Feel the Sparkle! Mercury Retro in Aries Jacks Up the Heat in Adventure and Action – Dynamic Dreamtime in Daylight!
By Silver RavenWolf 2024
In a world that thrives on constant motion and progress, the mere mention of Mercury retrograde can send ghostly shivers dancing on the back of the neck of even the most steadfast optimist. Yet, what if we dared to view this astrological phenomenon differently? Rather than dreading its arrival, let's embark on a journey of discovery, uncovering the hidden gems and opportunities for growth that Mercury retrograde graciously offers. Welcome to a realm where setbacks become setups for success, miscommunications lead to deeper connections, and the universe beckons us to slow down, reflect, and realign with our most authentic selves. It's time to embrace Mercury retrograde with open arms and an unwavering belief in the magic of cosmic realignment.
When Mercury retrogrades through a specific zodiac sign, such as Aries in this case, it emphasizes the characteristics and themes associated with that sign. Aries is a fire sign known for its boldness, assertiveness, and impulsive energy shining a light on that adventurous spirit and dynamic action! When Mercury retrogrades in Aries, these traits may be heightened or manifest in unusual ways. Mercury Retrograde’s job is to break up old patterns, dissolve negative ties, and bring home the knowledge you’ve gathered in the past three months so you can analyze this material and make it useful to you in the future. Its job is to shake everything loose (literally sometimes) and give you an opportunity to reorder energies and actions to make life better and brighter. Consider a Mercury Retrograde a Dreamtime in Daylight experience where meditation, daydreaming, and rituals of peace and balance are the norm. Allow yourself to play and experiment rather than push, force, or demand immediate change.
The upcoming Mercury Retrograde period debuts on April Fool's Day! (April 1) at 6:14 PM EDT/3:14 PM PDT and extends to April 25 – 8:54 AM EDT/5:54 AM PDT. The first eleven days are your theme days – usually, a specific energy pattern wings its way into your life or surfaces from the depths of your psyche. This is your time to stop, look, and listen to the theme. Doing this can lead to greater personal freedom and creative choice. The Midcycle of the retrograde is the planting time. When what you've observed, recognized, and assimilated comes together, a new idea, passion, or direction stirs in your soul. This new pattern can become a seed of productivity in the future, a bloom of magnificent creativity if you let it. The last eleven days bring on a sense of impatience, but it isn't really. It is your inner spirit growing, changing, adapting, and preparing for the birth of the changes you want to make or ideas you wish to implement. Use these last days to move blocks and negative thinking out of the way.
A helpful way to embrace Mercury's upcoming polka is to keep a journal or at least one of those little notebooks. I use my Llewellyn's Planetary Guide every day and have found this is the best place to add my energy observations of the day. I've kept these guides for years – have a stack of them in a plastic tub. Everything is in them—family events, personal milestones, and Mercury retro in the signs information. You'd be amazed how handy they've been! Don't stress over writing down events, ideas, and thoughts. Just a jot, and you're through! Later, you can look back over the Mercury in Aries retro period and delight in the wealth of information you compiled. What you thought wasn't that important then may lead to a significant breakthrough for you later.
Before we move on to what Mercury in Aries has in store, let's look at your life over the past three months. Anything unfinished since the last retrograde period, when Mercury stationed retrograde in Capricorn from December 13, 2023, until January 1, 2024, may swing back around again. Mercury entered Aries on Saturday, 9 March, showing us in successive days how this energy integrates with our lives (or not).
Breathe deep and take a few moments to review events and feelings. I let the feelings rise within myself, accept that I have these feelings, and allow them to flow through me – not get stuck in my heart chakra (which unpleasant feelings tend to do). I don't concentrate on the negative. I note it and move on, navigating my mental ship over those rough seas and back into calm, mental waters. I ask myself honestly why I have these feelings and what they may relate to from the past.
Secondly, I think about things I've set aside because I was too busy, otherwise occupied, etc. Write those things down, and if you can, finish them before the retrograde unfolds. Next, think of unfinished issues because you were afraid or overwhelmed. Sadly, unfounded fears stop a relentless amount of positive progress. I've been there. Your feelings are absolutely legitimate—it is the techniques and tools you choose to use to work through them that make all the difference.
Mercury moves through the 2nd and 3rd decans of Aries right before the retrograde process and will fall back into them during the retrograde window. The 2nd decan (co-ruled by Leo and the Sun) may have added a touch of drama, creativity, and leadership qualities to your life experience. The third decan is co-ruled by Sagittarius and Jupiter, imbuing Aries with adventure, optimism, and philosophical exploration. The stage is set, then, for contemplation of the prior weeks and thoughts of new directions and choices influenced by your recent experiences.
