Mercury and Mars Retrograde

Mercury begins an extra retrograde period for 2009 on December 26, the day after Christmas. How many electronic toys, gadgets, computers, TV’s, etc. will not be working right this year?

When Mercury is retrograde, it affects electronics, communication, travel, etc. Computers break down, conversations get misunderstood, people argue and cars can break down. What a fun thing to have happen at Christmas time!

Mars began it’s retrograde period on December 20, just before winter solstice. Mars, the god of warriors, rules physical energy and efforts, the strength and direction of the physical force that drives your ego, your will to achieve. Mars fires your emotions and energizes your passions, but also powers your mental endeavors and communicative skills.

Mars retrograde causes irrational action; introspection; depression and self-assessment; sexual issues and relationship conflicts.

Mercury is a quick moving planet and is only retrograde for about 3 weeks, returning direct on January 15, 2010. During this period, unresolved issues from the past will rear their heads to be dealt with.

It rules our thinking and perception, processing and disseminating information and all means of communication, commerce, education and transportation. It also rules people who work in these areas, especially those who work with their minds or their wits: writers and orators, commentators and critics, gossips and spin doctors, teachers, travelers, tricksters and thieves.

During this period, you may see more personal misunderstandings; flawed, disrupted, or delayed communications, negotiations and trade; glitches and breakdowns with phones, computers, cars, buses, and trains.

Do not make important decisions while Mercury is retrograde, since it is likely that such decisions will be clouded by misinformation, poor communication and careless thinking. Mercury is all about mental clarity and the power of the mind, so when it is retrograde these intellectual characteristics tend to be less sharp than usual, as the critical faculties are dimmed. Make sure you pay attention to the small print on any contracts.

Mercury is the trickster and can make us feel foolish and inadequate if we aren’t able to flow with the energies.

Mars retrograde gives us the opportunity to reconsider our personal opinions and views about life. It presents us with an opportunity to gain insight into our unconscious motivations, the hidden motivations that cause us to act without thinking. Anxieties may develop around image and ego-desires. People in positions of responsibility, trust, or authority will need to watch their backs during this period and watch their tempers.

The energy of Mars is powerful and will give a big boost to courageous activities, and a strong push to get ahead. Do not take things too much for granted, or become too sure of yourself, as Mars is not always to be trusted.

Mars will return direct on May 17, 2010.

With these two planets in retrograde phases, it should be an interesting time!