The intensity of the Cardinal energy continues with Mars in Libra joining the fray, poking about in the realms of your intimate relations. This is not necessarily a negative when you need to get things moving, but it can add a desperate, aggressive edge when your aims or desires meet resistance from others. Venus starts to reach the end of her journey in Virgo, and those last few degrees before she enters Libra on the 8th will be intense.

On the 4th of August, Venus forms a quincunx aspect with Neptune in Aquarius.  This can be a blow to the confidence regards present aims, with negative thoughts creeping into the equation. Niggling doubts can fester into full blown depression if you allow it, so do yourself a favour and relax, enjoy the imaginative possibilities and heightened creative potential these two in aspect have to offer. Be wary though, of allowing your imagination to run away with you as Venus and Neptune can be overly romantic and push aside realistic barriers of self protection on a reckless whim.

The Venus energy intensifies on the 5th when she moves into opposition to Uranus. This dynamic addition enhances the risk-taking potential of the Venus/Neptune union but with a hesitation to commit to one possibility, the introduction of Uranus can simply add confusion and disappointment. With Chiron also connecting in a quincunx with Venus here – old, romantic wounds and negative views about self, can really darken what has such bright potential.

By the 6th, Venus and Saturn unite in a conjunction, which can heighten the present insecurities, or enhance newly found strength. Saturn does bring an air of control to the equation, with you either pushing to take leadership in certain situations, or finding yourself in the warpath of a dominating other. Balance is sought here. Take any hurdles that arrive with this energy as encouragement to work through any fears or confidence issues whilst defending your boundaries. But make certain that you also leave yourself open and flexible to new opportunities if they arrive, thanks to Jupiter’s influence.

On the 7th, Mars moves beyond the touch of Saturn and Uranus, but keeps his square with Pluto. This is such a powerhouse of empowerment potential this square, and when used wisely, can really guide you safely through the rocky waters of the past. Used recklessly though, this connection is a volatile pit of festering bitterness.

The 8th will be an interesting twist, with Venus entering Libra and softening the hard edges of this Cardinal intensity. Joining Mars in his opposition to Jupiter, luck and opportunity can abound. It is wise though, to hold on tight to Saturn’s sensibility as it will be easy to drift off with lazy temptation and be quite wasteful with resources. Keep an eye on the budget but do allow yourself to relax with this energy flow. It has romantic potential, it has career and creativity potential, it has a whole range of POSITIVE potential, if you choose to take ownership of your future and let go of what holds you to the past.

TAROT ENERGY FOR THE SUN SIGNS

ARIES – The Hermit (reversed)

You are on alert Aries, sensing danger but are uncertain of its source. The Hermit in this position often indicates unnecessary concern, so perhaps boredom in the present is affecting your point of view and overall approach. Another consideration is that there is sound advice around you regarding a concern, yet you are choosing not to listen. Avoid allowing your ego to dictate the moment. Take the time to consider all possible options before making major life changes and make sure you that you take time away from stressing about the present schedule, and enjoy some social time out.

TAURUS – Faith (reversed)

There is a shift in the energy and you are free of a heavy burden. Recent events have been weighing you down, but your spirit feels reborn. If you do strike a difficulty as the week unravels, take a step outside of the box when problem solving and get creative. The usual approach won’t work here and it is time to try something new. Despite the buoyancy and light-hearted energy, do be aware that you are still vulnerable, especially when considering the addition of new individuals into the intimate sphere. Be your usual, warm and loving self, but be on the alert for all and any who are willing to take advantage of you.

GEMINI – Two of Wands (reversed)

With so much possibility and unpredictability in the overall energy, it is no wonder that you are confused and feeling a bit frazzled. This week can find you on the edge of good manners, with certain situations really pushing your generally, pleasant and easy-going mood. Don’t be surprised if you fly off the handle at the smallest of events and feel overly frustrated when you are feeling forced to make a decision. If you need more time for thought, take it and don’t buy into the present pressure.

