Mercury Retrograde Fall Winter 2018
Scorpio/Sagittarius/Scorpio
Pre-Progression: October 29, 2018 (Begins in Scorpio)
Pre-Progression Juncture: Oct 30-Nov 11, 2018 (Scorpio)
Pre-Progression Intensity: Nov 12-16, 2018 (Scorpio)
Mercury Station Retrograde: Nov 17 – 18, 2018 (Sagittarius)
Mercury Station Regression: Nov 18-21, 2018 (Sagittarius)
Mercury Retrograde Juncture: Nov 22-Dec 2, 2018 (Sagittarius)
Mercury Direct Regression: Dec 3-5, 2018 (Sagittarius)
Mercury Direct: Dec 06, 2018 (Scorpio)
Post-Regression Juncture: Dec 7-10, 2018 (Sagittarius)
Post-Juncture: Dec 11-24, 2018 (Sagittarius)
This year is nearly over, and now the universe wants us to go back in time and review everything and everyone in our lives. This period is a reflection back to the December Mercury retrograde when it was in Sagittarius at 13 degrees. Once again, it’s time to reflect back to yesterdays and have a chance to re-do, repair, and recognize.
The Pre-Progression began on October 28, 2018, in Sagittarius, and will accelerate to its station in Scorpio on November 16 through December 1, 2018. Then once again it will release the tension completely on Christmas eve (December 24, 2018).
Mercury turns retrograde three times a year, as a rule, but the effects of each period differ according to the sign in which it happens. The past two retrogrades, one in March/April and another in July/August, were quite intense for many of us and even then, there were plenty of planets retrograding which meant review, release, or retreat.
This retrograde is placed with the planets of Scorpio especially predominate. Retrograde has no conditions upon which house it places itself in, whether it is your sun sign, moon, and Venus or ascendant, it will have a high impact on the dominate signs.
The listlessness, prior to force, is known as the ghost period. As Mercury sets the stage to slow down, many fixed signs (Leo, Aquarius, Taurus and Scorpio) will experience the force, but the most will be for Scorpios.
A planet is described as retrograde when it appears to be moving backwards through the zodiac. The last time Mercury was in Scorpio/Sagittarius was in October 2006, 2012 and again in October 2013. Those times, it was an annoying period but with the hindrance, many people became very attuned and really took the time to have some deep reconsideration.
This exceptional change occurs when the illusory planetary motion is created by the orbital turning of the earth, relative to other planets in our solar system. Planets are at no time retrograde or stationary, they just seem that way, due to this visual misinterpretation.
Retrograde periods are often difficult for many, especially mutable signs (Gemini, Sagittarius, Virgo and Pisces) as well as those directly affected by the retrograde motion. Each planet retrogrades, except the Sun and Moon. Mercury, much like the winged messenger of the gods, comes in on feather-light wings and orders us to speak.
Communication, understanding, and consciousness are all within Mercury’s sphere, as are judgement and perception, our manner of rational, and how we produce and express our thought processes. A mercurial nature advises anxiety and motion. This Planet also reminders us to move from one thing to the next and to get answers on both physical and psychological levels.
Further, Mercury’s energy is both supple and perceptive. Mercury is about short outings. Family, friends, and transportation in general, are also within Mercury’s realm. Discussion, writing, books, online communications and education are all within Mercury’s domain. This planet demands to us to express ourselves often — and well.
When Mercury goes retrograde (the appearance of traveling backward) our communications will be tested; we are giving mixed messages to people that we interact with. Because Mercury rules communication and transportation, these two areas are most prejudiced during a Mercury retrograde.
Conversations might be more challenging, as overlapped emotions and blurred connotations complicate generally forthright thoughts. Still, with a slight thoughtfulness and attention, points and conclusions could be made.
Mercury retrograde is disposed to affect people contrarily, nevertheless it typically inclines to disturb not only in the sign it places itself in, but it always affects mutable signs directly. The journey will begin in the early signs of Sagittarius then moves to Scorpio where it sits for four weeks.
Because of these movements, those that are Scorpio, or those that have Scorpio anywhere in their chart (including mutable signs), will surely be affected, not excluding Sagittarius, and their counterparts, and Fire signs (this means Aries also). Mercury takes everyone captive.
Remember, we can use this influential energy in constructive ways. Use this time to do activities that start with “re”: restart, restore, review, renegotiate, and research.
In general, Mercury rules thinking and perception, processing and disseminating information, and all means of communication, commerce, and transportation. By extension, Mercury rules people who work in these areas, especially those who work with their minds.
When Mercury begins to move in its Pre-Progression October 28, 2018 through November 15, 2018, many people may seem straightforward and sarcastic. They will often use the power of persuasion or aggressiveness to get their way, even if it means to lie and hurt others in the process.
People normally become inclined to be fearless, stubborn, irresponsible, and difficult to get along with. Scorpios have tendencies for theatrics and hunger as cope with the hand they were dealt. Information and evidence is related with control and discretion. Misunderstanding ascends over clandestine materials that become noticeable and imprudent material arising from those who follow intransigently to their arrogance.
