What is Mercury Retrograde?
Mercury Retrograde occurs multiple times a year when the planet Mercury appears to move in a backward motion in its orbit due to an optical illusion caused by its faster orbit around the sun (88 days compared to Earth’s 365 days). Astrologers believe that during this time, the areas of life governed by Mercury, such as communication and travel, can become complicated or disrupted. This phenomenon happens three times a year and has traditionally been associated with frustration, confusion, and delays, such as undelivered messages, email mishaps, and disrupted travel plans. However, some astrologers believe that Mercury Retrograde is an excellent time for reflection and that intuition is heightened during these periods, leading to extraordinary coincidences.
Mercury Retrograde 2023
Between April 21 and May 14 of 2023, Mercury will be in apparent retrograde motion in the sign of Taurus. Taurus is the first earth sign of the zodiac, symbolized by the bull, and is associated with the material world, including objects, money, food, and resources. This sign also has a reputation for stubbornness and a preference for maintaining systems rather than shaking them up.
When a planet, including Mercury, retrogrades, it appears to be moving in a backward motion. However, this is only an optical illusion from Earth’s perspective, as planets never actually move away from their orbits. The perception of retrograde motion depends on the rotational speed of Earth and its distance from the other planets in the solar system.
Mercury completes one orbit around the Sun in just 88 days, much faster than Earth’s 365 days. When Mercury appears to slow down during retrograde, it can cause concern among astrologers. However, astrology is based on perception, and it’s up to individuals to interpret these recommendations positively or negatively.
Mercury Retrograde 2023 Signs Affected
During the period of April 21 to May 14 in 2023, Mercury will be in retrograde motion in the earth sign of Taurus, which is represented by a bull and is associated with the material world. This means that the financial aspects of all zodiac signs will be affected, with a focus on business and career rather than romantic relationships. This period may prove particularly challenging for Taurus and Gemini, as they struggle to balance their desire to gain control over their finances with the temptation to indulge in luxury items or an expensive vacation.
Overall, zodiac signs will be exploring options to improve their financial situation and expand their career horizons. It is advisable for all signs to maintain healthy boundaries in relationships to avoid any triggering experiences and use this time for self-reflection.
From August 23 to September 15 in 2023, Mercury will be in retrograde motion in the earth sign of Virgo. Virgos are known for their attention to detail, practicality, and adherence to rules. As they are influenced by Mercury, this retrograde period is a time for transformation.
The retrograde is expected to inspire all zodiac signs to learn a new skill or leverage their existing abilities, with a particular focus on their work areas. It is important not to feel overwhelmed by the sense of responsibility that may arise during this period. Along with Virgos, Pisces may also feel the effects of this retrograde more strongly than other signs.
From December 13, 2023 to January 1, 2024, Mercury will be in retrograde motion in the earth sign of Capricorn and the fire sign of Sagittarius. This period will be marked by dual energies that will challenge all zodiac signs. The goal-oriented and hardworking earth sign of Capricorn will push all signs to strive harder in their careers, while also creating apprehension about the future.
As the retrograde shifts into the constellation of Sagittarius in the latter half of the period, all zodiac signs may feel a desire to take risks, seek adventure, and try new things. This may be reflected in their career choices, as they embark on journeys into uncharted territories.
Capricorn and Sagittarius will likely feel the effects of this astrological event more strongly than other signs.
Mercury Retrograde April 2023
Mercury will be in retrograde three times in 2023. The first retrograde will take place from April 21 to May 14 under the Taurus sign. The effects of the pre-retrograde shadow may be felt as early as April 7, while the post-retrograde shadow will persist until May 31.
The second retrograde will occur from August 23 to September 15, and it will be under the Virgo sign. The pre-retrograde shadow will start on August 3, and the post-retrograde shadow will last until September 30.
The third and final retrograde will happen from December 13 to January 1, 2024, moving from Sagittarius through to Capricorn. The pre-retrograde shadow will begin on November 25, and the post-retrograde shadow will extend into the new year, ending on January 20, 2024.
Effect of Retrograde Mercury on 12 Houses
Mercury’s retrograde motion affects each of the twelve houses differently in astrology.
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Retrograde Mercury in the first house is considered unfavorable for the native, as it can lead to wrong decisions and losses.
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When Mercury retrogrades in the second house, it enhances the native’s intelligence and logical thinking, making them more thoughtful in their decisions.
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Retrograde Mercury in the third house increases the native’s confidence and fearlessness, making them more inclined to take risks.
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In the fourth house, retrograde Mercury can bring wealth, but it can also lead the native to indulge in a luxurious lifestyle.
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Mercury’s retrograde motion in the fifth house is considered auspicious, as it brings happiness and prosperity to family life and improves relationships with partners.
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The presence of retrograde Mercury in the sixth house can cause mental stress and suspicion, making it difficult for the native to trust others.
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Retrograde Mercury in the seventh house can bring an attractive partner into the native’s life, especially if they are seeking one.
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In the eighth house, retrograde Mercury can inspire the native’s interest in spirituality and philosophy.
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Mercury’s retrograde motion in the ninth house can make the native wise and help them win arguments.
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If retrograde Mercury sits in the tenth house, it can benefit the native with ancestral property and prevent poverty, while also making them fearless and interested in religion.
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When retrograde Mercury is in the eleventh house, it can bring a long and happy life for the native.
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Retrograde Mercury in the twelfth house makes the native fearless, with no fear of opponents, and inspires interest in religion.
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