The third Mercury Retrograde of the year takes place in the analytical, practical, and meticulous sign of Virgo. As a matter of fact, all of the 2023 Mercury Retrogrades occur in Earth signs, with the final one of the year changing from Earth to Fire.
The last Mercury retrograde took place in May 2023 and lasted until May 31, 2023, in the sign of Taurus. However, the last time the planet of information retrograded in Virgo was on September 23, 2022.
Mercury Retrograde is a transit that many of us dread because of the possibilities of misunderstandings, delays or disruptions in travel, and glitches in technology. In astrology, Mercury is associated with communication, intellect, and decision-making, while Virgo represents practicality. When these two elements combine during the retrograde period, there could be opportunities as well as challenges in many areas of life.
What is a Mercury Retrograde?
When a planet goes retrograde, it appears to move backward as it orbits the Sun when observed from Earth, even though none of the planets actually move backward. Mercury goes retrograde approximately 3 to 4 times during the year, lasting for about three weeks each go round. Mercury is the planet of communication, and when it does an about-face, things can get misconstrued when exchanging information. But there’s so much more to a Mercury retrograde than that. It’s like a cosmic reset that gives you the opportunity to reevaluate, review, reconsider, revise, and re-edit.
In addition to feeling a sense of going in reverse, retrogrades also have a tendency to slow down a planet’s natural progression while simultaneously emphasizing its impact. Of course, there are the usual miscommunications and possible misunderstandings that come with a Mercury retrograde. But those mishaps can be heightened If we make rash decisions or think before acting.
It is best to use the Mercury Retrograde phase for introspection. This may not be the best time to make any new decisions, new business plans, or start new projects, but it is perfect for evaluating your present circumstances. During Mercury retrograde, it is advisable to observe your inner reflection in silence and to continue with your previous plans. After Mercury has turned direct, and possibly for about two weeks after that, when Mercury has exited its pre-retrograde shadow, try to go forward with a new itinerary.
When Does The Mercury in Virgo Retrograde Occur?
The Mercury Retrograde in Virgo begins on August 23, 2023, at 3:59 PM E.D.T., occurring just a few hours after the Sun moves into Virgo. It ends on September 15, 2023, at 4:21 P.M. E.D.T. The planet of communication enters its pre-retrograde shadow period from August 3, 2023, until August 22, 2023. During this time, it is crucial that you be mindful of your health and workload, as well as communication and decision-making.
Themes and Challenges During Mercury in Virgo Retrograde
Communication Challenges and Misunderstandings
With every Mercury retrograde comes communication challenges; it’s almost like a rite of passage. During this phase, words become tangled in a cosmic web of confusion. Emails may go astray, texts get misconstrued, and conversations appear to be lost in translation. It’s crucial to be especially cautious while communicating, to be clear and concise, and to refrain from making rash decisions during this time. Also, make sure that you double-check all documents before signing your name on the dotted line, and cross all ‘t’s” and dot all “i’s”
But don’t worry, for awareness is key to navigating through these obstacles. Fortunately, Virgo possesses analytical and critical thinking skills that are unparalleled. This sign comes with the most pragmatic and precise answer that can often be used to resolve an issue that appears to be complex. It’s crucial to take your time before making a decision because this is also a methodical sign that likes to examine situations from all possible angles. Before coming to a resolution, we need additional time to reflect. We cannot be forced, rushed, or convinced before we are prepared.
Technological Turbulence and Travel Woes
Be aware of possible travel interruptions and delays if you’re planning a trip during this retrograde. Virgo’s analytical eye may reveal some underlying flaws in our travel plans, which may require some last-minute changes. As for technology, oh my! But you know the drill: Back up your data and brace yourself for potential glitches and faulty devices.
Work Productivity and Organizational Mayhem
Mercury Retrograde in Virgo may feel like an organizational whirlwind for the workaholics among us. Projects that appeared to be in perfect order may require further attention, and deadlines may shift all of a sudden. Tap into Virgo energy and use it to streamline processes and tweak your goals.
Inner Critic and Overthinking
During this time, our inner critic may be amplified due to Virgo’s analytical nature. It’s easy to get caught up in overthinking and self-doubt. However, keep in mind that retrogrades provide an opportunity for growth. Take a deep breath and confront that incessant inner chatter.
While Mercury is retrograde, our relationships may be put to the test. It’s not unusual for miscommunications and misunderstandings to run rampant during interactions with loved ones. Everyone may be feeling the cosmic effects during this retrograde, so it’s important to have patience and compassion. Use this time to strengthen connections through honest conversations.
Also, remember that Venus, the planet of love, is also in retrograde,so ex-flames may be coming back to you like a boomerang. You may come down with a case of nostalgia and may want to take a stroll down memory lane, especially if you’ve been struck by Cupid’s arrow. However, it is important to exercise caution when considering getting back with an ex and think about why you and that person are no longer together. The good news is that the analytical energy of Virgo will make it a little easier to reevaluate your relationships, past and present.
