Mercury retrograde in Taurus is the correct time

Until May 11, Mercury (Hermes) is retrograde in Taurus, the sign of enlightenment and the Art of Living. It’s the second (of four) Mercury retrogrades this year, all in earth signs: Capricorn (January), Taurus (April), Virgo (August) and again in December (Capricorn). Mercury retro in Taurus calls us to review our values, money and possessions. What, where and how are they? During Mercury retro all of humanity, events and earth’s kingdoms collectively enter into a state of retreat (except for those born with Mercury retrograde).

As Mercury governs our thinking, communication, interactions and transportation, when retro (moving in reverse), there’s confusion, everything works backwards, sideways or not at all. Everyone’s driving without thinking, looking in a rear-view mirror and concentrating on inner realities. It’s actually not very safe unless we’re consciously aware at all moments. With Mercury retro we do not move forward, destination routes are obstructed and all actions must be re-thought-out, re-done, re-kindled, re-worked, re-assessed, re-envisioned and re-arranged. It’s a time to call forth all words beginning with “re” (meaning to do it again).

During Mercury (and all retrogrades) we’re forced into a state of respite, an interval of doing things differently, a lull in which we rest and recuperate, creating weeklong retreats (inwardly). What if we intentionally made use of these three weeks as times to hide away, as sanctuary, havens of quietude and refuge? Businesses need to think this way. But this new way of thinking and utilizing the energies of the planets and stars, understanding their relationships with us, must begin with each individual.

Mercury retrograde times bring mental relief. When it begins, Mercury is alerting us, bringing us to attention that our minds are filled to capacity with information gathered since the last Mercury retro. With Mercury retro we are given time to review, assess, order and organize (Virgo tasks, Mercury rules both Gemini and Virgo) what we know, thus making room in our minds for the new information gathered in the next three months (till the next Mercury retro). During Mercury retro we have revelations. And revelations lead us into the world of inner causes.

ARIES (Mar. 21-Apr. 20) What are your financial realities and perspectives, how are they faring, are they safe, are they budgeted, do you tithe? These are some of the monetary questions coming into focus the next three weeks. Also of importance is the questioning and reviewing of your values. What and whom do you value, are you also valuable, how valuable? The retro sheds light upon your Aries self.

TAURUS (Apr. 21-May 20) There could be confusion in communication with close friends, lover(s), intimates. There could also be confusion or questions concerning your values, possessions you consider important and their maintenance. It’s possible someone close may not agree. There won’t be any compromise. Your life changes through the decisions you make, through what you can’t see.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Revelations may appear as your mind has an inner focus, that’s compassionate - yet it could turn quickly to a Virgo criticalness. Be aware of this. Study the religious and/or spiritual. Alice Bailey’s book “Ponder on This” is good at this time. Have the intention for fairness, non-judgment, clarity and “Let reality guide your every thought and Truth be the Master of your Life.”

CANCER (June 21-July 20) During this time you’ll be returning to the past, to friends and/or family close to you, those you love and cherish. Our family is our first and foremost group where we grow, experience and learn life’s lessons. Should sad or grievous thoughts appear, think on them with forgiveness in order to understand your part. Then you’ll be “doing your part.”

LEO (July 21-Aug. 20) Communication confusions could occur at work, with colleagues, superiors, others working around you. Awareness of this allows you to make concessions when speaking with others. The focus for three weeks will be on critical judgments concerning your work and other people’s work, everything professional and most importantly your life path. Are you on it?

VIRGO (Aug. 21-Sept. 20) Are you thinking about legal affairs, education, travel and past communications? Be prepared for delays in all areas of your life and for discussions concerning joint finances and decisions with professionals, especially lawyers. Know that you’ll be hidden for a while; your actions therefore must be explained to others so they are understood. Use few words.

LIBRA (Sept. 21-Oct. 20) Be careful with money, finances and resources. Be acutely aware of where your money is being used, how, when and where it’s coming in, what you do with it. Neither provide others with nor ask for loans. Investments at this time are not suggested. Hold still with your money so you can assess its use when everyone’s mind is clear. Intimacy is either renewed or assessed in the clear light of day.

SCORPIO (Oct. 21-Nov. 20) One-on-one communications need care, awareness and kindness. Previous partnership issues concerning constancy, safety, money and security, arise once again for re-evaluation. Be aware that messages are mixed. Disputes call for negotiation. Perhaps this is too difficult for you. Make no decision for three weeks; simply observe. Then, follow your intuition.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 21-Dec. 20) You’re more sensitive than usual. Is that possible, you ask? Yes. Healthwise, for the next three weeks, it’s best to create daily routines that strengthen your well-being. Maintain a non-judgmental response to co-workers lest falling into old criticisms occurs. Criticism separates, then an existential loneliness emerges. Read everything over three times as errors are missed. Find silence, and rest there.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 21-Jan. 20) If you have children, observe them during this Mercury retro in Taurus. Children and elders are especially sensitive to transits. What do you see in terms of their ability to communicate, maneuver their world of friends, school and studies? It’s good to create a Mercury Retrograde Journal for later use. Observe yourself during these times, too. Take no risks of any kind or type.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21-Feb. 20) Something’s occurring at home that has its roots many months ago. Did you want to move, or did someone move in our out? What domestic issues are reoccurring? This will be a time for assessment, review, re-evaluation and revelations concerning home, what you need, where and what is it for you. Assess how family can assist your plans for a home. They want to help.

PISCES (Feb. 21-Mar. 20) You’ll find that only patience assists at this time. It seems that emptiness has come to roost in all parts of your life and it’s very hard to understand. Stand with that emptiness, become empty yourself, allow life and whatever it is doing to flow through and empty out of you. Many will not understand this part of your life. It’s an Initiation, very valuable, extremely difficult. You stand alone. No matter your actions, the emptiness remains. Expect nothing. Be as still as possible.

Risa is Founder & Director of the Esoteric & Astrological Studies & Research Institute, a contemporary Wisdom School in Santa Cruz, CA. Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Website: www.nightlightnews.com