In August we’re confronted with the unexpected—but that's good news, as it will help reveal the most authentic parts of ourselves.
The sun, Mercury, and Venus move through fire sign Leo, which is usually a bright and fun season, but as each planet makes its way they will have tense confrontations with change-maker Uranus and hell-raiser Mars in Taurus, as well as downer Saturn in Aquarius. These tense meetups in the cosmos mirror the conflicts we'll find ourselves in, though they are meant to shake us out of patterns that simply aren't working for us anymore. Breaking cycles is something we often talk about in regards to our behaviors or relationships, but what does it really mean? Is it truly possible to “break” a cycle or are we instead, finding ways to elevate or transcend to another manifestation of it—one that is less harmful, less difficult, or challenges us in ways that inspire and uplift us? The most important part of this process is the willingness to change when confronted with the opportunity.
Travel often gives us the opportunity to change our environment, and therefore change our perception of things. Even the act of dreaming up or planning a vacation can help lift you into a realm of possibility—sometimes of the life-changing variety. May your travels this month transform you in ways you didn't realize were possible.
Below, your August 2022 travel horoscope.
Astrologer's note: Below we refer to your signs as “rising” signs, also known as your ascendant sign. Horoscopes are more accurate when read this way—using your birth time and location, you can quickly find your rising sign online (it takes less than 30 seconds).
Aries Rising
Feeling trapped is never fun, especially for someone like you who prefers to be on the go, mobile and action-oriented. The ever growing feeling of tightness that began in July continues to build in the first three weeks of August, and it’s important for you to find ways to relieve that pressure. First, acknowledge your frustrations around any unexpected shifts that have been sprung on you this season—whether they’re in your routine, finances, or relationships. Staying focused on what’s to come may help you move through the next few weeks, and it’s a perfect time for you to start getting nerdy about planning. Do you have a trip scheduled with no itinerary, or have you been waiting for some time to get deep into research mode over where to go next? The astrology supports you getting into the details around your next excursion. Allow it to be a welcome distraction from uncomfortable feelings this month may bring. It'll also give you something to look forward to.
Taurus Rising
This month continues to bring a spotlight to your home, family, and private life, encouraging you to confront difficult or uncomfortable situations. Sometimes a homecoming is in store, allowing you to take a deeper look at your foundations in order to properly orient yourself on the path that you’re on. With so much of your focus moving inward, you might feel the need to isolate within your homespace—but if that feels too restricting, be sure to acknowledge feeling trapped or boxed in, and remember you can always find relief in retreat. If needed, take advantage of a weekend later in the month to get off the grid, or to find some heat therapy. Saunas, hot springs, steam rooms, whatever allows you to sweat out what’s been building up all month could benefit you greatly.
Gemini Rising
You’re probably feeling ready to get out of Dodge and hit the road this month, with escape being the name of your game. Of course, hopping on a train or embarking on a spontaneous road trip won’t make your problems go away, but a change of scenery might help you shake the feeling that you’re stuck. The hard part is not overthinking things when you find yourself feeling this way, but rather using your ability to gather facts and focus on details to move you through challenges. Whether or not you can get away in August, it’s an excellent time to start looking ahead to your holiday plans. Begin to book your winter travel now, especially if you want to go overseas. Exerting control over future travel will feel good amidst a month of constant shifts, but do it sooner than later before Mercury, your ruler, begins to slow down and prepare for retrograde in early September—plans made around the retrograde might not stick.
Cancer Rising
The tides are changing in both your social life and creative pursuits. This month, you might be finding inspiration and satisfaction in exploring your local surroundings, and with people and places that feel familiar and grounding. If you have siblings, cousins, or friends who are basically family, spending a full Saturday with them could be exactly what you need to decompress during this stressful time. Try a local yoga or meditation class together and follow it with something indulgent—maybe a great meal and a little splurging (do you need a new suitcase, perhaps, or a great feel-good bathing suit you can wear on an upcoming getaway?). With Venus lighting up the part of your chart related to shopping and spending, you can count on finding something that makes you feel fantastic. Plus, it’s the time of year for big sales, so it’s perfect for snagging those special pieces you’ve been eying for months
Leo Rising
Out of the frying pan and into the fire, things get heated in August. Leo season is fully on this month and everything feels non-stop. Life is coming at you from all angles and you have to do your best to stay centered and on course. Your close relationships in particular will become highlighted, and you’re invited to release harmful patterns in relationships and at work that simply aren't working for you anymore. As temperatures cool down later in the month, you’ll have a chance to catch your breath and refocus on what matters: you. How can you best nurture yourself in the comedown of a wild summer? The part of your chart related to foreign travel is lit up for the first half of 2023, and this month is a great time to start dreaming up that much-needed, far-flung vacation. Pick somewhere warm and fun, as you’ll likely want it to be a bit of an adventure. Preparing in advance to let your wild side out is a great use of your free time right now.
Virgo Rising
It’s time to turn inward and refocus on your energy exertion, your body, and your health—both mental and physical. It’s been a social summer, and you deserve a moment to come back to yourself to rejuvenate and recalibrate. August is all about you. Whether you’ve been on the move for some time now, or you’re preparing for a journey to come, travel—near or far—holds a lot of transformative power for you this year. There’s something about being in transit that can be really grounding for you mentally. Consider spending a weekend (or more) in solitude this month, whether it’s a solo camping trip, an extra long hike, or a spa weekend. There’s a lot to think about before you embark on your next journey: A new moon in Virgo at the end of the month highlights aspects of your identity that are ready to be transformed. Allow travel to support a new becoming as you continue learning about yourself and expanding your horizons. You’re blossoming.
Libra Rising
It’s time to blow off some steam and reconnect with the people who mean the most to you. A short trip with your besties could be more restorative than you might imagine—consider this the permission (not that you need it) to prioritize pleasure, friends, and good times this month. Of course, you’re trying to mind budget constraints, but when you and your people put their resources together, you can make a fun time out of very little. Go all-in on a place in the desert or the mountains, and cook or barbecue together all weekend. An even more affordable option would be to host a cookout at a nearby beach or park on a particularly lovely late summer day. Making time for each other as a group may be difficult these days but, this month, you could all really use some quality time with people who get you, support you, and want the best for you.
Scorpio Rising
Everything seems to be changing right now, and you’re just trying to hold onto your sunhat. While you’re managing to hold it together through the whirlwind that is summer, know that any challenges you're facing are shaping you for the better. Personal relationships have begun to take center stage in your life, as you work on ways to examine insecurities and manage stress levels. It’s tough work, and that should be acknowledged. A slow-down and pause are coming over the next few months, and with that you might be able to find some solace from it all. When Capricorn season starts in late December, you’ll be craving a cozy, relaxing trip that will help bring you back to center. Plan ahead by booking a cabin in the woods, perhaps with friends or a special someone. Maybe you’re sick of being cooped up, and a roadtrip sounds like a better idea. Whatever gets you out of your everyday life—and surrounds you in nature—will do.