SPIRITUAL WARRIORS RISE UP !!!

VENUS and MERCURY both have now returned to the sign of Aries where they will complete their respective retrograde transits ... the emphasis of both retrograde now shifts somewhat !!! 

On March 27th, Venus returns to the sign of Pisces and the original emphasis, which will still be in play, will shift from the fiery passionate side of Venus to the more sympathetic and emotional side ... Venus in Pisces is exalted which means it functions extremely well unlike in Aries but nevertheless in retrograde will present its challenges ... Venus in Pisces is all about dreams and wishes, fairy tale endings and love at first sight and happily ever after ... In retrograde motion, Venus in Pisces will surely bring to light that all is not perfect and the mirage of "perfect" love we thought we found to be so ideal becomes very human after all and often extremely disappointing ... therefore whatever occurred from January 3rd through February 4th, when Venus made its initial first full transit through Pisces, may suddenly become very flawed by the reality that now confronts us in retrospect !!!

In regards to Venus in Pisces, Neptune rules Pisces and therefore there could be issues to arise in the following areas:

maritime matters, liquids, music, movies, stage and television, glamour, dreams, illusion, delusion, spirituality, ideals, mystique, hunches, creative functions, and things we take deeply for granted in life without questioning, fog, petroleum, mystery, anesthetics, flattery, intangibles, fragrances, second sight, love of poetry, color, dancing, drugs, drug addiction, alcoholism, hypochondria, sleepwalking, trances, hypnosis, abnormality which are all areas rule by Neptune !!!

your inner strengths and weaknesses, behind the scenes activity which would include clandestine affairs, restorative solitude, places of quiet reflection, sorrows, handicaps, secrets, seclusion, frustrations, jails, hospitals, mental institutions, secret enemies, restraint, inhibitions, exile, hidden dangers, self-undoing, things we hide from others, research, backgrounds, subjective sustainment, inner consciousness, the subconscious mind, charity, sympathy, public welfare, where we sweep away or hide problems to painful to face, difficulties we refuse to acknowledge, aptitude for art, music, dancing writing, acting - all of these being issues addressed in the 12th house of the natural horoscope naturally ruled by Neptune !!!

Venus remains retrograde until April 12th !!!

On March 29th, Mercury returned to the sign of Pisces ... Mercury retrograding in the sign of Pisces already has a challenger from the start as Mercury is considered to be in detriment in Pisces ... this means it is in opposition to a sign that it naturally rules in this case being Virgo ... therefore the potential for more mental and emotional confusion exists as well as the possibility for very strange erratic dreams and psychic experiences !!! ... it also yields an emphasis for am opportunity to rethink old habit patterns and how we emotionally respond to life's challenges !!!

As Pisces is ruled by Neptune - the planet of illusion, delusion, the spiritual and enlightenment, we can certainly expect our minds to become distracted either by confusion and misunderstandings, already given in a Mercury retrograde, or strongly drawn to our intuitive abilities and the pursuit of the "ideal" !!!

As Pisces, whose planetary ruler is Neptune, naturally rules the 12th house, there could be issues regarding dealing with our inner strengths and weaknesses; endings on some level of our lives, places of confinement; places of confinement - jails, hospitals or mental institutions; the desire to withdraw to places of solitude so we may quietly reflect on our life and where we are heading; our frustrations; inner consciousness and the subconscious mind; charitable endeavors; we could also be deeply inspired it we have an aptitude for art, music, dancing or writing; or maybe we will be dealing with actions that could ultimately result in our own undoing; and don't be surprised if you hear of people who are involved in the arts whose souls have decided to leave the earth plane whether expected or unexpected !!!

Mercury remains retrograde until April 7th !!!

Speaking of Neptune:

NEPTUNE - the planet representing the spiritual or the escapist urge, the Universal, the ethereal, the mysterious and the mystical, ruling intuition, psychic ability, the imagination, everything that "flows", bringing compassion, bringer of artistic talent, dissolving boundaries, sensitizing anything it touches, the planet of illusion, and under stressful energy can create confusion, conceit wishful thinking, addiction, hypochondria, alcoholism and drug abuse - began its initial transit through the pioneering, competitive, impulsive, eager, courageous, independent, dynamic and quick sign of Aries on Sunday, March 30th at 8:00 AM EDT !!!

Neptune is now beginning the completion of its 165 year cycle through the zodiac and is ready to begin another cycle ... Neptune entered Pisces back in April of 2011 but due to retrograde returned to the sign of Aquarius and did not begin its complete transit until February of 2012 ... Neptune will return to Pisces in October of this year per retrograde but once direct will reenter Aries in January of 2026 for its complete transit !!!

Neptune in Aries is considered to be radical ... it was last in Aries from 1861 through 1875 ... during this period dynamite was invented as well as the machine gun and the typewriter ... the U.S. Civil War took place during this period, the first Women's Suffrage Law was passed and genetics were discovered !!!

During this period there could be many new religious and philosophical concepts born ... there will be strong imagination and creativity produced ... people may become more self-aware or aware of the self ... on the downside there could be false pride and egotism produced as well as people who crave notoriety ... this energy bestows and intuitive sense of self and encourages one to take an active approach towards their spiritual life ... but also there can be instances where one becomes extremely inconsiderate yielding trouble with regulating ones aggression ... sometimes one can be far to weak and other times to reckless which would certainly include the tendency to be heavily influenced by drugs and alcohol !!!

For approximately the next 7 months we are going to get a "foreshadowing" of what this energy may produce while Neptune is in transit through Aries which will be complete in March of 2039 ... meanwhile it is time for all of us - those in the light as well as those still in the dark - to become aware of one of the most important themes of Neptune in Aries - 

SPIRITUAL WARRIORS RISE UP !!!

HAPPY ASTROLOGICAL NEW YEAR !!!

