Navigating New Beginnings: A New Moon in Leo

As dawn breaks on August 4th, we're greeted by the New Moon at 12 degrees and 31 minutes in Leo, perfecting at 4:04 AM MDT, 6:04 EDT, 3:04 PDT. This New Moon offers a fresh canvas for self-expression, creativity, and the courage to shine brightly, embodying the regal essence of Leo. As we move through this lunar phase, we can benefit from a sextile with Jupiter - an aspect that promises expansion and blessings in our endeavors, particularly those that allow us to showcase our talents and passions. Sextiles are not aspects that drop gifts into our laps, they're opportunities we have to acknowledge and ACT on.

Jupiter's Influence and Planetary Tensions

This New Moon’s sextile to Jupiter enhances optimism and the desire for growth. It's an excellent time for starting projects that require visibility or a public presence. However, Jupiter’s impending square with Saturn introduces a counterbalance of restraint and reality checks, reminding us that every expansion has its limits and timing is crucial. Be sure your goals and aspirations are grounded in reality, and they're much more likely to survive Saturn's scrutiny.

Critical Degrees and Planetary Shifts

• Venus at the Anaretic Degree: Venus, positioned at 29 degrees of Leo, intensifies feelings related to relationships, art, and finance just before it transitions out of Leo. This degree heightens emotions and dramatizes endings or transitions, urging us to finalize creative projects or romantic endeavors with a flair.

• Neptune at 29 Degrees Pisces: Similarly, Neptune at the anaretic degree of Pisces deepens the collective intuition and sensitivity, enhancing spiritual awareness and artistic inspiration. This placement encourages us to connect with our innermost dreams, secure our faith and to dissolve boundaries limiting our imagination.

• Pluto Retrograde in Aquarius: As Pluto continues its retrograde journey through the early degrees of Aquarius, it presses for a reconsideration of our societal roles and collective goals, urging transformation in our communities and innovations.

With three planets poised to change signs in this New Moon chart, we're likely to feel a collective sense of something impending, which heightens stress and anxiety of what's to come - like a cosmic shoe may drop. Remember to breathe and stay grounded. Flexibility and curiosity are the most potent weapons during this potential transition.

Mercury's Retrograde Prelude

With Mercury stationing to go retrograde, this New Moon also calls for extra attention in communication and agreements. It's a period to review rather than initiate contractual commitments, and to reflect on our words and ideas, ensuring they align with our true intentions.

Guidance for the New Moon

1. Leverage Creative Energy: Harness the vibrant Leo energy to initiate artistic projects or to rekindle your creative passions.

2. Balance Expansion with Caution: While Jupiter encourages growth, remember Saturn’s lessons on boundaries and responsibilities.

3. Prepare for Shifts: Anticipate and plan for changes in relationships and spiritual pursuits as critical degrees prompt transitions.

4. Reflect and Review: Use Mercury’s slow-down to reconsider your plans and communication strategies.

5. Connect Deeply: Neptune’s influence invites a deeper connection with the spiritual and artistic realms.

As this New Moon unfolds, let it inspire you to lead with your heart, to express your unique self without fear, and to prepare thoughtfully for the shifts on the horizon. Embrace the opportunities for personal growth and creative expression, while navigating the energetic currents with wisdom and grace. And remember - Be Kind To Yourself!