Mercury

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Mercury Retrograde in Capricorn 🐐 Jan 8 - 25

January 8 - 25, 2016

Click here to learn about Mercury.

Mercury turns retrograde 3-4 times a year, more frequently than any other planet. From EarthSky:

On Mercury, for example, the Sun sometimes moves in retrograde! As the planet speeds through its closest approach with the sun, its orbital speed overtakes its rotational speed. An astronaut on the surface would see the sun partially rise, then dip back below the horizon, then rise again before resuming its east-to-west trek across the sky. Once a year, Mercury gets two sunrises on the same day!

To be very clear, planets in retrograde are not actually spinning backwards – it is entirely an optical illusion as seen from Earth. Backwards motion appears to happen when Earth passes slower moving planets in the outer solar system. Click here to learn more about retrograde. In astrology, this illusion manifests as a “backwards” functioning of the planetary roles. Mercury is concerned with communication and mental activity. Think travel, transportation, negotiation, bargaining, personal expression, technology, writing. When Mercury is retrograde, these realms are therefore particularly affected. There is no need to suspend work or projects that are already in progress. Mercury Rx only applies to new endeavors.

Significant changes begin cropping up about 10 days before during the “shadow period” (starting today, Saturday, Dec 26). This shadow period is a trial run, an opportunity to gauge what’s ahead. We will now finish that which has been forgotten or ignored. I always do great work during this cycle. Be on the lookout for delays, cancellations, sudden changes to travel or social plans; technological failures, especially with cell phones, laptops or anything connected to the Internet; communication breakdowns; disorganization, confusion and impaired decision-making; objects mysteriously disappeared or lost/stolen; general breaking, quitting, falling apart or malfunctioning for no apparent reason!

I do not recommend making major purchases or signing significant (read: any) contracts/documents during this time. This is not a good time to make life-altering commitments or investments such as houses, cars or vacations. Despite all of this, I see Mercury Rx cycles as lovely reminders of what’s good in life. It may be difficult to express to others how and what you’re feeling, so it helps to have an outlet such as a journal for your thoughts.

We’ve discussed Mercury in Capricorn as of December 9. Let’s combine topics and wax poetic on the nature of Mercury Retrograde in this cardinal earth sign. There will also be four days of Mercury Retrograde in Aquarius directly preceding this cycle.

Mercury in Capricorn broaches issues of masculinity, perhaps directly with male figures. The purpose of this retrograde cycle is resolution to any communication barriers in this realm. For those who embody strong masculine energy, this may be a time of honest self-reflection. And even for those with mostly feminine energy - we all have a responsibility to acknowledge, incorporate and enact the highest expression of the Divine Masculine. Mercury Rx in Capricorn asks whether we’ve harnessed this power for the greatest good.

I’m struggling, especially right now in the middle of this transit, to integrate yin and yang. I am often tempted to channel all masculine energy in my psyche as pure anger, but this is neither fair nor healthy. Part of my own journey is obviously learning enough about the other half of Existence to love and appreciate it in the way that I do the Divine Feminine. In particular this retrograde cycle examines father, male partner or authority figure relationships. Capricorn’s mantra is I use, and with Mercury the Communicator here, we tend towards ultra pragmatic language, no frills, no sentiment. This is where we see an imbalanced portrayal of masculinity as cold, ruthless, concerned only with applicability - what can others do for me? Let’s just say that if there are conversations that need to happen, they may not be very warm and fuzzy. We’ll have no problem getting our point across with a delivery that’s curt and business-like.

In the public sphere I think we’ll see conservative politicians making especially painful gaffes about women’s rights and/or work-related topics as Capricorn also rules careers, reputation, prestige, status and success. Or maybe it will happen right at your own dinner table! Mercury Rx in Capricorn is a mini exhibition of what we’re seeing daily on a global scale with Pluto in Capricorn. I think we can all agree that there is a serious imbalance between feminine and masculine energy on our planet and has been for millennia. Remember that any change happening in your personal life in this respect is a reflection of a current worldwide shift, a return to the worship of Shakti. May you be as calm as you are strong. Peace to you.

To determine your Mercury sign and whether he was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here. It is interesting to note that, if you were indeed born with Mercury Rx, you may not notice the effects above as strongly, if at all.

Mantra: change is good

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Mercury in Aquarius ☿ Feb 13 - Mar 5

Jan 1 - 8 then, due to a retrograde period, Feb 13 - Mar 5, 2016

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Aquarius.