 

The SUN blazed its way into the fiery, intense sign of Aries today, March 20th, at 5:01 AM EDT ... being the first sign of the natural zodiac, you will find many astrologers who will joyfully say - HAPPY ASTROLOGICAL NEW YEAR !!! ... today is also International Astrology Day !!! ... today is also known as the Vernal Equinox, equal days/equal  nights, but more readily known as the beginning of Spring - something we are all bound to put a little more of in our step for now !!! ... however, if you are in the Southern Hemisphere it's the first day of Fall - lucky you !!! ... the astrological alarm clock has rung and we are awakened from the dream like state the Sun transiting through Pisces may have put many of us in ... we now emerge from those deep emotional waters of Pisces and "dry out" as we proceed to move forward and make potential numerous new beginnings somewhere in our lives and start taking direct action !!!

What an interesting and active Spring season this will be - Mercury and Venus both retrograde at the very beginning, a partial solar eclipse in Pisces on March 29th, Neptune finally finishing its 14 year transit through Pisces and beginning its initial transit through Aries on March 30th, Saturn entering Aries on May 24th and Jupiter entering Cancer on June 9th ... that's a lot of endings and new beginnings to work through !!!

The Sun is considered to be in exaltation in Aries ... every planet, or luminary in this case, has a sign, apart from the one it naturally rules, in this case Leo, where its energy is expressed harmoniously ... it is said that the complimentary forces are increased and the virtues are magnified !!!

With the Sun in Aries, we are encouraged to shine in the following ways: through valor and bravery; assertively; being first; seek recognition energetically and impetuously; and enhance ones total self-expression ... Since Aries is a fire sign, the Sun is very comfortable here, and maybe works a little more efficiently ... we are energized with a desire to start getting things done and begin new projects - the caveat here is to make those new beginnings carefully and cautiously as both Mercury and Venus are currently retrograde - Mercury until April 7th and Venus until April 12th !!!

Aries is a masculine/fire/cardinal (beginnings) sign ... it is active, energetic, excitable, impulsive, optimistic, and open to change and new experiences ... its symbol is the Ram - assertive, sexual and able to climb to great heights ... its glyph represents the horns and long nose of the Ram ... symbolically the glyph is two half Moons joined by a straight line, which indicates idealism tied to authority and leadership ... its key phrase is "I AM" and keyword is "ACTIVITY" ... anatomically Aries rules the head - Aries born people are often prone to headaches, and sometimes subject to minor injuries around the head and face, and they are also susceptible to harm from fire and sharp instruments as well as being prone to accidents involving high speed ... sometimes they have a tendency to get into violent and dangerous situations ... Aries is the sign opposite of Libra !!!

Aries is ruled by the planet Mars - the ancient God of war, aggression and conflict ... it indicates courage, passion, and competition ... Mars deals with your animal nature, desire and sexual energies ... it shows assertiveness, force, power, construction, work, strife, and competition ... it also governs surgery and operations, weapons, war, accidents, inflammation, wounds and cuts, burns, scalds, violence, tools, iron, and steel ... the action of Mars is sudden, self-assertive, and sometimes very disruptive ... its energy can be used destructively and angrily, in a fighting manner, or with courage and strength ... if you've had a natal chart done, where you find Mars is usually where you expend the greatest energy ... my natal Mars is in the 4th house - the house of home among other things - and I mostly work out of my home !!!

Aries is the natural ruler of the 1st house of the zodiac ... the 1st house keyword is "IDENTITY" and it is a house of life ... the cusp of the 1st house is known as the Ascendant or Rising sign - a very important point in the natal chart - often said to be the "mask" you wear to the outside world !!! ... it shows what the exact degree and sign was on the eastern horizon at the moment of birth - now you know why birth time is so important in Astrology ... the 1st house mirrors your personality, your natural disposition and tendencies, your individuality and the way you express yourself outwardly ... it shows how people see you - which may be totally different from your natal Sun sign - and the way you want others to see you ... the 1st house represents the way you "package" and "market" yourself ... it represents your physical body, your health and your early childhood years ... it usually characterizes your approach to life, your worldly outlook, your appearance and bearing, and the beginnings of all enterprises !!!

The Sun in Aries is all about how to LIVE THROUGH DOING !!! ... its the pioneer, the champion !!! ... this energy simply wants to get something started as the Will has free reign to express itself in this sign ... challenges that stir one to action are usually met with great enthusiasm ... patience is a lesson to be learned under this energy as the drive is so strong to move and MOVE NOW!!! ... physical, emotional and mental extremes are all desired in Aries which usually make one all the better for experiencing them - but go too far and one can expect to be extremely lonely ... remember what springs from your body or mind is only as good as what dwells in your heart ... the energy of the Sun in Aries can be expressed in the following ways:

POSITIVE: assertive, go-getting, crusading, enthusiastic, direct, frank, one-pointed, straightforward, spontaneous, energetic, stimulating, courageous, good starter, warrior caste, leader type, confident, independent, strong-willed, single-minded, original being

NEGATIVE: overly aggressive, unreflective, fanatical, arrogant, blunt, tactless, blind to side-issues, simplistic, impatient, restless, irritating, foolhardy, bad finisher, argumentative, uncooperative, pompous, self-centered, headstrong, thoughtless, intolerant

HAPPY SOLAR RETURN ARIES BORN !!! ... not only is this the time of year to begin a new astrological cycle, but also for YOU to SHINE - which you like to do naturally !!! ... for everyone, it is a time for fresh new beginnings on many levels of ones life ... and even better yet - IT'S TIME FOR SPRING CLEANING - at least in the Northern hemisphere right ???   

The Sun now joins Mercury and Venus, both in retrograde, already transiting through Aries   ... The Sun remains in the sign of Aries until April  19th !!!

Time to OPEN A NEW WINDOW ... OPEN A NEW DOOR - that is if the pollen count isn't too high ... and, as Auntie Mame herself so vivaciously expressed - what many would agree describes the feeling one experiences as the Sun transits through the sign of Aries - it's time to  LIVE ... LIVE ... LIVE !!!  

THE PLANET KNOWN AS THE "TRICKSTER" BEGINS ITS YEARLY BACKWARD CYCLE ONCE AGAIN - ARE YOU READY ???

MERCURY began its first full RETROGRADE journey for 2025 on Saturday, March 15th, at 2:46 AM EDT  ... appropriate we all should get "stabbed in the back" with this energy, right ??? ... if you've been following my blogs, then you know exactly what to expect during a Mercury Retrograde - EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED !!!



