
On August 16, 2023, we will experience a new moon at 23 degrees of Leo. It will impact individuals with planets and positions between 19-29 degrees of this sign the most. But it will likewise influence individuals with planets in Aries, Sagittarius, Taurus, Scorpio, and Aquarius at the same degrees. New moon phases are great times to conduct intention rituals to plan and prepare for the months ahead. They are also great times to harness the moon’s power in other beneficial ways.
New moon periods are normally calmer times filled with hope and expectation. However, we enter this new moon with semi-square activity between Saturn and Chiron, which could create a little tension. You might feel a bit overwhelmed on your healing journey as you address issues related to your self-worth or identity. This will especially be the case for those who may have gotten off course recently. But don’t allow this energy to derail you. In fact, it’s meant to wake you up so you can get back on course.
The good news is that this new moon in Leo will be combined with Juno and the Sun in this same sign. So, we will have plenty to smile about, especially as fifth house energy is highlighted this month. Leo governs the pleasurable parts of life – children, creativity, amusement, and romance. This constellation is big, bold, and loves to shine, so it’s sure to bring some happiness into all our lives during the new moon in August 2023.

Marriage and Childbirth
Juno oversees commitment and marriage, so there is a possibility that you may get engaged this month. Likewise, you may be tying the knot – if so, your union should be tremendously blessed with longevity. Contrarily, you and your partner may entertain thoughts of bearing offspring. That is if you don’t get a surprise in this area first. Either way, you may be preparing for a bundle of joy.
Financial Windfalls
The fifth house, governed by Leo and the Sun, also rules games of chance associated with our finances. So, this is a great time to try your luck at the lottery or spend some time at the casino. You may just hit the jackpot. Likewise, you could reap the fruits of an investment deal you made within the past six months or so. Either way, Lady Luck will be on your side.
Leisure
Chances are, if this energy touches your chart, you will feel the urge to relax as we come into this phase. And you will likely have many reasons to feel this way. It will be time to take a much-deserved break. And with the possibility of extra income, you may be able to splurge on an exotic vacation or a rejuvenating staycation.
Sun and Mercury Retrograde in Virgo
By August 23, we will become much more serious about our priorities. The Sun will station direct, and Mercury will retrograde in Virgo. This sign is ruled by Mercury, so we will be forced to pay attention to the details over the next month or so. And this energy is perfect for those who will be going back to school during this cycle. You are bound to pick up details you may have missed in the past. And this could be just the information you need to get to the next level.
Even those not engaged in formal studies will be empowered by the knowledge they receive during this time. This energy will most likely impact your work life, especially with Mercury retrograding in this zodiac. But more on that in a different post. Though suffice it to say that your work situation will likely change. You may feel inspired to reorganize your space, or your work location could change as we go through the new moon phase in August 2023.
First Quarter Moon in Sagittarius
First-quarter moon phases give us the energy we need to push forward. And on Aug 24th, Sagittarius will shoot its arrows toward the sky. This will give us the fire we need to get our affairs in order. It may also bring a little luck and a few blessings for some who will be touched by Sag’s arrow. You will be passionate about whatever creative endeavors Leo engages you with during this period.
The cosmic duo of the first quarter moon and Sagittarius will amplify our desires for growth and expansion. The fiery energy of Sagittarius ignites our passions and fuels our ambitions during this phase. This influence can be felt during this lunar phase, encouraging individuals to embrace new experiences and explore uncharted territories.
The adventurous nature of Sagittarius is also reflected in the first quarter moon’s impact on decision-making and goal-setting. It provides an opportune time to take risks, step outside comfort zones, and pursue ambitions with confidence. The combination of Sagittarius’ optimistic energy and the growth-oriented nature of the first quarter moon will give us the gusto to be bold and brazen.
Mars in Libra
On August 27th, Mars will bring even more fiery energy to the sign of Libra. And the scales can tip either way. Libra rules our house of contractual commitments in relationships and business. With the combined forces of these two luminaries, you may be hearing wedding bells pretty soon. Or you may just be teaming up on a joint venture designed to bring you capital success.
But be careful about signing contracts during this time. Mercury just went into retrograde motion, and Mars is known for being hasty. These two dynamics could result in disappointment if you don’t read the fine print. It’s best to draft and review agreements during this period. Make sure that everyone is on the same page. Then you can sign about a week or two after Mercury goes direct on Sep 15th.
Uranus Retrograde
This new moon phase will end with Uranus retrograding in Taurus on Aug 28th. Uranus is rebellious and full of surprises. This planet governs technology and futuristic capabilities. When direct, he can bring unexpected, sudden changes. But when he retrogrades, we get a bit of rest from the roller coaster ride.
This month he will retrograde in Taurus until the end of Jan 2024. As such, we will get a bit of a break on the material front. Our love live, finances, health, etc., should stabilize during this period. This will give us much needed time to catch our breath after so much upheaval in these areas in recent months. Chances are you will feel more secure and settled in next six months or so.

Summary
This new moon in Leo on August 16, 2023 is a special time in the astrological calendar. This new moon phase brings forth a powerful energy that encourages us to honor our individuality and embrace our unique selves. It serves as a reminder to prioritize self-care practices that nourish our mind, body, and soul.
Self-care solutions are not just indulgent acts of pampering – they are essential for maintaining our overall well-being. They allow us to reconnect with ourselves, listen to our needs, and cultivate a deep sense of self-love. Whether it’s taking time for meditation, journaling, engaging in creative pursuits, or simply indulging in activities that bring us joy – these practices help us celebrate who we truly are.
So as the New Moon in Leo graces us with its presence, let us take this opportunity to celebrate self-love and embrace authenticity wholeheartedly. Let us engage in self-care practices that nurture our uniqueness and individuality. By doing so, we not only honor ourselves but also inspire others to do the same – creating a ripple effect of love and acceptance in this world.
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