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Remember the days when your imagination knew no bounds. What activities or dreams brought you pure, unfiltered joy? Whether it was painting, storytelling, exploring nature, or dancing, these early passions can provide valuable insights into your true desires. If you’ve been pondering ways to cultivate more joy or to honor your creative expression, you’re in luck.
There's a valiant new moon in Leo headed our way, vanishing into the sky on August 4 at 7:13 a.m. and via 12 degrees of this fixed fire sign. The new moon marks the beginning of a brand-new lunar cycle, offering us the chance to plant new seeds of intention. Although the sky is at its darkest during this lunar phase, the energy behind our seeds of intention begins to unravel throughout the lunar cycle. This occurs when the sun joins forces with the moon, creating a powerful alignment symbolic of new beginnings and potentials.
Governed by the Sun, Leo's zodiac archetype is the embodiment of courage, creativity, and self-expression. Its essence radiates warmth, vitality, and a magnetic charisma that naturally draws others in. Hint: look for the astrological house that belongs to Leo in your birth chart—this is the area of life where you’re likely celebrated and known for having a regal presence, perhaps even inspiring those around you to step into the spotlight with courage and confidence.
Under this lunar influence, we are encouraged to embrace our unique talents, skills and abilities and let our true selves shine brightly. This is a time to set bold intentions, engage in creative outlets, and reconnect with our heart’s desires. Take this opportunity to honor your passions and boldly step into your unique self-expression. The new moon in Leo invites us to be unapologetically ourselves, to take center stage in our lives, and to pursue what truly brings us joy.
In harmony with Mars and Jupiter in Gemini—as they approach a conjunction—this presents us with an opportunity to harness the dynamic energy of Leo while channeling it into our thought process, communication style and social exchanges. The blend of Leo's fiery passion and Gemini's intellectual curiosity can inspire innovative ideas and exciting projects.
However, while at odds with Saturn retrograde, the intellectual oomph brought on by both of these planets could face some resistance. Saturn's retrograde motion may challenge us to reconsider our plans and confront any underlying fears or limitations. This tension invites us to strike a balance between our ambitious ideas and the practical steps needed to bring them to fruition. It’s a reminder to remain patient, disciplined, and persistent, even as we pursue bold new endeavors.
In the meantime, here’s what the new moon in Leo means for your zodiac sign, along with a new moon affirmation. Don’t forget to read for your sun and rising sign.
Aries
Put your talents on display, Aries. The new moon in Leo will ignite your fifth house of self-expression, encouraging you to embrace your creative passions and indulge in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. This is a time to start new artistic projects or rekindle your romance with someone special. With the trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini, communication and new ideas flow effortlessly, piquing your curiosities and enlivening your immediate surroundings. However, Mars-Jupiter’s square to Saturn retrograde could bring underlying fears to the surface, challenging you to confront and release them. New moon affirmation: I am open to new ideas and passionate endeavors that bring me joy and fulfillment.
Taurus
Be the king or queen of your castle, Taurus. The new moon in Leo brings focus to your fourth house of innermost feelings, highlighting themes of home, family and your early upbringing. This is a great opportunity to set intentions for a harmonious and nurturing living space. The trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini brings a boost to your financials and sense of security, supporting home improvements or family-related investments. However, a square to Saturn retrograde could challenge your social circles or long-term goals, requiring patience and reevaluation. New moon affirmation: I am committed to creating a warm and loving home environment that nurtures my spirit.
Gemini
Use your voice, and speak your truth, Gemini. The new moon in Leo will ignite your third house of communication, making it an ideal time to embark on new learning experiences, communication projects and problem-solving. A trine to Mars and Jupiter in your sign also amplifies your intellectual energy, helping you articulate your ideas with clarity and enthusiasm. While at odds with Saturn retrograde, however, the momentum slows down, urging you to reassess your career goals and responsibilities. New moon affirmation: I communicate my truth with clarity and enthusiasm; I am ready to expand.
Cancer
Get clear on your values, and don’t undermine what you bring to the table, Cancer. The new moon in Leo shines a light on your second house of security, encouraging you to set financial goals and reassess your value systems. A trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini suggests that intuitive insights, spiritual growth and your ability to surrender can potentially influence your financial decisions and sense of self-worth moving forward. While at odds with Saturn retrograde, however, your beliefs and long-term plans could be challenged, prompting you to seek deeper truths and understanding. New moon affirmation: I recognize my worth and choose to commit to what reflects my true value; I trust my intuition.
