Aquarius The Waterbearer (Jan. 19-Feb. 18)

Activities concerning taxes, insurance payoffs, government funding and loans will likely be delayed, and maybe even denied. This is a good time to talk with your partner about issues concerning joint resources. It is not a good time to attack, but only to discuss and look for mutually favorable solutions.

For All Signs: On Jan. 23, the planet Mars, ancient god of war, turned retrograde and remains so until April 13. This phenomenon has not portended well for the inauguration of presidents. Lincoln, McKinley and John Kennedy all came to power during Mars retrograde and their fates are well documented. (President Obama was also inaugurated on this planet's retrograde.) It seems that he who draws a sword or assumes power during this period eventually finds it turned on himself. When Mars is retrograde, we are well-advised against filing suit, going hunting or undergoing elective surgery (a different type of sword.) Read your sun and rising signs below to identify where the pressure is for you over the next three months.

Aries: The warrior energy is now in your 6th house of work and health. During the retrograde period, you may find it difficult to maintain your usual exercise and diet routine. While Mars is retrograde, it is common to plateau on physical goals, such as weight loss, but it is temporary. Do not give up.

Taurus: Mars is retrograding in the house concerning romance, children, gambling and playful activities. While this is happening, you may be strongly inclined to "go back" to a former condition in one or more of these areas. Newer relationships may be put on hold for a few weeks.

Gemini: Mars is retrograding in your territory of home and property. Because Mars rules machinery and tools of all kinds, there may be breakdowns of household equipment. It is generally better to repair items now and replace them after the retrograde. It is best to avoid buying new mechanical items while Mars is retrograding.

Cancer: Mars is retrograding in the horoscope sector that relates to vehicles, tools and communication. Mars in this territory may represent the need to make repairs on various objects. It is possible that you are irritated with siblings, roommates or neighbors. It is OK to respond to them, but do not initiate battle.

Leo: Mars is in the sector related to income and outgo. You may feel absolutely compelled to purchase something expensive and impractical. It is more favorable to wait out the transit and see how you feel about it in late April. Meanwhile, there may be more outgo than income, so use cautious judgment.

Virgo: Your physical and libidinal energy may go into a dip for a few weeks. You may be surprised to find that you have changed your mind about circumstances and people in your life. Do not worry. You haven't lost your mind. You are needing a rest and will return refreshed if you relax now.

Libra: While Mars is retrograding, you probably will not have the energy and drive to which you are accustomed. It will do little good to beat yourself up over this issue. Consider that Mars is asking you to slow down, just for a couple of months. Your body needs a rest. Things will ultimately return to normal.

Scorpio: You may be recognizing the need to back off or back out of some of your friendships and community associations during this period. At minimum, you will be reassessing why you are involved and whether you wish to continue in the future. Friends and associates from the past may resurface.

Sagittarius: Issues of career and future direction are impacted during this Mars retrograde. Final decisions about your path simply cannot be made at this time. There are too many detour signs. Set your mind to recognize that things will be fuzzy through April. Meanwhile, manage your daily needs and hold your mind to the present moment.

Capricorn: You likely will experience delays in activities concerning the law, education and travel. If traveling, you may be going back to someplace where you have previously been. You may have to redo paperwork in order to accomplish the same thing in a different style or format.

Pisces: Mars, the god of war, is in your partnership territory. Therefore, it is particularly important not to attack another, verbally or physically. If you have enemies, let them make the first move and you will be assured of ultimate victory over the issue. Your significant other may be seething with the need to make changes, but it is too soon.

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.