Reeling In the Retrogrades: New Year same Shit

Mercury Retrograde is a time of confusion and miscommunication. On December 29th, it will be entering the sign of Capricorn and this can have an especially powerful effect on us all - especially those with planets or points in the sign! It’s important to remember that Mercury Retrograde isn’t necessarily a bad thing – it’s simply a time where we need to be more mindful of our decisions and take extra steps to ensure that any tasks or projects are carried out correctly. On Tuesday, December 29th at 4:32 a.m. Eastern Time (ET), Mercury will enter its retrograde cycle in the zodiac sign Capricorn at 24 degrees. As the retrograde begins in Capricorn, signifying karma and discipline, you shouldn't be surprised to experience a few obstacles along your way. This cardinal earth sign is associated with determination and delayed gratification - two qualities that will drive you to succeed. Don't be afraid to meet difficulties with determination, for Capricorn will always provide a reward for your effort. Tackle obstacles and take initiative - success awaits! Thanks to the 24th degree's designation as the Pisces degree and its associations with sympathy, understanding, and absolution, many of us will be much more likely to receive apologies graciously, reconcile our differences amicably, and move forward together. Do not be fooled—this upcoming Mercury retrograde is sure to bring even more life-altering changes than usual.

It's not just Mercury we're dealing with, remember, we're STILL in Mars retrograde. This means we are still experiencing the effects of defiance, aggression, and impulsivity. When these two planets come together in a retrograde motion, there is an increased likelihood for confrontations and impulsive decisions. With that being said, now is not the time to make any major life-altering choices. Instead, focus on calming yourself down—take a pause before you act, be mindful of your choices and actions, and remain grounded in the reality that all this too shall pass. Finally, make sure to take some time for yourself during this cycle. Make sure you are taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Self-care doesn't have to look the same for everyone, go break some shi** if that's what you need but the goal for 2023 is "No more burnout". We need to acknowledge how exhausted our bodies and spirts feel and address is head on.

Take some time out of your day to acknowledge how you're feeling and take a break if you need it. So while Mercury Retrograde is sure to bring plenty of confusion, misunderstandings, and delays - remember that we have the power to use these energies for our own growth. Be the captain of your destiny. As you gaze upon what has been, where you are presently, and all that lies ahead, seize the opportunity to craft a desirable future for yourself. Make the most of this backward motion by using it as a chance to develop and reflect. Use this time to get ready for what lies ahead! The powerful influence of the five-day period between Mars' direct motion on January 12th and Mercury's forward march on January 18th will be felt in our lives. The decisions taken between January 12 and 18 are final; no alterations can be made, so choose wisely. Thankfully, Mercury will create a trine with Uranus and the North Node of Destiny - that means these adjustments can be made easier if we're able to go along smoothly with the ever-changing cosmic waves. As you navigate the turbulent times ahead, keep in mind that Mercury Retrograde brings with it an array of opportunities. Now let's see how each sign will be affected:

Aries: You'll have no problem taking on the challenge that Mercury Retrograde brings, Mercury is retrograding through your 10th house of career as of December 29. This means you can use this time to reflect on your professional aspirations and reset any goals that haven't been achieved. The cardinal sign loves to make plans and take action - something they will be able to do with the help of their ruler, Mars. Use this period wisely to reassess important issues in your life. This isn't the moment to play it safe, follow your intuition and wildest dreams. Things are about to expand drastically for Aries signs but you have to take the leap first.

Taurus: Mercury is retrograding in your 9th house of higher learning, making this an ideal time for travel and exploration. In the moments that you feel lost, your faith will be nurtured. Life has an extraordinary way of bringing you back home even when it appears that everything is beyond repair. With the North Node of Destiny creating a trine with the planet, now may be the perfect time to learn something new or explore a different culture - just remember to take safety precautions! 2023 is YOUR YEAR love, bask in it!

Gemini: The retrograde will affect your 8th house of transformation, making it an emotionally intense period for Geminis. It's important to stay grounded during this period as there may be hidden issues that could surface unexpectedly. Take caution when it comes to making major decisions and trust your intuition.If funds are unaccounted for, it's time to uncover where they may have gone (especially if your resources haven't been well-ordered). I know, I know, my Gemi's, its soooo boring to care about finances but we must, adulting and whatnot. Nevertheless, this period of reflection may not have as much to do with finances as it does the mental challenge of releasing and progressing. Gemini mouth's are officially hazardous until both Mercury and Mars retrograde end. Keep it shut or enjoy the madness.

Cancer: Mercury will be retrograding through your 7th house of relationships, giving you an opportunity to reconnect with a past lover or friend who may play a role in your future. It's also important to take note of the deeper issue that could be causing disharmony in your current partnerships and use this opportunity to find out what it is and fix it before moving forward. You have come so far in your journey to recovery, Cancer. It is time for you to recognize and appreciate all that you have accomplished thus far on this path!