Mercury in Aquarius has the confidence to finally say whatever has been ripening slowly over time. However. HOWEVER! The water bearer is an unusually quarrelsome creature, despite being remarkably open-minded and socially tolerant. Ruled by Uranus, the freedom-at-all-costs rebel of the zodiac, Aquarius hates nothing more than feeling disrespected or unaccepted for exactly who he is and what he does. Mercury in Aquarius is childlike in enthusiasm and expression as well as in headstrong moments. He can be stubborn, almost forceful. On the other hand, Mercury in Aquarius is incredibly community-oriented and energetic. The water bearer is a social butterfly who loves long, meandering conversations about anything and everything.

Aquarius is easy to talk to but does not often give great advice as he is so unique and his vision so grand that his wisdom ends up being quite esoteric, although perfectly valid! Mercury in Aquarius is undeniably intellectual with lightning wit. It may be challenging to stay connected to both the heart and the mind; diehard rationalists leave little room for sentiment. We may come off as cold and uncaring, so keep a constant pulse on the emotional body of the collective.

When Mercury, ruler of the mind, teams up with Aquarius the non-conformist, it’s time to cultivate progressive ideas that push the boundaries of reality and social acceptability. Mercury in Aquarius could not care less about what other people are doing. He is serious about one thing: change, revolution. Expect to feel curious, excitable and ready for adventure.

Mercury in Aquarius has unquenchable thirst for knowledge and original ideas. As a spirited and spontaneous entity, he is notorious for hopping all over the place, conversationally speaking and otherwise. Mercury in Aquarius is scientific, analytical, radical and inventive, but not necessarily precise or patient. You may not be able to sit still or keep quiet for long here. Focus on wholeness: complete thoughts and sentences. Mercury in Aquarius energy is potentially volatile. Risk-taking is natural and deeply satisfying now.

Now we turn to our social circle and big plans for the future. Mercury in Aquarius also encourages us to thoroughly examine how we know what we know. Prepare to be reengaged with the source of your own organic brilliance and inner wisdom. It’s time to break out of mindsets that have calcified over time and no longer serve you. In particular, Mercury in Aquarius directs our attention toward aspects of life that may have become too emotionally charged. We can make change now while remaining comfortably detached, unconcerned with how or when things will happen. Visualize a gale force wind rearranging and readjusting. All of the projects and goals and ideas dancing in your psyche are just waiting to burst forth in an explosion of color and heat. Other possibilities for this transit: exploring fringe/alternative activities; developing your faith in humanity; connecting to anything and everything outside the Self – connecting to the Oneness which gives perfect meaning to each and every individual. Clear the cobwebs and get funky, you creative and ingenious people.

If you were born with Mercury in Aquarius, these next few months include your Mercury Return. To find your Mercury sign and whether he was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here.

Mantra: I speak my mind

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Mercury in Capricorn ☿ Dec 9 - Jan 1

Dec 9, 2015 – Jan 1, 2016

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Capricorn.

In my recent post on Mercury’s transit in Sagittarius, I wrote about the centaur archer as a blunt and honest creature. Well hot DAMN he did not hold back this year folks! The name of the game these last couple weeks has most definitely been Truth. Bombs were dropped and some friendships ended, but we’re moving on with Mercury now entering Capricorn, first planet of the season to do so. The sea goat is one beast I’m still trying to better understand. Capricorn’s mantra is I use, so with Mercury here, we examine the applicability of our thoughts and words. Definitely less exciting than Sagittarius, but I’m not complaining about that.

One thing I have observed about Capricorn is his innate ability to carry on, carry on, carry on. The sea goat climbs with sure, steady feet up the mountainside. Ruled by Saturn, all-business-and-no-games boring uncle of the zodiac, Capricorn struggles to free himself, and what’s holding him down could be anything. This means that the tightness and constriction may all be in the head. In any case, there’s something rigid in the sea goat’s psyche. The sea goat finds infinite comfort in structure and discipline, and he both admires and emulates those in positions of authority.

The sea goat does not like to take risks, as these inevitably lead (if only in his mind) to a long and painful fall. Detecting a theme here? Many of the restrictions that we talk about with Capricorn originate from the goat himself. Don’t be so hard on yourself, Cappys. When I visualize this sign, I feel a strain in my body. The goat sets and maintains extremely high standards, both for the Self and others. One of the greatest challenges for Capricorn is to lighten up! Don’t be so critical of everything (read: the Self)! Although you may feel like you will “lose everything” in saying the wrong thing, this is an illusion. What you should say is not always what you need to say.

