This week brings a turning point between fiery expression and grounded refinement. The Sun and Mercury unite in Leo at the week’s start, sparking bold conversations and creative clarity. But midweek, Mars squares Pluto while Venus trines Neptune, blending intensity with compassion. This will force us to navigate both challenge and softness.

By the weekend, both Mercury and the Sun move into Virgo. This shifts the focus to practicality, health and analysis. The grounding energy of Virgo season from 23 August offers stability and clarity. This week is about courageously speaking out, meeting tension with maturity. This will help us develop daily rhythms that sustain long-term wellbeing.

The week of 18–24 August:

• moves from confident expression (Sun–Mercury),
• through a test of strength and compassion (Mars–Pluto with Venus–Neptune)
• into grounded clarity (Mercury and Sun in Virgo).

The cosmos invites you to align boldness with humility, courage with kindness and passion with practical structure.

Sun conjunct Mercury in Leo 17–19 August (exact 18 August)

The Sun and Mercury aligning in Leo supercharges expression and mental clarity. Words carry weight, ideas sparkle and conversations are more confident than usual. It’s a great influence for creative projects, speaking your truth or being seen and heard. The risk is over-talking or letting pride overshadow listening.

This conjunction marks a time when self-expression and purpose align. What you say now can have lasting impact, so use it with care. It’s a moment for courage—but with heart, not ego.

Tip: share your ideas boldly, but also pause to listen—dialogue, not monologue, brings true connection.

Mars square Pluto 19–21 August (exact 20 August) and Venus trine Neptune 20–22 August (exact 21 August)

Mars square Pluto stirs up conflict, hidden frustrations or struggles with control. It may expose power dynamics in relationships or professional settings. Left unchecked, it can lead to arguments or destructive behaviour.

At the same time, Venus trine Neptune offers a healing balm. It helps to soften emotions, heighten compassion and inspire creativity.

These two aspects suggest that while tensions may rise, resolution can come through empathy, kindness and imagination. The challenge will be to face intense emotions and situations without letting them consume you, while taking in the softer energies.

Tip: if conflict arises, respond with empathy instead of escalation. Balance strength with softness and choose compassion as your strategy.

Mercury enters Virgo – 22 August

As Mercury shifts into Virgo, thought processes become more practical and detail-oriented. After the expressive flair of Leo, this is a time for refining your plans and getting organised. Be efficient and sustainable.

Don’t nit-pick or be overly critical. Instead, aim for clarity and useful improvements. This energy rewards small, steady efforts.

Tip: write down a simple plan for the week ahead. Focus on what makes daily life flow more easily.

Sun enters Virgo – 23 August

The Sun going into Virgo marks the beginning of a season of refinement, health and routine. Virgo asks us to focus on service, structure and developing small habits that build long-term wellbeing.

This is a grounding influence, perfect for making lifestyle adjustments. The focus is less on grand gestures and more on consistent, mindful improvements.

Tip: begin one healthy daily ritual—something sustainable, like stretching, hydration or mindful meals. Small steps create lasting change.