If you've been having trouble concentrating or struggling to get your day-to-day routine back in check, you're not alone. Mercury, the messenger planet, has been transiting the sleepy and elusive sign of Pisces since February 23, adding a hazy backdrop to our minds. "Is this real, or is it all a dream?" I heard someone say that recently, and I knew exactly what they meant. We are, after all, in Pisces season, but if the planet of communication isn’t seeing things clearly, it’s safe to say that neither are we.
A water sign with all-encompassing emotions, Mercury in Pisces can make even the simplest tasks feel like a mystifying labyrinth in the clouds. Things can feel almost surreal, making it difficult to discern between our fantasies and reality. Despite serving as a muse of inspiration, focusing on practical matters is unexplainably challenging throughout this Mercury transit. A thousand ideas, swirling with possibilities, life is but a dream.
(*Insert loud alarm clock sound here*)
It’s time to wake up! This sense of ambiguity and uncertainty will drastically change upon Mercury's ingress into the assertive and pioneering sign of Aries on March 9. If we were cruising listening to our favorite song during Mercury in Pisces, we're about to step on the gas via Aries' fast-paced racetrack. A cardinal fire sign known for its leadership qualities and lust for life, Mercury in Aries energizes our minds and surroundings with momentum and sizzling passion.
This astrological shift brings about a noticeable increase in mental clarity and decisiveness, similar to a rush of caffeine after drinking a shot of expresso. Suddenly, ideas and words come with ease and energy, making this Mercury transit incredibly dynamic and productive. Think of this fire sign's planetary ruler, Mars, as it is audacious, impulsive, and fiercely determined to assert itself.
We are no exception under this transit, as communication takes a fiery turn. On the dark side, we are all the more prone to jumping to conclusions, whether via 1:1 conversations or in our own mental space. Although there's nothing wrong with taking the initiative and speaking up for ourselves, it's important to be mindful of our decision-making process at this time.Â
This is especially true when considering the upcoming Mercury retrograde in Aries, beginning on April 1, 2024. Kicking off at exactly 27 degrees of this cardinal fire sign—where it will remain until it goes direct on April 25—patience becomes a valuable asset, as it encourages us to reflect on everything from our communication style to our default thought processes. Think twice before you make assumptions, especially during Mercury retrograde!
Instead, consider this an opportunity to reflect and reconsider your approach. Aries is a warrior at heart, so themes surrounding past confrontations and unresolved conflicts may resurface at this time. The good news is that despite the messenger planet's slow-moving pace, we have the courage and inspiration to lead with confidence. In the meantime, reflect on the following questions for reference on what could come up for review:
How do your core values and goals align with your current actions?
How have you handled conflict in the past?Â
What did you learn from those experiences?
Are there any unresolved issues you feel called to express?
In what areas of life do you lack motivation and courage?