Mercury Retrograde, Musings from a Celestial Nomad

I must admit from the perspective of an astrologer, it seems as though Mercury Retrograde periods are no longer just privy information for celestial nomads like myself who follow the planets and the stars.  I had to make a phone call today regarding a mix up with a warranty concerning an item I bought during a previous Mercury retrograde and I was shocked to hear the person on the other end apologize for the snafu and blame the confusion on the current Mercury Retrograde.   I was like “what”? Is Mercury retrograde now common knowledge?

Has insider astrology info finally gone rogue? The buzz about Mercury retrograde is more main stream than the retrograde motions of the other planets.  Does anybody even care when Pluto, Jupiter, or Saturn turn retrograde?  Even the retrograde of Venus and Mars, which by the way cause as much mayhem as a Mercury retrograde, still remain on the “B’ list of common knowledge for the masses.

OK, back to the Mercury retrograde periods.  Most non-astrologers encapsulate these three and a half weeks of Mercury’s backward motion into one phrase-“things screw up.”  True in a sense but do they know why?  Generally communications are affected since Mercury rules messages.  Never a good idea to sign a contract on retrograde Mercury unless you re-read it a hundred times because you may not fully process what you are signing.  Now say for instance if you are re-signing a contract the Mercury retrograde is just regurgitating back what is familiar to you.

Anything done for the first time during Mercury retrograde most likely will have a repeat performance during a future retrograde period.  You might want to reconsider getting any electrical repairs done in your home or on your car since Mercury usually plays havoc with such things.  Computers crash, the internet goes down, your phone ass dials someone who you are trying to avoid, and forget about transportation being on time.  Make sure you have a backup plan if you miss your connecting flight due to unforeseen traffic snags.

On the physical end Mercury is the natural ruler of the nervous system.  It governs the resilience of your nervous system and how well you cope with stress. The nervous system carries information regarding the condition of the body to the brain. Mercury oversees the sifting and synthesis of information, and according to sign and house placement it pretty much shows how you think. Mental mistakes and miscommunications happen more frequently during the retrograde. Even medical test should be looked over with a fine tooth comb and second opinions are usually a good move since diagnostic equipment may be off kilter and people are more prone to make mental mistakes causing confusion.

If you really want to know how Mercury retrograde periods will personally impact you then you have to see what area of your birth chart is hosting the reward planet.  Ah….it may be a good idea to consult an astrologer before you put that pen to paper, buy a new television, plan a party, or schedule an appointment.

On the upside Mercury retrograde is a good time for reunions, bumping into people from the past, revisiting familiar places (just double check traffic conditions so you stay on schedule), removing unwanted items from your home, cleaning closets, and “THINKING’ about remodeling because if you start to renovate during the retrograde the wrong materials may arrive, the paint may be mixed incorrectly, and your communication with contractors may get confused.  You might have to re-do a few things that were not done correctly.  Pretty much anything that starts with the prefix “re” is on the menu for a Mercury retrograde period.

Here is a list of what to do and not do during Mercury retrograde:

• Do not buy any new electrical equipment, computers, televisions, or car (since most new cars have a computer brain) during a retrograde unless you also buy a big ass warranty
• Do not sign any contracts unless you go over it with a fine tooth comb because you may get screwed in the end
• Do not start a new job unless it is within your current company
• Check all invoices and bank statements since computer mistakes are more likely to happen at this time
• If you plan a trip buy trip insurance just in case you have transportation problems
• Mercury rules writing and publishing so double check spelling and editing before you submit any work
• Don’t send that email or text message until you check to make sure that it is going to the right recipient.  How horrible would it be for your boss to get a message meant for someone else especially if you are referring to him as an asshole?
• Do not trust the autocorrect on your phone when texting.  What did they just massage me?
• Do clean out your drawers and closets but carefully check all bags. You will most likely realize that you gave your $400 suede jacket to Good Will if you don’t check before donating them at the drop off site
• Do catch up with old friends and plaster the date and time of your meeting on your forehead so you remember to show up
• Thinking about a tattoo? Do not get a new tattoo during retrograde Mercury.  You will hate the inking of the red imp with the words “Horney Devil” scrolled underneath by the time you’re 40-trust me!
• Do little repair work around the house.  It’s OK to tighten a few screws, fix a loose door knob and other routine maintenance but hold off on major renovations unless you want to have one thing unexpectedly lead into another.  Contractors love to tell you that they have to remove your complete ceiling to fix one wire for your lighting-ugh!
• Do get back to reading that great book you bought last year but never had a chance to finish
• Gemini and Virgo are ruled by Mercury so be kind to your Mercury ruled friends if they seem a little wigged out during the retrograde

Mercury is the planet of communication, wit, humor, and the messenger of the gods.  During the retrograde keep in mind that all problems hold within themselves a solution and according to Plautus “Patience is the best remedy for every trouble.”

http://www.lisabarretta.com/Lisa_Barretta_dot_com/HOME.html

Namaste’

Spiritual Awakening: Changing sleep patterns and transition into the new energy.

