Mercury Retrograde ☿ Winter 2022

artist: Tuco Amalfi

Mercury enters Capricorn: Dec 13, 2021

Mercury enters Aquarius: Jan 1, 2022

Mercury Retrograde in Aquarius: Jan 14-25, 2022

Mercury Retrograde in Capricorn: Jan 25 – Feb 3, 2022

Mercury direct in Capricorn: Feb 3-14, 2022

Mercury direct in Aquarius: Feb 14 – Mar 9, 2022

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.

The first 11 days of Mercury Retrograde take place in Aquarius, and the last 10 days in Capricorn. As the word “retrograde” implies, it is time to go back, finish, review, redo. Mercury Retrograde shuffles stifled energy out, across the tongue. Let’s first discuss Mercury (Retrograde) in Aquarius:

Mercury has been retrograde in Aquarius for 3 years in a row now, so if you feel a twinge when I say those words together, this might be why. It hasn’t gone well, if we’re being honest. The first time in 2020 was when things were starting to feel really weird and dystopian, right at the beginning of the pandemic. Last year was not much different. With Aquarius we have to expect the unexpected, but no one ever expects just how much things really do change. Aquarius will undoubtedly do it again and uproot all of our expectations and attachments.

So what are we here to accomplish in this zany upside-down Aquarian world? If we listen beyond the chaos and social theater we hear a resounding call to rise up and take ownership of our future. Aquarius dictates that this must happen through the realm of technology as well as on a social justice level.

Aquarius upends the status quo, or anything at all that we might take for granted. He redraws social boundaries and therefore changes the fabric of society. We need to be more tolerant and open-minded in order to succeed, that much is clear. This energy can be so uplifting and at the same time so scientific and inventive. It’s a really unique thing to behold. Yet when the passionate nature of Aquarius is ignored or suppressed, humanity feels impatient and reckless.

We cannot hide or take shortcuts. We must speak truth to power. When it is allowed to truly run its course unhindered, this retrograde shines a light on our collective creative brilliance.

It may not surprise you that Aquarius neither trusts nor respects those in positions of authority. He knows that authority figures are not really invested in the betterment of humanity – only we the people are. Change begins at the most humble level: inside our own minds, in the garden of our thoughts. Mercury Rx in Aquarius encourages radical and experimental thoughts. Such mental exploration helps clarify our relationship to concepts like freedom and authenticity.

And what about Mercury Rx in Capricorn? Mercury in Capricorn encourages us to be practical and economical in the way that we think and speak. 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 and stabilize our lives.

The archetype of Capricorn can be a rigid one, restricted by unattainable, self-imposed standards. If you observe closely, you will see the deeply emotional, watery nature of Capricorn hidden beneath this earthy crust. One of the greatest challenges for Capricorn is eradicating the inner critic. Ruled by Saturn, the most serious planet in the solar system, the goat wrestles with what it means to be free on the inside.

Capricorn is a creature of great wisdom and deliberation. So deliberate, in fact, that we may struggle to initiate communication at this time. Reflect on communication blockages, especially in your financial or professional life. I recommend collaboration with friends from work or school. This is the perfect time of year for planning and organizing.

Dates to watch before the retrograde: Dec 20 (harmonious), Dec 29 (harmonious), Dec 30 (harmonious)

During the retrograde: Jan 23 ( if you need to do anything that is normally taboo during Mercury Rx – such as signing documents or making a major purchase – this is the day to do it), Jan 28 (challenging)

And after: Feb 11 (harmonious), Feb 24 (challenging), Mar 2 (harmonious)

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