Here we go again! Mercury, the planet of communication, is about to go retrograde once again. When we say "retrograde" it means that the planet appears like it's moving backwards in the cosmos. This retrograde period happens 3 or 4 times per year, causing disruptions in our inner and outer worlds.This time around, Mercury will go retrograde in the sign of Leo from July 26 - August 18, 2018. There is what's called a "shadow period" both a week and a half prior to, and following the actually retrograde period.You may be feeling a sense of nervousness, anxiety, or anger as we head into this retrograde period. This particular retrograde period comes with all kinds of warnings as the risk for arguments and conflicts (both inner & outer) is very high, along with increased risk for accidents. It is up to us to make sure we do the best we can to navigate these energies as they intensify and then diminish over the course of the retrograde period. We need to be aware, of our surroundings, actions, and words, during this time. Having an open mind and staying flexible, with the ability to roll with the punches, will help you through the retrograde period remaining unscathed.Mercury retrograde has created a lot of buzz among people, usually from a negative perspective. Sure, having increased energy on miscommunications, technological breakdowns, and messed up travel plans aren't anything to look forward to, but it's also a very positive time for us to be aware of the triggers we have within. It causes us to be a bit more mindful and to prepare for such events, by making sure our T's are crossed and our I's are dotted. It makes us a bit more accountable of our emotions and gives us a clear picture of what still needs a bit of work in our inner world. Mostly, it gives us time to re-visit, re-edit, and redo many things that just aren't working out the way we wanted them to.Having a heads up about these energy shifts and how to prepare for them is a sure fire way to be able to willingly accept the situations and themes that arise for us, and the ability to clearly see how this retrograde will effect us personally. What have been the themes popping up in your inner and outer world the last week or so? That awareness will have you already ahead of the game by being aware of what could be the focus for you during this retrograde period.For me personally, the general theme since July 7, has been reevaluation of the foundation (or lack of) that I've built for myself. I have experienced such hardships since the Summer solstice back in June, losing my income, my home, and essentially my direction in life. Sure, I know that things like this happen for a reason, and that I will be able to put the pieces back together in a better way for me to build upon, but after such a shake down, I have been rendered totally paralyzed as I wait for answers.Even though all of those events that happened back in June with the energy shifts, the general themes popping up for me since July 7th, are patience as I am figuring out my next move; re-examining my situation so I can see how to improve the new foundation I'm about to build upon. I have had a lot of my ideas about moving forward shot down. Just when I think I have a solution, it turns out the opportunity falls through and I'm back to square one.I know that when we get rejected in life, or not have things work out the way we want, it's because the Universe has a bigger, greater plan for us than the one we have for ourselves. So after MANY let downs and disappointments since July 7th, I can honestly say that I trust this retrograde will allow me to re-visit, re-edit, and redo situations and themes that didn't quite have the outcome or ending I was hoping for the first time around.