Have you been waking up in the middle of the night lately? There is no doubt that a good night’s sleep does us a world of good physically, mentally, and spiritually but when we begin the process of our own spiritual awakening, waking up in the middles of the night may become a common occurrence. 

Interrupted sleep is actually a stage of your evolution into higher consciousness. It is not unusual to be jolted awake, look at the clock, and notice the same time on the clock night after night which act as prompts or coded number patterns that are resetting your system to clear out old emotional programs. The most frequent times to awake appear to be 3:18 a.m. and 4:44 a.m. The number 318 codes us to the magick of manifesting in the moment, while the number 444 lets us know that the physical body and material world are changing to accommodate our existence at a higher frequency. You are already a multidimensional being, a living hologram, but up until now you were only programed to function in the third dimension and perhaps occasionally in the fourth dimension, where limited psychic experiences and lucid dreams take place.

 You upgrade during the night the same way that a computer upgrades its programs. You are evolving to be able to experience the dimensions beyond the 4th where all possibilities lie.

Getting proper sleep is extremely important at this time because that is when your body produces melatonin, which is an important neurotransmitter that affects your circadian rhythm or biological clock, which is also changing to resonate with the frequencies of higher consciousness. Resetting your internal clock helps your body upgrade and repair the vital organs that are now taking on a higher vibration and becoming more attuned to the energy shift.  Your physical body works along with your subtle body to processes the higher frequencies that are awakening your extrasensory abilities.

The empowering shift into higher consciousness moves you to deal with anger that you feel toward injustice, yourself and others so you can make the necessary changes to better align yourself and be in balance with your newly evolving self. Many people notice that they frequently keep waking up between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. without setting an alarm clock; they just naturally wake up. This is the time for the liver to replenish itself, so if you keep waking up between these hours find out what you may be processing through your liver. Chances are you need to clear out some anger issues in order to continue progressing in your evolution. The chakra that you will want to look at is the solar plexus since the liver is related to this energy center. 

The gall bladder recoding will wake you up between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. This organ is usually associated with feelings of intense anger and rage. Psychological pressure, stress, irritation, annoyance and frustration weaken the flow of the energy in the gallbladder. If you find that you keep waking during this time period there is likely an imbalance in your third chakra, the solar plexus. This chakra is the center of your personal power, the place of ego, passions, impulses, strength, and, yes, anger. Anger issues will block you from experiencing and effectively using your extrasensory gifts. 

Unless you are naturally an early riser, an imbalance in the large intestine will wake you up at the crack of dawn, sometime between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m. The large intestine is where you hold your guilt, grief, and regrets. If you have issues with holding on to the past and/or a fear of letting go during the evolutionary shift, your second (sacral) chakra is most likely out of balance. If you feel blocked creatively and your sex life sucks then work on clearing out issues related to this energy center which tunes in clairgustation, or psychic taste. It is the basic “energetic taste” of your life experiences. Is the perception of your life sweet or bitter to the taste? You have to let go of fears and insecurities to fully appreciate all the good in your life.

Insomnia is also possible during your evolution, so before you reach for a sleep aid stop and realize that you are probably just having a power surge due to the higher energy that you are taking in during your waking hours. When you become psychically open any exposure to outside energy will have an effect on your own energy by either over stimulating you or draining you. In time you will know when and how to close off your energy centers to outside frequencies.

As you shift into becoming  more psychically attuned it is very common to have bizarre, intense dreams about UFOs, wars and battles, frightening entities, and even living in a different time period. With these dreams you are just releasing the old energy within as well as connecting with your other incarnations to access knowledge you may need in your current life.

 I once had a medical condition that I was seeking an answer to. One night I had a very lucid dream that connected me to my incarnation as a Chinese holistic doctor in the 16th century. I woke up from the dream knowing exactly what vitamins and treatment I needed to remedy the condition. In the days following the dream, I came across books and information through synchronicity rather than by planning. I have since learned to program myself to ask for needed information about tough situations before going to bed. I always seem to access the necessary information.

Our journey into higher consciousness awakens us in more ways than one.  Having an awareness of how our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual components operate as one unique organism enables us to better move past the fears and limitations we unknowingly impose upon ourselves.

• 5-7 a.m. — Large Intestine —  The large intestine is all about ‘letting go’ physically and emotionally. Symptoms of malfunction include constipation, dry stools, skin rash, and feeling emotionally ‘stuck’.
•  7-9 a.m. — Stomach —How we digest our emotions. If out of balance, symptoms that may arise include acid reflux, stomach ulcer, and bad breath.
• 9-11 a.m. — Pancreas/Spleen — They relate to the emotion of worry. How we digest not only the energy from our food but also our emotions. Imbalances may show up as loose stools, bloating after meals, craving sweets, and low energy.
• 11 a.m.-1 p.m. — Heart — During these hours, it is best to relax, take a siesta, and enjoy lunch. The heart dislikes heat (emotional & physical), so try to avoid caffeine, stress, intense exercise, or anything that raises your blood pressure. Symptoms of imbalance are palpitations, shortness of breath, cold hands & feet, and insomnia.
• 1-3 p.m. — Small Intestine — If you haven’t drank enough water during the day, you are more likely to feel dehydrated during these times. When out of balance, conditions that may arise include duodenal ulcer, bloating with vomiting or gas.
• 3-5 p.m. — Bladder —This is the optimal time of day for mental clarity and function. When out of balance, you may experience burning when urinating, yeast infection, or urinary incontinence.
•  5-7 p.m. — Kidney —The emotion of the kidneys is fear. When the kidney meridian is out of balance, symptoms that may arise include sexual difficulties, low back pain, or premature graying of hair.
• 7-9 p.m. — Pericardium/Heart—The emotions of love and nurturing.  This is the optimal time to commune with family, friends, and loved ones.
• 9-11 p.m. — Triple Heater —This is the time to begin to slow down and prepare for bed. It is optimal to be asleep by 10pm. It is during this time that your Liver stores the blood and begins cooling it down from the day. You need to be asleep in order for this function to happen effectively.
• 11 p.m. - 1 a.m. — Gall Bladder — Initial cleansing of all tissues, processes cholesterol, and enhances brain function. The liver begins to cleanse toxins. Emotionally, it is in charge of self-esteem and decision-making.
• 1-3 a.m. — Liver —The liver is emotionally connected to anger. You may find that you wake up between 1-3am if you have repressed anger or long standing resentment. Symptoms of liver imbalances include irregular menstruation, anemia, chronic fatigue, and headaches. If you consistently wake during this time, ask yourself if you are holding anger or resentment.

• 3-5 a.m. — Lung — emotionally associated with grief. You may find that wake up during these times if you are struggling with grief or sorrow. Imbalances may also show up as wheezing, coughing, asthma, or getting sick easily.

                                                                 

For further information on number patterns, changing relationships and every aspect of shifting into the new paradigm of higher consciousness read   The Book of Transformation: Open Yourself to Psychic Evolution, the Rebirth of the World, and the Empowering Shift Pioneered by the Indigos  

http://newpagebooks.com/?section=home&product_id=511

Namaste’

April’s association with violent attacks and the current Mars, Saturn Retrograde 2016

 There have been many theories over the years about mid-April‘s eerie association with noteworthy crimes and violent attacks.  Honestly, bad things can happen at any time but looking back on history there may be a built in red zone to the last ten days of April and even more so this year.

The historical origins of astrology show that it has a quasi-relationship with science, math, physics, and psychology. The art of prediction is  in knowing exactly how certain celestial energies interact at a given time  Astrology is not meant only to “see what will happen and how it can be avoided if it's unpleasant" but instead gives insight into the best way to navigate the challenges and opportunities that may be presented during certain planetary cycles. In a sense, when you reflect on past historical events it is possible to see certain planetary triggers as clues to how future event predictions may play out.

We are currently witnessing Mars commencement into its once-in-a-two year retrograde motion which started on 17th April 2016. Mars is an aggressive planet, full of aggression and fire. The effects of this retrograde can be very volatile and unpredictable. Just notice how people are driving.  I bet you see a lot of accidents and fender benders. Mars hangs out in this high octave energy phase for about 75 days and in addition Saturn, its arch enemy, is also retrograde in a rare combination after 32 years.

Both of these planets are currently in the sign of Sagittarius, a fire sign, tending to make developments extremely eventful over the next two and a half months. The retrograding Mars comes closest to earth making it visible for a few days  even with naked eyes. This close proximity raises tempers, frays nerves, increases crime rates (especially with the Scorpio Full Moon in effect from the 21^st-23^rd of April).  More than likely there will be a tendency for injuries at this time, especially cuts and burns because caution and rationality goes down during this period. 