Mercury in Capricorn leaves no room for sentimental anecdotes, wishy-washy ideals or rambling tangents. This is a good time to get organized and refocus on projects/plans/goals that have been ditched in favor of wild Sagittarian adventures, although this may feel impossible considering the insane pace of this year. I promise that the rhythm of life will slow as we wade deeper into the Capricorn season. I like the sea goat because he is deliberate and cautious - maybe too cautious sometimes. He’s not racing ahead to the next most enticing thing. The sea goat prefers to study. I visualize Mercury in Capricorn as an enormous library with heavy wooden paneling, thick carpets and thousands of intricate volumes. Here we want not only to know, but to know how.

Capricorn has a reputation for being old-fashioned. This is not how I would describe Mercury in his natural habitat. As a result, you may feel stuck when it comes to communicating your heart. The sea goat is not prone to open emotional expression so just SAY IT. Capricorn reels us back to center with his overwhelming need for life to operate smoothly and efficiently. He’s the proverbial father figure instilling order to the chaos. Focus on contraction: ask yourself where and when life feels excessive or out of control. This should all be a welcome change, although you may feel like life is giving you constant reality checks. This is not a particularly social phase but you can expect others to be conventionally polite, even hesitant.

Mercury last transited Capricorn from Dec 16, 2014 – Jan 4, 2015. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

If you were born with Mercury in Capricorn, these next few weeks are your Mercury Return. If you don’t know your personal Mercury sign, click here.

Mantra: I mean what I say

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Mercury in Sagittarius ☿ Nov 20 - Dec 9

Nov 20 – Dec 9, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Sagittarius.

Mercury’s been hanging out in Scorpio since November 2. A rather serious placement, one which facilitated intense heart-to-heart conversations, cathartic emotional release and definitive endings. It’s been a rough Scorpio season and I look forward to more cheerful Sagittarian times ahead. We’ll get a taste of what’s coming with this transit. So much to love about Mercury in Sagittarius, where to begin? A real Sagittarius would tell me not to worry about beginnings, and indeed this is a lovely way to visualize this energy - a cosmic mass of fire with no real beginning or end. Sagittarius is undeniably expansive, joyful; always seeking, traveling at light speed through the outer realms of Existence. Everyone, it’s time to move.

Mercury in Scorpio directed us below the surface – we wanted to know what makes other people tick, their secrets and true motives, etc. Sagittarius could not be less concerned with such questions. Ruled by Jupiter, administrator of altruistic justice, the centaur archer would rather discuss life with lighthearted philosophy buoying his beliefs. I suppose the most important thing to communicate about this transit is that here our words are imbued with the richness of truth. Mercury in Sagittarius sees no point in living disingenuously. What a gift to enter into this time of brightest light where even the nastiest rotten remains can be cast out effortlessly.

Dear readers, I have just left a time of beautiful disconnect from normal life and society. It has given me fresh eyes and a clear mind. I’m sure that I’ll touch on this again and again, but let me say here and now that my style and thoughts are changing, sometimes rapidly, sometimes subtly, always perceptibly. More than anything, I feel a deep relaxation in my soul. I don’t have to try so hard to convey these thoughts of mine. The planets are the real teachers here. Life will trickle into this new mold and show you everything you need to know about Mercury in Sagittarius, for example. I am here to fill a humble role, answering questions when I can, but really I prefer just standing next to all of you with equal awe before the majesty of our skies.

Mercury in Sagittarius is not focused intently on one thing, but rather on everything. He takes an interest in people, places and things that are far away, physically or otherwise. Anything that draws us out, away from our proverbial home base. The mind is overwhelmingly inquisitive with Mercury here. Even the pace with which we speak may increase now.

As with Mercury in Scorpio, we are still seeking, but in a different sense now. The scorpion seeks what lies within; the centaur, on the other hand, looks out the window into the starry night seeking what lies beyond. Whatever happens happens. Sagittarius does not make a habit of dwelling in the past or holding grudges. Whereas the scorpion is well equipped to handle arduous and elaborate missions, the centaur archer is masterful at rising above pettiness. He would much rather see people come together than deal with drama. Enjoy this effervescence.

Freedom beckons. Shake loose the darkness and ascend. No real advice here to be given, just pure enthusiasm. I feel it coming, something grand and sparkling approaching the horizon. We don’t need schmaltzy cliches to capture this, impossible anyway. DANCE and build your fire higher. Embrace the ones you love. Mercury in Sagittarius asks: am I living with jubilation in my heart? YES.

Mercury last transited Sagittarius from Nov 27 – Dec 16, 2014. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

If you were born with Mercury in Sagittarius, these next few weeks are your Mercury Return. If you don’t know your personal Mercury sign, click here.

Mantra: I live in truth

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Mercury Retrograde in Libra ☿ Sep 17 - Oct 9

Mercury will station retrograde in Libra from Sep 17 - Oct 9, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury.