This Mercury retrograde will be a dual sign retrograde going from  9 degrees 35 minutes Aries back to 26 degrees 49 minutes Pisces ... if you have any planets or angles - cusp of the 1st, 4th, 7th and 10th houses - from 0 to 9 degrees in the cardinal signs - Aries, Cancer, Libra or Capricorn - this period may have some kind of special impact for you as well if you have any from 26 to 29 degrees in the mutable signs - Pisces, Gemini, Virgo, or Sagittarius !!!



It is very important to understand that Mercury retrogrades are NOT ALWAYS the harbingers of doom and gloom ... even though it is true they can cause disruption and misunderstandings, we have to realize these are simply Universal "time outs" which give us the opportunity to go back to rethink and review our actions especially as the energy relates to the current sign that the planet is transiting through ... bottom line - though we often joke about it, retrogrades shouldn't always be feared and dreaded but perhaps approached cautiously ... the Universe is giving us a chance to right our wrongs and redirect ourselves to achieve more beneficial personal and spiritual growth !!!

To RE-peat, Mercury retrogrades are simply a time for reviewing and revision - as the saying goes, "it might be a good idea to drop back and punt" !!! ... during a Mercury retrograde period it can be said that we are in a mental "down time" and often things will not register on a conscious level with us ... it is also said that the use of Mercury retrograde cycles are to reconnect the individual with the Universal rhythm ... if you've had a natal chart done and know in which house or houses these degrees fall, then you will probably get an idea of where the Universe is asking you to step back and take a closer look at what you are doing in that area of your life as well as indicating to you where mishaps and misunderstandings may occur in your life !!!

Some of you may have noticed the beginning of this backwards energy when Mercury entered its shadow point - the point where it will complete its retrograde journey on April 7th - back on March 1st when it reached 26 degrees 49 minutes Pisces - the day Venus began its dual sign retrograde journey in the same signs and very close degrees ... so now we are revisiting what may have transpired from February 28th up until March 15th as Mercury backs over those degrees, and when it stations direct on April 7th will "scrub" back over those degrees from April 7th through April 26th when it returns to 9 degrees 35 minutes Aries thus exiting its retrograde zone !!!

It practically goes without saying that things somehow just don't seem to go right or as we planned, and we often find ourselves re-doing things especially after Mercury stations back into direct motion ... Obviously communications are going to be challenged both to and from others - partnerships and relationships often hit the skids during these periods ... it is NOT a good time to make major purchases - especially Cars, a big NO NO - and that goes double for USED CARS, as well as computers or anything that involves electronics !!!... purchasing homes can end up producing unforeseen problems and even the contracts can have unexpected difficulties along the way or at closing especially if the closing takes place during the retrograde period .... it is not a good idea to enter into contracts or start new jobs as they will most likely not pan out and end up being dead ends ... and weddings, well I know it takes a long time to plan a wedding and some of them will just have to go on as planned, but if you can avoid a wedding in a Mercury Retrograde - DO IT !!! .... obviously one cannot put their life on hold, but if there is any way to hold off on these things until Mercury turns direct, it would prove beneficial in the long run ... I have frequently found, though, that in some charts I've done, people born under a Mercury retrograde sometimes seem to thrive during these periods because they innately understand the backward energy and how to work with it !!!



Mercury retrograding in Aries will certainly give rise to issues concerning making new starts because Aries is all about go go going forward and not pausing or stopping !!! ... this is NOT the time to make vast sweeping changes - which one should never really do in a personal planet - Mercury, Venus, Mars - retrograde period anyway ... rather one should keep an eye open for possibilities that could prove more satisfying once the energy has returned back to direct motion !!! ... again, if you've had a natal chart done and know in which house/houses 9 degrees 35 minutes Aries back to 26 degrees 49 minutes Pisces falls in your chart, then you may get a good idea as to what the main issues of this Mercury retrograde has in store for you per the area of life these house/houses naturally rule !!!



Aries is the natural ruler of the 1st house, a house of self and identity, of the horoscope so there might also as well be issues regarding your personality, natural disposition, your individuality, the way you express yourself, the way you want others to see you, the way others actually see you, the way in which you package and market yourself, your physical body, your health, issues from early childhood years not dealt with, your approach to life, your worldly outlook, your appearance, as well as the beginnings of all new enterprises !!!



Since Aries is ruled by Mars, there could also potentially be issues in regards to your assertiveness, competitiveness, surgery and operations, accidents, inflammations, cuts, burns, violence and anger management issues !!!

On March 29th Mercury returns to the sign of Pisces ... Mercury retrograding in the sign of Pisces already has a challenge from the start as Mercury is considered to be in detriment in the sign of Pisces .... this means it is in opposition to a sign that it naturally rules in this case being the sign of Virgo ... therefore the potential for more mental and emotional confusion exists as well as the possibility for very strange erratic dreams and psychic experiences !!! ... it also yields an emphasis for an opportunity to rethink old habit patterns and how we emotionally respond to life’s challenges !!! 

As Pisces is ruled by Neptune the planet of illusion, delusion, the spiritual and enlightenment, we can certainly expect our minds to become distracted either by confusion and misunderstandings, already a given in a Mercury retrograde, or strongly drawn to our intuitive abilities and the pursuit of the "ideal" !!! 

As Pisces, whose planetary ruler is Neptune, naturally rules the 12th house, there could be issues regarding dealing with our inner strengths and weaknesses; endings on some level of our lives; places of confinement - jails, hospitals or mental institutions; the desire to withdraw to places of solitude so we may quietly reflect on our life and where we are heading; our frustrations; inner consciousness and the subconscious mind; charitable endeavors; we could also be deeply inspired if we have an aptitude for art, music, dancing or writing; or maybe we will be dealing with actions that could ultimately result in our own self-undoing ... and as grim as it may sound, don't be surprised if you hear of people who are involved in the arts whose souls have decided to leave the earth plane whether expected or unexpected ... I think we have already seen quite a few in the last couple of weeks especially when Venus began its retrograde journey for 2025 on March 1st !!!

