Halloween is the end of Spooky Season. Tricks and treats and frightful delights are slowly coming to an end. However, the scariest part of this Halloween isn’t ghosts, ghouls, or your ex friending you on Facebook (though we’ll get to that later). Beginning on October 31 and ending on November 20 is Mercury Retrograde. It’s not only the last of 2019, but of this decade. All that energy lends itself to a (pumpkin) spicier retrograde.
Not sure what Mercury Retrograde is? The word is from the Latin “retrogradus,” meaning a backward step. Retrograde happens when a planet looks as though it’s turning backwards in its orbit, from our view here on Planet Earth. We often get the urge to bunker down in our rooms until it passes. Those of us who dread Mercury’s retrograde motion believe that when the planet travels backward, its power for positive influence is smothered. This, in turn, contributes to disarray.
Here’s how Mercury might throw shade towards your zodiac sign this Retrograde:
Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Aquarius is ruled by Uranus – the planet which controls technology and innovation. On the other hand, Mercury Retrograde is known to cause tech issues. Backup your phone, laptop, and other devices to a standalone hard drive as cloud services could be affected.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Neptune rules Pisces. In its more dangerous form, it can contribute to a desire for escapism. So, take caution not to let your daydreams distract you from reality. Find a way to ground yourself, perhaps through meditation. The urge to let your thoughts wander to what your ex is up to ought to taper off after Retrograde ends.
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Aries is assertive and impulsive, but under the eye of Mercury’s backwards orbit, things might not end well. Expect frustrations and having to dust off your patience. Watch your tone to avoid unpleasant miscommunication.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
As Taurus influences banking and financial matters, take heed not to sign any financial contracts. Moreover, remember to place important money decisions on the backburner. This may not be the time to refinance your house.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
As Gemini rules communication and so does Mercury a, this will lead to miscommunication. Expect possible issues with mail delivery and the items you ordered. Beware of repeating what you heard, because you could unknowingly be spreading gossip.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Cancers are most comfy on their couch, watching Netflix and cuddling with their pets. As Retrograde can affect technology and machinery, there is a possibility of some repairs that might affect their favorite downtime. Dropped calls in areas of your home you normally have signal could occur as well.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Leos are lions of the zodiac for a reason. Often frank and outspoken, that lack of filter could definitely get our lions in trouble this Retrograde period. Be careful of how your speak in your professional life, as the wrong word choice with the boss will have hefty consequences.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Virgos are detail-oriented and ruled by Mercury, just like Geminis. Challenging issues could arrive in your interpersonal relationships. Double check your work email for typos before hitting send. You meant to type “six” right?
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Indecision reigns supreme in Libras. Hold off on any huge physical changes. This may not be the time to try that blue hair out. Similarly, limit large purchases until after Retrograde ends, unless you want to wait in that return line after your buyer’s remorse!
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Passionate Scorpio is in full swing! Reconsider any cuffing season flings. Lock your devices, as you tend to keep your secrets on your phone and leave it unattended. Unlocked phone could spell disaster.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Often considered the “travelers” of the zodiac, Sagittarius is a very worldly sign. Beware those travels archers of the stars! There might be delays and lines as you fumble on your GPS. A physical map or printed directions might be in order for that roadtrip.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Capricorn influences property and real estate. Be wary of lost or broken items if you’re moving. Lease agreements might go awry so have a second pair of eyes look at any contracts.
So remember to back up your devices, reread all your contracts, double check your texts before sending them, and send a tiny prayer to Mercury and you ought to escape Retrograde unscathed.
Featured image from @seteales via Unsplash.