Leo: This period marks an excellent time for creativity as the planet moves through your 6th house of work and health. Use this time to focus on any projects you've been putting off - now is the perfect moment to start them or finish them! As Mercury transits opposite of Saturn, keep in mind that hard work will pay off now. It's time to reflect deeply on the daily habits and routines that you rely upon for getting through your day.Are these tasks stimulating your most significant progress? Do they bring you a sense of achievement without sapping all that energy out of you?

Virgo: Mercury is retrograding through your 5th house of romance and pleasure, making this an ideal time for pleasure and entertainment. Counteract the effects of Mercury's backward motion with a little extra self-love and pampering. Spend some quality time with friends or take a weekend away to recharge. Mercury is your ruling planet, which means this retrograde is bound to affect you on a fierce level. As a Virgo, you must be extra vigilant now--old flings may linger around every corner. Caution is definitely advised here since many of them will simply take advantage of the current retrograde. Be sure to remain firm and ignore your exes... well enjoy, just don't fool yourself about the long term expectations, do you boo boo!

Libra: Take advantage of the planet's transit through your 4th house of home as you focus on healing any emotional wounds that may have been holding you back from true happiness. This could be an especially difficult period if there are unresolved issues in your family, so try your best to keep communication open and clear. As Mercury retrogrades through your fourth house of home and family on December 29, it symbolizes a chance for you to mend ties with the past while also cultivating new ones. This is the perfect opportunity to tend to both old and new roots in order to help them grow stronger. Home is a place we can always return to; it's the ultimate destination that calls us back, no matter where our journey may take us. Remember and focus on your happy place, your home.

Scorpio: With Mercury transiting through your 3rd house of communication, it's a great time to observe and think twice before speaking. Pay attention to the messages you're sending out into the world and make sure they are in alignment with what you truly believe. The transit of Mercury will be felt most strongly in work projects, so make sure that your efforts are focused on the right tasks. During this retrograde cycle, it will pass through your third house of communication--bringing forth past conversations that may not have been concluded with the best outcome. Brace yourself for the unexpected, as those who had previously "Ghosted" you may suddenly reappear! Stay strong Scorpio's and beware of your mouth's!

Sagittarius: Spend some quality time exploring new places as Mercury moves through your 2nd house of money and possessions. It's an ideal period for finding creative ways to bring in extra income or taking action on launching a business idea. However, be cautious when signing contracts or lending money - do your research first! As this planetary retrograde transpires in your domain of self-confidence and security, you may find yourself hungering for something that is seemingly unattainable. Nevertheless, it will prompt you to reconsider which values to align with.

Capricorn: With Mercury retrograding through your sign, now is the time to be honest with yourself about the things you want and need in life. Pay attention to any thoughts or feelings that come up during this period as they could hold the key to your future success. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you find yourself stuck in a rut - it could be just what you need to break free. Capricorn, prepare yourself - this Mercury retrograde has been tailored just for you!On December 29th, Mercury will go into retrograde in your first house of the self. This could lead you to a thorough reexamination of yourself and may even require drastic changes for personal growth. Forget the façade of being a people pleaser and stand in your authenticity as a Capricorn.

Aquarius: Mercury is retrograding through your 12th house of spirituality, making this an ideal time for reflection and rest. If possible, take some time away from technology - even if it's just for a few hours - and use this opportunity to connect with your true self. Meditation or yoga can also be beneficial tools during this transitory period. Nevertheless, your drive to achieve success is more powerful than any apprehensions you may have. In fact, when emotion serves as your primary impetus, such motivation can be even greater.Despite feeling more secluded and aloof during this time, you're also giving your unconscious mind the opportunity to comprehend what is missing from your life.

Pisces: The planet of communication is moving through your 11th house of friends and acquaintances, giving you an opportunity to reconnect with old pals or create new bonds. This could be a great period for networking, so don't be afraid to put yourself out there! Just make sure not to overextend yourself in the process. Despite this, it doesn't have to be the end of your friendships. Instead, Networking is a method of re-establishing relationships with past colleagues, acquaintances and teammates that you may have drifted away from. In other words, a team has the potential to share useful insights that can help you grow. Get ready to discover what it takes for a group of people to collaborate rather than compete against each other.

No matter which sign you are, it's important to remember that Mercury Retrograde (and Mars currently) can have both positive and negative effects depending on how we use it. A weapon can be used for both good and evil, so how will you wield this energy? Use this time as an opportunity to focus on healing past wounds and creating healthy habits that will last beyond this transitory period. 2022 was a whirlwind of chaos and transformation, with all that intense change, what will you bring about into your future? What will you create? Whatever it is, make sure it’s something that has lasting value.

While 2022 was year of balancing in numerology (2+0+2+2=6) , 2023 you can expect to be a 7 year (2+0+2+3=7), which is the spiritual awareness number. This will bring about a time of spiritual growth and enlightenment. We are in the midst of an evolution, so make sure you use this energy to your advantage. Take time to reflect on your past and determine which changes need to be made in order for you to reach your goals. As we move into 2023, know that you have the power within yourself to manifest your dreams - don't let anything, or anyone hold you back! Now is the time for reinventing yourself and turning those dreams into reality. Check out our Guild content Library for more info on Astrology, Numerology and much more!