As Mercury falls back (from the 3rd to the 2nd decan), there may be a focus on expanding your horizons, both mentally and physically. You may feel drawn to explore new ideas, beliefs, or cultures. There may be a heightened sense of self-expression and a desire for recognition. However, there can also be challenges related to ego conflicts, stubbornness, and the need for validation. Positive activities during this retrograde period as associated with Mercury's placement in Aries may include:
Revisiting creative projects.
Exploring new ways to express yourself.
Practicing generosity and kindness in your interactions with others.
Aries energy vibrates well with certain objects, particularly red ones. This includes red clothing, furnishings, and jewelry. Other items under Aries rulership include athletic gear, hats, cars and vehicles (mainly if they are red), adventure travel gear and sports equipment, camping and outdoor implements, metal hardware, tools, and start-up business materials particularly for the entrepreneur. Although these items might interest you over the retro period, many practitioners choose to browse the catalogs and surf the web for as much information as possible and then wait until Mercury turns direct, particularly for big-ticket items.
Let's talk specifics on what you might expect during Mercury retrograde, which stations at 27 degrees Aries:
With Mercury at the end of the sign, you may have been heading toward closure in several situations, and suddenly, at the planet stations and slips backward, bits and pieces of unfinished business relating to projects you thought were all but closed may rise to the surface. Rather than panicking, take several deep breaths and see this energy for what it is -- Opportunity! Ask yourself, "How can I make this work for me?" "What is the Universe showing me regarding changes for my success?" The alignments of the other planets on the first day of the Mercury retrograde speak of opportunities, positive flow, generosity, creativity, heightened passion, and harmony. Swim with delight in this heavenly sea!
Aries is known for its directness and sometimes blunt communication style. During this retrograde period, misunderstandings, misinterpretations, or conflicts may arise from hastily spoken words. Consider thinking twice before speaking and being extra apparent in your communication. Weigh your words. After all, they are gold-filled with immense power, particularly during an Aries retrograde experience. Remember, a retrograde means 'within' – and is a chance to empower and explore the fantastic dynamism of your abilities – to recognize your greatness and put that realization to work positively. If you speak rashly, you lose your power. Make believe you are famous and say to yourself, "PR! PR! PR!" before you speak or write anything during this period, especially if your gut tells you it is a bad idea to turn your mouth into Mt. Vesuvius. There may also be a risk of making hasty decisions without considering all the facts or consequences. Refrain from judging yourself if you want to slow down and carefully weigh your options before making any significant choices.
Mercury retrograde is notorious for causing glitches and delays in technology and travel plans. In the sign of Aries, these disruptions may occur suddenly and unexpectedly. It's wise to back up essential data, double-check travel arrangements, and allow extra time for unexpected delays.
Retrograde periods are often associated with revisiting the past. With Mercury retrograde in Aries, there may be a tendency to revisit old conflicts or unresolved issues. It's an opportunity to address these matters with courage and assertiveness. Still, it's essential to approach them with diplomacy and empathy. This is an excellent time to work positive magick on the self to resolve and heal any negative feelings. Considered an archetype of Aries, the Archangel Ariel is often associated with healing, nature, animals, and the environment in various spiritual traditions. Believed to be a powerful and nurturing presence, Ariel is thought to guide and protect all living beings on Earth. Some also regard Ariel as an angel of manifestation, assisting individuals in manifesting their desires and goals. Ariel's undulating energy manifests as gentle yet powerful, inspiring harmony and balance in both the natural world and human lives, speaking beautifully and poetically using music or waves of air, including the nuances of weather magick. Using singing bowls, bells, music, and songs in your magickal work during this time may not only feel "right." Still, it may also lend additional harmony to the pattern of your desire. Lion images may also help.
Associated with initiative and leadership, the Aries retrograde period may provide opportunities to reevaluate your long-term goals, ambitions, and plans for the future. It's a time to reflect on what truly motivates you and whether your actions align with your long-term aspirations, particularly in your role with any groups, organizations, clubs, or large social media venues. If you hold a leadership position, you may be frequently called upon to make difficult choices – the caution here is don't let them push you into something you don't want to do or in a direction that leads to disharmony. Most practitioners agree that decisions that will have a significant impact should be put on hold until after retrograde. People with negative agendas use that Aries energy to apply pressure to fulfill their desires, hoping you will miss the red flags. If you run into this, take the time to use all your tools:
Meditation, Contemplation, Positive Thinking, Allowing Flow, spiritual guidance, etc. Make yourself an amulet of protection – ones with the head of a Lion are thought to carry extra oomph during any planet's sojourn through Aries. Prioritize self-care activities like meditation, exercise, or spending time with loved ones to help maintain balance. Aries energy can be fiery and impulsive, but it's essential to slow down and stay grounded during Mercury retrograde. Incorporate mindfulness and meditation practices into your daily routine to center yourself and cultivate inner peace amidst any chaos or confusion.
