Mercury stations on August 20 and joins Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto and Chiron in retrograde motion. Mercury retrogrades in Virgo for 3 weeks from August 20 to September 12; the complete retrograde cycle, including the shadow period is August 1 to September 27.

As previously posted:

Following the standard with any retrograde planet, this Mercury retrograde period is a time for the prefix "re" -- reflect, rethink, re-plan, review, retool, reorganize, redefine, re-examine, rewrite, reread, repair. So reassess, as necessary and as much as you want, but avoid starting new projects, signing any contracts, or entering into any major agreements or commitments. It's easy to overlook details or neglect to include information pertinent to the terms. A change of mind is also common. If you must enter into an agreement during the retrograde period, it is important to re-read all fine print, have another set of eyes go over it, and get all your questions answered before completing the transaction.

This period does not need to be daunting and feared or cause you to suspend living your life in any way. Simply make allowances and/or preemptive actions to minimize the unavoidable retrograde effects. Do not underestimate the frustration, inconvenience, and havoc a Mercury retrograde can produce, however.

Mercury rules mental processes, communication, commerce, trade and affects all of these plus travel and electronics. Allow for delays, especially on the station days [which, for this current period, are August 20 & September 12]. Expect miscommunication so, ensure that all details are understood. Ask detailed questions to prevent misunderstandings. Wait until the retrograde period is over before buying a new computer, mp3 player, cell phone, or any other electronic items. If this is unavoidable, make sure the return/exchange/refund policy coverage is extensive enough that the purchased item can be returned/exchanged should it requires repair or replacement later. Consider buying the extra warranty offered, if the item is a costly one.
The shadow period began August 1st. Make note of events and issues during these next weeks. They may resurface around next month -- mid to late September. Perhaps, to find resolutions for unresolved issues or to revisit situations simply for them to be reflected upon.

Mercury in Virgo is analytical, discriminating, detailed, mentally organized and practical. Mercury retraces his steps in Virgo beginning from 19 degrees and 02 minutes, all the way back to 5 degrees and 39 minutes.

For me, as a late-decan Virgo-rising, this retrograde period occurs in my natal 12th house (subconscious/psyche); as a Cancer-Sun, in my solar 3rd house (thought/ideas/communication). I'll have to pay extra attention to what I say and how I say things. Choose my words wisely to convey the message which I aim to share. On a personal level, this is an ideal period to get in touch with my deeper self and its thoughts, in order for me to become conscious of what may be lying deep in my subconscious that can be of use to me now. As challenging as meditation can be for me, I'll have to try harder and make it happen if I'm to make the best of this Mercury transit.

What astrological house/s will Mercury's retrograde motion revisit? Look to the Virgo-ruled house/s in your birth chart. Match the signs AND degrees on your birth chart. Use the list of zodiac signs below to identify the Virgo zodiac sign on your birth chart then click here to read a brief explanation on how Mercury's transit might be of influence.


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Unsure if you have natal planets or house angles between 5 to 20 degrees of Virgo? Cast your own birth chart -- birth date, time, and place required.

Are you celebrating a birthday during this period? Find out how the astrological climate now might influence your year and schedule you session for a Solar Return or 3-Chart Package reading. Or Request a quote for a more customized reading. You might also consider giving a loved one the gift of insight.

Have a question? Ask me here. Or maybe cruise on over to the AstroCreeps and TarotFreaks Forum* to start a discussion.

Related articles:

• Transiting Mercury in Natal Houses
• Solar Returns Explained
• Mercury in Virgo ~ July 27 to October 3, 2010
• Mercury Direct ~ September 12, 2010
• Jupiter Retrograde ~ July 23 to November 18, 2010
• Uranus Retrograde ~ July 5 to December 5, 2010
• Neptune Retrograde ~ May 31 to November 7, 2010
• Pluto Retrograde ~ April 6 to September 14, 2010
• Chiron Retrograde ~ June 4 to November 5, 2010

*Learn more about the AstroCreeps and TarotFreaks Forum.

"Commerce" by Constantino Brumidi. Image credit and copyright to The Architect of the Capitol.