As Lammas approaches, the space around us thickens with the golden haze of late July and the subtle anticipation of harvest. This week is infused with these ripening energies, intensified by a powerful New Moon in Leo — a celestial invitation to strip away what no longer serves and make room for the full maturity of the soul. Shadows recede, making space for the radiance of our authentic self to shine through.

Under this influence, it’s especially beneficial to release the excess — whether it’s people, possessions, memories, or even money. Yes, even finances can be “too much” when they stagnate. Don’t be surprised if a small, unexpected amount of money comes your way. The best way to use it now? Invest in what nourishes your spirit — not the practical, but the poetic. This is a subtle act of self-honoring. A personal ritual of abundance.

🎨 This is also a time to reflect on what you’ve learned, where you’ve grown, and what skills you’ve honed. The energies at play won’t let us sugarcoat things, but they also won’t let us be unfairly harsh. Strengths and weaknesses appear in high definition. The good news? Where flaws are visible, so are the tools to transform them. The Universe offers both insight and opportunity. But beware: ignore them now, and a few months down the line, life may push you into change — less gently, more painfully.

Everything that once held you back — resentment, fear, lukewarm relationships — now asks to be released. The currents of this week guide us to discern what truly belongs in our next chapter and what must be pruned away, like overgrown shoots sapping the sweetness from the fruit. Even if you haven’t taken visible steps yet, the moment you intend to change, the transformation begins. And with Leo’s fiery energy, the momentum builds.

💓 Communication heats up — and not always pleasantly. People become more stubborn, boundaries sharpen, patience wears thin. Now is the time to speak simply, directly, and with dignity. And sometimes… not to speak at all. Mercury is retrograde, gently (or not so gently) teaching us the art of mature dialogue, where a pause can say more than a paragraph.

Yes, some connections may dissolve. And yes, it may hurt — like losing a piece of your heart. But with every ending comes release. Sometimes deleting one contact from your phone brings more freedom than an entire vacation. Farewell rituals, cleansing ceremonies — they are especially potent now, helping tear the unseen veil between your present and the life that’s waiting.

🌙 In this raw clarity, under the New Moon’s gaze, comes the essential question: Who are you in this world? How do you express your power? Have you become the one who commands but forgets to feel? Leo is a sign of the generous leader, but even he casts a shadow. It’s not enough to shine — we must also warm others with our light. This is a powerful moment to ask for feedback. Ask your loved ones and friends: What about me inspires you? What distances you? Their answers are mirrors, offering not distortion but truth — and with truth, we can evolve.

Wishing you a radiant and powerful week! Walk boldly, with dignity, with the deep knowing that every act of release brings you closer to your truest self — the one who knows their worth and lights the way for others, not with pride’s fire, but with the gentle glow of the heart.

© Elena Shuwany