HOLD TIGHT AS WE ENTER MERCURY RETROGRADE

What to expect ...

Friday, 9 September 2022 marks the beginning of a Mercury retrograde phase that lasts until 2 October. You’ll feel the effects of the retrograde in some or all of the following:

· Misunderstandings

· Disruptions in communications, travel plans and logistics

· Brain fog

· Anxiety

· Falling out with friends

· Other misfortunes.

So why, you may ask. Well, Mercury rules all kinds of communication, from speaking and listening to research, negotiations, buying, and selling. Under its rule, you can include documents that have some importance such as agreements, contracts, leases, wills, manuscripts, or even academic papers. We can also include all types of computer codes and transport, shipping, and travel under its supervision.

When Mercury retrogrades astrologists explain planets in our solar system orbit the Sun at different distances and speeds. As Earth orbits the Sun, we can see the other planets moving across our sky as they follow their own paths around the Sun. However, sometimes an illusion is created making it seem as though a planet has suddenly switched its direction and is now moving in reverse across the sky. Obviously, this isn't the case, it just seems that way because of the position of the Earth in relation to that particular planet.

This is the time when you will find it difficult to get decisions from others or put a plan together without unforeseen changes occurring that will require you to start over. Expect things to change at the drop of a hat and prepare for computers to crash and other appliances and devices to suddenly need repairs. This is not the time to buy or sell anything of value – expect delays and disappointments regarding purchases or sales. On the romantic side of things, expect miscommunications and confusion.

But it’s not all bad news. Retrograde phases give us a chance to redo, redesign and reassess our plans. It’s the right time to pause and focus our energies more advantageously. It is also the time when we can find closure to worrisome situations. You’ll also find that this is a time when old friends and long-lost family appear with whom you can reconnect. So expect a mail or invite from old friends or a knock on the door from someone you’ve not seen in a while.

Use the retrograde phase to clear out and reorganise your space. Get those items you’ve put one side repaired or donate them to charity. You may just find a forgotten treasure or two while you’re reorganising!

CRYSTALS TO HELP YOU THROUGH MERCURY RETROGRADE

There are a number of crystals whose energies can help you get through the bumpy ride Mercury retrograde brings. Here are six of my favourites:

Obsidian – use it to visualise negative energy dissipating before it reaches you, or reflect it back to its source!

Fluorite – use it to help ease tension and make solid choices with logic and rationality. It also helps you avoid getting involved in arguments.

Chrysocolla – use it to extract yourself from unnecessary interaction and instead do some inner work and soul searching. It also helps you set and renew your purpose.

Sodalite – use it to enhance your communication skills with patience and wisdom. Also helps you pick up on subtleties in messages being communicated rather than just hearing what has been said.

Charoite – this is great to use to strengthen your third eye to get rid of any fears and inner negativity.

Smoky Quartz – use it to counter those electronic bumps in the road that are part and parcel of Mercury retrograde.

TAROT READING FOR MERCURY RETROGRADE

Two Wands: We’re talking about all kinds of partnerships, or situations where you work closely with others. If you want to change your lot, then now is the time to do what you believe is right. You’ll have to put in a lot of effort, but you are bound to succeed if you remain steadfast. However, during this time you need to take care not to be too domineering and overbearing. Others around you might not be willing to put in the same kind of effort and personal input, so be mindful of the different energies of those with whom you work or live in close proximity. Be clear and concise to avoid any misunderstandings or miscommunications. Travel is often indicated with this card, but make sure plans are in place and you have a Plan B should anything arise to jeopardise your plans, delay flights, or luggage to go missing!

The Devil: There’s no balance when the Devil is around. Expect to find yourself tied to things you have no control over. Things will work against you and there will be no respite, so be prepared to pour every ounce of energy into getting through this period which is like to be demanding. Some might find themselves booted out of their comfort zones, while others will find their patience sorely tested. Watch out for losing your temper, giving in to temptation, or wasting time when you know there are things that need doing.

Knight of Cups: This period calls for you to see things from someone else’s perspective, you’ll be called on to show compassion and consideration and encouraged to express yourself through creative means. On the romantic front – he is the Knight of Romance of course – plan an unusual surprise for your significant other, something that is intimate that the two of you can enjoy. The Knight also brings offerings, gifts, invitations, etc. Make sure there is no miscommunication or misunderstanding when either accepting or offering these knightly gifts!