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The planets are busy this week, and daily life reflects that activity through a hectic pace that isn't likely to allow much time to relax. And, unfortunately, the hustle and bustle last for another couple of weeks. If it's not deadlines, it's family matters, and if it's not obligations at home, it's community commitments—whatever the reason, extra time just seems to evaporate. The inability to set aside fun time could also simply be a matter of trying to fit too much into too little. But given that the realities of daily life have been so intense for so long, many of us would benefit from a chance to catch our breath and settle down, particularly caregivers who've been running on little to no reserves because the need for help in so many areas is so extreme. While it may not be possible to put whatever it is you're doing aside, it is always possible to work toward better balance, and making an effort to replenish your reserves of joy would be a great first step in that positive direction.

A Sun/Uranus trine feeds the hurried and often harried pace of the week.  The Sun is in Leo, the fiery Sign of self-expression. Uranus is in Aries, the fiery Sign of adventure. And when they unite in a positive alliance, they ignite a freedom-loving spirit that fuels revolution—and sometimes just for the thrill of it. We've been under this influence since the Sun entered Leo on July 23 and we will continue to feel its heat for another week. Use this passionate force for reform, but try not to abuse its power by provoking unnecessary conflict or confrontation. Be aware that while this trine can be unwieldy, when handled with care, its power fuels passion and creativity.

Fortunately, Jupiter in Gemini sits in a sextile to both the Sun and Uranus, a position that bodes well for good health and good fortune. This entire bundle can be applied to all sorts of healing—physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and (dare I say it?) political. Jupiter's presence bestows the ability to take in the biggest possible perspective, as well as the capacity to consider the moral consequences of important decisions. Its sextile to the Sun lasts until August 10. Jupiter's sextile to Uranus continues until August 19. Jupiter/Uranus contacts signify positive solutions to stressful situations—exactly what's needed right now to not only keep up with the activity, but also to soothe and calm overloaded nervous systems. Make the most of this beneficial interaction by allowing it to strengthen a generosity of spirit. But be realistic about what you can contribute and what you can accomplish.

Mercury is still retrograde; it goes direct on August 8, and all week long, it feels as if it's at a standstill, which could be crazy-making, given the overall fast pace of the week. Or in the alternative, Mercury's measured pace could serve as an antidote to the week's planetary hubbub. Mercury Retrograde is always an invitation to slow down and reflect, review, and reconsider recent choices with an eye toward refining and improving the situation. Use the last days of this rewind to unwind.

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