In regards to overall health, remember Mercury is the natural planetary ruler of the 6th house which rules health, so there could be more chances to have health issues, or recurring issues, in general during a Mercury retrograde ... there is the potential for health issues in addition to the area of the head which is the anatomical area of the body Aries rules ... there is also potential for health issues in the areas of the feet which is the anatomical area of the body Pisces rules !!!

A Mercury retrograde period is usually not a good time to have surgery as the healing process could be slowed down or there could be the chance of complications resulting in having to go back at a later date and take care of something that wasn't done correctly - especially in regards to cosmetic surgery !!! ... now this applies to elective surgery ... as for emergency surgery, we have no control over that and trying to put that off might produce catastrophic results !!!

Gemini and Virgo born since Mercury is your ruling planet, this is your time for personal review and rethinking - especially in regards as to what has transpired in your life since Mercury resumed direct motion back on December 15th, 2024 ... obviously it is a time for all of us to slow down, as best we can, but especially for Aries, Pisces, Gemini and Virgo born !!!



Below I have re posted the "Mercury Retrograde "Navigation" Manual" written by my teacher Lyn Hammond Gray ... hopefully it will help out :

"Here is your "Navigation" manual: Mercury retro always creates a repeating action. The Re-Words are common. Some re-words that you will notice during this time are:


Repeat – The action you are making during the RX period you will probably repeat again during the period or later.


Repair – The need for repair will arise. If possible, put if off until Mercury turns direct (April 7th).


Reverse - You will be amazed at how many times you change your mind or reverse your thinking during this time. Watch out for that race car driver that is driving in reverse down the emergency lane on the freeway. Yikes !!!


Recall - Your mind will wonder back. You will think of people from the past or you will encounter someone from the past. If old lovers show up, don't bet that it will stick. Believe me... it is just for a "review." And you know what, I wouldn't start a new romance during this period either - wait until after April 7th !!!


Review - If you are reading instructions, you may find it necessary to review repeatedly because they simply  don't make sense. Sometimes the publisher has actually left out a step. It happens!


Regroup - In corporations, it is a common experience during the Rx to hear the boss say, 'Alright, we are going to rework this thing and get it right.' Later when the period is over, they go back to the old way doing things. It is a laugh a minute. Stand back and watch the comedy.


Reboot and Revise - The computer world is a definite place to watch the comedy. It is common for one to suddenly, without fore thought, decide to revise their system during the Rx. Oh! Mercy! That revised system may never function in the normal way. Oh, please! Do wait until the period is over. However, it is fine to do your shopping for the new components during the Rx.


Return - Now here is a good one. You'll find that this period is a popular time for family or class reunions. Should you stay are home? Absolutely not! You go because this is a review that you don't want to miss. But funny thing is that in spite of the fact that you tell these people 'lets stay in touch' it will become lip service and you won't live up to your suggestion.


Rebirth – Often one will go back into the past and bring up old creative projects to work with during this time frame. Sometimes it sticks and sometimes it doesn't. Only you will be able to activate the discipline to keep it going once the retrograde period is over.


Recover - You can bet that you will dig into your files, boxes or storage to recover something that you need…you can also bet it won't be an easy find. It is likely that you will be looking for a legal document· While it is possible that you may not find what you are looking for, you may find something that you would like to put back in to use. Fun!


Re-examine – Well, just about everything.

Reduction – Over the years, I have been amazed at how many times a company or person decides to eliminate a job or to leave a job during the retrograde. It is my experience that a job changed during this period is 95% of the time regretted. Can you wait until the period is over ???



And so it is. Three sometimes four times a year we live with this cosmic "going to teach you patience  routine". All and all when this retrograde period is over you may "Realize" this simple truth: The flow of the universe is very, very interesting and it is going to have its way with us.



Good luck and may the Universe bestow upon each one of you a special wisdom and unique insight into your journey through this life at this point!!! "


Back to me now ... Those born between March 16th and April 6th will definitely be "blessed" with this Mercury retrograde energy in their solar return - birthday chart - for the whole year ahead ... those born on March 15th and April 7th may or may not get this energy depending on what time you solar return occurs - some may be lucky enough to escape it for this year ... yet another very good reason to know your time of birth if you can find it and a reputable astrologer to run your natal chart !!! ... below once again is an explanation of what the potential is to get Mercury retrograde in your birthday chart summed up by Mary Fortier Shea in her book titled "Planets in Solar Return":


"The significance of having Mercury retrograde in your yearly birthday chart or, as we refer to it in Astrology, a Solar Return ...


A Solar Return is the time every year that the Sun returns to the same degrees and minutes it was at when you were born - all the more reason to know your birth time now isn't it, hmmmmm????? ... a new chart is run for you at the time your solar return occurs in that given year and it is run for wherever you are at the precise time of your solar return ... this produces a new horoscope chart which shows what energy you may or may not run into for the year ahead - that is from the current birthday until next years’ birthday ... its energy can be felt from one to three months out before the actual solar return occurs ... often people will relocate for the return time in order to get a particular energy in their solar return chart ...


Mercury is usually retrograde in a solar return chart every six years ... during this time it's best to be introspective ... you should be learning and thinking on your own rather than depending on others ... the mind is like an overstuffed drawer seriously in need of re-filing and reorganization ... in other words the time has come to "process" ... 


the mental processes are not very receptive to new information at this time ... it's time to go back and re-examine and review things in your life which may have been started but not carried through to fruition or maybe interrupted and suddenly abandoned for some reason ... by focusing inward you might be able to see that your own opinions, thoughts and decisions work best for you rather than those made by others ... at the same time be very receptive to the feedback others are giving you especially if you have missed the mark in regard to some endeavor ... 


another side effect of this energy is secretiveness where you decide to withhold information or sometimes outright lie ... and why ??? .. because you have secrets that need to be kept or else were you to express your opinions and thoughts outwardly it could cause tension in your relationships ... have plenty of ice cream around to soothe the tongue you are most likely going to have to bite frequently this year !!! ... 


this is a great year to keep a journal and put your thoughts down on paper and also to write original material ... sometimes you can see things differently when thoughts and ideas are written down which is a very helpful way to get organized ... this is a year where you will probably realize old opinions and beliefs are now outdated thus encouraging you to reassess your thinking, reformulate previously developed ideas, and shed new light on something on some level of your life that needs to be addressed ...


