This Mercury Retrograde period is in Aquarius which is a fixed air sign. It has everything to do with information. When Mercury is retrograde we are meant to be reflective about information; to size it up, listen twice and pay attention so we don’t make castles in the air that will only crumble when put to the test.

Given the aspects it makes while on its retrograde journey I expect this period to be one where much could be learned and lots could be organized or disposed of if it has outlived its usefulness.

In its journey it will sextile Uranus on January 28th (It also does this in the shadow periods before and after: January 14th and March 1st.) This is a very positive opportunity to think right outside the box. Do not be afraid of things that are inventive and unusual. But since Mercury is retrograde take time to decide what you want to do with such cleverness. A great time to work on a project that has a ‘different’ quality to it.

Mercury will also conjunct the Sun which is its most important aspect on January 30th. This happens with each and every Mercury retrograde period. It is a time to be most reflective about your issues and intentions. If we listen at this time we are likely to hear much but listening requires us to be unplugged and quiet.

It will also sextile Saturn on February 5th. (As it did at the beginning of the shadow on January 6th and will again on February 5th.) This is another opportunity of a different nature than Uranus. Here we are asked to do some study of our subject; to look for wisdom and to make the effort to seek out experienced people. Experience is always the best teacher when Saturn is around.

Julie Simmons
Astrologer