COSMIC RELIEF: FINAL MERCURY RETROGRADE OF 2023

In astrology, we analyze how larger celestial bodies impact our personal lives. It’s a belief system that assumes our human existence mirrors that of the cosmos. We are each a microcosm of the universe.   

With everything we do, say and believe, we are actively participating in its never-ending evolution. This month, we will be facing the last Mercury retrograde of the year, and this one will likely trigger some of our inner critics.  

From Aug. 22 to Sept. 15, Mercury will make its final retrograde for 2023 and the highly analytical and sometimes overly critical sign of Virgo. Let’s start off with Mercury. Originally derived from the Greek God Hermes, Mercury was known to the ancients as a messenger of the gods who also transported the dead into the underworld. If you found riches by chance or experienced any random stroke of luck, it was said to have been the god Mercury communicating with you.  

Naturally, Mercury became the astrological ruler of communication systems, micro (our minds, information, speech) and macro (the internet, infrastructure, electronics). As Mercury moves through the signs of the zodiac, roughly once a month, we are given a boost of energy to lament, analyze and gather information about various parts of our lives. And just like every other planet in our solar system, Mercury has a retrograde period in which that energy can be felt internally.   

When Mercury passes through Virgo, its energy is said to be amplified. Virgo is ‘ruled’ by Mercury in astrological systems. Its influence over the sign makes its energy very capable of creating networks and finding patterns in the world 

With all that investigative energy moving into our cosmic fields next month, we all might feel like we have a spotlight over ourselves. Collectively, we will likely be feeling a lot more sensitive to criticism and may be faced with situations that could cause us to ask ourselves some hard questions.   

With many other planets in retrograde and a full blue moon on Aug. 31 that will only increase our sensitivity and intuitive insight, the key for this month is to work with that Virgo energy. What this Mercury retrograde asks most from us is to sit in stillness (and if you can, in nature) with those discomforts and analyze what the next steps could be.  

Below you can find out how and where this Mercury retrograde is landing in your life based on your sun and rising signs.  

Below you can find out how and where this Mercury retrograde is landing in your life based on your sun and rising signs. And to help you sit through the uncomfortable retrograde ride, here is another cosmic mixtape for the season.

ARIES   

You’ll be preoccupied with some health concerns or general daily minutia this retrograde. Intellect will get the best of you this month. If you can somehow get out of your head and into your body, that would help you to ease your anxiety levels. 

TAURUS  

You’ll likely be critical of any sort of romantic or playful aspects of your life this season. Being quick to judge charming gestures will be an instinct you’ll want to balance. Take your time with the judgements of the people wanting your attention.    

GEMINI 

Home and family will take centre stage for you in this retrograde. You’ll have a hard time balancing a healthy home life with other obligations.  

CANCER  

 You may gain insight into issues you have had a hard time communicating. You’ll want to express yourself well, but you may find it challenging to say exactly how you are feeling this month.  

 LEO  

Expect some information and insight regarding any business or financial affairs this month. Be sure to look over any contracts and financial obligations with fresh eyes to avoid any miscommunications or miscalculations. 

VIRGO  

Expect to have some revelations about your identity this month. You’ll have a heightened awareness of everything around you, so pay attention to the multitudes of insights that you’ll be receiving.   

LIBRA  

Unconscious memories might be sneaking up on you this month. Expect some obsessive thoughts to intrude into your mental space. Making decisions based on your intuition is the best way through.   

SCORPIO  

You’ll be questioning friendships and community spaces this month. Groups will feel a little daunting during this retrograde, so try and keep things as light as you can until it passes.   

SAGITTARIUS  

You’ll be gaining a lot of insight regarding your ambitious endeavors this month. Pay attention to how you are sensing the opportunities in front of you. Try to hold off on any big career decisions until the retrograde season is over. 

CAPRICORN  

Expect some inner conflicts regarding your life’s philosophy this month, You’ll be spending time lamenting over what it is you want out of life and what sort of belief structures work for you.  

AQUARIUS  

This month may stir up some old grudges or have you wanting some vindictive action. Be mindful of how you use your words and whether you are losing sight of the big picture.  

PISCES  

You can expect some upsets and misunderstandings in your partnerships this retrograde. Carefully consider all aspects of the problem before jumping to conclusions.