Leo The Lion (July 22-Aug. 22)

Changes may be occurring in your primary relationship. One or the other of you is probably trying to hang onto what is familiar. Changes and growth must be allowed to happen or the relationship will become stale. Let things flow naturally. Don't jump to conclusions or make problems bigger than they are.

For All Signs: You have probably noticed that between June 1 and July 16, everything in motion picked up to a rapid pace. Probably you experienced at least one or two activities that happened much faster than was expected in the beginning. Now, with Mercury retrograding, it is time to pull back and regroup. The pace slows while we rethink our plans or double-check the facts. We would prefer to remain in the driven mode, now that Mars is entering Cancer. But woe be unto those who ignore the nagging thought in the back of the mind that tells us to "measure twice, cut once."

Aries: You are likely to feel compelled to take on a major project requiring the use of your large muscles. If this is a simple alteration you have already planned and you can get it done very quickly, it will probably go fine. If otherwise, think again until Mercury goes direct on the 26th. On the weekend your reflexes are not at their best.

Taurus: If you are not conscious, you could be pulled into schemes of manipulation or compulsive behaviors. Existing relationships could re-experience the pain of old wounds. You have a choice of whether to work it through or act it out in the same ways as the first time. You will be steadier at the end of the week.

Gemini: You are tempted to make a moderately significant purchase and will probably do so. Then as the week moves forward, you will reconsider the expense of it and decide you didn't really need the item anyway. When you return it, you might not be completely honest about why.

Cancer: Mars, the warrior, enters your sign this week and will be traveling with you for six weeks. This energy is especially helpful in defining our boundaries. Periodically we need to examine who we are and also who we are not. The sensitive Crab does not like a scene. Think about who has overstepped boundaries for three weeks and plan how you will protect yourself.

Virgo: Be careful of what you say and of whom you speak at the beginning of the week. By the 8th, you may wish you had never opened your mouth. Others are especially sensitive and may misunderstand your intention. It is a challenge to soften a statement that has already been made.

Libra: It is necessary that you give attention to an issue of control that threatens to split one or more of your relationships. Either one of you may be the one who is seeking power, and it may be quite subtle. Step aside from attempting to get what you want through manipulation.

Scorpio: Your restless mind wants to move in a new direction. It will likely be related to contacting people at a distance, preparing to travel, seeking professional advice or focused on education. You would rather plan a vacation than attend to problematic relationship issues at home. Who wouldn't?

Sagittarius: Warning to those on diet and exercise programs: This week it is just too easy to break training. If you mean what you've promised to yourself, don't go anywhere in which you would be in harm's way. It is a time in which you feel more outgoing and extroverted. Social life is a pleasure.

Capricorn: Social and romantic life is favored this week, particularly over the weekend. You may be mixing business and pleasure in a pleasant combination. This is a good time to discuss issues within a relationship because you are steady of mind and likely to be realistic, in relation to yourself as well as others. You intend to keep your promises.

Aquarius: You are happy to allow your partner or a special friend to plan the activities you share this week. This is a really good time to communicate, work things out together and play. The partner is in a dominant position, so be sure you convey what is important to you and that your plans together are fair.

Pisces: Aspects are especially favorable for fun. Your muse is present for creative activities. Love and social life are in a peak time. Activities involving your children will be positive and memorable for them. Near the 8th, someone breaks a promise or goes back on his/her previous word. Maybe it is you.

Are you interested in a personal horoscope? Vivian Carol may be reached at 704-366-3777 for private psychotherapy or astrology appointments. Website: www.horoscopesbyvivian.com.