The Lion (July 22 -- Aug. 22)
It may be hard to move forward this week, due to challenges concerning career, reputation, and damage done by a not-so-real friend. Use special caution and listen to your body. If it says "don't," then pay attention and stop immediately.
For All Signs The cosmos presents several tense aspects this week. Energy will be high and nerves may be frayed. Drive defensively and concentrate on the task at hand to avoid fender benders. Pay close attention if you are using potentially dangerous tools and don't press your body beyond its normal physical capacity in any activity. These are the types of aspects that augur wrenched backs and broken toes. The most critical days: 28, 30, 31, 1 and 2. We might as well consider all of them with caution.
Aries Your ruling planet, Mars, is tied up in knots this week. Give attention to the lead paragraph because it particularly applies to you. You may become aware of challenges concerning children, lovers, and community contacts. If so, it means work is needed in those areas.
Taurus You may suddenly be caught in the crossfire at your place of business or among members of your family. Let others do their own battles. If you step into something that is not your own, you will unwittingly become a target.
Gemini Deception is in the air. Watch the tendency to tell yourself or others what you want to hear. Give rumors no consideration at all. "Deception" can also refer to "confusion," so make an effort to say clearly what you mean. Ask questions to make sure you understand others.
Cancer There are "go signals" concerning career direction and/or financial matters. Take your time if decisions are involved because Mercury is currently retrograde and information may change by the 15th. Don't make a leap into a promise -- not yet!
Virgo You and your partner or significant other may be on shaky ground right now. What you need is something new to revitalize your relationship. Break up the routine. Do something totally different that appeals to the senses and adds romance to the picture.
Libra Your energies may be acutely erotic, pressing you into wanderlust or some other "forbidden" activity. Use common sense and good judgment about your physical body. Do not take risks at this time, lest you be sorry later. The work arena may be unstable. Don't panic. Let things pass.
Scorpio A relationship of importance could explode in your face, if you have not been tending to the business of maintaining good boundaries and ethics. Watch for signals of outburst, in yourself or in your partner, and make an effort to remove the top from the boiling pot carefully.
Sagittarius Throughout this month you have the possibility of encountering friends or associates from the past. These are people you have not seen for a long while. The encounters are likely to be favorable. Activities related to the law, travel, and/or publishing may be problematic this week.
Capricorn Information concerning financial business, children or your physical status, may sound more dramatic than it really is. It is possible things are not so dire. You need a second opinion before you take action. Find something to do with your mind other than worry.
Aquarius Objects of a mechanical nature may break down, particularly those that have previously been repaired. Make an attempt to repair them temporarily and wait, if possible, until next month to replace. Concerns regarding partners could be dramatic.
Pisces The routine of your relationship(s) may be unsettled or maybe even unconventional this week. You need change and variety in the expression of your affections. Go somewhere or do something entirely different from the norm in order to add spice.
Are you interested in a personal horoscope? Vivian Carol may be reached at 704-987-2258 for private psychotherapy or astrology appointments. Website: http://www.horoscopesbyvivian.com.