Mercury turns retrograde 3-4 times a year, more frequently than any other planet. Cool tidbit from EarthSky:

On Mercury, for example, the Sun sometimes moves in retrograde! As the planet speeds through its closest approach with the sun, its orbital speed overtakes its rotational speed. An astronaut on the surface would see the sun partially rise, then dip back below the horizon, then rise again before resuming its east-to-west trek across the sky. Once a year, Mercury gets two sunrises on the same day!

To be very clear, planets in retrograde are not actually spinning backwards – it is entirely an optical illusion as seen from Earth. Backwards motion appears to happen when Earth passes slower moving planets in the outer solar system. Click here to learn more about retrograde. In astrology, this illusion manifests as a sort of “backwards” functioning of the planets and their roles. Mercury is concerned with communication and mental activity. Areas associated with this planet: travel, transportation, negotiation, bargaining, personal expression, technology and writing. When Mercury is retrograde, these realms are particularly affected.

Significant changes begin cropping up about 10 days before, at the dawn of what is known as the “shadow period” (starting Monday, Sep 7). This is a trial run, an opportunity to gauge what’s ahead. We will now go back and finish that which has been forgotten or ignored. I always get lots of great work done during this period Be on the lookout for: delays, cancellations/sudden changes to travel or social plans; technological failures, especially with cell phones, laptops or anything Internet-related; communication breakdowns; objects mysteriously disappearing or getting lost/stolen; a creeping feeling that nothing is going right no matter how hard you try; everything seemingly breaking, quitting, falling apart or malfunctioning for no apparent reason!

I do not recommend making major purchases or signing significant (read: any) contracts/documents during this time. This is not a good time to make life-altering commitments or invest in major entities such as houses, cars or vacations. Be careful with both your words and your money. Despite all of the confusion and impaired decision-making, I see this transit as a lovely reminder of what’s good in life. Sometimes we need things to go wrong in order to see where we’ve become disorganized. It may be difficult to express to others how and what you’re feeling, so it helps to have another outlet for your thoughts.

It is quite possible that you will completely change your mind when Mercury turns direct again, even if you feel very strongly about something now; additionally, whatever you say or do now carries more weight than normal, so missteps will cost you greatly. There is no need to suspend work or projects that are already in progress. What I’m speaking to now only applies to new endeavors.

We’ve discussed Mercury entering Libra as of Aug 27. Let’s combine topics and wax poetic on the nature of Mercury Retrograde in this cardinal air sign.

We’ll be dealing with intense partnership issues. With Mercury in Libra, we acknowledge areas of life connected to our loved ones. It’s time to get honest with the Self - are my relationships healthy and peaceful? What is my role? Am I where I want to be?

Libra is the sign of the scales, glittering in equilibrium. It’s time to break out of relationships/partnerships that have calcified over time and no longer serve you. I think this retrograde period will sound something like - finally, I should have done this a long time ago, what was I thinking? I think we’ll learn (more than once) lessons of compromise; meeting others halfway; healthy sacrifice. Mercury Rx in Libra is an opportunity to harness the power of community and forgiveness. At its core, Mercury Rx is all about change. Know that the changes hurtling at you full speed are ultimately there to help and center you. Let’s reorganize social aspects of life that do not reflect peace and harmony.

Mercury Rx in Libra is graceful, classy, full of self-respect. She walks with equal parts confidence and awareness. She epitomizes the true essence of divine feminine cardinal energy. If you resist changes in the outer sphere, I expect that this transit will be difficult for you. All of the bold words churning in your psyche are just waiting to burst forth in an explosion of catharsis and truth. Holding a lid on this persistently prodigious force is like running from the wind: futile and exhausting.

To determine your Mercury sign and whether he was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here. It is interesting to note that, if you were indeed born with Mercury Rx, you may not notice the effects above as strongly, if at all.

Mantra: change is good

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Mercury in Libra ☿ Aug 27 - Nov 2

Mercury transits Libra from Aug 27 – Nov 2, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Libra.

In Mercury’s dream world, he lives full-time in Libra’s gorgeous house on the hill. Libra is a cardinal sign, a modality which Mercury does not experience in his rulership of mutable Gemini or Virgo. In the cardinal realm, Mercury enjoys relative peace and harmony - his words are softer, not so rushed.

Aspects of life which fall under the cardinal modality are basic in nature, but not lesser. I find cardinal energy to be profoundly familiar and comforting. I like to think of the modalities falling upon a spectrum, with mutable at one end and fixed at the other. In the middle we have cardinal, our proverbial compass rose. Libra is not only a cardinal sign, but she also falls right in the middle of the zodiac wheel. In so many ways, she represents compromise - meeting others halfway - pacification of the extremes. You can see why Mercury, master of communication, craves this medial approach to life.

