A planet in retrograde (Rx) motion gives the visual appearance of moving backwards in the sky. All of the planets in our Solar System undergo this phenomenon, and Astrology teaches that it speaks of a time for revision and reassessment in certain areas of our lives. Because the planet Mercury takes the shortest time to make a full orbit around the Sun (about 3-4 weeks), its retrograde cycles are much more frequent (about 3-4 times a year). You should familiarize yourself with the schedule of these cycles; knowing beforehand can help you prepare for the inevitable.
In Astrology, the planet Mercury rules information and technology, communication and transportation. It is named after the Roman god Mercury, who was postman to all the gods, known as the Winged Messenger. Whenever this planet goes retrograde, those things that it rules go haywire. Thus, we tend to experience all sorts of delays, mechanical malfunctions, misplaced items, setbacks, stoppages and interrupted communication. Needless to say, this is a doozy of a transit, and it doesn’t help that this retrograde cycle occurs right at the beginning of our holiday season.
We Astrologers usually advise never to purchase any new major items, sign any new major contracts or begin anything ‘new’ or ‘major’ during a Mercury Rx cycle. Instead, this is a time to review, tie up loose ends, and set some groundwork in place. This Mercury Rx begins on Thanksgiving Day, November 24th, transiting the sign of Sagittarius. It will last all the way through December 13th. Check your horoscope below to see the specific affects to your personal Sun sign, and maybe allow yourself to sleep in this Black Friday. Good Luck!
Aries: The energy of Sagittarius bodes well with your Fire element. It rules those things of the higher mind – your own spiritual and philosophical beliefs. With Mercury traveling through this sign, you’ve probably become a bit more vocal with thoughts of what you think just ought to be, and without sugar coating. However, this retrograde cycle may bring out more of a self righteous attitude, so you’d be wise to humbly reconsider some of your morals and ethics. Doing so may set you off on a new – new age journey, and possibly in the complete opposite direction of what you thought you once knew.
Taurus: The energy of Mercury in Sagittarius is stimulating those conversations that have to do with financial security, taxes and joint ventures, as well as sexual intimacy. If you’ve been applying for loans or some kind of grant assistance, be prepared to renegotiate the terms of any financial agreement. If you’ve been dealing with difficulties in the boudoir, this will also be a good time to discuss what may be lacking in order to bring back that spark. No matter what occurs, be sure to take your time and state your needs clearly. The dust will settle once Mercury stations forward next month.
Gemini: This Mercury Rx will serve as an energy boost to all of your relationships. You may be working out the details of a brand new business partnership, or a brand new prenuptial agreement! Whatever the case may be, be prepared for some pretty lengthy discussions concerning the inner workings of your interactions with significant others. The next three weeks will only add to these dynamics in the way of reviews and reiteration. You may have to restate your case, Gemini, as whatever was said didn’t get through the first time. Doing so is guaranteed to bring about the cooperation you desire.
Cancer: The energy of Sagittarius will influence those areas of your life that have to do with health and well being, as well as service to others. You may step up your fitness regiment as a result, or volunteer in your local community. You will definitely be busy, Cancer; it will be important to make sure that your health doesn’t suffer as a result. Mercury Rx is only going to increase your day-to-day routines and errands, as you may find that you constantly have to rearrange your plans or adjust your schedule. This will be the pace of life over the next few weeks, so be sure to pace yourself.
Leo: Mercury in Sagittarius guarantees an increase in romance, entertainment, creativity and flat out good times! This will be a highly active period for you, and you may see a flurry of social invitations come your way. Remember, however, that Mercury is going to be retrograding over the next three weeks. Expect delays and cancellations when it comes to plans made. As for that new beau you think may be the one, give it time before jumping the broom. You will have to exercise some sound judgment during Mercury Rx, which shouldn’t be too hard for the regal Lion and Lioness.
Virgo: This energy plays out in your home and family. Are you visiting relatives over the holidays? Expect travel delays. Are you attempting to renovate your house? Make sure to do your research when choosing a contractor. Mercury in Sagittarius will certainly up the tempo in communication with parents, siblings, and even distant cousins, and you are set to see a lot of activity in your own domestic space. Just make sure that you don’t allow a certain brother-in-law to get the best of you, and if your handyman says that he can fix your drain this week, give him a window of two weeks just in case.
Libra: Mercury Rx will affect your style of communication, Libra. Sagittarius rules all things communicative for you, and when you add the thinking planet Mercury, this energy intensifies. I’m certain that you may find yourself more blunt these days, and not the least bit ashamed of what comes out of your mouth. People will appreciate your straightforwardness, though you may have to offer apologies later for any offense. Be mindful of things said in haste. Meanwhile, Mercury’s back track through Sagittarius may also lead to misunderstandings. Make sure you know the facts before preaching to the choir.
Scorpio: While Mercury is retrograde in the sign of Sagittarius, you may find yourself reassessing your values and worth. You will have to reevaluate your position in a relationship (be it personal or professional), and required to make certain that you are being fully compensated for all that you have to offer. This period may be confusing and unsettling, but it will be necessary for you to move forward in a way that is fitting for your well being. By the end of the cycle, it will be easier for you to cut your losses and make room for those things (and people) that can only be of benefit.
Sagittarius: Mercury in your sign gives you the gift of gab. You will be out and about, chatting it up with folks from all walks of life, and your presence will be in high demand. During the retrograde cycle, you may be questioning your own sense of self, as well as how you want to be perceived. This may find you more introspective than usual, but nonetheless, working on how you come across to others. You want to act in accordance with what you truly believe, and you want other people to know that what they see is, in fact, what they get. Believe in the process, Sadge. You’ll be better for it.
Capricorn: Mercury Rx will have you reviewing those things that go on behind the scenes, Capricorn. Nostalgia may be the result of thoughts from your past, but you may also be drudging up some painful memories you’d prefer to forget. Don’t let this disturb you; more introspection may be required of you at this time. Trust in the process, instead, and know that whatever surfaces from your subconscious realm is on its way to being released for good. This will clear the decks for a more conscious way of being, and right in time for Mercury’s upcoming transit through your own sign in the New Year.
Aquarius: Sagittarius is a fun energy for you, and influences those areas of your life that have to do with friendships and social networks. You may find yourself joining new groups and initiatives, as well as making new acquaintances. However, as Mercury goes retrograde, be sure not to quit your job in support of the latest Occupy movement, or invest your life savings into that new non-profit with a mission to eradicate homelessness by 2012. Aquarians can be a bit too trusting and idealistic, so caution must be exercised. Wait until after Mercury Rx before pledging to any new allegiances.
Pisces: Mercury in the sign of Sagittarius is going to affect your working life. You may find yourself busy with travel, emails and power point presentations on the career front. While this active period can be an exciting time, it can also be exhausting. And rest assured, with Mercury retrograde, there will be a lot of mix ups at the office and reteaming efforts. Be sure to reread those administrative emails sent to colleagues, and check that the terms of any new contract are clear and concise. There will definitely be a few “do-overs” during this period, so consider yourself forewarned.
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