Mercury Retrograde in Aries: March 30-April 23

The First Mercury retrograde period of 2011 begins on Wednesday, March 30. Mercury slows down and appears to go backward at 24 degrees of Aries. Aries is the first sign. It rules spring and youth, taking action and being impulsive. It rules assertion and aggression. Hence Aries rules war. Dialogue will continue about whether Obama has declared war on Libya. Politicians will continue to double-talk and contradict themselves during Mercury retrograde. They will hope we won’t notice. Many will run off at the mouth declaring America must be in charge of everything and not cooperate with allies regarding Libya. That would be Aries talking because Aries can be a bully. There may be a lot of discussion about all the wars going on.

For us ordinary people, we need to be careful with impulsiveness. We need to think before we speak. Also, taking unusual risks is not advised with Mercury retrograde in Aries. Remember, the Sun, Uranus and Jupiter are all in Aries at this time. We feel super-confident. (Of course I can afford that tour to seven sacred sites!) Our enthusiasm can win out over practicality and budgets. Overextending physically is also a danger during this period. This is not a good time to amp up your exercise program. Stick to what works. If you have been inactive, you may find this is the perfect time to get back on track with a fitness program. Overdoing anything is not advised with Mercury retrograde. Just keep a steady pace.

Mercury retrograde will occur two more times in 2011, so it is not a fearful or weird occurrence. It is something to make use of. We can be extra careful about mistakes. We can practice saying “I’m sorry” because we spoke up impulsively. We can re-do and polish a project that isn’t quite finished. We should re-check our bank account. We might re-think (Aries rules the head!) who we are and where we need to direct our energy. Where do we need to act independently? Where has our independence gotten us into trouble? Aries is the “me-first” sign of the zodiac. Aries also has domain over anger. If there have been misunderstandings with friends or loved ones, this Mercury retrograde period is the perfect time to seek reconciliation. Mercury retrograde in Aries is a good time to “get over yourself”! Mercury will resume direct motion on April 23rd at 13 degrees of Aries.