Mercury Retrograde in Capricorn 🐐 Dec 29 – Jan 18

Mercury enters Capricorn: Dec 6, 2022

Mercury Retrograde in Capricorn: Dec 29 – Jan 18, 2023

Mercury enters Aquarius: Feb 11, 2023

Planets in retrograde are not actually spinning backwards – it is an optical illusion as seen from Earth. Backwards motion appears to happen when Earth passes slower moving planets in the outer solar system. In astrology, this illusion manifests as a “backwards” functioning of the planetary roles. Click here to learn more about retrograde.

Mercury turns retrograde three times a year, more frequently than any other planet. Mercury represents communication, travel and technology. These are the realms affected by Mercury Retrograde. Expect delays, cancellations and sudden changes; technological failures, especially cell phones, laptops or automobiles; miscommunication; lost/stolen items; general malfunction and wtf moments. I do not recommend starting a new job, buying a car, moving to a new place, or signing any contracts/documents. This is not a good time for travel, life-altering commitments, or investments.

All Mercury Retrograde cycles have positive things in common, too. One wonderful aspect of Mercury Retrograde is the way in which it helps us circle back and finish things that were started but then forgotten or ignored. Mercury brings communication to the fore and helps us strengthen our relationships. Mercury Retrograde also shines a spotlight on language and intellectual projects. This is a great time to catch up on academic or creative projects which were previously put on the back burner.

Capricorn’s mantra is I use, and with Mercury here, language is straightforward and pragmatic. Those born with Mercury in Capricorn are efficient, succinct communicators. This transit also clarifies our relationship to work, money and, more broadly, how we structure our lives. Mercury Retrograde in Capricorn encourages us to be more practical and economical in all ways.

If conversations need to happen, they may not be very warm and fuzzy. The archetype of Capricorn is a rigid one, restricted by unattainable, self-imposed standards. But if you observe closely, you will see the deeply emotional, watery nature of Capricorn hidden beneath this earthy crust.

Capricorn is a creature of great wisdom and deliberation. So deliberate, in fact, that we may struggle to initiate communication at this time. You may feel stuck in general. This is certainly not a transit which is conducive to flow. Ruled by Saturn, the most serious planet in the solar system, Capricorn wrestles with what it means to be free on the inside. The goat sets extremely high standards for Self and others. One of the greatest challenges for Capricorn is to lighten up and tune out the inner critic.

But guess what? The best – no, only way – to survive this retrograde is to back down and let the perfectionistic voice fade away into the ethers. No one needs that right now. It’s ok to relax babe. You got this.

If you were born with Mercury in Capricorn, you’re in for an interesting Mercury Return. To see your Mercury sign and whether this planet was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here.