With the next Mercury retrograde occurring on 9th July 2019 AEST now is the perfect time to revisit some of the narratives around Mercury retrograde.
According to proponents of astrology, when the planet Mercury enters retrograde motion, it coincides with misfortune on Earth. Retrograde motion is when a planet appears to reverse direction when watched from Earth. Of course, the solar system hasn't changed direction, and this is solely due to an optical illusion. However, with Mercury said to be the planet to rule communication, it's not uncommon for astrologers to believe retrograde can create misunderstandings, scheduling problems and disagreements with friends.
However, some astrologists believe a Mercury retrograde period is an ideal occasion to stop ‘over thinking’ and be in the slipstream - an opportunity to reset any hyperactivity that we may thrive on and experience a paradigm shift, a time to refresh and recharge. We spoke with Star Witch, Mikailah to demystify Mercury retrograde and find out how to prepare for the times that lie ahead...
Mercury retrograde alludes to Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland! Before we embark on this curious, yet at times nonsensical journey, let us look at some facts around these periods. This is to appease our beautiful minds that love to read and explore the inside information.
Mercury, the Messenger resides in the realm of communication ruling the logical, rational mind. In astrological terms, Mercury aka Hermes the Sacred Trickster, is an inner, personal planet and sheds light into how we process information. Mercury’s orbit is the closest to the sun and travels faster than any other planet hence the term ‘mercurial’ being synonymous with ever-changing, unpredictable, variable and flighty.
Mercury is the ruler of Gemini and Virgo, governing day to day celebrations, service of work, holistic healing, health, communication, translation, interpretation, short trips, travel, cars, computers, technology, contracts, early childhood, education and co-ordination. In our natal astrology charts the sign Mercury resides in will give an indication into how we approach the world through being introverted/extroverted or a combination of both - how we gather and assimilate information and data. It will also depend on what element the sign is in.
Earth – Practical
Air – Objective
Fire – Passionate
Water – Emotional
Retrograde describes the movement of a celestial body in the heavens. It is like an optical illusion and appears to be going ‘backwards’ in the sky. This is only because of the position of the planet involved and the orbit of the Earth in relation to the Sun. The astrological symbol for retrograde is Rx and the formula for any planetary retrograde cycle is to apply the following themes: rest; reflection; review; reset; recharge and release. Basically, any word with the prefix ‘re’. This will assist with gaining a deeper understanding of the energies involved.
For those that have Mercury retrograde in their astrological birth chart it will mean that you are a deep thinker, and you may find these retrograde periods easier to deal with as you are naturally aware of these energies. Mercury retrogrades occur three to four times a year for around three weeks. We also need to allow for the shadow period of a couple of weeks either side. The shadow period means it is either slowing down towards a retrograde or starting to speed up afterwards.
Likewise, depending on what sign Mercury retrograde is in each time throughout the year it will affect different people in variable ways. That is why sometimes we experience it as an easier flowing time or equally challenging.
The next Mercury retrograde period will start @ 4 degrees Leo from Tuesday, 9th July 2019 (AEST) retrograding into the water sign of Cancer on Friday, 19th July until stationery direct Wednesday, 31st July 2019. Mercury will not be out of its shadow period till Thursday, 15th August 2019 when it returns to 4 degrees Leo.
Firstly, Leo is the fixed fire element of playful creative expression and individuation. In its natural flamboyant expression this energy of communication aspires to reach the uniqueness of life embraced with passion and drive. Consider a time where you were celebrated for your colourful personality, irrespective of what others thought of you? Where have you hidden yourself in the shadows or played small in life? This is a magnificent time to reclaim the expansive noble heart of the Lion to shine forth. Remember the truth does not always make you popular!
After the fire-walk, we traverse in the murky subterranean nature of Cancer, during this reconnaissance we dive into our emotional world. Water signs do not necessarily blend well with this mercurial planet. The head and the heart can hold opposing viewpoints at times. Therefore, it is important to readjust your intuitive compass to navigate true north for yourself. Time to come home to the truth of your emotions and overall sense of well-being. Ask yourself where do you feel you belong? What adjustments need to be made? Review where you place your precious heart in relationships with others? There may be old challenges that require re-evaluation within groups of people or friendships. Can you express your heart-felt truth and still hold your individuality throughout this process with love for yourself?
A great place to start is nature based with the elements; earth, air, fire and water to restore equilibrium and well-being.
EARTH
Be practical and back up all computers and phones. If booking appointments,
meetings, flights or making travel arrangements double check all details. Keep
earthing yourself. Stretch the body and eat nourishing, wholesome foods. Allow for extra time when travelling and maybe book in the car for a service.
AIR
Enter in a light. objective way knowing that the Trickster is at play. There is
something to learn here as Mercury is trying to bring our attention to an issue that
needs readdressing. Engage in the creative act of journaling. Practice deep belly
breathing.
FIRE
Allow for time out - switch off mobile phone and devices. Connect with your creative passions in a different, organic way. Encourage your Inner Muse to come out and play.
WATER
Create space to relax and recharge. Spend time by the water or in a magnesium bath. Allow the mind to settle and dream, releasing all distractions.
When we bring awareness to these cycles, we can create more joyful, mindful encounters that can minimalise the stresses. Mercury retrograde is an ideal time to balance the left and right sides of our brain, so we can deep dive into our inner worlds and allow more enchantment and self-reflection in our lives.
About our contributor
Mikailah is a star witch & earth poet who embodies ancient practices in a contemporary form. Her transpersonal work speaks to the artist, the creative, the free-spirited entrepreneur and the visionary. She is a professional astrologist and transpersonal counsellor. Mikailah offers a unique fusion of astrology and intuitive earth wisdom sessions, by video call for our global community.
