By Bles Carmona-De La Rosa
Some of you have heard about the Mercury retrograde phenomenon. As seen from the Earth, Mercury appears to be traveling backward against the zodiacal belt. So, let us first be clear that it is only an apparent mercurial retrograde movement because the astrological point of view is geocentric (around the Earth). Every year, Mercury goes retrograde three times for three weeks each. This year, the planet went backward last Feb16-Mar 9 and June 17-Jul 12, and now it will do so again this coming October 13-November 3.
In astrology, the planet Mercury rules communication, travel, contracts, vehicles, electronic gadgets, and similar things. Mercury the god is the fleet-footed messenger, and “mercury” itself is also known as “quicksilver,” hence its association with high-tech gadgets like computers, cars, and such. During Mercury retrograde periods, we hear of frustrations, delays, and confusion: email bloopers, missed flights, backing out of contracts, and other unpleasant scenarios.
Why don’t we make a list of what we can do during this upcoming Mercury retrograde period (October 13 — November 3)? The way some experts put it, with all those lists of “don’ts” – don’t buy electronics, don’t sign contracts, don’t start any important ventures, et cetera – you would think you’d have to bury your head in the sand! But since life goes on, Mercury retrograde or not, what can you do to make the most of every Mercury retrograde moment?
Reconsider your plans. Since Mercury rules transportation, communication, electronics, and contracts, then maybe you should reschedule your agenda during this period. This may mean anything from rescheduling canceled appointments to postponing the purchase of electronics like phones and computers. Use this time to refresh and reboot your projects. My mentor, the Filipino Astrologer Resti Santiago, recommends postponing anything I-C-E: Important, Complex, and Expensive, during Mercury retrograde periods.
- Relax, reflect, and receive. It’s not healthy to be on forward motion all the time. The Universe gives you these three-week periods three times a year, so you can slow down, meditate, and learn more about yourself. If the rest of the year finds you on the giving end in terms of the actions you take, then a Mercury retrograde period puts you on the receiving end, for a change.
- Remove the trash. Clear out clutter and physical trash – but more importantly, cut out toxic habits, relationships, and ingrained tendencies towards worry and anxiety.
- Remember your lessons in love, work, or money from the past. Repeat the steps that worked successfully and gently bid adieu to schemes that didn’t. Mercury retrograde periods are notorious for returning karmic connections. If you have done your homework and taken out the trash, then you won’t be blindsided by nostalgia.
Remember your past triumphs so that going forward, you are ready to level up in applying the lessons of Mercury retrograde in your brilliant life!
Weekly Horoscope
Aries (March 21-April 19) Take care of shared resources. Money never seemed as important or as trivial as now. Make your choices. Weekly mantra: I am a good steward.
Taurus (April 20-May 20) Business or romantic partnerships need your attention now. Keep the communication lines open. Weekly mantra: I speak and listen.
Gemini (May 21-June 20) You’re solidifying a new routine at work. Watch your health and don’t postpone any needed check-ups. Weekly mantra: I am vigorous.
Cancer (June 21-July 22) Spend time with your family, especially your children if you have them. Time flies by so fast and pretty soon they will be independent from you. Weekly mantra: I value time spent within our home.
Leo (July 23-August 22) Time to look back and acknowledge your roots – home, family, country of birth. Honor the urge to revisit the past. Weekly mantra: I am proud of my beginnings.
Virgo (August 23-September 22) You need to express yourself assertively. Let people be awed by the depth and breadth of your knowledge. Weekly mantra: I can teach from experience.
Libra (September 23-October 22) Pamper yourself with the trappings of the good life. You deserve it after all your hard work. Weekly mantra: I am industrious.
Scorpio (October 23-November 21) You have always known your own measure. Now let it be known to those who dare to underestimate you. Weekly mantra: I am strong and capable.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) Your communication at this time will be inner and Spirit-directed. Ask for the guidance you need. Weekly mantra: I am receptive to Spirit.
Capricorn (December 22-January 19) There is power in community. Find those who think like you do and form long-lasting bonds. Weekly mantra: I am a team player.
Aquarius (January 20-February 18) Be careful about your career strategies. They will directly affect your reputation. Make allies, not adversaries. Weekly mantra: I am efficient.
Pisces (February 19-March 20) Use this period to open your mind to higher learning or philosophy. Finish up projects by tying loose ends. Weekly mantra: I finish what I start.
Thank you, Salamat, Mabuhay, Namaste, and Blessed be!