Mercury is the first planet to enter Libra this season. I see this transit as a continuation of what has proven to be a lovely shift into Virgo. Libra and Virgo are very good friends. I like to imagine these two goddesses walking slowly through the garden every morning, speaking of light, meaning, justice, virtue. This changeover will be quite painless. However, the imbalanced Libra constantly seeks validation, unlike her earthy friend Virgo. Many Libras express a deep need to be surrounded / partnered with others at all times. This does not necessarily mean that Libras are weak or clingy. I think they’re just hard-wired as social creatures and feel purposeless when they’re not actively participating in the communal flow.

Libra and Virgo both have a habit of getting tangled up in the mind, but for different reasons. Mercury in Libra may manifest as acute indecision or over-compromise, bordering on unnecessary sacrifice. This is because the imbalanced Libra is too concerned with group opinion, vacillating wildly in an effort to remain loyal to all sides at once. Libra may appear superficial as a result. She is so afraid of offending others that she will attempt to please everyone at once by simply having no opinions at all or readily agreeing with everyone. This stems not only from fear of rocking the boat, but also from a genuine and precious ability to see the viewpoints of many people simultaneously.

Mercury transited Libra’s opposite sign (Aries) in April earlier this year. I recall this being a very angry time, but empowering as well. It wasn’t until Mercury rolled red-hot into Aries that I finally summoned the words to stand up for myself and leave my horrible job. Mercury in Aries has a sharp tongue and a bad habit of speaking before thinking. This is when we recreated the outward Self for greater authenticity - and now we fine tune with Libra. It’s no longer challenging to stay cool and collected in the face of aggression or turmoil. Libra gravitates towards peace and mindfulness, Aries towards war and mindlessness. With Mercury in Aries there’s no bullshit, small talk or beating around the bush. There is a real danger in offending others here - Aries needs to keep things raw because there is so much going on internally. The ram’s psyche is constantly imploding with color, noise, movement and ideas. He knows intuitively that not everything can or will be communicated properly. Enjoy this time now as we swing to the other end - equilibrium.

Libra, ruled by Venus, is associated with beauty, aesthetic and art. Libra enjoys a certain level of tastefulness in her immediate surroundings. I have also observed that Libras often love fashion and all things related to the cosmetic world. Libra’s style, whether in writing or clothing or manner of speech, is understated, simplistic and classy. As with Virgo, Mercury in Libra keeps it clean and straightforward – no frills, no gaudiness.

Mercury in Libra is calm, sensible and refined. When imbalanced, we might be submissive or insecure. Experiencing a new level of clarity in our relationships can feel so refreshing that we might cling to pleasantness and apparent stability to avoid reconciling opposition. Remember that it is possible to accommodate others while still respecting our own needs. Mercury in Libra asks us to confront friendship or partnership issues that have been suppressed or ignored. The challenge here is to remain assertive! A keyword for this transit is grace. We choose our words carefully now. Let’s examine our connection to others and the words we use to affect these relationships. Mercury in Libra asks: does my message aid or detract from the stream of communication? We must now put ourselves in many different pairs of shoes.

Mercury last transited Libra from Sep 2 – 27, 2014. Any themes/conflicts that predominated then will now resurface.

If you were born with Mercury in Libra, these next few weeks are your Mercury Return. If you don’t know your personal Mercury sign, click here. To learn more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: peace

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Mercury at home in Virgo ☿ Aug 7 - 27

Mercury transits Virgo from Aug 7 - 27, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Virgo.

A friend linked an article to me recently that tells a very different story about Virgo than what we are accustomed to hearing. Thanks to these new insights, I’m really excited for the upcoming Virgo season. She’s not neurotic or nitpicky or anal, Virgo is a badass goddess with total agency over her body and choices, and she’s here to set the record straight. Mercury last transited Virgo from Aug 15 – Sep 2, 2014. Any themes that predominated then will now resurface.

Efficient speech

Mercury in Virgo gets his point across in the most efficient manner possible. Virgo has a reputation for being dry, uptight or even cynical because she speaks in a straightforward, factual way. When properly channeled, Mercury in Virgo demonstrates the virtue of patience and self-discipline. It’s time to reframe our dialog around this exquisite sign. Mercury in Virgo is concise and practical, yes, but there’s a whole field of wheat to be harvested and the daylight’s burning! You would do well to be just as methodical, focused and thorough if you had such a job to do. This is the awakening of the inner worker bee.