It doesn't really have to be a bad year ... done wisely, fast forwarding to the past and clearing out the "clutter", you can propel yourself further ahead in life than you originally may have thought !!! " 

Back to me again ... and least you forget, we are currently in a Venus retrograde which began March 1st going from 10 degrees 50 minutes Aries back to 24 degrees 37 minutes Pisces ... the same signs, beginning to end, and nearly the same degrees that Mercury will be in ... so be aware, that all of those born between March 16th and April 6th will be "gifted" with both retrograde energies for the year ahead per your Solar Return for 2025 ... again those born on March 15th and April 7th may or may not get both retrograde energies in their solar return chart !!!

For all of us, this becomes a time to review and rethink what is going on in our lives and especially what may have been started or done during the last Mercury Retrograde, that being November 26th through December 15th, 2024 ...  actions taken during previous retrograde periods could also come back to haunt us as well - for 2024 that would also include November 26th through December 15th, August 8th through August 28th, and April 1st through April 25th ... and it would not be out of the realm of possibilities to have something from a previous Mercury retrograde further back than the ones mentioned above come back for some reason that we have to deal with !!!

Whatever the case, it is for sure that there will undoubtedly be lights going ON in our heads regarding these actions as well as other lights going OUT as this Mercury Retrograde energy potentially wreaks its cosmic havoc during this 23 day retrograde period ... Mercury remains retrograde until April 7th !!!




That being said, try to slow down, try not to act too impulsively, and go with the universal flow ... don't try to swim up stream in a raging current of cosmic chaos or the day may come in the near future when you live to regret what you did ... be aware tempers will flare and patience may become scarce, but that personal sense of humor, being one of your greatest allies, should be kept very close by and called upon frequently as the Mercury Retrograde merrily, along with great irritation in many instances, wreaks havoc and/or bestows enlightenment in many situations !!!




In the end my fellow beings of light, as this first full Mercury Retrograde period of 2025 is now upon us, the ultimate question, as always, is will we become the constant victim of Cosmic Chaos, become the recipient of great Cosmic Clarity ... or BOTH ???

COMMUNICATING AND THINKING ACCELERATED INTO OVERDRIVE - SOMETIMES LEADING TO "FOOT IN MOUTH" DISEASE !!!

 

MERCURY began its initial quick witted transit through the spontaneous, expressive sign of Aries on Monday, March 3rd, at 4:04 AM EST ... it has now initiated another spin through the natural zodiac ... Mercury takes  approximately 1 year to go through the 12 signs of the Zodiac ... it spends anywhere from 15 days to roughly two months in each sign - the longer amount of time being the roughly 20 to 24 days during each of its usual three, sometimes four, retrograde periods per year ... Mercury was last in Aries from March 9th through May 15th, 2024 ... a longer than normal transit due to its first full retrograde period for 2024 ... this will be the case again in 2025 !!!

With Mercury transiting through the sign of Aries, and with Aries being a Fire sign, energy and action will be expressed either in an inspiring, creative, independent, or impulsive, aggressive, confrontational manner - thus we can end up being extremely constructive or extremely destructive depending on how we harness this energy ... Mercury in Aries means it is now in a dynamic relationship with Mars - the ruler of Aries - and the Mercurial energy is being pushed into overdrive ... but just how far into overdrive it is pushed remains the question ... nevertheless the mind will be frequently on overload as well as our actions too ... we may find ourselves moving too quickly and causing mishaps or accidents - especially behind the wheel where some of us will no doubt be using even more hand gestures than usual !!!

We will most likely come up with what we determine to be "scathingly brilliant" ideas but not all will be driven to fruition after they lose their initial novelty ... a lot of us will constantly be the victim of "foot-in-mouth" disease as we will have the tendency to speak before we think since the mind is processing so much so fast ... we may also experience sleepless nights or have difficulty going to sleep as we find that when our head hits the pillow the mind is still racing .... we will certainly have to be on guard about starting arguments and trying to stir up controversy simply because we feel like our words are the ultimate authority !!!

With the mind and the tongue working rather quickly here, there is definitely a talent for debate and/or using words that are biting, ironic, and sarcastic ... communication will be made directly, forcefully and with confidence ... new ideas are always being sought here as it becomes necessary to be active in order to learn - even if the lessons end up being harder than we anticipated ... under this energy one is usually interested in courage, self-reliance, freedom and self-expression !!!

Mercury in Aries encourages us to learn to think through doing ... this energy truly expresses the well known phrase that actions speak louder than words !!! ... just as fresh new ideas and experiences are sought out, there is the tendency at times to dwell on old grievances as well as on outworn interests ... if there is a failure to sustain enough mental input or assertion of ones intellectual outlook, there is the risk of nervous and/or physical restlessness that can develop into more serious mental or emotional conditions accompanied by matching circumstances ... slow down to clarify your objectives and then have the faith that you'll rise to the occasion ... make sure your force has a worthy cause attached to it ... realize that the tongue is indeed a sensitive muscle - so learn to "hold it", by learning to "bite" it gracefully, and appreciate what it is attached to !!! ... the energy of Mercury in Aries can be expressed in the following ways:

POSITIVE: quick-thinking, spontaneous, quick-acting, decisive, mentally forceful, stimulating, fighting spirit, fiery, frank, witty, to the point, observant, initiates ideas, thinks on ones feet, mentally active and agile, eloquent, verbally assertive, intellectually confident

NEGATIVE: impatient, irritable, quick-tempered, premature, headstrong, quarrelsome, spitting, thoughtless, sarcastic, terse, precocious, snap opinionated, snap decisions, verbally/mentally restless, one-sided viewpoint, intellectually arrogant



Mercury is currently transiting through Aries along with Venus which is currently in retrograde ... Mercury remains in Aries until ... wait for it ... until May 10th and by now you certainly know why !!!