Spirituality and the occult may possibly appear in the news, scarily so! People are extra confrontational, distrustful, and may limp onto conflicting opinions which are often ironic to others. The sensitive stimulus of Scorpio improves our tendencies but makes us less sympathetic. Enigmas will come to light, often to the humiliation of those troubled. It is not a good time for a medical operation. All areas of communication are affected, especially in matters related to hidden things, sexual meetings, fervent promises, dishonesty, researches, and the occult.
Mercury retrograde intensifies personal confusions; hurt, disturbed, or deferred communications, discussions and trade, malfunctions and failures with phones, computers, cars, buses, and trains. All these difficulties typically arise because some critical part of information, or element, has gone off track, or been skewed.
Artistic predispositions including crafts, music, art, or design tend to be gridlocked by conditions beyond one’s control. Legal matters will progress sluggishly, and unexpected difficulties tend to appear. Mercury retrograde inclines to absence complexity of awareness and has no tolerance for comprehensive examination.
What I am about to present to you is based upon predictions that are driven from Vedic Philosophical Ayurvedic Theories (VPAT) and not to be mistaken for Western or Vedic Astrology. They are solely dependent upon characteristics and how one will handle this energy. This energy is based upon the timings of October 28, 2018 until December 24, 2018.
I will be discussing the propensities during this energy from the most critical signs to the least affected. However, always remember that mutable signs are always prone to the intensity of Mercury retrograde.
There are two-time periods which will intensify and lessen a specific sign, therefore there will be two summaries: Mercury will be in Scorpio October 28 through November 16, then it moves into Sagittarius and moves back into Scorpio on December 6 and where it will stay until December 24, 2018.
Fixed Signs
Scorpio, Leo, Taurus and Aquarius
Scorpio
Oct 28-Nov 16: This energy will bring some attentiveness and increased communication where natives will be more tentative and analytical. A Logical and sharp mind will be at your beck and call. Even though I have advised against any legal or financial decisions, I believe they will be made anyway, and this may cause a rift between your friends and family.
Nov 17-Dec 24: Due to a busy schedule, taking care of your professional life, and other obligations, may force your love life to take a back seat. Even with hard work, there could be a lack of professional recognition.
Leo
Oct 28-Nov 16: Family conflicts are the theme for this retrograde for you, dear Leo. You are advised to spend more time being dormant rather than engaging. Your financial and friendship circles may be difficult at this time.
Nov 17-Dec 24: Change and redecoration is the theme. Communication with family members may increase, just as your temper and conflicts with those that visiting.
Taurus
Oct 28-Nov 16: Affection and emotional exchanges with family will be lacking, and perhaps you will avoid any discussions. Financial issues could cause problems for you, and your love life may have glitches.
Nov 17- Dec 24: Communication with family members increases as does financial growth. Additionally, there is more progress in love and relationships.
Aquarius
Oct 28-Nov 16: Progress in work and career due to conferences where ideas will be well received. Career and business growth is possible; however, avoid conflicts with elders.
Nov 17-Dec 24: Love, family and happiness is in store for you, dear Aquarius. Constant intellectual communication will keep you busy and your financial life will be steady.
Mutable Signs
Sagittarius, Gemini, Virgo and Pisces
Sagittarius
Oct 28- Nov 16: Travel is possible; however, absence of a partner’s presence may cause irritation and misunderstandings. Other people’s perceptions may be upsetting. Personal and professional standing may be risky at this time.
Nov 17-Dec 24: Love and other relationships will be very pleasant through the understanding and sharing of tasks. Charity work will be well recognized and your professional life will grow.
Gemini
Oct 28-Nov 16: New projects, deep thinking, and shocking debates with friends and co-workers are possible. To avoid issues, it’s best to separate your love life and professional life but remember to make time for loved ones.
Nov 17-Dec 24: There may be issues with finances and modes of transportation. However, family life will be satisfying, especially with a motherly figure or those that appear that way.
Virgo
Oct 28-Nov 16: Short trips will be very exciting for you, especially catching up with old friends or relatives. Old conflicts will be smoothed out with siblings, and creativity will be at an all-time high. Opinions and ideas will be well accepted in your profession.
Nov 17-Dec 24: Health and energy will be at its peak. There will be plenty of new ideas which lead new projects . An elder male may assist you in your profession.
Pisces
Oct 28-Nov 16: Increased communication with relatives, as well as those far away. However, uncertainty in your professional and personal life will continue to hamper your thoughts. This is because the heart is saying one thing and the logical mind another.
Nov 17-Dec 24: Finances are the theme for you. However, the relationship Your love life will get better and recognition for all the hard work will be there for you.
Aries:
Oct 28-Nov 16: Conflict in the workplace and with relatives are possible because of a lack of patience, especially with in-laws or those who are meaningful in your life.