Mercury rules Virgo, so he is “at home” here as we say in astrology. Planets at home are auspicious placements. Virgo is a familiar voice at the end of summer, whispering that perhaps it would be nice to reinstate a routine, a daily program. It’s time to prune, to sort, to clear out all that no longer serves us. Virgo rules mundane work such as chores and cleaning as well as bodily health and nutrition; she loves to be of help to others, especially in health and beauty-related fields. Yes, she can be quite particular about these areas of life. As such, imbalanced Virgos are typically lacking in this department: prone to messes, poor health regimen, no distinct routine. Mercury in Virgo demonstrates that even minimal attention to detail and organization can be of great help. Virgo gets a bad rap for being so concerned with precision and perfection, but this is how she accomplishes all that she does. The trick is learning when to leave the mind - read: stop thinking! - and return to the body, to the hands, to the field before us.

Axis of reality

Mercury transited Virgo’s opposite sign (Pisces) in March earlier this year. Through this axis, we delve into reality (Virgo) versus dreams (Pisces). Pisces energy makes life feel illogical, irrational…rambling, utopian, subjective, even delusional when imbalanced. Mercury in Pisces is the proverbial death of the outward personality. Mercury in Virgo does not have the luxury of slipping into a reverie - she must constantly judge the usefulness of all that surrounds and inhabits her soul. Mercury in Pisces is scattered and doesn’t mind. There is no point to be made, no message to get across, just deep and abiding presence. Mercury in Virgo is equally present, but with a definitive plan of action in mind.

With Mercury in Pisces, we allow the mind to relax. The fishes struggle to attain that which comes effortlessly (seemingly) to Virgo. Whereas Virgo masterfully juggles many responsibilities at once, Pisces finds it difficult to remain devoted to more than one endeavor at a time. Mercury in Pisces is rather undisciplined, disorganized, disconnected from time and space. Mercury in Virgo rids our life of excess; Mercury in Pisces blends, confuses, muddles, swirls…the inclination here is to glance, to gloss, to slip away. With Mercury in Virgo, we learn instead to harness the power of objective analysis and productive critical thinking. Pisces and Virgo both have a habit of stuffing thoughts and feelings deep in the psyche. With Virgo this manifests as constant criticism and harsh words, both to others and the Self; Pisces chooses to simply ignore the building pressure within, giving the Self and others free passes and endless second chances.

If it’s not broke…

It’s time to examine the apparent “order” of daily life and the manner in which we carry the Self through this strange external world. When imbalanced, we might be self-conscious. One major challenge for Virgo is learning how to let go – to let things be as they are. Virgo can be quite nervous and cautious. It is in her nature to want to fix everything, but not everything can or should be fixed! Think coordination rather than control.

If you were born with Mercury in Virgo, these next few weeks are your Mercury Return. If you don’t know your personal Mercury sign, click here. To learn more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: I speak with purpose

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Mercury in Leo ☿ July 23 - Aug 7

Mercury transits Leo from July 23 – Aug 7, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Leo.

Mercury transits to fixed fire Leo after swimming through Cancer for the last two weeks. I’m about to keel over from all of the dark emotional energy churning around the planet right now. I feel your collective pain and anguish on a soul level and I’m here, I’m here, I’m here - you are all loved. I don’t understand how unspeakably awful things routinely happen to the most angelic souls. We are in this together, my friends, and those of us who are strong and healthy will burn even brighter to light the way. Let’s begin by harnessing the power of Mercury in Leo: at once unapologetically bold and unbelievably generous; expressive, warm, straight from the heart. Mercury last transited Leo from July 31 - Aug 15, 2014. Any themes that predominated then will now resurface.

Here are the facts

Mercury in Leo is matter-of-fact. His favorite subject is the Self. Yes, this usually indicates a lack of self-awareness, but not always. Have patience as we all learn how to navigate Leo’s fiery egoism. Listen carefully to what and how you speak. The way we present ourselves to the world now takes on a confident and grandiose tone: think brilliant speeches, images and vivid textures. We’re finally ready to venture out and be proud of who we are.

Leo loves a challenge, as long as there’s plenty of time to nap and relax along the way - despite being a fire sign, Leo has no problem sitting still. He’s also a big talker: lots of exaggeration, self-promotion, big plans for the future. Mercury in Leo doesn’t mind endless chit-chatting or small talk if the conversation is about him. Leo loves to speak for dramatic effect. He paints with his words: broad, colorful brushstrokes, bright and childlike. If he speaks irrationally with a great tumbling of words issuing forth from the ego’s wellspring, keep in mind that Mercury in Leo ultimately wants to be appreciated. Once this falls into place, the lion can then dole it out to others. That’s how Leo operates: respect me first…and we’ll see after that. Mercury in Leo stands up for himself. He feels no shame in emotional release and lets it out whenever he wants someone to listen!

