Yesterday's tense mood should rapidly diminish today, although the aftermath could take some time to sort through. Fortunately, the Moon helps smooth the way, making several pleasant aspects throughout the day. It's traveling through Scorpio, which invites deep emotional exploration but also increases our needs for privacy, which should be honored. What a strange week it's been!

Mars opposes Uranus today. Get ready for open conflict and rebellion. There's nothing hidden or covert about this harsh, uncomfortable aspect, which brings out the selfish, willful qualities of both these planets. Impulsive action without regard for consequences -- that's what you're likely to see today, especially if your birthday is March 14, June 14, September 15 or December 15. A second aspect, Mercury opposing Neptune, can only serve to confuse you or obscure important information. Don't believe everything you read or hear today.

Venus, Planet of Love and Beauty, leaves Leo today to enter meek, modest Virgo. The party's over. Time to take down the balloons, clean up the mess and get back to work. Until August 30, we'll take a more grounded, sensible look at our partnerships, appearances and financial situations. This may sound boring, but it's good to examine these issues critically from time to time. That way, we can make any changes or improvements that might be needed.

Today is strange. The Moon is in Virgo most of the day, and makes some difficult aspects to harsh and powerful planets. Many of us are feeling itchy and uncomfortable as a result. Plus, a rebellious Mars-Uranus opposition is quickly building to a peak. That will come on Wednesday, but the tension has already begun to mount. So altogether, circumstances could be quite mixed today. Do make time for love tonight, when Venus trines Pluto. This aspect enhances passion and invites intimacy.

August is eclipse month, and we start things off today with a bang. The second and final solar eclipse of 2008 occurs early today in the sign of Leo. Not unlike days of old, solar eclipses are relatively rare, visually startling events that still inspire awe, wonder and even fear in us humans. The truth is, for most people, eclipses pass with hardly a blip on the radar screen. It's more likely to be noticeable on a personal level if your birthday is either today, January 30, April 30 or November 1.

This is the last day of the month and the final day before an eclipse. As if that weren't enough, today is also significant in another way: It features an aspect that can be both delightful and confusing. Venus, the Planet of Love and Attraction, opposes mysterious, secretive Neptune. It's all too easy to be swept off your feet today, whether that's by a puppy in the window, someone you're romantically interested in, or a beautiful, expensive pair of earrings at the jewelry counter. Be very careful what you commit to today. You may view things differently after this energy has passed.