CANCER – Five of Swords (reversed)

Pluto can be a tough task master but he is certainly building that bridge for you to get over. You find that you are healing at a remarkable rate and moving well beyond hang-ups from the past. Battles with others are in the distance and recent reflections have assisted you in finding the forgiveness necessary to let go of any grudges. If you have been at logger heads regards a situation, you reach some form of compromise this week – or even an outward victory, if you have been accused of a falsehood.

LEO – Six of Cups

You feel nostalgic Leo, but not in a negative way, reflecting on the past with a smile. Much about this week takes you back to more pleasant times, with perhaps even the arrival of a long lost friend or lover. If you have been feeling under the pump with deadlines and expectations, the stress leaves you and you are able to relax, enjoy your family and friends. Not one to forget the aims for success, you find the patience that may have been missing to finalise that deal, or tweak that proposal to perfection.

VIRGO – Death (reversed)

Hold on Virgo, this could be a tough week for you with hoped for plans not eventuating as hoped, or some ‘not so positive’ news on its way. Venus at the final degrees of your sign, could be pulling the last of the negative potential out of you with the sharpened fingernails. Whilst this can seem quite ominous, really, where Death brings about sexy change and temptation, in reverse, there is stagnation and the changes just aren’t sexy! Roll with it, it’s happened and once it is out of the way, brighter horizons are yours.

LIBRA – Queen of Swords

This is a fabulous week in which to wine and dine, wheel and deal – get those necessary negotiations done and dusted before the retrograde phase. With your energy so intellectually focused, you can cut to the chase and guide the potential to just where your sharp insight is telling you it should be. Speaking of insight, this is a fine week for you to take that risk on a whim, trust that your instincts are spot on. Where a relationship has been dragging you down, you find just the right words in which to remove yourself, without creating any unnecessary dramatics.

SCORPIO – Four of Cups (reversed)

You are full of life and keen to get into action Scorpio. Where life may have been dull and shall we say, boring, this last while - you and your energy pick up the pace and reconnect with enthusiasm. This is a fine time to finish off those lingering projects, especially about the house, and spend some time with friends. Creatively inspired as always, if you have been falling behind in the schedule, you will catch up in no time. Even though busy, do keep flexible and don’t be surprised if a surprising new opportunity comes knocking on your door.

SAGITTARIUS – The Fool (reversed)

The world is full of choices and boundaries Sagittarius, and this week brings you ample opportunity to trudge all over both. The best advice with this influence is to think before you speak and if tempted to force an issue – just don’t. It will be tough though, as you will feel quite righteous regards your thoughts and plans of action, but think again, think three times before launching. This is just one of those weeks where it is best to ride it out quietly and resist the temptation to be forceful and make changes.

CAPRICORN – Seven of Wands (reversed)

You can win a battle Capricorn, but you still feel that you are facing a war. Take it easy on yourself here and appreciate the smaller achievements. Of all the signs, you are the one that must be reminded the most to give yourself ample relaxation time. You do forget to unwind when life takes a serious edge. Be logical about your concerns and be honest about your fears. Dismiss those that are unwarranted. On an intimate relations note, be wary of entering deep conversations as quarrels and disagreements are highly likely.

AQUARIUS – Temperance (reversed)

Life is a bit of a roller-coaster Aquarius, bit out of balance and loaded with rotten timing. Much of the confusion stems from your mood as you can sense an enemy in your midst but you’re unsure of just who. Hopefully this negative vibe is from a predictable competitor and not a friend-turned-rival – but be open to both possibilities. Take a deep breath if you feel panic rise and walk yourself through basic logic. Do your best to avoid surface dramatics and exaggeration by keeping to the point of your original intention. If possible, it’s best to hold off on any impulse to push for change and just ride the energy where it takes you.

PISCES – Three of Swords (reversed)

This is an influence of loss, but in this position, it is a minor one. Perhaps you farewell the memory of a friend or lover, as you move into a new connection. Something sad, but also pleasant at the same time. Filled with genuine compassion for those around you, you could well find yourself being the supportive shoulder for someone in need. There is a lot of confusion around you at the moment, as well as some general disorder. Just ride the week out without putting too much pressure on yourself. Take some time to  spoil yourself and be gentle when you feel you have failed to live up to your expectations.