Leo
Happy new moon, Leo! With both luminaries in your fiery territory, this marks a powerful time for self-renewal and personal growth. Set bold intentions for how you want to present yourself to the world and don’t forget to prioritize your happiness in the process. A trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini will energize your social connections and support your aspirations. While at odds with Saturn retrograde, however, fears around intimacy or shared resources are likely to come up for review, urging you to address these issues with honesty and courage. New moon affirmation: I embrace my self-renewal boldly; I address my fears with honesty and courage.
Virgo
Got a secret, Virgo? The new moon in Leo will touch down on your 12th house, inviting you to retreat and connect with your inner world. On top of this being a time for spiritual renewal and healing, you’re being called to surrender an identity (or ego attachment) that no longer serves you. Luna’s trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini can bring insights that benefit your career, even from behind the scenes. But while at odds with Saturn retrograde in Pisces, you’re being called to reconsider your commitments and boundaries, particularly when regarding the foundation of a relationship. New moon affirmation: I find strength in solitude and connect deeply with my inner wisdom; I release what no longer serves me.
Libra
Gather with your besties and celebrate each other’s unique talents and skills, Libra. The new moon in Leo is energizing your 11th house of community affairs, encouraging you to set new goals and expand your social network. Luna’s trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini supports your ambitions and brings opportunities for travel or higher learning. While at odds with Saturn retrograde, however, you may feel the need to establish a healthy balance between your aspirations and daily responsibilities. New moon affirmation: I embrace new connections and set goals that align with my highest goals and aspirations.
Scorpio
Take the stage, Scorpio. A sparkling new moon in Leo brings focus to your 10th house of notoriety, making it an ideal time to set career goals, seek recognition for your efforts, and celebrate your accomplishments thus far. A trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini brings transformative energy to your professional life, encouraging strategic collaborations. And while at odds with Saturn retrograde in Pisces, you may feel inhibited in your creative pursuits and/or romantic relationships, requiring you to reassess your priorities. New moon affirmation: I step confidently into the spotlight, celebrating my achievements & setting ambitious goals.
Sagittarius
Take a walk on the wild side, Sagittarius. A celebratory new moon in Leo is activating your ninth house of self-discovery, inspiring you to pursue higher learning, travel, or spiritual growth. Meanwhile, a cerebral trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini in your relationship sector adds a layer of intellectual stimulation to your one-on-one partnerships, bringing collaborative opportunities your way. While at odds with Saturn retrograde, however, challenges in your home life or family dynamics urge you to find a balance between your personal life vs your newfound belief systems. New moon affirmation: I embrace the spirit of adventure, seeking new experiences and spiritual wisdom.
Capricorn
Be bold in your pursuit of a wholesome connection, Capricorn. The new moon in Leo highlights your eighth house of intimacy, shared resources, and energetic exchanges, making it a powerful time for transformation and deep introspection. Moreover, an intellectual trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini supports everything from your day-to-day affairs to work-related transformations, encouraging you to adopt new routines. Its square to Saturn retrograde in Pisces, however, may challenge your communication style and/or learning processes, prompting you to refine your overall approach. New moon affirmation: I am open to change and embrace the new dynamics in my work and personal life.
Aquarius
You get what you give, Aquarius. The new moon in Leo illuminates your seventh house of agreements, commitments, and significant others, offering a fresh start in your relationships and one-on-one partnerships. A trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini ignites your creativity and romantic life, making it a great time for love and artistic endeavors. However, Saturn retrograde in Pisces may simultaneously challenge your financial stability, urging you to reassess your resources and values. New moon affirmation: I nurture my relationships, committing to mutual growth and understanding.
Pisces
Focus on yourself and what makes your day brighter, Pisces. Energizing and uplifting, the new moon in Leo brings emphasis to your sixth house of daily routines and health habits, encouraging you to set intentions for improving your productivity, mindfulness, and overall well-being. A curious trine to Mars and Jupiter in Gemini supports home-related projects and interactions with family. However, Saturn retrograde in your sign is likely to bring personal challenges to the surface, urging you to redefine your boundaries and self-concept. New moon affirmation: I’m creating a creative & productive lifestyle, prioritizing my joy and well-being.
Valerie is an astrologer, writer & visual storyteller. She currently writes for PEOPLE, but has contributed horoscopes and astrology-related content for StyleCaster, Elite Daily, Bumble Inc. and more. For more of her work, check out valeriemesa.com or follow her on Instagram @valeriemesa.
