Mercury retrograde in Virgo conjunct fixed star Denebola

In this article, we’ll discuss Mercury retrograde in Virgo which starts on August 23rd 2023. The retrograde ends on September 15th and the shadow period extends to September 30th. This is the written version of my Mercury retrograde video - https://youtu.be/MdST3E-5oxw

Mercury retrograde is a time when the planet Mercury appears to move backward in the skies. The retrograde is an optical illusion but its energetic effects are very real to us on earth. During Mercury retrograde, we might think about the past a lot or even make contact with old lovers and other people from our pasts. 

Making major purchases during this time is advised against, as the influence of Mercury retrograde can lead to regret later on. Venus is also retrograde, heightening the potential for buyer's remorse.

During Mercury retrograde, caution is encouraged in the areas of communication, technology and travel.  The beginning and end of this phase are considered to be the most intense, with the middle phase usually being smoother. It’s advised to avoid new projects and making big changes during this period.

Warnings aside, Mercury goes retrograde three times a year (sometimes four!) If your dream job comes knocking during Mercury retrograde, you should accept it if it seems like a good opportunity. Just be aware that the job (or life situation) may turn out a bit differently than expected. While challenges may surface, such experiences can foster tremendous personal growth. Similarly, entering a new relationship during this phase should be approached with caution. There might be underlying dynamics influencing the present.

This particular Mercury retrograde occurs at 21 degrees of Virgo and forms a conjunction with the fixed star Denebola. Let’s take a look at the Mercury retrograde chart, which I cast for the exact moment that Mercury goes retrograde and influences the transit. 

The retrograde chart has a Scorpio Moon opposite Uranus, implying a potential unveiling of hidden truths and a propensity for rebellion against restrictions. There may be some darker themes to watch out for during the retrograde such as jealousy, suspicion, or control issues. Our emotions are likely to undergo some kind of transformation during the retrograde and potentially, our feelings may change about some important issue. 

A grand trine in Earth signs involving Uranus, Pluto, and Mars indicates the opportunity to manifest stability and prosperity, albeit with a possible sluggish or lethargic undertone. An air deficiency in the chart could result in logic and rationality taking a backseat, possibly leading to increased gullibility and stubbornness.

The influence of Venus being square to Jupiter in Taurus suggests potential relationship drama or surprises. However, due to Venus being retrograde, the likelihood of emotional fireworks is heightened. 

Mercury's journey through Virgo encourages order and purification, particularly in health practices and within the home. Health and well-being are central themes, with Neptune's influence highlighting the importance of removing toxic elements from our lives, including food, unnecessary pharmaceuticals and areas of addiction. 

The fixed star Denebola is located in the Lion’s tail of the Leo constellation and is the second brightest star within this constellation. Denebola can be seen without a telescope or binoculars which means that its importance is greater than some other stars. 

A Lion’s tail is used to whisk away flies and other flying pests. This prompts thoughts of potential problems or a notable event with air travel. This does not mean that these problems will definitely happen, it is just a strong possibility. Astrology is not fortune telling and only the Norns, or fates, know our exact future. 

The fly symbolism might also mean that we find other people lacking in boundaries and being irritating. Flies are in the air which also makes me think of an aeroplane with the Lion whisking at it with his tail. 

( After writing this article and making my video where I mentioned this, news broke of  A plane crash with a high profile figure killed in it - Russian mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin an opponent of Putin. I was wearing a T shirt with Tsar Nicholas of Russia's face on it, in the video )

The star Denebola is connected with “the misfortune of Kings” and dramatic events including major disasters, especially when Mercury is involved as it is with this retrograde. Potentially we might see some dramatic events connected to politicians or other public figures.  

Astrological remedies can be used to mitigate retrograde effects and are a common practice within Vedic astrology. I am a Western astrologer but as an occultist, I can see the value in using remedies. 

Wearing the colour green which is connected to Mercury. 

Using Mercury talismans or green gemstones. 

