Sunday’s New Moon Comes With A Side Of Mercury Retrograde—Here’s What To Know

We’ve officially reached the halfway point of summer here in the northern hemisphere, with Leo season well underway. And this Sunday, we’ve got a new moon in Leo arriving the same day as Mercury retrograde begins.

Before it arrives, here’s the astrology behind this moon, plus a few rituals to set your new moon intentions.

The astrology behind August’s new moon in Leo

This month’s new moon will be exact on Sunday, August 4, just after 7 a.m. EDT. This time around, it’s in the sign of Leo, and it’s asking us all to lean into our main character energy.

As astrology expert and author of Astrology SOS, Imani Quinn, tells mindbodygreen, Leo is ruled by the sun, so it has no problem being the center of its own universe. And with new moons being a time to set intentions and start fresh, she explains, this is a chance to call in your innermost desires and be open to new beginnings.

Leo energy is all about putting yourself first, filling your own cup, and owning your confidence. “Claim it, receive it,” Quinn says, adding that this is an exciting, adventurous, and ultimately fun time.

It’s also an especially potent time for manifesting, as we have the annual Lion’s Gate portal on August 8, in which the sun in Leo, the star Sirius, Orion’s Belt, and the Earth all line up.

“This portal is bringing with it rapid change and transformation, so let this new moon in Leo influence changes that put you first, and use the portal to amplify your manifestations,” Quinn explains, adding, “Just be mindful that anytime there’s a portal and massive change, it’s not just about calling in your desires, but being equipped and prepared for all the change that comes with that.”

One last thing to note about this new moon: Mercury goes retrograde the very same day until August 28. And with Leo being a sign that—let’s be honest—loves some drama, that’s something to keep in mind. “Your words could easily be misconstrued,” Quinn explains, “especially with impatient Leo energy influencing Mercury retrograde.”

As Quinn tells mindbodygreen, Mercury will be retrograde in Virgo at first, and then backspin through Leo on August 14. Expect things like delays or tedious details to cause issues. If you can, try to wait until the end of August to make any big decisions or sign important contracts, she adds.

3 rituals to work with this new moon

Given we’re in Leo season, this is a great time to connect with some solar power. “Specifically, I’d say, spend time in the sun,” Quinn suggests, noting that it’s the perfect time for a sun meditation.

As you bask in the sun’s warm rays, Quinn adds you can also journal your intentions for what you’re bringing in during this new moon and Lion’s Gate portal.

Candle magic is a simple way to ritualize any moon cycle, and since this new moon is all about confidence and creativity, Quinn recommends going for a yellow candle to represent solar plexus energy.

To work with your candle, simply think of your intention(s) each time you light it, but don’t blow it out—always snuff. “It’s like blowing away your intentions if you blow it out with your mouth,” Quinn adds.

Finally, Quinn always recommends checking in with your tarot cards to get more clarity around what this new moon could mean for you. Here’s a simple four-card spread to try yourself:

The takeaway

Mercury may be going retrograde, but this is still a great time to think about how you can tap into your inner Leo and let your light shine.