Solar Eclipse in Leo ~ Ready for a reset? Let’s go!
August’s Solar Eclipse is the first of two eclipses and marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle. Occurring in the sign of Leo, this eclipse invites us into a powerful reset of self-confidence, courage and creativity…
August 12th | PDT 10:36 | EDT 13:36 | BST 18:36
After the Buck Moon in airy Aquarius two weeks ago, eclipse season arrives with a fiery reset in Leo. If you've been questioning your confidence, creativity or direction over recent weeks, this eclipse may feel like an invitation to reconnect with what truly lights you up. Let’s explore together…
In this blog we’ll discover:
- Ways to work with the Leo Solar Eclipse
- Prompts for working with your journal
- Key dates for this lunar cycle
A solar eclipse occurs when the Earth, Moon and Sun all align, and from our vantage point on Earth (depending on where you are), the Moon blocks out some or all the Sun’s light. August’s solar eclipse will be a total eclipse in some parts of Europe, but in the UK, much of Europe, parts of the northern United States, and most of Canada, it will be a partial eclipse.
A solar eclipse can only take place at a New Moon. Symbolically it takes on the qualities of a New Moon and heightens them. Watch for themes around new beginnings, perspectives, or pathways opening up. We may notice significant shifts when solar eclipses occur, which may feel jarring as we work out how to navigate change. But just as the Sun’s light is obscured for a time and then returns, they can signify moving from a sense of confusion to clarity and offer a nudge in a new direction.

Mockup image from Moon Phase Studios - 2027 | 13 Moon Journal
How can I work with a Solar Eclipse in Leo?
A solar eclipse in this proud, confident sign can signify new energy around where to shine creatively and courageously in our lives. Leo illuminates our sense of self, and an eclipse here asks us to check in with our heart’s desires to see if we are truly listening to them. And if not – what needs to change so that we can?
With Jupiter and Mercury both present in the sign of Leo at the eclipse, we may find ourselves well-resourced to understand what both our heart and mind need. The answer may offer us something unexpected, but this is about being truthful and heart-led, so listen and lean in friends.
The broader picture is always important, and Mars has just moved into the water sign of Cancer, the day before this eclipse. This suggests that somewhere in our lives the waves may get choppy – but wherever we may feel it, this eclipse offers a reset, a chance to renew the beacon of light within ourselves to help us ride out any storms.
Other aspects around this eclipse look largely supportive, however a stern note from Pluto in Aquarius, opposing Mercury in Leo, is reminding us not to avoid the deeper questions that may arise.
What about the South Node?
This solar eclipse involves the south node, one of two mathematical points in the heavens, where both the paths of the Sun and Moon intersect. This point can symbolise release, letting go and the shedding of unhelpful patterns. If you have felt drained of energy, depleted or like your light has gone out, consider what has been keeping you stuck and how you can work to release it.

Should I set intentions at the Solar Eclipse?
Solar eclipses can sometimes shunt us back onto our life path by revealing new information. Because of this, I don’t tend to set intentions at a solar eclipse; I focus more on keeping my schedule light and making sure I’m grounded, but it’s personal preference. My suggestion is simply to feel into it, but don’t put any pressure on yourself. Remember, our power lies in being flexible and being able to move with the shift in energy, so we can actively participate in any realignment.
Ways to work with the Solar Eclipse in Leo ~
- Ground yourself: As we navigate this changeable energy, make room for grounding activities that help you slow down and clear your mind.
- Notice what is shifting within: We’ve had some major astrology throughout July. What has changed within you over the last month? Which new starts are calling you?
- Appreciate what lights you up: Consider where you feel most alive and happy. Do you feel this way around certain people, in your work or perhaps during an activity? Is there a way to increase this feeling, perhaps by letting go of something to create more space?
- Seek out joyful inspiration: When was the last time you did something simply for the pleasure of it? If there’s a creative impulse, be it painting, dancing, writing, or whatever ignites some childlike joy, make room for it.
- Celebrate your achievements: Journal about your achievements (since the last eclipse season in February/ March this year) on a personal and professional level. Appreciate your unique ability to shine!
The extent to which you may feel eclipse energy will depend on your own planetary placements, but around the eclipse - you can try journaling, meditation, or simply taking some quiet time out.
If you’d like to explore journaling with this solar eclipse, here are some prompts to guide you:
Journal prompts for working with the Solar Eclipse in Leo:
- What helps me to feel confident in the face of change?
- Where in my life could I step forward with greater courage?
- Which part of my life is asking for a reset?
If you are curious about the ways this eclipse season is showing up in your world, I’ll be exploring more over on my Substack.
Wishing you an energising eclipse.
With blessings,
Charlotte x

Key dates for this Lunar Cycle
If you have the Moon Phase Studios 13 Moon Journal, remember that each of the main Moon phases below has a page especially dedicated to it - so you can let the pen flow.
Key Dates for this Lunar Cycle:
- 12th August: Solar (New Moon) Eclipse in Leo
- 19th*/20th August: First Quarter Moon in Scorpio
- 22nd*/23rd August: Virgo season begins
- 25th August: Mercury moves into Virgo
- 27th**/28th August: Lunar (Full Moon) Eclipse in Pisces
- 31st August: Jupiter trine Saturn
- 4th September: Last Quarter Moon in Gemini
*PST/EDT
**PST
About Charlotte Lauren
Charlotte Lauren is a resident Astrologer for Moon Phase Studios providing regular insights in our newsletter about each New and Full Moon.
You can sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of the page.
She also provides the astrological data and written content for our Moon Calendars and 13 Moon Journals.
If you want to find out more about how you can attune to the moon you read more on our blog about New and Full Moon’s here.
Alternatively, you can find out more about Charlotte’s work as a Hellenistic Astrologer, via her Charlotte's website.
She weaves astrology with cyclical living to help illuminate a cosmically conscious path for her clients, offering birth chart readings and astro mentoring packages with a holistic approach.
Charlotte also hosts a free Facebook group for women who wish to work with the lunar cycle. You can follow her love of the cosmos on Instagram or Substack.