Using a mantra specifically for Mercury. I am a Nordic polytheist and will be using the names of Odin within my mantra. The Romans said that Odin had qualities similar to their God, Mercury. 

Mercury retrograde in Virgo is a great time to practice intermittent fasting (if your health allows it) as it purifies the body. Fixing your diet up is also recommended at this time. 

Venus retrograde, overlapping with Mercury's, also carries themes of illness and toxicity. These retrogrades serve as a reminder to prioritise internal cleansing and health maintenance which ensures that our bodies remain strong and free of disease.

Watch my Venus retrograde video here - https://youtu.be/6pk_s3y9TBA

Now, we can take a look at Mercury retrograde’s impact on each Zodiac sign. Read your rising sign (most important), Sun and Moon. If you don’t know your rising sign, you can book a reading with me https://fionaaedgar.com/store 

Or use a free astrology website to calculate your rising sign, also known as the ascendant. 

Aries - Mercury retrograde occurs in your sixth house, which may cause some changes with your daily routines. Focus on maintaining your well-being and avoiding impulsive decisions. Practice good time keeping as you might find some obstacles stopping your usual routines. This house rules health and it’s important to stick to good diet and health practices. 

Taurus - In your fifth house, this retrograde encourages you to explore your creativity and activities that bring you joy. Approach new romances with caution but this is the perfect time for you to rekindle romance within existing partnerships. You may have some minor issues with your children over the retrograde. 

Gemini - Mercury retrograde impacts your fourth house, influencing home and family matters. Address any home-related issues and reconnect with family members if appropriate. If you want to move, it’s advised not to do this during the retrograde, but it’s a great time for planning moves or redecorating. The 4th house rules pregnancy and some people will be thinking of having a child or considering their fertility. 

Cancer - With this retrograde in your third house, pay attention to communication and neighbourhood matters. Reconnect with siblings and address any transportation or vehicle-related concerns. Consider local travel rather than long distance. You might consider ways to ensure your place in the spotlight. 

Leo - Mercury retrograde takes place in your second house, affecting finances and self-worth. Review your budget, avoid major expenses, and reconsider investments. Focus on planning and making informed decisions regarding money matters. This is a great time for you to plan new ways of creating sustainable income. 

Virgo - This retrograde is in your first house, impacting your identity and physical well-being. Reevaluate your appearance, health practices, and personal goals. Take time for introspection and make adjustments for personal growth. The 1st house rules new beginnings and you may review some important life goals. 

Libra -  With Mercury retrograde in your twelfth house, focus on your inner self and dreams. Pay attention to your intuition and inner thoughts. The 12th house rules non physical reality so use this time for ritual, meditation, and sleep. Hidden enemies may surface during the retrograde. 

Scorpio - The retrograde affects your eleventh house, disturbing friendships and group dynamics. Reconnect with old friends if appropriate and reconsider your involvement in social circles. An important life goal, or dream may need finely tuned before you make it a reality.  

Sagittarius - Mercury retrograde occurs in your tenth house, impacting career and public life. Review your professional goals and plan changes in your job or approach. Be cautious with communication at work. If you are unhappy in your current job you might consider leaving, but it’s best to wait until Mercury retrograde and shadow are over. 

Capricorn - This retrograde takes place in your ninth house, highlighting travel, education, and beliefs. You might reevaluate some beliefs that you’ve held for a long time. Consider further education and how it could improve your finances and life in general. It’s not a good time for you to take long distance journeys. 

Aquarius - Mercury retrograde affects your eighth house, focusing on shared resources, sex and transformation. You may experience some minor problems with your partner’s finances, or inheritances, mortgages, credit cards and loans. You could experience some temporary problems in your sex life which should blow over after the retrograde. The 8th house rules transformation and you could emerge from the retrograde as a totally new person. 

Pisces - With this retrograde in your seventh house, focus on relationships and partnerships. You might experience some temporary problems within your marriage or committed partnership. Do not make any permanent changes until after Mercury and Venus retrogrades are over. You might find your partner more irritating than usual but try not to be overly critical with them.