Mars in retrograde motion is now joined up and holding hands with retrograde Saturn as they wait for the impending Mercury retrograde only a week away.  This is a Molotov planetary cocktail that brings sudden setbacks, hurdles and an extremely challenging period.  

Avoid making any sudden decisions or unnecessary aggressive actions, as the setbacks encountered during this period are totally irreversible. Rule of thumb:  Whoever fires first, attacks first, initiates an argument first during a Mars retrograde will end up the loser at the end of the day. This is also not an ideal time to take on a new lover.

The main challenge for this time of planetary backtracking is to control impulses.  Natural impulsiveness and an inability to heed advice will cause difficulties. Patience and the ability to plan are areas that need extra effort.

Sharp tempers and quick fuses are more apparent now because the Sun is in Aries, which is ruled by Mars, the planet associated with war and combat. Diplomacy and tact are usually void since the passion of Mars is on the top of the planetary food chain.

Will April 2016 be crime crazy due to the current Mars/Saturn retrograde? Looking back we can see that when the Sun is in Aries, it is actually during the third week of April where the most significant criminal events are found to occur, mostly from the 14th through 20th when the Sun is roughly 24 degrees Aries to 0 degrees Taurus.  This portion of the sky holds fixed stars that the ancient astrologers knew to portend certain qualities. The disproportionate number of incidents in this time period is thought provoking.

 Consider some examples from April’s history of violence:

•          President Abraham Lincoln was shot in Ford’s Theater April 14, 1865

•          Titanic sinks April 15, 1912

•          Boston marathon April 15. 2013

•          Seung Hui Cho went on a shooting spree at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute, killing 32 people April 16, 2007

•          A suicide bomber drove a car bomb into the U.S. embassy in Beirut on April 18, 1983, killing 63 people

•          Waco on April 19, 1993

•          Oklahoma City Bombing April 19, 1995

•          Battles at Lexington and Concord marked the start of open armed conflict in the U.S. Revolutionary War, April 19, 1775

•          Hitler's birthday April 20, 1889

•          Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold attacked Columbine High School in Colorado, April 20, 1999

Violent extremists often plan their attack to coincide with a significant date, such as an anniversary or holiday, because it can add meaning and exposure to their action but a closer look at those ominous last degrees of Aries may give us further clues to what is hardwired into the sky at that time of year. With Mars and Saturn joining the mix violence against establishments is very possible.

Below are the fixed stars associated with the last 7 violent degrees of Aries. Some of the descriptions of the nature of the stars may seem stark but consider that they are anchored into ancient, predictive astrology which was mostly for mundane or political purposes. These fixed stars influence the third week in April and are further fueled by the ever changing Moon and planets.  Some planetary combinations go Richter Scale off the charts when joined up with the below mentioned fixed stars.

Kurdah - Kings, rulers, judges; head injury, decapitation, severe wounds; cruel trials; April 14th, 24° Ari 

 

Al Pherg- Preparedness, steadiness, success through determination. Concerning events of the sea (Titanic April 15th) April 16th,  26° Ari 57

Vertex -Merciless, uncaring, dispenser of punishment; mercenary; hideous death when afflicted by Mars; blindness; weakness Unfortunate April 17th, 27° Ari 59

Alrisha- Unifying influence with groups (think Hitler since this star is conjunct his Sun) April 19th, 29° Ari 31

Instead of falling victim to this bad planetary hangover of retrograde heavy hitting planets we have to keep in mind that our biology is unique in that beyond skin and bones we have an undeniable electromagnetic field that resonates not only to the energy of our thoughts, beliefs, environment, and even the food that we eat but additionally this field also is influenced by cosmic waves from the stars and planets within our galaxy.

When the body is not in sync with the mental and emotional energies there is a wide path for bad judgment to come into play.  The Sun traveling through the impulsive sign of Aries may additionally influence rash behavior but you have the choice and free will to not engage in the madness.

Ancient man didn’t have computers and broadcast news reports but they did have the cosmos which they closely watched and used as their link into understanding the tempo of their day.

There is currently a lot of electricity and vibratory impulse around us. This causes the aggregation of matter and its activity within certain bounds.  Do not feed the beast of this planetary cycle.  Use your energy wisely and proactively.

For more insightful information about recognizing our connection to all of creation and cosmic power read The Book of Transformation. http://www.newpagebooks.com/?section=home&product_id=511

You will not be punished for your anger; you will be punished by your anger. ~Buddha

Namaste’