Mercury will get no further than 9 degrees 35 minutes Aries when it begins its first full retrograde for 2025 ... this will occur from March 14th/15th through April 7th going from 9 degrees 35 minutes Aries back to 26 degrees 49 minutes Pisces ... that is a lot of start/stop energy for a sign like Aries which likes to keep moving forward ... also keep in mind as I have repeatedly mentioned the first upcoming Mercury retrograde will be completely embedded in the current Venus retrograde !!! ... Mercury entered its first shadow point for 2025 back on March 1st the same day Venus began its retrograde journey for 2025 initially in Aries !!!

Aries born individuals, you may become infused with an overabundance of ideas and plans in addition to speaking out, sometimes to your own detriment, more so than usual - but indeed we all may do so even if we aren't Aries born !!!

While Mercury takes this extended transit though Aries, one might be well advised to keep a lot of ice cream or something cool and soothing on hand as we are sure to have a sore tongue from having to bite it so often, well at least those who are wise enough to do so, to keep from allowing our hasty words to cause too much uproar, misunderstandings and unnecessary verbal confrontations which yields the well known caveat -

"LOOSE LIPS SINK SHIPS" !!!

ALL ABOARD "THE ROLLER COASTER OF LOVE" !!!

VENUS - the planet which rules social urge, sense of values, love and affection, and financial matters began its RETROGRADE journey for 2025 yesterday, 3/1, at 7:36 PM EST ... during a transiting Venus retrograde, old lovers, potential past romantic interests or even friends may resurface - some hoping to reconnect while others are only in and out for "pass and review" so to speak ... frequently one will come to realize why the relationship did not work out to begin with or why it is time to LET GO AND MOVE ON -
some will not understand this and run the danger of repeating over and over what may have been a very challenging time in their lives ... relationship issues, both personal and professional/ public and private, come to the forefront thus causing all types of contracts and partnerships to be reconsidered especially if they have become difficult or challenging ... this is also a time when our personal values are usually reconsidered - both material and spiritual - to see if they still make sense or need adjusting somewhere !!!

One of the main purposes of a transiting Venus retrograde is to reconsider relationship and acquisition needs as these change over time for all of us ... it becomes very important during this time to get in touch with ones present values, wants and needs, and to become clear about exactly what you want to attract and why ... is what you personally value inwardly being projected outwardly positively or is change needed on some level ??? ... and needless to say issues surrounding money and finances can become big problems during a Venus retrograde !!! 

PLEASE TAKE NOTE - retrograde periods are not always harbingers of doom and gloom and full of negativity and disaster so please try to ignore all those posts that always have the phrase "how to survive" as it should perhaps be positively stated "how to successfully navigate" these often challenging and demanding periods !!! ... these periods have the greatest potential for each one of us to be able to slow down and review what is making our lives more challenging and take action to correct our course, so to speak, so there isn't so much difficulty in navigating through this thing we call "life" on a day to day basis !!!

Venus spends the least amount of time in retrograde motion out of all of the planets ... within its 584-day cycle, Venus stations retrograde roughly every 18 months for a period of about 6 weeks ... it was last retrograde from July 23rd, 2023 through September 4th, 2023 completely in the sign of Leo going from 28 degrees 36 minutes Leo back to 12 degrees 12 minutes Leo - what was going on in your life during that period that may have had to do with anything mentioned in this blog specific to a Venus retrograde that has now resurfaced for review and rethinking or simply falls apart or must be released ??? ... there is a good chance that any partnership/relationship, especially of the romantic variety, begun during that last retrograde period has now come to a point where it is time to let go and move on !!! ... in fact, ever since Venus entered its shadow point back on January 28th, issues could have begun to arise foreshadowing what was to come during the retrograde period ... especially issues that may have plagued the relationship on and off since Venus stationed back in direct motion on September 4th, 2023 or perhaps even issues that have surfaced in partnerships/relationships that have been ignored even if the relationship was not begun during the Venus retrograde period !!!



Over the next 42 day period, this dual sign Venus retrograde will go from 10 DEGREES 50 MINUTES ARIES back to 24 DEGREES 37 MINUTES PISCES ... and yes, there could be issues already rising up from any relationship/partnership either personal or professional that was begun from January 28th up until March 1st when the retrograde began ... interesting to note, the last time Venus was retrograde in both signs together of Aries/Pisces occurred from March 4th through April 15th, 2017 going from 13 degrees 8 minutes Aries back to 26 degrees 54 minutes Pisces ... obviously this time including some of the same degrees as in 2017 ... anything come to mind from that period in your life regarding that retrograde period ???

Taurus and Libra born individuals, this is your planetary ruler so you are beginning your period of personal "down time", so to speak, to review and rethink what has transpired in your life since September 4th, 2023 ... but in addition to you, we all will be subjected to a period of reflection in our personal actions in regards to our social urges, sense of values, love and affection, and monetary affairs !!!

Some things to remember during a Venus retrograde - it is NOT a good time to purchase "luxury " items if you can wait because when Venus stations back into direct motion, you might well find yourself thinking "WHY did I spend THAT MUCH on something I really didn't want or need" or you may simply feel you did not get the anticipated value for what you spent your hard earned money to purchase ... often in a Venus retrograde money can become low and scarce and we can end up having to spend money we hadn't counted on spending, but in some cases one may end up getting money "coming back" to them from one source or another !!! ... it also is not a good time to begin a new job if you can wait because you may never get the money you expected out of the job, you may feel like you are not being paid enough for the value of your service, or the job simply might not pan out down the road for some reason ... that being said, unfortunately as a Venus retrograde can indicate the "tightening of the purse strings" by individuals as well as companies, salaries could be cut back or the job may be terminated for one reason or another !!!



