What August’s New Moon in Leo Means for Your Sign

On Wednesday, August 16, 2023, the new moon in Leo rises at 5:38 a.m. ET – days after Venus retrograde passed through the heart of the Sun in a rare Venus cazimi.

The lunar cycle moves from the new moon to the full moon and back again every 28 days. Each phase carries a unique energy, and astrologers say tracking the moon can help align your life with the stars. This month, a bold and radical new moon could bring unexpected change into your life. Venus continues her retrograde remix through the sign of Leo and joins Lilith in breaking down all of your walls and barriers. Now that Venus has become the morning star, there’s no more hiding what’s been kept in the dark. Something residing deep in your subconscious will come to the surface during this month’s lunation.

This new moon in Leo is active, forming a conjunction with the Sun and Venus as well as a square Jupiter and Uranus. Everything you’ve planned for up until this point will begin falling into place. However, the stars can’t promise that the events will unfold just as you imagined them. La Luna feels extra fiery this month, and the new moon reminds you that things will unfold as they’re meant to. And with so many fixed signs fighting for control, you’re learning to examine your own relationship with themes around stubbornness, determination, and power.

As the new moon makes her debut in the sign of Leo, you’re closing the chapter that opened during the new moon in Cancer last month. These endings may feel more sudden or abrupt than you’re prepared for, thanks to Mars trine Uranus. This is a sign that things need to change – whether you want them to or not. Rather than dwelling on what’s being left behind, focus on using this energy to move forward into the new adventure rapidly unfolding before you. You’re going through a personal renaissance right now. And the new moon is an opportunity to embrace change, spontaneity, and confidence from within. ⁠

Keep reading to see what the new moon in Leo has in store for your zodiac sign, plus tips for maximizing the shift toward radical self-acceptance and love.

The Spiritual Meaning of the New Moon in Astrology

Astrologically speaking, the new moon is a sign of cosmic new beginnings. Every 28 days, the moon enters the darkness of her new moon phase, starting a new lunar cycle and setting the tone for the rest of the month. New moon phases usher in new opportunities, fresh ideas, and an increased sense of idealism. This is also a time for self-reflection, setting intentions, and setting new projects into motion. When the new moon enters a passionate and vibrant sign like Leo – it’s a chance to embrace a different version of yourself. Whether you’re getting reacquainted with old passions from your past or transforming yourself into an expressive new you, August’s new moon in Leo is all about the things that bring you joy.

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What to Expect From August’s New Moon in Leo

On August 16, 2023, the New Moon in Leo will occur at 5:38 a.m. ET – burning away your insecurities. Matters of the heart and romantic relationships continue to be the focus during the new moon. Venus retrograde just completed her glorious fire walk through the heart of the Sun during the Venus Cazimi on August 13, 2023. Now, the new moon in Leo is asking you to close your eyes and step into the flames.

Lilith will form a conjunction with retrograde Venus during this new moon. Lilith represents the fears and doubts held in your subconscious mind. When this dark and moody celestial body joins the lunar party – emotions can boil over in a really ugly way. Don’t judge yourself for what you’re feeling. Instead, look at the situation and see what your emotions and triggers are trying to tell you. This is your moment to see the situation for exactly what it is, even if the truth isn’t pretty. It’s time to turn inwards and search for the heart of the matter. It’s all happening as it’s meant to.

This new moon will also activate a powerful grand trine between Uranus, Mars, and Pluto, adding mystery to the air. When the new moon in Leo squares Uranus, you might feel like living in an alternate universe for a bit. Life changes in an instant. And sometimes those changes can rock your foundation, no matter how welcome. Luckily, Jupiter will give you steady support to keep pursuing your dreams to the fullest. It may feel uncomfortable to admit when you need help or fall short. But you’re learning to have more compassion for yourself as you settle into a new normal.

What Does the Leo New Moon Mean for Each Zodiac Sign?

This new moon is a powerful time to start new for the fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius). Summer has been tough for you, largely because of Venus's retrograde. And with the Sun, Moon, Venus, and Lilith all squaring off with Jupiter during this new moon, a lot of rigidity needs to be released. Fixed signs are learning to be okay with taking the long way to the end destination. You’d benefit the most from doing a deep heart cleansing or manifesting ritual during this time. Use the power of the new moon in Leo to attune yourself to the excitement and incoming abundance in your life.

Cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) will untangle a complicated spiritual web during this new moon. This lunation sits opposite Pluto in Capricorn but forms a dreamy trine to Neptune in Pisces. You’re approaching the revelation of a major truth about yourself. It's time to expand your concept of self-sufficiency and dive into a world of renewal. If you’ve been feeling off balance, this new moon in Leo will help you detach yourself from your vices and align you with your higher good. Allow yourself to forgive anyone who’s done you wrong up to this point. It’s time to make a clean break from the tethers of your past.

And finally, mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces) might find themselves feeling more focused and motivated during this new moon. Mars and Mercury will be conjunct in practical Virgo, making this a great time to start something new. Your mind is moving faster, and your creativity will flow more smoothly. These are the final days before Mercury stations retrograde on August 23, 2023 – so be sure to use this energetic boost to your advantage. If you’re someone who practices a regular new moon ritual of manifestation technique – try adding some candles, special oils, or herbs to your practice to make it extra special. Bask in the clarity this new moon will provide and do what feels right for you.

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