Mercury retrograde in Pisces-February 2014

Astro Tips

Mercury Retrograde

February 6 – 27, 2014

Mercury begins its first retrograde phase of the year on February 6^th in the sign of Pisces.  Mercury is close to a conjunction with Neptune (also transiting its ruler, Pisces). Mercury of course rules our mental functions.  Neptune energy gives us a link with something more cosmic than earthy.  Mercury and Neptune together create a mix of confusion, idealism, creative insight, muddled thinking, forgetfulness, self-deception and even delusion.  Mercury and Neptune conjunct promote seeing beyond this dimension so it is great for meditation, visionary thought and artistic expression. The down side of this union is escapism.  We may long to escape reality and turn to strategies that bring relief from emotional or mental pain.  Coping mechanisms, like alcohol and drugs, continual TV viewing, overeating, are tempting.  If you are stressed, aim for positive strategies like physical exercise, meditation, uplifting reading and media input. 

Since Mercury brings us to the “re-do it” word, we need to watch for recurrence of old addictive habits while Mercury travels through Pisces. This could be something besides a substance, it could be recurring beliefs, thoughts, behavior that are regressive in nature.  On the other hand, the “re-do it” phase of Mercury could find us redefining who we are, and what our goals and expectations are.  We might re-visit an old problem and find new ways to deal with it. We may return to a spiritual program we thought we were finished with.  We might return to some area creativity or study.

Of course the retrograde phase has the usual Mercury cautions.  Mercury rules communication and transportation.  In much of the country, winter weather brought travel hazards and delays.  Mercury retrograde says give yourself extra time for all those unexpected things that might happen on the road.  Mercury with Neptune says stay alert.  It’s easy to space out with this Mercury retrograde:  easy to forget an appointment; easy to mix up days and times of appointment. 

Finally Mercury retrograde is always a good time to connect with people from the past.  You may wake up one morning and search for an old friend on Facebook, just to say hello.

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