Mercury in Retrograde: 2013

We are all influenced when Mercury is in retrograde. See retrograde dates for 2013.

When Mercury is Retrograde

Sometimes the other planets appear to be traveling backward through the zodiac; this is an illusion. We can this illusion retrograde motion.

Mercury's retrograde periods can cause our plans to go awry. However, this is an excellent time to reflect on the past. Intuition is high during these periods, and coincidences can be extraordinary.

When Mercury is retrograde, remain flexible, allow time for extra travel, and avoid signing contracts. Review projects and plans at these times, but wait until Mercury is direct again to make any final decisions.

2013 Retrograde Dates

In 2013, Mercury will be retrograde from:

• February 23–March 17
• June 26–July 20
• October 21–November 10

A Man With a Message

Mercury comes from the Latin word merx, or mercator, which means merchant. Mercury is the name given by the ancient Romans to the Greek mythological god Hermes.

Mercury is depicted as a male figure having winged sandals and a winged hat, indicating the ability to travel quickly. He was the official messenger of the ancient gods and goddesses and, as such, governed communications.

In 1782, Mercury became the first symbol of the United States' postal service. Today, he is the Icon of an International floral delivery service.

In astrology, Mercury influences travel, literature, poetry, merchants, and thieves. He is cunning and witty at a moment's notice. But he is also recognized as a trickster and prone to misbehavior.

Zodiac Profiles

In Aries: Expect to be frustrated and frazzled. Assertive, impulsive Aries wants to move ahead, and all of the energy is going backwards. Watch what you say and how you say it. Pay attention to what people say to you; you might be pleasantly surprised.

In Taurus: Take time to formulate your thoughts. Taurus, an unhurried sign, slows down the mental processes. He also governs banking, so delay money matters. Review financial matters, and position yourself for growth.

In Gemini: Because Gemini rules communications, be prepared for miscommunications. Expect lots of phone calls or none, and lost or misplaced mail. You may not articulate clearly. At the same time, old friends may reconnect.

In Cancer: Expect annoyances at home with baking, gardening, and household duties under domesticated Cancer. Complete repair projects that weren't finished or done correctly.

In Leo: Avoid speculative investments. It is not a good time to buy or sell or do any trading. Instead, analyze your investment portfolio. Use your know-how and advisory skills to help friends and associates.

In Virgo: Challenging situations arise, especially in the workplace. Expect product delays and equipment breakdowns, as well as crankiness among coworkers under finicky, detailed Virgo. Double-check your work before you call it finished.

In Libra: Accept your physical attributes; do not have a makeover. Indecision resigns, so limit purchases—or risk returning them. Libra, representing beauty, grace, charm, and diplomacy, is out of balance. Refresh, relax, and rejuvenate.

In Scorpio: Emotions rule—not common sense—so beware. Avoid affairs of the heart. Passionate Scorpio is also secretive, and your secrets may seep out. Keep them in a diary.

In Sagittarius: It is not a time to travel, so reschedule or just expect delays, lines, and lost directions. Instead, take care of local affairs. Patience and a sense of humor are needed.

In Capricorn: Avoid buying, selling, or renting real estate under Capricorn, the sign that governs property matters. Expect problems with paperwork, packing, and movers. Reunite with family or vacation at home.

In Aquarius: With Mercury retrograde in Aquarius, the sign that governs relationships, friendships are put at a risk. Petty squabbles, misunderstandings, and miscommunications abound. Know who your friends are.

In Pisces: Foggy thinking, daydreams, and escapism are the norm; day-to-day realities confound otherwise clear heads when Mercury, the planet that rules logic, is in Pisces, which governs illusion. Practice creative pursuits—writing, dancing, photography, film, or painting.

Do you know your Zodiac sign? Click here for our Zodiac Profiles tool and just enter your birthday.