Axis of identity

Mercury transited the lion’s opposite sign (Aquarius) from January to March earlier this year. Mercury is quick like lightning in his natural state: the epitome of true mutable energy. Mercury in Leo, as noted, is comparatively stubborn and resistant to change. This could also be said of Mercury in Aquarius, although the two placements are quite different. Mercury in Aquarius is rather emotionally detached due to excessive cerebral energy. Conversations with Mercury in Aquarius are incredibly exciting, invigorating and difficult to follow. Every time I have a (long) conversation with a true Aquarius, I am inspired to go out and revolutionize the planet, as Aquarians are notoriously community and social justice oriented. Mercury in Aquarius is energetic to the point of mental exhaustion.

Aquarius’ mantra is I know. Just as with Mercury in Leo, we get in touch with our inner child here - both the curious, light, adventurous side and the one that insists he already knows everything about the world. Indeed Leo and Aquarius are both obstinate, almost forceful. However, Mercury in Aquarius is generally more tolerant than the lion. Aquarians’ natural acceptance of all people and ideas makes them easy to talk with and often excellent advice givers, as they are especially adept at remaining objective. It is challenging for Mercury in Aquarius, however, to stay connected to both the heart and the mind; as a diehard rationalist, the water bearer leaves little room for sentiment. This is where Mercury in Leo steps in. He may not be as witty or intellectual, eschewing scientific/analytical communication in favor of heartfelt monologues, but he is just as progressive and inventive in the emotional realm. With Mercury in Leo, we need to actively cultivate forward-thinking ideas that push the boundaries of social acceptability - if not, the lion gets sucked into caring too much about what other people are thinking/doing.

Mercury in Leo does not like change: spirited but not necessarily spontaneous; slow and thick when left to his own devices, even rigid or old-fashioned. Mercury in Leo thirsts for attention, but he does not use people. Catch him at the right moment, and he’ll make you feel like the most special person in the world. He communicates with strong statements and powerful words. We are asked now to work on communication basics and cerebral pursuits as they relate to the ego. Mercury in Leo may be potentially reckless or volatile, but usually not impolite.

Enough for now. Get some rest, little stargazers.

If you were born with Mercury in Leo, these next few weeks will be your Mercury Return. If you don’t know your personal Mercury sign, click here. To learn more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: my heart speaks

Mercury in Cancer ☿ July 8 - 23

Mercury transits Cancer from July 8 – July 23, 2015

Click here to learn about Mercury. Click here to learn about Cancer.

Mercury transits to cardinal water Cancer after hanging at home in Gemini since the end of April. T’was a long and lovely return to square one, with plenty of opportunities to hit the proverbial reset button and get back to basics. Mercury in Gemini spun at breakneck speed. I’m ready for life to slow, if only momentarily. Mercury will join the Sun and Mars in divine feminine Cancer. Mercury in Cancer: soft, gentle, yielding, diplomatic, sensitive.

Heart chakra protection

Mercury in Cancer is unhurried in speech. He protects himself at every turn. Have patience with others as we learn how to navigate Cancer’s waters. Embrace caution as a form of long-term security, an investment in our personal relationships. Cancer and Gemini have little in common except that they never stray too far from the familiar. So we’re still not ready to venture out and experiment with new ways of being, but that will come soon enough with Mercury in Leo.

Mercury in Cancer is content to stay right where he is. He chooses not to exert himself with endless chit-chatting or mindless small talk - he basks in the peace and silence that comes from deep inner knowing. Mercury in Cancer handles the world with utmost care; he is attentive and prudent, yet imprecise, speculative, dreamy. If he speaks irrationally, with a great tumbling of words issuing forth from the soul’s wellspring, keep in mind that Mercury ultimately wants to be understood. Mercury in Cancer feels abiding love above all else. Many Cancers keep the true Self well guarded - a preemptive retreat so as not to risk exposing the full extent of their vulnerability. Mercury in Cancer is an ocean, both of wisdom and of raw feeling. It’s very important now to remain confident and unapologetic. There is no shame in emotional release so let it out.

Axis of stability

Mercury transited the crab’s opposite sign (Capricorn) in December 2014. Any themes that predominated then will now resurface. I have spoken at length about the Cancer-Capricorn polarity in recent posts. Mercury is quick like lightning in his natural state: the epitome of true mutable energy. Mercury in Cancer, as noted, is not at all swift or lively. This could also be said of Mercury in Capricorn, although the two placements are quite different. Mercury in Capricorn is the ultimate pragmatic speaker: cut and dry, all business. Conversations with Mercury in Capricorn are straightforward and evidence-based. What can we take away from this?

