Mercury's horizon as seen by the Messenger © NASA

Mercury takes his quarterly break and joins Uranus, Neptune, Pluto & Chiron in retrograde motion. Mercury stations on August 2nd at 8:50 p.m. PDT / 11:50 p.m. EDT, and retrogrades until August 26th. He retraces his steps from 1° of Virgo back to 18° of Leo. Mercury returns to Leo on August 8th, and re-enters Virgo on September 8/9. The complete retrograde cycle, including the shadow period, is from July 18 to September 10.

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 2 & August 26]. Anticipate 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 July 18th. Make note of events and issues beginning the shadow period. 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.

How might Mercury's retrograde transit influence on your world? Look to the Virgo and Leo-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 and Leo zodiac sign on your birth chart then click here for a brief explanation of Mercury transiting those houses.


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Alternatively, you may cast your own birth chart at alabe.com for use as reference -- birth date, time, and place required.

I am also available personal consultations tailored to your needs. Are you celebrating a birthday? Or know someone who is? Schedule your session for a 12-Month Transit Chart , 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 want to consider giving a loved one the gift of insight.

Related articles:

• Transiting Mercury in Natal Houses
• Current Planetary Transits
• Solar Returns Explained ~ your personal year
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Mercury's horizon as seen by the Messenger © NASA.