Mercury is the planet closest to the Sun
rules over communications, intellect, change and information.
"Retrograde" means that the planet looks like it's moving backwards in the sky, when seen from Earth.
3 times each year
Even though it's just an optical illusion, it does seem to have a powerful effect on us poor humans.
Mercury's retrograde periods usually last around 24 days, and during that time all forms of communication can break down.
You'll find that arguments and misunderstandings seem to come out of nowhere
Mercury retrograde works on our consciousness as a kind of memory test. The
kind of blunders we make during Mercury retrograde, especially with words and
communication, may indicate the degree of self-remembering lacking in those
instances. For example, when attempting long-distance communications (via
phone fax or modem) during Mercury retrograde, try doing a little more footwork
before making the call. Clarify your intent. Imagine the history of the person
you are trying to reach.
Results in increased frustration, interruptions and snafu's that make even simple projects seem impossible,.
Need to be more cautious, more careful and more elbow grease to get things done
Typically there are delays, interferences, miscommunications; especially to those with strong Virgo or Gemini in charts (Mercury rules these 2 signs).
Not a good time to launch or initiate new projects
Best to use this time for: finish up projects already started, refresh your memory about subject matter already learned and straighten accumulated clutter
2006 Mercury Retrograte
March 02 through March 26 Astrology index