WEDDINGS ARE MOST CERTAINLY A HUGE NO-NO as this is the planet which rules romance, love and affection - do you really want that energy going backwards on the day you say "I DO"??? ... if you were to take the day of the actual wedding, and count forward to the end of the retrograde period, then that total number of days would be the actual number of YEARS it would be before the energy turned back into direct motion by progression in the event chart ... most likely there would constantly be issues regarding either love, emotions and/or money and that can make things very difficult !!! ... if you are getting married, you should have someone mark the time you are officially pronounced married and then have an event chart run, by a reputable astrologer, for that time and the place to see in which house Venus retrograde falls, and you might get a very good idea where in life issues concerning love, money and personal values may surface during the marriage ... I'm not saying don't get married because I know weddings take time and preparation, just realize you may be adding an unnecessary challenge to the already challenging task it takes to navigate through the waters of a personal relationship ... to this end, I would also state the hopefully obvious - a Venus retrograde is definitely NOT the time to begin a new romantic relationship !!! ... but keep in mind if you were born with Venus retrograde in your natal chart, these choppy emotional waters might not be as difficult to navigate as it will be for others !!!

Speaking of relationships, you may find arguments and disagreements rearing their ugly heads and if you sever the ties in a Venus retrograde, when it turns direct you will probably be asking yourself why you cut that person out of your life ... on the other hand, relationships and partnerships that have been constantly challenging and have been overly stressful will most likely dissolve during a Venus retrograde period and it is usually best to let them go and move forward ... but this can also be a good time in certain cases where there is a chance to allow some healing to occur in a partnership or relationship that somehow managed to fall off track ... keep in mind that in a Venus retrograde people become a little less sociable and frequently forget their manners so it might be a good idea to "drop back and punt" and hold off passing judgment while the energy is moving backwards !!!

Obviously the overall ruler of this retrograde period is indeed Venus ... and as such the following could be ongoing issues in addition to the other signs it will actually be retrograde in :

Issues could arise with art, culture, aesthetics, possessions, partners, beauty, charm, good taste, sweets and sugar, color, harmony, poetry, paintings, jewelry, singing, singing, drama, music, emotional contacts, moral character, marriage and unions of all kinds, sociability, disposition, luxuries, pleasure and appreciation - all these being ruled by Venus !!!

Issues could arise with financial affairs, possessions (except real estate), investments, earning power, any gain or loss through our own efforts, inner talents and resources, need for fulfillment, emotional feelings, sense of self-worth, sense of values, personal liberty as liberty is usually a matter of money, material debt - these issues being addressed in the 2nd house of the natural zodiac ruled by Venus !!!

Issues could arise with face-to-face relationships both business and marital partnerships, marriage, divorce, contracts, lawsuits, bargains, agreements, dealing with the public and their response, open enemies, cooperation or lack thereof with others, what you most lack in yourself, attitudes towards marriage, your mate, the kind and quality of your marriage, how many marriages you may have, your grandparents, any people who act as your agent or on your behalf - these issues being addressed in the 7th house of the natural zodiac which is also ruled by Venus !!!

As previously mentioned, this Venus retrograde occurs from 10 DEGREES 50 MINUTES ARIES back to 24 DEGREES 37 MINUTES PISCES ... if you've had a natal chart done, look to see in which house or houses theses degrees fall and you might get an idea as to where this energy may surface in your life ... Remember that Venus in Aries is considered to be in detriment so it is not functioning efficiently to begin with and adding retrograde motion can makes things even more challenging ... Venus in Aries is all about the thrill of the chase and often moving too far too fast and we may certainly find that is exactly what happened while it is retrograde ... we may discover that whoever or whatever it was that we became so impassioned about suddenly becomes more of a question of "what were we thinking about, or what did we really see in that person" ???

In regards to Venus in Aries, Mars rules Aries and therefore there could be issues to arise in the following areas:

your animal nature, desire, sexual energies, assertiveness, force, power, construction, work, strife, competition, surgery, operations, weapons, war, accidents, inflammation, wounds, cuts, burns, scalds, violence, tools, iron , and steel which are all areas ruled by Mars !!!

your personality, natural disposition, tendencies, individuality, the way you express yourself, how people see you, the way you want others to see you, the way you "package" and "market" yourself, your physical body, your health, your early childhood years, your approach to life, your worldly outlook, your appearance and bearing and the beginning of all enterprises - all of these being issues addressed in the 1st house of the natural horoscope naturally ruled by Mars !!!

On March 27th, Venus returns to the sign of Pisces and the original emphasis, which will still be in play, will shift from the fiery passionate side of Venus to the more sympathetic and emotional side ... Venus in Pisces is exalted which means it functions extremely well unlike in Aries but nevertheless in retrograde will present its challenges ... Venus in Pisces is all about dreams and wishes, fairy tale endings and love at first sight and happily ever after ... In retrograde motion, Venus in Pisces will surely bring to light that all is not perfect and the mirage of "perfect" love we thought we found to be so ideal becomes very human after all and often extremely disappointing ... therefore whatever occurred from January 3rd through February 4th, when Venus made its initial first full transit through Pisces, may suddenly become very flawed by the reality that now confronts us in retrospect !!!

In regards to Venus in Pisces, Neptune rules Pisces and therefore there could be issues to arise in the following areas:

maritime matters, liquids, music, movies, stage and television, glamour, dreams, illusion, delusion, spirituality, ideals, mystique, hunches, creative functions, and things we take deeply for granted in life without questioning, fog, petroleum, mystery, anesthetics, flattery, intangibles, fragrances, second sight, love of poetry, color, dancing, drugs, drug addiction, alcoholism, hypochondria, sleepwalking, trances, hypnosis, abnormality which are all areas rule by Neptune !!!

your inner strengths and weaknesses, behind the scenes activity which would include clandestine affairs, restorative solitude, places of quiet reflection, sorrows, handicaps, secrets, seclusion, frustrations, jails, hospitals, mental institutions, secret enemies, restraint, inhibitions, exile, hidden dangers, self-undoing, things we hide from others, research, backgrounds, subjective sustainment, inner consciousness, the subconscious mind, charity, sympathy, public welfare, where we sweep away or hide problems to painful to face, difficulties we refuse to acknowledge, aptitude for art, music, dancing writing, acting - all of these being issues addressed in the 12th house of the natural horoscope naturally ruled by Neptune !!!

