Mercury's extra long stay in Aries (March 9 to May 15) is due to his retrograde motion which starts on March 30 and lasts until April 23. The complete retrograde cycle, including the shadow period is March 16 to May 12.

In Aries, Mercury can be rash, brash, pushy, insensitive, impatient, and bossy. I highlight these less positive traits because they tend to come out more often during a retrograde, especially on within 2-3 days of station days (March 30 & April 23). As mentioned on previous posts:

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 March 30 & April 23]. 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, ipod, ipad, 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 require repair or replacement later. Consider buying the extra warranty offered, if the item is a costly one.
The shadow period began on March 16. Make note of events or issues beginning around that date. They may resurface late April or early May. Perhaps, to find resolutions for unresolved issues or to revisit situations simply for them to be reflected upon.

Despite the retrograde period, Mercury's transit in Aries can still be a time when a lot can be accomplished, or at least initiated. Patience and planning are key before action. Being conscientious and making an extra effort to truly listen are key in communication/interaction. In written communication, it may be ideal to have trusted friends/colleagues review write ups before sending important emails or posting articles or finalizing agreements...if the latter can be avoided until late April, wait on it.

How might Mercury's extended stay in Aries manifest in your world? Look to the Aries-ruled house/s in your birth chart. Match the sign with the house cusp/s on your birth chart. Use the list of zodiac sign below to identify the Aries zodiac sign on your birth chart then click here for an explanation of Mercury's transiting those solar and/or natal houses.



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For those without a birth chart, you may use your Sun sign or Rising/Ascendant sign, if you know it. Look for your Sun and/or Rising Sign below then click here for an explanation of Mercury's transiting those solar and/or natal houses.

• Aries-Sun or Aries Rising ~ 1st House
• Taurus-Sun or Taurus Rising ~ 12th House
• Gemini-Sun or Gemini-Rising ~ 11th House
• Cancer-Sun or Cancer-Rising ~ 10th House
• Leo-Sun or Leo-Rising ~ 9th House
• Virgo-Sun or Virgo-Rising ~ 8th House
• Libra-Sun or Libra-Rising ~ 7th House
• Scorpio-Sun or Scorpio-Rising ~ 6th House
• Sagittarius-Sun or Sagittarius-Rising ~ 5th House
• Capricorn-Sun or Capricorn-Rising ~ 4th House
• Aquarius-Sun or Aquarius-Rising ~ 3rd House
• Pisces-Sun or Pisces-Rising ~ 2nd House

Unsure if you have natal planets/house planets around 12-24 degrees of Aries or which natal house/s is/are governed by Aries? Cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference -- birth date, time, and place required.

Alternatively, I am also available for customized readings tailored to your needs. Are you celebrating a birthday? Or know someone who is? Schedule your session for a Solar Return (birthdays) or 3-Chart Reading (detailed natal & overall outlook for the next 12 months) or request a quote for a more customized reading tailored to your needs. You might also consider giving a loved one the gift of insight. Have a question? Ask me here.