Understanding Mercury Retrograde: Navigating the Myth and Magic

Greetings, star seeds! The most infamous astrological transit, Mercury retrograde, is upon us once again. Beginning March 15th, Mercury, the planet of communication, intellect, and travel, will begin its backwards dance, first in fiery Aries and then in mystical Pisces. Mercury retrograde is often met with dread, but is it really the astrological villain we make it out to be? Let’s dive into the what, why, and how of this cosmic event, and explore how it might just be an opportunity for growth, reflection, and shadow work.

What Happens During Mercury Retrograde?

For the uninitiated, Mercury retrograde is not actually a planet moving backwards but an optical illusion. As the fastest-moving planet in our solar system, Mercury zips around the sun at a pace that, from Earth’s perspective, makes it appear to slow down, stop, andreverse course. This happens three to four times a year, lasting about three weeks each time. Think of it as a cosmic pause button.

When Mercury retrograde hits, the areas it governs—communication, commerce, and travel—can get a bit messy. Think miscommunicated texts, delayed flights, and technical glitches. But here’s the thing: Mercury retrograde isn’t inherently bad. Kerry Ward, author and tarot reader, reminds us that while Mercury retrograde might disrupt our external world, it invites us to turn inward. It’s a time to reflect, re-evaluate, and reconnect with our inner selves.

The Meaning Behind Mercury Retrograde

Mercury retrograde is often misunderstood. While it can challenge our ability to communicate and connect outwardly, it also offers a rare opportunity to look inward. Ward explains that when Mercury is direct, we’re in “full steam ahead” mode, chasing goals and moving forward. But when it retrogrades, it’s time to “pause, look back, and narrate the story so far.” This doesn’t mean progress comes to a halt; instead, it’s an invitation to ruminate, reflect, and uncover new insights about ourselves.

This retrograde is particularly ripe for shadow work—a concept that involves exploring the hidden, often suppressed parts of ourselves. According to Ward, our shadow self is made up of the parts of us that grew protective or feral as a response to old wounds or unwanted traits. Shadow work brings these hidden parts to light, allowing us to acknowledge and integrate them, which can lead to greater self-awareness and strength. So, Mercury retrograde isn’t just about lost emails or missed trains—it’s about reclaiming parts of ourselves we’ve long ignored.

Mercury Retrograde March 2023: What to Expect

This particular Mercury retrograde begins in Aries, a fiery sign associated with impulse and action, and then moves into Pisces, a water sign linked to intuition and creativity. This transition suggests a shift from outward, bold energy to inward, reflective energy. It’s a time to balance action with introspection, and to let go of any impulsive tendencies in favor of thoughtful, intentional decisions.

For those curious about how this retrograde will affect them, Kerry Ward is offering her tarot expertise to guide each zodiac sign through this period. With a free month of membership to her Tarot Club, Post readers can dive deeper into insights, forecasts, and predictions tailored to their sign. Whether you’re a fire, earth, air, or water sign, this retrograde holds unique opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Tarot Guidance for Each Zodiac Sign

For fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius), Ward pulled the Ten of Cups, a card of love, relationships, and emotional fulfillment. This retrograde is all about nurturing your closest relationships. Take time to bond with loved ones, share stories, and deepen your connections. If you’re single, this could be a time to focus on one special person and build an intimate, meaningful connection. For a more in-depth look at your love life, Ward also offers personalized readings.

Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) received the Five of Wands, a card that encourages clear communication and conflict resolution. While Mercury retrograde can make communication tricky, this is your chance to master the art of compassionate dialogue. whether it’s negotiating a deal or mediating a disagreement, approach conversations with clarity and care. If possible, delay important discussions until the retrograde lifts, but if you must engage, be direct, listen actively, and follow up to ensure understanding. You’ve got this—Earth signs are natural mediators!

Air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) got the Six of Wands, a card of breakthroughs and success. This retrograde is your chance to reconnect with past hobbies or talents you may have forgotten. Think back to the activities that brought you joy as a child—what made you come alive? Now’s the time to reignite those passions and integrate them into your life. This could be the key to unlocking a new source of fulfillment and success.

Finally, water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) received the Sun, one of the most positive cards in the tarot. This retrograde is all about joy, happiness, and inner light. Make your home a sanctuary, embrace the magic of everyday moments, and lean into your natural ability to find enchantment in the mundane. For water signs, this retrograde is less about external challenges and more about finding bliss in your own world.

The Bigger Picture: Embracing Mercury Retrograde

Mercury retrograde is not the cosmic curse we often make it out to be. It’s a natural part of the planetary cycle, a reminder to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with ourselves. While it may bring its share of challenges, it also offers a rare opportunity to dive into shadow work, strengthen our relationships, and uncover new sources of joy and success.

So, the next time Mercury retrograde rolls around, try not to panic. Instead, embrace the pause. Take time to explore your inner world, revisit old passions, and nurture your closest connections. You might just find that this retrograde brings you closer to yourself—and to the life you’re meant to live.

And remember, if you’re feeling lost or curious, there’s no shortage of guidance available. From tarot readings to astrology insights, there’s a whole world of wisdom out there to help you navigate this retrograde with grace and intention. So, go ahead, lean in, and let the magic of Mercury retrograde unfold. After all, this too shall pass—and it might just leave you stronger, wiser, and more whole than before.