Aries is a highly energetic and active sign, so channel that energy into physical activities like exercise, sports, or outdoor adventures. Moving your body can help release pent-up tension and frustration, allowing you to navigate the retrograde period more easily and clearly. My father's motto for most of his life was "Move it or Lose it!" – He was right. Gentle movements are okay, too! You don't have to do flips in the air or catch that ball with your toenails! Pleasant walks in nature, particularly given Aries's association with the vibrant, living energy of the planet, might be just what you need!
An Aries retro period is an excellent opportunity to revisit past learning. Dust off that old book you've been meaning to read or revisit a subject you studied in the past. This is a great time to revisit and deepen your understanding of old interests or hobbies. You may discover new insights or connections that were previously overlooked. Listen carefully to suggestions from friends or co-workers on books to read, courses they found interesting, etc. Be brave and learn about other cultures, lifestyles, religions, and practices.
While Mercury retrograde is not considered the best time for initiating new projects, it's an excellent time for planning and strategizing. Use this period to brainstorm ideas, outline future projects, and lay the groundwork for your goals once Mercury goes direct. Try Mind Mapping Techniques to give yourself an added boost. Not only is this a creative practice, it also helps to bring clarity to your plans and infuse positive energy into the work. A particularly helpful technique if you are facing a problem that feels daunting and all-consuming, as well as an easy way to improve your memory, creativity, and organization abilities.
A Mercury Retrograde doesn’t run the universe (even though it can feel that way)—while Mercury is contemplating its navel, all the other planets are merrily doing their thing! The Sun cojoins the fixed star Alpheratz, bringing the possibility of independence, freedom, love, riches, honor, positive use of keen intellect, and possible wealth. Conversely, it can also amp up self-destructive tendencies. Mercury, on the day it retrogrades, cojoins Al Pharg, bringing a reminder to find balance in body, mind, and spirit. A determination to succeed may drop blinders on your head. Pay attention to health signals. Saturn, the planet of reward and limitations, cojoins Achernar, promising the reward of happiness and success if you have exercised good morals. You may incorporate more of your spirituality in your daily actions. Folks that have been dirty to others? Retribution may be coming for them. Neptune, associated with Scheat, urges interest in occult and psychic matters but signals caution regarding foolish choices that can lead to accidents. Strange domestic situations may come into focus. Pluto conjunct Albireo lends a contemplative, cultured, artistic, and friendly energy – like washing everything with a paintbrush that carries several pastel colors. Just remember that exciting and potent energies lie beneath.
By engaging in positive activities during Mercury in Aries, you can make the most of the energies at play and emerge from the retrograde period with a renewed sense of clarity, purpose, and empowerment. Overall, Mercury retrograde in Aries encourages us to slow down, think before we act, and approach our experiences with excitement, zest, courage, and determination. As the retrograde comes to an end, use the remaining tine to tie up loose ends and resolve any lingering issues. Reflect on what you have learned during this period and prepare to move forward. I often use what I call sling-shot magick as a part of my retrograde practices. When planets retrograde and when they turn direct there is a short period called a station. Specifically, a Mercury station refers to the period when the planet Mercury appears to stop its motion and begins to move either backward or forward (depending on your position in the cycle). That short window is an excellent time to set your intent either for the retrogradation cycle (in the beginning) or at its end when you are ready to launch your work forward. I’ve had fantastic success with this method, mainly if someone owes you – money, a favor, time, a promised job or item, etc.
I love retrogradation periods because they can be a great opportunity! For example, if I am testing anything – new techniques, products, etc., I will always use the Mercury Retro period because if it is going to go wrong? It will! And then I will learn quickly what I need to adjust or change. Mercury Retrograde? Yeah, baby! Embrace it!
General Notes: Mercury Retrograde is an astrological phenomenon in which the planet appears to move backward in its orbit from Earth's perspective of Earth. It occurs three to four times a year, with each period lasting around three weeks. Specific dates vary each year, but Mercury Retrograde generally happens every season, giving us a chance to review and adjust.
I hope you have enjoyed this article. Be sure to visit my website, http://www.whispermagick.com where you will find candles and magickal oils suited for your retrograde magicks. May your day be filled with joy!
References:
Llewellyn’s Daily Planetary Guide – 2024. Llewellyn World Wide, Ltd.
Sullivan, E. 2002 Retrograde Planets – Traversing the Inner Landscape. Motilal Banarsidass Publishers, Delhi.
Lehman, J. Lee, Ph.D. The Book of Rulerships – Keywords from Classical Astrology. 1992. Llewellyn World Wide, Ltd.
Munkasey, M. The Astrological Thesaurus Book 1 House Keywords. 1993. Llewellyn World Wide, Ltd.
Munkasey, M. Astrological Keywords – Signs of the Zodiac. 2022. American Federation of Astrologers, Inc.