Spirituality and Self-reflection
Mercury Retrograde in Virgo is a great time for spiritual exploration and introspection. Tap into Virgo energy by embracing solitude and mindfulness. Some ways that you can make the most of this transit by:
- Journaling
- Meditation
- Engaging in grounding activities (spending time in nature, exercising, and eating foods that grow from the ground, such as carrots and potatoes.)
Important Planetary Positions During Mercury Retrograde In Virgo
Mercury Retrograde in Virgo Conjuct to Mars in Virgo
Mercury will form a conjunction to Mars in Virgo, increasing mental energy and intensifying the desire to take action without considering the consequences. With both planets in the same sign, there is an emphasis on precision, attention to detail, and productivity. However, this aspect may lead to abrupt communication or conflicts due to misunderstandings during the retrograde.
It’s important to exercise patience and avoid confrontations or making rash decisions. Take the time to reexamine your plans and think carefully before communicating your thoughts to others. This aspect can be beneficial if you tap into its energy and use it for diligent planning and execution.
Mercury Retrograde in Virgo Trine Uranus in Taurus
During the Retrograde, Mercury in Virgo will trine Uranus in Taurus, increasing the potential for original and unconventional thinking. Brace yourself for the unexpected, as this aspect can result in surprises and major bombshells. Also, you may experience sudden breakthroughs or innovative solutions to problems. Be receptive to unanticipated shifts in your perspective during this time, but also be prepared to revisit and revise your ideas before implementing them.
Mercury Retrograde in Virgo Opposite Neptune in Pisces
Mercury in Virgo will oppose Neptune in Pisces, creating tension between fantasy and reality. Neptune’s influence poses a challenge to seeing things clearly, which magnifies the potential for confusion, miscommunication, and misunderstandings. The likelihood of misinterpreting information or being deceived by appearances is increased during this time. It’s important to be cautious of anything that appears to be too good to be true and to seek clarity through extensive research and evaluation. When making major decisions, rely on concrete facts as opposed to using your intuition or based on emotions or wishful thinking.
Mercury Retrograde in Virgo Trine to Jupiter In Taurus
Mercury in Virgo will form a harmonious trine to Jupiter In Taurus on September 4th, helping you to express your views in a more grounded and practical way. This aspect is excellent for studying, teaching, and sharing knowledge. You may find it easier to view the big picture while still focusing on the details. However, during Mercury Retrograde, you may need to reassess and reevaluate your plans before making major moves.
Who will be Impacted the Most
The August-September 2023 Mercury Retrograde in Virgo will influence us all in some way, especially in the area where Virgo rules the natal chart.
Mercury is the ruling planet of Virgo and Gemini, so people who have those signs in their Big 3 (Sun, Moon, Rising) as well as other placements, will be affected the most. If you have a Virgo Mercury in your natal chart, its energy will be intensified.
Also, those with Sagittarius and Pisces placements (especially Sun, Moon, and Rising) will be strongly affected as well.
If you have planets in Virgo, the retrograde will form a conjunction aspect to those placements, blending those energies and working together as a united front. Depending upon the planet that conjuncts, it can be favorable or challenging.
The 2023 Mercury Retrograde in Virgo will form a square aspect to Gemini and Sagittarius placements and will be in opposition to Pisces placements. These aspects are difficult and come with challenges and tension. However, if you work hard to overcome the obstacles that this transit may bring, you can reap the rewards.
Now, if you happen to be born during a Mercury retrograde, you won’t be impacted as much. That’s because the obstacles that are normally experienced during a retrograde will feel more like second nature to you, while others may be left feeling discombobulated.
Final Thoughts
The August 2023 Mercury Retrograde in Virgo just as any other cosmic event, comes with challenges and opportunity. Embrace the unusual, remain flexible, and remember that awareness is your guide during these celestial voyages. You can navigate this Mercury Retrograde gracefully and with wisdom and emerge from this occasion more resilient than before.
Please Note:
It’s important to note that Astrology isn’t one size fits all. The impact of the August-September 2023 Mercury Retrograde in Virgo can vary based on other aspects of a person’s natal chart as well as other astrological influences at the time. To see how The Mercury Retrograde in Virgo will impact you the most, refer to your natal chart to see which house Virgo rules.
Astrology does not dictate personalities or control free will. The information given here is my opinion and is based on patterns and should never be a substitute for professional, financial, psychological, or medical advice.
References
Boland, Y. (2018). Astrology made easy: A guide to understanding your birth chart. Hay House.
Mercury retrograde 2023, astrology calendar. (n.d.). Astro-Seek.com. https://horoscopes.astro-seek.com/mercury-retrograde-astrology-calendar-2023
Transits: Mercury retrograde. (2015, April 14). Cafe Astrology: Signs, Horoscopes, Love. https://cafeastrology.com/transits_mercuryretrograde.html
What does “Mercury in retrograde” actually mean? (2023, April 19). The Planetary Society. https://www.planetary.org/articles/what-does-mercury-in-retrograde-actually-mean
