Gardening by the Moon • Free class • April 27

Mercury retrograde * October 13 – November 3, 2020

Molly Gauthier
October 1, 2020
12:00 am
Leave a comment

What is Mercury retrograde?

I think Mercury retrograde is probably the number one “gateway” event that pulls people into the realness of astrology beyond the horoscopes. I have not done a formal survey on this. But it’s one of the easiest astrological events to witness in real-time. For one thing, its influence on everyday things is so apparent that even people who aren’t “into” astrology can get on board with it. And it happens regularly, every four months. Like a familiar friend (or frenemy).

In astrology, Mercury represents communication, logistics, and everyday, mundane details. Mercury retrograde is the time when little things can become big things. The computer barfs. The car barfs. The cat barfs. The internet connection goes out. There’s confusion about the schedule. You can’t find that piece of paper you need. The traffic is horrendous. The cat barfs ON the computer… There are literally a million little details that can blow up and cause you to slow down, adjust, and look at things in a new way.

George Bernard Shaw was correct when he said: “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” Even with the best intentions, what you say may not come across in the way you meant it.

The empathy you transmit might be even more important than the information. When Mercury retrograde begins in the emotional water sign Scorpio, communication glitches hit us right in the “feels.” A lot of folks will respond with biting sarcasm, harsh criticism, or other “stinging” responses. Mars retrograde has already put the whammy on everyone’s physical energy and patience since September. Mercury adds logistical and communication challenges at the same time.

When Mercury backs into Libra on October 27, the energy should soften a bit, but unfortunately, we will not be completely out of the woods. Read on to find out why.

Mercury retrograde and the USA elections

The aspects that Mercury makes during the retrograde tell us how smooth or difficult that retrograde will be. Mercury opposite Uranus October 7 and the Full Moon conjunct Uranus, the planet of sudden, unexpected events on October 31 promise continued October surprises.

The beginning and end of any retrograde period are called the planetary stations. When a planet reaches its station, it appears to slow down and stop for a while. Energetically, that planet acts like a “Sharpie” marker, leaving a large energetic “inkblot” in its wake. Mercury stations direct on November 3, which is Election Day here in the United States. This communication-related inkblot in a tense square with exacting, limiting Saturn all but promises tons of wrangling over every little detail of the vote count.

The good news (as I see it) is that this will be a contact to Saturn, the planet of the rules and concrete reality– not Neptune, the planet of confusion and deception (which was in the “front seat” of the 2016 election chart). Nothing is certain in this fraught time in our national history, but due to the prevalence of mail-in voting this cycle, there is the blessing of a paper trail. I believe there will be a more decisive vote than was present in 2016.

Mercury retrograde meaning

Astrologically, when a planet goes into retrograde, the conditions that the planet governs are altered and do not function as expected.

As the messenger of the gods, Mercury in astrology governs details, communication, and travel. Retrograde means it’s Murphy’s Law time. Machines tend to go a bit screwy— cars, computers, phone, fax, printer, bulldozer, and the doctor’s machine that goes ping. Miscommunication is also a common byproduct of Mercury retrograde. Contracts signed and matters begun during Mercury retrograde are subject to unexpected twists and turns in the future.

Expect heavy traffic, delays, machinery malfunctions, computer problems, and typos. Mercury retrograde is typically not a huge deal unless having accurate information is of utmost importance. Surgeries and medical tests, for example. What might happen is the test, or even the surgery, must be repeated at a later date.

On the positive side, retrograde planets draw our attention inward and to the past. Mercury retrograde is a great time to review or finish up an old project, contact an old friend, or clean out the closet. It’s also a good period for introspection, dreaming, and deep thought.

Work

Double-check all outgoing messages before you seal the envelope or hit the “send” button.
Text-astrophe! Errors, typos, crossed wires, connectivity problems, traffic, and schedule changes are typical of Mercury retrograde.
If you find it difficult to move forward on a writing or communication project, try going backward! Review, update, and edit your old work.
Look to the past notes and plans for answers. You may rediscover a valuable nugget in your old files, notes, and archives.

Love

Scorpio is associated with karma and trauma. Old, difficult feelings can come to the surface as Mercury draws awareness and thoughts to the past.
If a co-worker, friend, or loved one is struggling to communicate their ideas and feelings, be patient. Take time to really listen and reflect back. Make sure you hear and understand what they are trying to say.
You may reconnect with a friend or family member you haven’t seen in a while.

Health

If you are feeling unsure about a diagnosis or treatment plan, keep asking questions. Make sure you understand and agree with the plan before you move forward.
Use this period to research treatment options or get a second opinion.
Diagnostic tests may come up inconclusive or need repeating later.
Mercury rules children, siblings, and pets– the kids and critters may need extra attention.