The Full Sturgeon Moon on August 22 Asks You to Embrace Your Individuality
Heads up, stargazers: The next full Moon will fall on Sunday, August 22. During the full Moon phase, the face of the Moon is visible for about three days. But aside from the sheer spectacle of it, why should you care about a full Moon?
Within astrology, the Moon represents people's emotional landscapes. So during the time of the full Moon, the innermost parts of your life are said to be lit up like the Moon, leading to heightened emotions—and a chance to dig deep through forgiveness rituals and journaling.
This upcoming luminary is particularly special. In addition to falling on the first day of Virgo season, it's also considered a Blue Moon. Here's what to know about this August's full Moon in Aquarius.
When can I see August's full Moon in Aquarius?
Look up on of Sunday, August 22. The full Moon will reach its peak at 8:02 a.m. EDT, per Farmer's Almanac, and will appear to be full both the night before and the following day.
Why is it called a Blue Moon?
You've probably heard the expression "once in a Blue Moon." But what is a Blue Moon? Since the term originates in folklore, per Space.com, the definition is hardly scientific—in fact, there are multiple varieties of Blue Moons.
Calendrical Blue Moons are defined as two full Moons that fall on the same calendar month, like the full Moon of October 20, 2020. According to the Farmer's Almanac, Seasonal Blue Moons can also be the third of four full moons appearing in the same season—like the one on August 22, 2021, the first day of Virgo season. They happen ever two or three years.
Astrologers define this infrequent celestial occurrence a bit differently: Two consecutive full Moons that fall within the same sign. As a result, the August 22 full Moon is also an astrological blue moon. Both July 23's full Moon and August 22's fall in the air sign Aquarius, a sign known for its individualistic, open-minded, sociable approach to life.
Here's where the Sturgeon Moon gets its nickname.
So far in 2021, we've seen the Flower Moon in May, the Strawberry Moon in June, the Buck Moon in July, and more. August's is the first full Moon nicknamed after a large fish.
Each of the year's 12 full Moons has a designated nickname derived from European or Indigenous cultures. The name corresponds with the season's happenings. August's is called the Sturgeon Moon because that's when sturgeon were historically fished from the Great Lakes region. According to the Farmer's Almanac, this particular luminary has other seasonal nicknames, like the Corn Moon and Harvest Moon.
What does August's full Moon in Aquarius mean, astrologically speaking?
August's full Moon in Aquarius is in conversation with July's full Moon, which is also in Aquarius. The full Moons in Aquarius want you to embrace your individuality—eccentricities, err, minor imperfections, strengths and all—and be your truest self.
The Aquarius Moon shines a kind light on who you are, but not only for your benefit. A humanitarian, global-minded sign, Aquarius urges you to use your strengths to benefit the collective. How can you assist your community this month?
Further, astrologers also look at how other celestial movements may impact the effect of the full Moon. During this time, expansive planet Jupiter—currently retrograde in Aquarius—connects with the Moon and opposes the Sun. Remember, within astrology, the Moon represents the inner life, and the Sun houses public life. Jupiter's warmth is encouraging you to focus on your own needs, too. Don't skimp on the self-care.
Finally, note the sense of urgency associated with this full Moon, which falls in the 29 degree, the last degree before the Moon enters the sign of Pisces. During this time, you may feel pressured to act without thinking matters through. The message here is to proceed with caution. Reflect on who you are (Aquarius full Moon vibes), then take a step forward in a direction you're confident about.
What rituals do astrologers recommend trying during the full Moon?
The astrological practice of Moon mapping associates rituals with each of the Moon's eight phases. Here are a few rituals to consider taking on during August 22's full Moon.
Astrologists say that positive affirmations can heal the heart. The night of the full Moon, write down five things that you love about yourself and say them out loud while facing yourself in the mirror. As you speak, really hear yourself, and feel full of pride. As Oprah once said, "You should be full of yourself, so you have more of yourself to give to other people."
In line with Aquarius's giving and spontaneous spirit, do something nice for someone without expecting anything in return.
Get out your journal and reflect on how much you’ve grown. Specifically, take note of the changes that have taken place in your life since 2018. What would you like to change in the next three years?
Aquarius rules the calves and ankles. Pamper yourself by wrapping your legs in a hot towel with drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil.
Start a meditation practice (these apps will help). Concentrate on one of the mantras we provide below.
The full Moon has a message for each zodiac sign.
Each sun sign will be affected by the full Moon on August 22 differently, according to astrologers. Meditate on one of the below mantras, depending on your sun sign, as part of your full Moon ritual.
Aries: I'm a giver and a taker.
Taurus: I will reach a state of balance.
Gemini: I don't know everything, and that's okay.
Cancer: I am on the cusp of change.
Leo: I can put others before myself.
Virgo: I will let myself live in the moment.
Libra: I will let my creativity soar.
Scorpio: I will give of myself freely.
Sagittarius: I will speak kindly and from the heart.
Capricorn: I can evolve and change with the times.
Aquarius: I am willing to embrace my emotional side.
Pisces: I will take care of my body, mind, and spirit.
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