From July 22 to August 22 the Sun visits the bold sign of the Lion, signaling a collective turn toward fun, celebration, romance and creativity. This year the Lion's roar is louder than usual because of two powerful eclipses. The first, on August 1, is a Solar Eclipse -- when the Moon's shadow blocks out the light of the Sun. This cosmic event is an amped-up New Moon in Leo, magnifying the already dramatic Leo energy and inviting bold new beginnings.

On August 16 a Lunar Eclipse -- an extra-potent Full Moon -- brings another burst of excitement along with the potential for experiencing the Lion's bite. Make the most of the Sun's passage through Leo by checking out your sign's forecast below.

Aries (March 21 - April 19)
The heat is on and you're loving it, as the Sun energizes your 5th House of Joyful Self-Expression. This is the ideal time to launch a new creative project or take your creativity in innovative directions. Amplify your attractiveness -- and your opportunities for romance -- by speaking from the heart and generously sharing your gifts. Letting healthy self-confidence morph into excessive pride blocks the intimacy you desire.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
Use this fiery burst of inspiration to create (or re-create) the home of your dreams as the Sun's rays activate your 4th House of Domesticity. Any home-improvement projects that have been on the back burner are ready to come to the forefront. Past relationships could surface now, inviting you to release old attachments. You might need more emotional support than usual -- don't be afraid to ask for it.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
You're the messenger of the zodiac, and this month your communication skills are highlighted as the Sun visits your Third House of writing, speaking, learning and teaching. Harness the Leo Sun's potent creative energy by exploring multiple viewpoints and then take the risk of sharing your message with the world. Releasing fixed perceptions based on past partnerships opens the door to new romance, perhaps right in your neighborhood.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
The Leo Sun presents opportunities for getting creative with your finances, lighting up your Second House of personal resources. Have you been contemplating new approaches to bringing in income? Perhaps something that feels like more fun and where you get to be your own boss? You have extra confidence in the financial realm and luck is on your side in building your base of resources, so take a risk.

Leo (July 23 - August 22)
It's show time! You've been waiting all year for your moment in the Sun, and finally it's here. You're ready to update your look, embrace a fresh perspective and launch new projects. How can you generate more joy, express more originality and shine your light even more vibrantly? The Solar Eclipse in your sign on August 1 invites you to push the restart button on your life's purpose, which could require releasing the past.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
Your inner light burns brightly -- though only you might notice, as the Sun slips into your Twelfth House of the unconscious. Pay close attention to your dreams, which could offer creative solutions to waking life challenges. Get plenty of rest and attend to your spirit -- you need this down time in preparation for next month, when the Sun moves into your home sign and ushers you into the spotlight.

About the Author
Emily Trinkaus is a lifelong student of Astrology and has practiced professionally since 1999. She lives in Portland, Oregon with two magical felines. See virgomagic.com for information about readings and events.