits in science, technology, or other intellectual pursuits will pay off. If you come across trouble- practice self-awareness with humility. Remember to keep things in perspective, and keep your priorities straight. Your charisma will take you far. Later in the month, it will be a good time for creating a new stream of income-especially if you have some international prospects. Try not to spend all your hard-earned money at once! You can still live in decadence without breaking the bank. Say yes to opportunities that come your way!
Before Leo season is over try to spend some time reflecting on the past year and where it has taken you. Do you still have the same goals? Have you changed? What’s coming down the line for you? Where do you want to go next?
In your relationships: You are capable of powerful and persistent love. Be patient in new relationships. Something may come to a head this month-- good. This will give you an opportunity to show those around you that you’ve grown in the past year. Vent first and come back later with solutions. You may feel a bit bored in your relationships this month but it doesn’t have to be that way! Do something romantic! Ask your partner(s) or friends if they want to try doing something new and adventurous together! Sometimes all a person needs is the proper invitation.
Artwork: Denae Manion
Virgo
We’re moving into a new world dear Virgo, what is your unique place in it? Keep your promises to yourself this month. Honor the commitments you’ve made to yourself. You’ll have an influx of creativity this month dear Virgo use it to your advantage! Get creative with your commitments to yourself, mix up your exercise routine, make volunteering more fun for yourself and others, stay dedicated to your dream but try going about it in a different way. Make decisions from a place of joy and stability and not out of frustration and impulsiveness. Focus on what you truly want for yourself. It’s okay to spend this time looking inward and doing the things that make you happy. Seek deeper fulfillment. You give so much of yourself all the time- taking this time for yourself is not being selfish, it’s self-care. It’s caring about yourself enough to invest in your own future. The people around you who love you want to see you succeed- but they don’t get to decide what “success” looks like for you. Don’t let others fear that you might “outshine” them weigh to heavy on your shoulders. This month financial windfall may appear. Nurture yourself. Good things are coming. Go with the flow- your flow, things will always be difficult if you’re swimming against the current of who you really are.
In your relationships: There is lots of joy on the home front this month Virgo! You might be feeling pretty autonomous this month- which is a good thing. Things are very cordial on the home front this month making it okay to spend some time refocusing your sense of self. Maintaining a strong sense of self is especially important if you are partnered. Sometimes dear Virgo we can begin to define ourselves in relation to others a little too much and can start to lose sight of who we are and who we want to become outside of our relationships. Take a trip on your own or spend a day or two doing something that gives you a sense of independence. It might help you remember who you are outside of the context you exist in. Taking time away creates emotional resilience which you can share with your partner(s) and family when you come back to them. Everyone benefits.
Libra
You’re effervescent this month my dear Libra. Summer is social butterfly time and the time is flying high! Take a break from social media and try to focus on your IRL (In Real Life) connections. Make new connections. Deepen existing relationships. Get closer to your coworkers, have an overdue conversation with a friend or lover. Push for that raise, that project, that investment. Buy that real estate. Reinvent your business or brand home. Overseas investments may follow you. This month your business smarts are sharp so make use of the time to set yourself up for future success. It’s time to cut yourself free of any old historical narratives, delete old facebooks, see yourself not as who you were but who you are becoming. Your charm is a bright light and your wit is a joyful kite that will take you to where you need to go. Use it to lift yourself and those around you up. The stars are aligning to help you get what you want. Karma is on your side.
In your relationships: If you’re single this month you may feel more drawn than usual to seek out partners that bring fulfillment into your life. Remember you are much more than just a pretty face, your charm and wit make you just as attractive to your admirers. If you’re partnered this month could be an opportunity to resolve ongoing problems, find deeper connections, and realign with mutual goals, practice being a team. Go to an escape room or go. Everything doesn’t have to be perfect - it just has to feel good. If something in your relationship doesn’t feel good - try opening it up to discussion without bringing in the weight of the past. Let go of old narratives about old friends, family, and lovers. Move forward. Approach serious topics with vulnerability and sensitivity. Embrace fluidity but be clear about what brings you pleasure and what doesn’t.
Artwork: Denae Manion
Scorpio
My dear Scorpio, a difficult decision might be weighing on your mind this month. Things might even feel like a whirlwind. This summer has been an important time leading to the opening of a new chapter for Scorpios. You’re going to have to decide between opening up to new possibilities or returning to historical norms. Maybe you’ve worn the same three outfits to work for four months-well today is a new day. Maybe you’re moving in with a significant other for the first time. Whatever it is you’ve spent plenty of time thinking about and debating it with yourself. Listen, whatever you decide for yourself: Your ability to find a way to laugh in the face of tragedy will take you far. Knowing when something is lost gives you the ability to move on to bigger and better things. Don’t feel afraid of walking away from old narratives that no longer fit who you are or what you want. Do what feels right for you in the present context. Just be sure to know when to use honey instead of poison and you’ll do just fine. You’re in a good position for personal and financial growth right now. Lean in.