Capricorn’s mantra is I use: with Mercury here, we were encouraged to examine the applicability of our thoughts and words. I do not want to appear as though giving contradictory messages. We can satisfy the crab’s need for sentimental anecdotes and rambling tangents and still be practical, all by cultivating that elusive bastard awareness. The sea goat finds comfort in structure and discipline - Mercury in Capricorn takes a conversation and immediately puts it to use in the real world. This is where Capricorn has a reputation for being rigid and old-fashioned, and that’s not how I would describe Mercury in his natural habitat. So it’s perfectly alright to resist this urge to “get real,” to observe our interpersonal relationships with a most critical and objective eye. The overwhelming need for life to operate smoothly and efficiently is now replaced by uninhibited expression. Mercury in Capricorn instilled order by policing excessive or out of control behavior - but that’s just a distant memory now - breathe and be free.

Sweet and low

I used to think of the Cancer soul as fragile, but I’m starting to see that this is often not the case. It is true that Cancers have a comfort zone that they don’t particularly like to leave. But what continues to surprise me is the crab’s resilience and fortitude. The Cancer vibration is sweet and low like summertime rain. No longer do we require massive stimulation of the mind as a way to alleviate interminably circling thoughts - welcome to the flat rock in the ocean, your resting spot betwixt the mighty waves. We are asked now to work on communication basics and cerebral pursuits as they relate to our divine feminine attributes. If balanced, expect to feel serene indeed. Mercury in Cancer may manifest as a major trip down memory lane.

If you were born with Mercury in Cancer, these next few weeks will be your Mercury Return. If you don’t know your personal Mercury sign, click here. To learn more about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: I am safe

Mercury Rx in Gemini ♊ May 18 - June 11

Mercury will station retrograde in Gemini from May 18 - June 11

Click here to learn about Mercury.

We’ve discussed Mercury stationing retrograde starting May 18 and Mercury entering Gemini as of April 30. Let’s combine topics and wax poetic on the nature of Mercury Retrograde in this insatiable mutable air sign. Click here to learn more about retrograde motion.

As the word “retrograde” implies, this is a time when we go back to finish, review and redo. You may recall that the last Mercury Rx transit fell in Aquarius, the air sign following Gemini and Libra. After a stint in Gemini, this year’s next and final Mercury Rx will indeed fall in Libra, the other remaining air sign. This is how Mercury Retrograde moves through the zodiac realm, year after year. 2015 is the Mercury Rx year of the air element. Mercury Rx in Aquarius shined a light on our own organic brilliance and inner wisdom. What abundance will we receive from Mercury Rx in Gemini? With Mercury in Gemini, we return to areas of life connected to our social circle and intellectual pursuits. Unlike Aquarius, Gemini is a mutable sign, meaning that this period will appear to move more quickly and sporadically than the last.

Now is the time to break out of relationships/partnerships that have calcified over time and no longer serve you. Gemini is the sign of duality and twins. In particular, you may now focus on sibling relationships. This transit will also help you attain a new level of knowledge and creativity, especially in fields such as writing or everyday technology. Mercury Rx in Gemini presents an opportunity to harness the magic of communication and brainpower. At its core, Mercury Rx is all about change and there is simply no escaping! I like to think of Mercury in Gemini as a return to square one: hitting the reset button, returning to home base. This is actually a very auspicious placement for Mercury, as he rules Gemini; in astrology we say that this retrograde transit occurs “at home.” Keeping this in mind, have faith that the inevitable changes now hurtling at you full speed are ultimately there to help and center you.

Visualize a sharp and cunning wind blowing through your life, rearranging and readjusting all that needs attention. Mercury Rx in Gemini is vibrant and animated yet undeniably overwhelming. Gemini epitomizes the true essence of mercurial/mutable energy. If you resist becoming that which you already are, I expect that this transit will be difficult for you. All of the projects, goals and ideas dancing in your psyche are just waiting to burst forth in an explosion of color and heat. Holding a lid on all this mutable energy is like trying to direct the wind: futile and exhausting.

If I’m being honest, I’m slightly nervous about the potency of this transit, only because I have come to more fully understand the way in which the twins move in tight, concentric circles, never straying too far from the familiar. Gemini can be so detail-oriented that the big picture might get overlooked. To determine your Mercury sign and whether he was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here. It is interesting to note that, if you were indeed born with Mercury Rx, you may not notice the effects above as strongly, if at all.

Mantra: change is good