Nov 17-Dec 24: Travel is possible and very beneficial. Relationships with relatives will be very peaceful. Cooperation and collaboration will be positive in the workplace.
Cancer:
Oct 28-Nov 16: Written communication will be very thought provoking and well received. Sarcastic or judgmental communication should be avoided. Open communication with your partner will also be beneficial.
Nov 17-Dec 24: The possibility of health and work issues exist. A lack of remorse may cause issues. Deliberate carefully before making any financial decisions.
Libra:
Oct 28-Nov 16: Your primary focus will be on finances, especially in the area of expenditures. Communication with others will be improved; however, leave the chit chat for another day.
Nov 17-Dec 24: Professional growth is possible currently. Spiritual retreats, charitable work, and religious services will continue to keep you busy. Expenditures due to fortunate events are possible. Good financial planning, at this time, is going to pay off big.
Capricorn
Oct 28-Nov 16: Making new friends and acquaintances will help you to broaden your career perspective. Internet communication is possible with groups of people.
Nov 17-Dec 24: Possible growth in the career may result from your new friends and acquaintances. Cooperation with relatives and co-workers will reap rewards. Growth opportunities are available for you.
These are universal propensities. Everyone’s result of retrograde will be exclusive depending upon the placement. Additionally, these are VPAT (Vedic Philosophical Ayurvedic Theories) based upon the characteristics not astrology.
In general, Mercury rules intelligence and consciousness, behavior and publishing information, and all means of communication, trade, and transport. By extension, Mercury rules people who work in these areas; particularly those who work with their thoughts or their minds. Such as authors and speakers, critics and censors, conversationalists and spin doctors, or swindlers and thieves.
People may be more confrontational, hesitant and distrustful, hanging on to contrasting opinions, and often sardonic to others. Sexual advances and sexually colored speeches are more likely to be misinterpreted. The expressive stimulus of Scorpio refines our character but makes us less compassionate. Secrets will come to light, often due to the clumsiness of those troubled. It is not a good time for surgery.
All areas of communication are pretentious, especially in matters related to concealed things, sexual meetings, zealous promises, suspicion, researches, and the occult. Mercury retrograde gives growth to personal misunderstandings, injured, anxious, or delayed communications, discussions and trade, malfunctions and failures with phones, computers, cars, buses, and trains. All these difficulties usually arise because some critical piece of data, or element, has gone off track or been skewed.
When Mercury is retrograde, every person’s thinking is more meditative, and we are inclined to think about matters and apprehensions that relate to the sign involved (Scorpio/Sagittarius). Scorpio rises to a piercing, sarcastic tongue. People generally tend to be chivalrous, stubborn, impulsive, and problematic to get along with. Misunderstandings arise over undisclosed matters that come to light and misguided information deriving from those who cling obstinately to their attitudes. Religion and the occult may be in the news!
The good things to do when Mercury is Retrograde: contemplate, consider, control writing book/poem/song/essay, clean house, talk to your pet, listen to music, paint, and catch up on sleep!
Mercury is a very sluggish planet and it affects almost all planetary signs. It is my suggestion that you purchase a yellow candle and carve your name through to the wick. Rub the candle with Inspiration oil or Eucalyptus oil and chant the Psalm 70 every single night. This period will last for 6 weeks and it will be hard on all of us.
Following my suggestion will allow agreeable communications as well as compassion in situations. You may also choose to recite a mantra every morning until December 24, 2018.
Remember that with all requests of psalms and mantras, accomplishing the anticipated outcome is reliant on upon the value of purpose. The mantras can be hard to pronounce for many but are a powerful source of energy. I have chosen four mantras
Easy
“Om Budhaya Namaha”
(Om Bood-han-yah Nahm-ah-ha)
Difficult
Om mani padme hum
Advance
Om Muni Muni Maha Muni Ye Svaha
Expert
Tayata Om Bekanze Maha Bekanze Radza Samudgate Soa
“Om and salutations to Buddha, presiding spirit of planet Mercury”
This mantra is used to attain mental clarity, to avoid and overcome confusion, and keep friendly communications flowing.
Please note that I am not an astrologer, nor claim to be one. Vedic readings incorporate astrological aspects, immolate actions, and reaction to specific things. Vedic readers give a pathway to the crossroads and give the client an opportunity to change their pathway so that they can avert trouble or difficulties. Astrology determines what could happen and a Vedic reader determines why it is happening in order to tap into your own spiritual being and allow you to make a decision which is as sublime as the reaction or action.
Please remain calm through this period and know everything happens for a reason. Do not be surprised if people from the past pop their heads back into your life. If they do remember that they left for a reason – can everything always go back to the way, it was? This is the question that Mercury will ask.
During this time, things may be difficult on relationships and businesses. Therefore, it’s best not to make any decision; rather, wait it out and use prudence.
If you need a reading because of confusion or worries, I suggest you wait it out at least until December 06, 2018.
Namaste
Maharani Rutan 