Whenever the planet
Mercury travels in retrograde motion, there is a higher probability of experiencing delays, communication problems, computer problems; and of misinformation concerning contracts and large purchases. Mercury represents
that part of our psyche that is concerned with our mental and communicative processes. When retrograde (which happens three or four times a year) our thinking processes turn towards inner work, unfinished business, and
deep personal perceptions.
The outer world of communications can suffer during this time requiring one to pay extra attention to communicating clearly with others. It does seem true that mail seems to
move more slowly, appointments are missed, and misunderstandings are more common. Back up your important computer files before the Mercury-retrograde periods begins, and upgrade virus-protection software. Validate, then
reconfirm, travel arrangements.
Use the retrograde period to re-establish communication with former contacts. Plan and prioritize projects. Avoid initiating new projects, openings, major purchases, or
contracts while Mercury is retrograde. Past acquaintances are likely to turn up at this time – so don't be surprised. Mercury-retrograde periods for 2005 are:
March 19 – April 11
July 23 – August 15
November 14 – December 3
Planetary Eclipses -- Lunar (LE) and Solar (SE)
Eclipses tend to signal significant change and new information. They can sometimes signal a stressful time, mainly
due to the shift in circumstances that may occur. Try to avoid making important decisions during an eclipse as the energy around you will tend to be unsettled and changeable. Solar eclipses are closely associated with
new beginnings and their effects can last up to one year. Lunar eclipses are associated with completion or endings and their effects can last three to six months. It's wise to wait at least a week for things to settle
after an eclipse before making any important or final decisions. 2005 Eclipses:
April 8 SE
April 24 LE These two eclipses may surface passionate desires, births, and power struggles.
October 3 SE
October 17 LE A
big obstacle will resolve or a significant crisis suddenly surfaces but as suddenly is solved
Moon Cycles
The new moon is a positive, motivational time for initiating new beginnings and
projects. The full moon is a time for completion and endings. Consider starting projects and signing contracts between the new and full moons (also ask me about good Feng Shui energy days). Avoid scheduling elective
surgery during a full moon as you will tend to bleed more. However, planting on the full moon is known to produce better crops. 2005 New Moon (NM) and Full Moon (FM) dates:
Jan 10 (NM), Jan 25 (FM)
Feb 8 (NM), Feb 24 (FM)
Mar 10 (NM), Mar 25 (FM)
Apr 8 (NM), Apr 24 (FM)
May 8(NM), May 23 (FM)
Jun 6 (NM), Jun 22 (FM)
Jul 6 (NM), Jul 21 (FM)
Aug 5 (NM), Aug 19 (FM)
Sep 3 (NM), Sep 18 (FM)
Oct 3 (NM), Oct 17 (FM)
Nov 2 (NM), Nov 16 (FM)
Dec 1 (NM), Dec 15 (FM)
If your personal calendar lists first-quarter moons, note these can be challenging times. Persevere and take action. During last-quarter
moons, bring tasks to a close and reflect on lessons learned. Don't start anything during either of these periods.
In summary:
