Six planets are retrograde! Mercury retrograde begins on September 27 to October (the pre-retrograde shadow began September 6th , post-retrograde shadow ends November 2), making it the sixth planet to be back splashing in the cosmos. The other planets are: Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. 

With all these planetary retrogrades, we can expect to feel a shift in how we relate to others on a cerebral, physical, and intuitive level. Being that Uranus is in Taurus and Pluto is in Capricorn, we are going to want to be more intimate. Neptune, who’s in Pisces, is adding intuition to the mix, while Mercury in Libra, Jupiter in Aquarius, and Saturn in Aquarius (all air signs) are processing and understanding how to partner better (this applies to all relationships: friendships, family dynamics, and romantic partners). It’s also helping us define who and what we want to commit to. 

Mercury retrograde will commence in the Via Combusta degrees of Libra, which is called “the burning or fiery way.” Depending on what historic astrological text you read, Via Combusta degrees can occur from 15 Libra to 15 Scorpio, except for 23 degrees Libra which is a point aligned with the benefic fixed star Spica. Or, it falls between 15 Libra and 9 Scorpio, except for 23 degrees Libra. This will make the retrograde full of passion, as well as making us feel off-balance. 

The sweet spot of the retrograde is October 9, when the Sun and Mercury retrograde connect. This brings Mercury in “the heart of the Sun,” through an aspect called cazimi. It’s the best day to sign contracts, communicate, and travel. The caveat is that Venus (the planetary ruler of Libra) and the South Node align in the sign Sagittarius that day, making us feel exhausted and lovelorn. 

Tips To Survive Mercury Retrograde

Mercury retrograde is occurring in the air sign Libra. This means that relationships and romantic matters will require extra care, since Libra is ruled by the planet Venus who governs those affairs. Therefore, we can expect to gain a lot of insight into the past, present, and future of existing relationships— as well as those that are no longer in existence. Prepare yourself to hear from an ex, or receive news about them. 

Self-care is extremely important. Don’t skimp on taking care of yourself, especially now. It’s important to do things that make yourself feel better. Go out for a walk, rest, get a massage, meditate, or practice yoga. Any activity that helps your mind, body, and spirit feel good is important to do. 

Travel may be wonky, as plans will be met with delays and cancellations. The only way to prepare is to give yourself extra time to ensure that your schedule can handle the issues. Also, have a backup plan handy. Make sure that you have another option or route to take. 

Communication problems always come into play during Mercury retrograde. This time around, Pluto (who is retrograde in Capricorn) will be squaring off with Mercury (an important aspect of this Mercury retrograde). We can expect to be assertive, direct, and argue back with others (or vice versa). Winning an argument is the vibe when these planets clush, but it’s not useful to restoring a relationship. Therefore, it’s essential to take back our personal power through other peaceful methods to avoid saying regrettable and hurtful words. Not having the last word is having it. When Mercury was in its pre-retrograde zone, these two planets connected on September 22. They will align again during the retrograde on October 1. And, the day Mercury leaves the post-retrograde zone on November 2. 

Make sure that you backup all documents and contacts on technological devices. Mercury’s planetary moonwalk can create issues with technology, so be careful.