Astrology by Lisa Stardust 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, again. You know, the time when communication, travel, news, and technology becomes extra wonky and intense. Yes, that’s right! We are experiencing the second Mercury retrograde of 2020 now and this planetary moonwalk is going to be extremely intense for us all. 

First of all, it’s important to note that six planets will be retrograde in June (Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, and Pluto). This means that logic will be thrown out the window and we will all be relying on our intuition — which may prove to be faulty due to the celestial retrogrades. Projection can create arguments that will take on an intense form. Therefore, it’s essential for us all to choose our words with kindness. Childhood trauma can resurface during this retrograde, which is why it’s important for us all to stay connected. Checking in with old friends and even new ones will help to keep us all connected. Try to be patient with those you care about and give them the benefit of the doubt. We are all feeling the same intensity and it’s important to keep confidants close by right now. 

Mercury in Cancer is a quiet and reflective energy. Meaning, it’s not a talker. This placement relies on feeling and emotionality to speak louder than words can. The caveat is that we may be relying on others to instinctively understand our hearts, when they can not grasp what we are feeling if we do not express our sentiments to them. When this energy is retrograde, it can bring out insecurities followed by emotional meltdowns. Finding a unique and tender way to speak from the heart will be challenging, but essential. A helpful way to assert our feelings and to let them be known is by using art, music, and poetry as a form of expression. 

Remember, it’s ok to get a little nostalgic for the past. If you find that you’re missing a friend, an ex, or a family member then you should reach out to them. Don’t be shy to say “hello” and check in. Even if the communication is short lived, it’s best to wish them the best and send them off with TLC. However, if you find yourself in a dramatic situation, then you’ll find that it’s time to cut ties with the past and move on. 

The comic lesson of this retrograde is to crawl towards self-love. Find a space and place where you feel safe. Nurturing the parts of ourselves that we love and honor our awesomeness will boost our confidence. Allowing ourselves time to heal and process our emotions will prove to be cathartic as well. 

*Mercury began its pre-retrograde shadow on June 2nd.

Mercury retrograde begins on June 17th at 9:59PM PST and June 18th at 12:59AM EST.

The retrograde ends on July 12th.

The post-retrograde zone ends on July 26th. 

Witchtips To Protect Your Energy Durung Mercury Retrograde:

• Use the essence of Cancer (lavender) in a bath to cool down frustrations. Add some lemongrass or a lemon peel in the bath to ignite the essence of Mercury. You can also drink these essences with hot or cold water. This will help us gain clarity and calmness amidst the chaos. 

• Carry a small sachet salt, citrine, and chamomile around for protection. You can also put these ingredients in a jar and leave in the home to protect your space. 

• Smudge out the bad vibes in the home. Then, meditate on your emotions. Allow yourself to feel your feels and gain clarity on matters. Also, try to lean into your intuition.