In your relationships: Good news for single Scorpio’s this month you’re likely to be especially attractive to your admirers. Partnered Scorpios are going to see an increase in intimacy this month as they open themselves up to new possibilities and being honest about their desires.
Artwork: Denae Manion
Sagittarius
My dear Sagittarius, your stick-with-it-ness is going to take you far this month. You’ve got your fair share of work and play coming at you this month so be sure to make time for both. Whether it’s school, work, a new diet, a new fitness routine, or vacation plans, stick to it. The key to getting to the top is to keep going. Your hard work will earn you mad respect amongst your peers and will leave you feeling that you truly did earn your vacation time, your cheat day, your night out- whatever it is that you do to feel relaxed and have fun. Become comfortable in expressing your power both at work and in your personal life There’s no reason to hide. You are capable fo so much! Pursue your interests doggedly with dedication. Imagine what you can learn if you chase the unfamiliar with wild abandon.
In your relationships: Singles be on the lookout! You’re looking fly and the frogs are jumping! Work relationships are going to be a key highlight of this month. You might feel a bit annoyed with others who seem to not understand your creative vision this month. Try to be patient if the people around you seem to be engaging in conversations that go in circles. Try finding creative ways of getting your point across. Challenge yourself to connect with the people in your life on a deeper level. What has made them who they are? What can you both learn about how to communicate by knowing each other a little better? Make time with your family, friends, or romantic partner to relax this month. All work and no play can make for unhappy end to summer and you deserve joy!
Artwork: Denae Manion
Capricorn
My dear Capricorn, the start of the month might bring some frustration but after the 6th you’ll be able to push forward once more. Karmic lessons are an important part of your life at this time. Think back on your past experiences. Get in touch with your inner child. What did you enjoy doing as a kid? How can you incorporate more play into your life? Pay attention to your past and present responsibilities- they have things to teach you. Try not to delegate something you’d rather do yourself to someone else this month. Your strong desire to helicopter over your passion project might cause some friction with your coworkers or partner. Instead, own what you’re doing and be honest about why you want to do it. You are more than equipped to complete your tasks competently.
In your relationships: This month approach your relationships with sensitivity. Mars has us all a bit worked up this month so it’s best to try and keep our cool without sacrificing the truth of our emotions. Capricorn is unique in that it carries the great gift and burden of the stellium, a powerful group of planets all in one sign. Capricorn is the sign of the kingdom, of high social status and authority. As a result, sometimes you come off a bit, well, more like a ruler than an equal partner. Not because you’re trying to hurt anyone but because you’re just trying to call it as you see it. Still, your relationships require attending to. Show extra sensitivity and mindfulness in your relationships this month. Even when it’s REALLY hard. Take a wider perspective. Avoid being in a hurry. Keeping your cool will earn you respect and loyalty.
Artwork: Denae Manion
Aquarius
My dear wild and free Aquarius, this month your relationships are taking center stage. You may experience that people are either clamoring for your attention or seem to be too busy to have noticed your recent accomplishments. The key here is to remember that everyone has their own life- manifest as much space or as much togetherness as you desire. You might be unsure what it is exactly you want this month. Do you want to spend more time with others? Do you need time away to reinvent yourself or reconnect with yourself? What do you need in a friend? A family? A lover? This can be a very confusing time. Take your time. At work you may experience some frustration as you seem to be treading water despite putting so much effort into advancing forward. Keep from getting down by seeking out educational opportunities. Your mind is ripe for a new intellectual challenge! Whether it’s learning quantum physics or Quickbooks. If you choose to do any professional development try to make yourself an asset they can’t afford to lose.
In your relationships: Things are falling into place. This month you may be feeling ready to commit to something...more. But there is no rush. Be honest with yourself about what you want and why. Listen before you speak, karmic messages are finding their way to you from everywhere.
Artwork: Denae Manion
Pisces
My dear persistent Pisces, you might be feeling a bit down at the start of the month. Maybe having a case of the could of, should of, would of’s. Don’t let the “what if’s” keep you up at night. Share these feelings with your friends and family and listen as they tell you all that you have achieved so far. You’re doing great Pisces, and the only way to go is forward. There is all the time in the world laid out before you. Plenty of time to achieve everything you’ve ever dreamed of. Now is a great time to pursue education- learn a new instrument, a new recipe, take a math or grant writing class. And do something you’ve always wanted to do this month- whether it’s skydiving or knitting. Trying something new, or achieving a long term dream will give you confidence and push you into the next stage of who you are becoming. Your presence is important, you have an important role in the world and you are going to change it for the better. Challenge yourself to think of ways in which you have a positive impact on the world and what you can do to include it in your sense of purpose.
In your relationships: Be honest about your feelings with the people around you. Some commitment is lacking in new relationships this month but long term relationships with family, friends, and lovers are all benefiting from the calm happiness you radiate when things are going well. If you feel lost let the people who love you take the lead for a while. You’ve done well in choosing your friends.
