August Horoscopes

STAR OF THE MONTH

LEO

23 JULY - 22 AUGUST

Get ready to dig deep, Leo. You're heading into a year of gradual metamorphosis. This will require considerable self-analysis and probing into your past, but all the work will be worth it. You start to discover just how strong and resilient you are. If you have ever doubted your strength, by your next birthday, you'll never question your confidence and resourcefulness again. In the meantime, as this year progresses, you're more able to pursue your heart's desire - and if you can allocate time for what you love each day, life becomes infinitely more rewarding.

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VIRGO

23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER

It's my guess you need a rest, Virgo. Take advantage of August, which offers a spot of relaxation: maybe some contemplation. Find somewhere warm - kick through the sand, or curl up under the doona. Some of you, though, may find it hard to slam on the brakes. Try, or you'll end up exhausted when work spurs into overdrive after the 24th. In the meantime, open up to the possibility of love - it could be closer than you think.

LIBRA

23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER

August puts forward a strong argument for change. My guess is that you become more assertive, as well as more ambitious. The latter half of the month is also an ideal time for new studies, professional growth or for embarking on promising new business ventures. Whatever happens, keep faith with the spirit that drives you. If extra work hours are required, don't grumble - the gains will be well worth it.

SCORPIO

23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER

No one has a completely drama-free existence - we've all made mistakes. Consider, though, that these so-called "errors" of judgement are simply learning tools towards wisdom and compassion. Forgive others and yourself. Forget past hurts and keep moving forward. There is so much more to experience and love. By month's end, social invitations become easier to accept.

SAGITTARIUS

22 NOVEMBER – 21 DECEMBER

A relentless Mars sends you into a work frenzy this month. Your mind overflows with brilliant thoughts, and you're bursting with imaginative new ideas. Even if your regular work involves little creativity, you'll be busy dreaming up new ventures. The only downside: a sense of agitation after the 19th. Take a break, if you can. So unfair to have a month of all work and no play.

CAPRICORN

22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY

The planets tinker with your dream states, and, as a result, your intuition heightens - as do any latent clairvoyant abilities. Should your inner voice whisper sound advice, stop and listen. Those feeling a tad sexier than usual can look forward to a romantic fling. Watch your expectations, though, as this isn't a rock-solid phase. For happy couples, love grows more passionate and perhaps a tad more experimental.

AQUARIUS

20 JANUARY - 18 FEBRUARY

Yours is a straight-down-the-line sign - never afraid to tell it like it is. You want only the very best, and in August, you intend to get it. Your heart is pounding, your mind is racing - and you're ready for change. The cosmos also introduces much-needed playfulness, as well as the kind of good fortune that affords a few luxuries. Even in your love life, you dare to be even sassier.

PISCES

19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH

August finds you taking a chisel to long-held beliefs that no longer serve a purpose. Your attention now shifts away from the inner world and towards the outer. Should emotional issues chip away at your relationships, new ground rules will need to be applied. Unfortunately, this may mean that some ties are broken. Whatever happens, you feel more empowered by the decisions you make. After all, they'll be your own.

ARIES

21 MARCH - 20 APRIL

Your month could open up by taking the road less travelled. Sudden opportunities or chance encounters are likely. And you may finally be freed from a tense situation - great news for those who've been feeling overwhelmed. After the 24th, keep an eye out for inspiration that hints at your next step. Late August also promises a time of luck and, perhaps, romance. Enjoy the journey.

TAURUS

21 APRIL – 20 MAY

This month brings sweeping changes. Prepare to push all professional projects during the first half of August. Happily, the second half will be better spent socialising and having fun. Emotional freedom is also important. You want a free hand to make your own choices and to assert your individuality - without compromise. If you make the occasional mistake, don't fret. The spirit can only grow when challenged.

GEMINI

21 MAY – 21 JUNE

For too long, Geminis have weathered tough times, and you've been worn down by all the nonsense that the heavens can muster. So, at what stage do you say "enough"? Well, as long as you're still breathing - you have precious little choice but to go where life leads you. Don't worry. You've clocked up plenty of positive karma. You're about to cash in on many well-deserved rewards.

CANCER

22 JUNE – 22 JULY

Does the past seem more alluring than the present? Don't get too stuck in rose-coloured nostalgia. Clinging to times gone by can shut out today's reality. If you've experienced a loss or breakup, this is a normal stage in the grieving process. But don't mistake this for depression - it's more a case of needing some time out for contemplation. Just come back soon, Cancer - you're needed in the here and now.

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TANYA OBREZA was born in Slovenija and emigrated to Australia with her parents as a young girl. It was during her first visit to England that Tanya was introduced to astrology, and in 1980 she gained her London Faculty of Astrological Studies qualifications. Over the years, Tanya has established an extensive and wide-ranging international following, mostly due to her reassuring, down to earth presence.