(Realizing
that the nature of this Retrograde will change considerable in two weeks, I’ve
decided to break my interpretation up into two parts. Please check back on
April 19th for Part II of Back and Forth)
The upcoming Mercury Retrograde in Taurus begins on April 9,
7:14 pm EDT/ 4:14 pm PDT. This transit will last the much of the month of
April, ending on the May 3rd 12:33pm EDT/ 9:33am PDT. On April 20th
it will return to the sign of Aries, where it will remain until it goes direct
on May 3rd. Because it is traversing two signs, this retrograde will
be of a different character at its end. It is for this reason and in light of
the two other Retrogrades (Venus and Saturn, respectively) I felt it necessary
to break up my interpretation into separate parts. April promises to be a something of an eventful
month, so where you may encounter issues
try to be patient; a relaxed approach
might be the best way to tend some of the dilemmas you’ll face at this time.
Taurus, in astrology, represents values. Whether it’s an object
we possess or people we love, Taurus is the embodiment of connection, attachment
and emotional commitment. Taurus’ ruling
planet is Venus, a planet of affection, appreciation and aesthetics. So when a Taurean attaches value to anything,
their commitment is neither casual nor trivia. At its best, Taurus can be
generous, reliable and resourceful. At its worst, Taurus can be lazy, materialistic
and overly possessive.
When coupled with Mercury, the planet which governs thoughts and
communication, the upcoming Retrograde will ask you to review your values,
resources and things you’ve accumulated. In the coming weeks, you may find yourself re-evaluating
that which you possess and own, whether that’s a book in your possession or an
opinion that you hold. Because it is a retrograde based in an earth sign, you
might encounter direct changes in your physical environment; Spring cleaning,
yard sales, purchases you’ve made or items needing repair and restoration
The first portion of the retrograde (Taurus) may find you
turning your material world
upside down and inside out in effort to discern whether that which you’ve accumulated jibes with that which you really value. It may be a period an intensive clearing, requiring that you make adjustments to your environment, lifestyle and attitudes. Stepping out of your comfort zone may also be required at this time, letting different energies shake up staid routines.
upside down and inside out in effort to discern whether that which you’ve accumulated jibes with that which you really value. It may be a period an intensive clearing, requiring that you make adjustments to your environment, lifestyle and attitudes. Stepping out of your comfort zone may also be required at this time, letting different energies shake up staid routines.
Retrogrades are times to address problems
but not to work them out. The real work comes once the retrograde is over. You may need to make some adjustments at this time (especially
during the Taurus portion of the transit) but leave off radical changes until
after the transit ends.
With Mercury’s reversal, devices that aid communication and
thought tend to go haywire. Electronic devices (phones, TV’s computers, and
electronics) might malfunction at this time. Because Retrogrades are notorious
for upsetting our plans, you should afford yourself extra time, a sense of
humor and a large measure of tolerance. Because of its effect on spoken
communication, watch for being inflexible, stubborn or obstinate in arguments
or discussions at this time. Such attitudes could backfire against you in the
coming weeks. Along the Venus and Saturn
Retrogrades, watch out for petty arguments and the unwillingness to compromise
as it may rebound against you.
There are activities that tend benefit from Retrogrades.
Existing creative endeavors tend to do well. Strive to complete those kinds of projects
and works. Spiritual and metaphysical practices, which connect us with our
inmost selves, also fare well doing retrogrades. Embarking on short term travel
or trips, which shake up daily routines, are also good actions to take during
mercury retrogrades.
Taurus, this transit may test your best laid plans. Seek to be
flexible and if you find yourself having to reconsider something you’re doing,
do so with the understanding that a change course maybe for the best.
Scorpio, examine current drives and pursuits and determine if you are
well served by them. The early portion of this Retrograde may ask you clarify
what you desire and how you should proceed to get it. In the next two week may
ask you to determine where you need to be committed.
Leo and Aquarius, in the
next two weeks some matter may present itself that will ask you to charge some
aspect of your life. It won’t easy but it should prove worthwhile for every
moment you are willing to devote to it.
The next few weeks Mercury Retrograde will offer significant and
possibly dramatic changes of your surroundings and values. While you navigate
this Mercury Retrograde seek to affirm that which you value, both from without
and within (Part II, We’ll explore the Aries Portion of the transit).
Aeion is a professional astrologer and tarot card reader with
+20 years of experience. His approach is based in the belief that divination
should be in employed to enhance ones' life experiences, not to predetermine
them. Let Astrology and Tarot be your tools for better living.
