Mercury Retrograde (April 9, 2017 – May 3, 2017)

Mercury, the planet of communication and transportation, goes retrograde from April 9, 2017 – May 3, 2017. This can cause computer issues, traffic delays, and more importantly – misunderstandings.

This retrograde starts off in the financial sign of Taurus and ends up in the action sign of Aries. Mercury in Taurus likes to focus on one subject at a time, especially on finances and security. But when it enters the action sign of Aries on April 20th, watch out! The natural expression of Aries is “get it done now.” It feels more secure by taking action first, then learning from its errors after. This could be a field day for law enforcement with fast drivers on the road. Be aware of your speed and avoid a speeding ticket, and PLEASE be aware of texting and driving. Try and not respond impulsively to adverse situations or you’re likely to put your foot in your mouth.

This retrograde will also be eventful, since it interacts with Saturn, the planet of discipline and responsibility, and Uranus, the planet of sudden change and brilliant revelations.

Mercury retrograde in Aries will meet up with Saturn retrograde in Sagittarius from April 20 – May 16, even after Mercury moves direct on May 3rd. This combination is good for truthful communication and practical solutions. Since Saturn generally affects careers, this is a great time to review and reconsider your life’s true purpose and mission. This is also favorable for mental focus and constructing a plan for your career ambition.

Mercury’s interaction with transiting Uranus in Aries from April 23 – May 16 can be a revealing time in one’s life, or even globally. Uranus can bring surprise revelations and brilliant ideas. It likes to think outside the box and push the envelope. Uranus is the higher octave of mental alchemy and when its merges with Mercury, it can be a brain overload. it’s a great time to work on innovative and creative projects, but this can also interrupt one’s sleeping patterns. Take advantage of this temporary cosmic inspiration and take a day to catch up on sleep when you can.

Overall, this will be a very active time for this planet, since 5 planets will be in retrograde in our solar system throughout the month. This mercury retrograde is important. The shadow effects of this retrograde started in late March and will last until end of May. I’ve noticed an increase of accidents and traffic jams in the last 2 weeks already. Just a reminder to back up your computers and drive cautiously. It’s not a favorable to sign contracts, buts it’s a great time to review and rehearse any creative projects and existing contracts. Gather great ideas and a game plan now and persue them after May 3rd when Mercury goes direct.