I have noticed within my own inner workings, how my thoughts and ideas have been changing, the way I speak to myself is changing, and the way I express myself is changing too. I can definitely feel my angry side being triggered as I wait patiently as the new opportunities unfold. How will I be supported in the future? I’m angry at the Universe for allowing me to lose everything in order to rebuild, and angry that I'm in a space where I can't make any decisions regarding my future. I can clearly see that this retrograde will be hitting on the areas of rebuilding myself, from every area in life. Which, as much as no one wants to be forced to do, it's also really refreshing to know that I can start over, with a clean slate, and try to align my outer world with my inner world.Not all retrogrades are the same. Depending on the sign in which the retrograde period is occurring, and other planetary aspects formed within the retrograde period, we will all be feeling similar feelings globally, yet have different themes arise individually. This particular retrograde in Leo creates a few planetary aspects worth mentioning.The strongest influence we will feel during this retrograde is the T-square aspect pattern focused on Uranus, which is square the Sun-Mars opposition. This will increase the risk of unexpected changes leading to tension and anger. It increases the risk of temper tantrums, arguments and over reacting to provocation. Remind yourself that you don't have to show up to every fight you are invited to.Sure, you may have every reason to engage and drive your point and opinion home, but with communication being as wonky as it is during these retrograde times, your argument won't be well received, acknowledged, or absorbed, so why bother wasting your energy?!Mercury retrograde is also associated with accidents and the breakdown of machinery and electrical items. Be extra careful during this time, staying aware of your surroundings and of your actions. Try to avoid situations that could lead to accidents if at all possible, and be sure to double, even TRIPLE check your emails and texts before hitting send. This retrograde periods are notorious for sending the wrong information to the wrong people.The Sun will be opposing Mars at a point during this retrograde which increases your level of assertiveness or pushiness in achieving your goals and strongest desires. Use patience, and a more subtle and gentle approach to going after what you want. Other people may try to assert themselves over you, especially if you are the quiet or submissive type. Be open and honest about your strong want and need to avoid arguments. Engaging in sexual activity, exercise, sport and hard physical work are other ways to channel this aggressive energy in a healthy way.The Sun will square Uranus during this period also, stressing the need for open-mindedness and flexibility. A buildup of nervous energy can result in unpredictable behavior which can lead to abruptness, rapid changes in direction and even accidents. So this is not the best time for tinkering or experimenting with mechanical and electronic devices. If your car or computer goes haywire, don’t try to fix it yourself, as the energy predicts a really bad outcome for a positive result.If you can't keep your emotions in check, your outbursts of anger will reveal a scary and unexpected side of your nature, to those that won't ever be able to shake that image of you.Make sure you are breathing and grounding to ensure this impulsive and rebellious energy doesn't get the better of you.Mars squares Uranus in this retrograde period further increasing the urge to break free from restriction and rebel against authority. A tendency to act impulsively and rashly without regard for the consequences can lead to great disruption and even violence. We may see this kind of outburst happen on a global level as the world is in upheaval and violence is at an all time high.It's important to note that you cannot restrain this crazy energy, it must be expressed. Find a creative outlet socially, sexually or through a hobby.Avoid acting impulsively, and taking dangerous risks. BE AWARE!! The lack of attention, awareness, and concentration can lead to accidents, especially as when driving or working with electricity or technology.Applying these aspects to the Mercury retrograde brings aggressive thoughts and angry words to the forefront. Whether they be directed outword or inward, the effects could be damaging and long-lasting. People will become unreliable, and rebellious. Expect plans to change without notice, and have appointments be cancelling, changed, or rescheduled without notice or explanation.
Your phone or computer may malfunction and you internet connection may be erratic, which is enough to trigger anger even on a good day.People will generally lack patience, be more irritable and short-tempered during this Mercury retrograde phase. Try to concentrate on your own energy and don't allow others to influence or sway you to engage in hateful and destructive acts, behaviors, or conversations.Our savior this retrograde period is Mercury sextiling Venus once Mercury goes direct again towards the end of the retrograde period. This aspect will lend the energy to calm your nerves and help solve and relationship problems caused by the rebellion and anger of the Mercury retrograde phase.This fun-loving and friendly influence lowers stress and returns harmony to your relationships. It will therefore be easier to express your love and affection. This Mercury direct phase is a great opportunity to resolve conflict and break down barriers to progress, which might come in handy to those unable to transform the negative energy into something useful. Should you happen to get a bit out of control and end up in a conflict with others, this energy will help you to make amends and bring resolution to the conflict that took place during this retrograde period.Although this sounds like something you probably want to avoid, it’s coming whether we like it or not. It’s about going with the flow and rolling with the punches instead of being dragged. The full moon lunar eclipse this Friday will throw a bit of extra energy on the situation so stay tuned for that post towards the end of the week.As always, if you require any assistance navigating the energies you can book a session online.Many blessings to you during this time! MarleeResident Reader & Psychic AdvisorEast Coast Energy Boutique