Regarding health issues, the following would be areas potentially affected per sign:

Venus: the throat, chin, cheeks and sense of taste

Mars: the external reproductive organs, head and face

Neptune: the pineal glands and feet

As for elective surgery, especially of the cosmetic enhancement variety, best to wait until after April 12th as you may feel you did not the desired results you "paid" for and might even have to go back and redo it once Venus stations direct ... for all other surgery that is not elective, you should not try to push that back as it could have dire results !!!

For those of you born between March 2nd and April 11th, you will definitely get the energy of Venus retrograde in your solar return chart, the birthday chart, for the year ahead on one or the other signs depending on your birthday ... those born on March 1st and April 12th may or may not get this backwards energy depending on the time and day your solar return occurs this year !!!

The following is what astrologer Mary Fortier Shea has to say about having Venus retrograde in your birthday chart for the whole year and it may be helpful in understanding what you may be dealing with :

"Venus retrograde indicates a time of comparison and contrast. Your increased ability to distinguish and value inner qualities separate from external situations signals an opportunity to compare and contrast the importance of each. Relationships, finances, and priorities should all be reassessed on the basis of the inner qualities they exhibit in comparison to the external pleasure or stress that they generate. Your focus on internal values will tend to overshadow your need for external manifestation; consequently, you will make adjustments in your pursuit of materialistic and external goals.

Relationships are always more important for the love you give and receive than the external trappings; however, this issue will become more evident during this year. You may be in love with a special person who treats you wonderfully, but refuses to consider marriage. If you were attracted to this person because of his or her inner qualities, it is important to appreciate your feelings for one another, and not get hung up on the legalization process. During this year you will tend to assess relationships you see or experience for the inner and outer qualities which they possess or lax. You can always find others who have the external trappings you desire without genuine caring. (Example: a verbally abusive marriage.)

External, artificial indicators of affection are meaningless. It is the inner and sometimes less apparent qualities that are important. Your attention to this issue will make the incongruity more obvious to you. Part of this discernment process can involve frustration with personal involvements which do not conform to your external expectations of what a relationship or partner should be. Love does not necessarily occur in neat little storybook packages, and frustration results from close attention to external storybook details which cannot truly satisfy internal needs. Outer limitations stress the importance of inner beauty. Because third parties may not easily see the qualities that you appreciate in your loved one, they may criticize your choice. Their criticism will encourage you to further define the inner beauty that attracts you. Those relationships which possess no redeeming inner qualities will seem void and unfulfilled. They can be discarded regardless of the external advantages they supply.

Values must be more closely attuned to the individuals aesthetic appreciation and therefore may be less consistent with societal preferences and standards. One can see unique beauty in what might appear ordinary to others. Your taste in material objects might depend on the emotional qualities associated with those objects. Price or status is unimportant.

Venus retrograde symbolizes an emphasis on the quality of life over the desire for financial gain. The money you earn should not be as important as the quality of your working environment and your satisfaction while on the job. Focusing on your inner need for contentment and fulfillment allows you to let go of a large salary, and search for an enjoyable employment position even though it may involve a pay cut. If you continue to work at a stressful job because of the pay, you may be very unhappy. Materialism will not bring you true happiness this year or any year. If you must remain in a stressful job, develop a strong belief in yourself and your abilities. Set goals that are rewarding and doable. Do not focus on your inability to perform at your best when conditions are at their worst. Some work environments are dysfunctional. Financially, this is generally a time to be conservative with funds. You cannot make good decisions about the quality of your life if you are more concerned with your monetary situation.

Social contacts and involvement in social activities are not emphasized while Venus is retrograde in the solar return. You need more time to focus inward and may withdraw from some or all social functions because you welcome the time alone. You might no longer enjoy these functions, or you might realize that certain social relationships are too difficult and unrewarding to maintain. For those individuals who require counseling, this can be a time of isolation. Withdrawal is common with Venus retrograde, but generally any time alone can be put to good use. You could want to be alone with one special person."

Even though we will all be impacted on some level of our lives by the Venus retrograde, the following signs may feel its impact even more personally - Taurus and Libra born as this is your ruling planet, and Aries and Pisces born which obviously are the two signs in which the retrograde occurs this time around yet again !!!

Venus remains retrograde until April 12th ... it will not be retrograde again until January 10th, 2027 through April 1st, 2027 beginning in Virgo and ending in Leo - information for those of you who like to prepare and just might be planning a "special occasion" during 2027 !!!

One final caveat, during this Venus retrograde, Mercury will take its first retrograde journey for 2025 from March 14th/15th through April 7th going from 9 degrees 35 minutes Aries back to 26 degrees 49 minutes Pisces ... same signs and very close degrees as the Venus retrograde ... and in case you're trying to figure out, should you have a birthday during these periods, if your birthday is on March 16th through April 6th, you will get both Mercury and Venus as a "present" in your solar return for the year ahead ... those born March 14th/15th and April 7th may or may not get both energies depending on the time of your solar return this year ... so much to consider and ponder - don't you just "LOVE" it ??? 

A cautionary word of advice for those who are interested - while it's true this next 42 day period will be challenging and most likely present lessons regarding love, money, and values the Universe deems necessary for us to face and learn from, during the Venus retrograde period be aware it could prove to be potentially more challenging ... AND WHY ??? ... once again because Mercury will take its first full retrograde journey for 2025 from March 14th/15th through April 7th completely embedding it in the Venus retrograde ... in fact, Mercury entered its next shadow point yesterday March 1st the day the Venus retrograde began !!! ... that being said, do you get the picture and potential implications ??? ... All aboard the "roller coaster of love" !!!

With all the above mentioned being said, try your best to keep your temper in check and mind your manners as they may be trying to take a little vacation from you and everyone else as well ... hopefully one will be strong and open enough to receive the illumination and enlightenment this retrograde period will bring and be willing to take an honest and thorough inward look to see if change must be made to further personal and spiritual growth !!!



In the end perhaps if one is not careful enough or simply needs and must learn a valuable life lesson, one of the main results of a Venus retrograde may end up being best summed up by the famous words of the Bard, that would be Shakespeare for those of you in the dark, himself - "The course of true love never did run smooth" !!!