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The Modern Merlin’s Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius Survival Guide

Navigating Difficult Holiday Astro-Vibes, and More

Cue the Star Wars Imperial March, as Mercury begins his backward spin in the sign of the archer, Sagittarius. Mercury has an interesting relationship with Sagittarius, as Gemini, one of the two signs Mercury rules, opposes Sagittarius, ruled by expansive Jupiter. We’re going to look at this interesting relationship, and how it all plays out with the usual Mercury Rx mayhem. Given that this transit occurs during the holiday season for many of us, there’s some precautions to take as well to make sure you’re prepared. Without further ado, let’s begin!


Mercury and Sagittarius: A relationship built from two sides of the same coin

Gemini and Sagittarius are opposite signs, making them in some ways two sides of the same coin (not a hard and fast rule, but it does fit generally). Does that make Mercury and Jupiter the same? In some ways, yes. Mercury and Jupiter can and do both affect luck, prosperity, business and abundance, albeit from different ends. Jupiter is more of an “ask/act and receive through divine beneficence” type of energy; whereas Mercury is more of a mercantile, business-like energy in terms of areas ruled over. In other words, truly spiritual vs. more logical. Given that Jupiter is also retrograde, in Gemini, this plays into the overall feel of this retrograde period.

Mercury and Sagittarius have an interesting relationship, as I previously mentioned, Gemini, Sag’s opposing sign, is ruled by Mercury, Sag ruled by Jupiter. Sagittarius is quick to act, whereas Gemini is quick to think. Mercury explores, researches and investigates, while Jupiter philosophies about matter, giving it a more spiritual bent.

Given this dichotomy between the two signs and planets, you could have a propensity towards what’s called “foot-in-mouth syndrome”, I.e., saying something and regretting it later. Think before you speak. Aside from that, as Sagittarius rules over travel, expect travel delays, unfortunately, right in time for the holidays.

Since the two planets oppose each other from the opposite sign of which they rule, this dichotomy will play out in many areas; apply the usual Mercury Rx symptoms with those discussed in this article.

For those looking for info on Jupiter Retrograde, look to my Jupiter Retrograde Survival Guide Article, posted on this Substack.


It’s not all doom and gloom!

Mercury retrograde can be a hassle, yes. I’m going to go over specific things to avoid doing during this transit, as well as more likely potential things that could pop up during this transit. That said, you can as always expect the usual Mercury Rx hijinx including:
  • Communication issues
  • Technology issues
  • Car problems
  • Travel problems
  • People from the past popping up
  • Old, unresolved trauma and shadow work popping up
  • Avoid signing contracts or starting new projects, etc

Now, aside from those usual things, with Mercury in Sagittarius, Retrograde, we can expect:

  • A desire for nostalgia; potential for reaching out to old flames. Make sure it’s realistic, and perhaps lay off until after the holidays.
  • Frustration with family traditions; perhaps you believe differently than most of your family. This retrograde transit could heighten that as Sagittarius is a highly spiritual sign, ruled by Jupiter, the planet of spirituality.
  • Restrictions, delays, and general problems with travel
  • Foot in mouth syndrome (described above)

The Good Side and How to Cope

Enough is said about the bad effects of Mercury Retrograde, but there are positives to this period. It allows space for introspection, re-evaluation, and pause. It reminds us that we can’t force everything, and sometimes we need to slow down. With winter fast approaching, and the cold, dark days upon us, this message rings even deeper. Below, I’m going to list some ideas on how to effectively work with this Mercury Rx period.
  • Examine your beliefs, philosophies, and ethics. Do they need an overhaul? Have they changed over time? If so, how?
  • Write down your most current, active selections from the above, and try to define it cohesively
  • Research new philosophies and beliefs. Remember that exploring is fine, so long as you don’t claim it to be your own! There’s value in all belief systems, and learning them makes us understand others better.

These suggestions can apply to any area of life, but spirituality, the esoteric, and social aspects will be highlighted as this transit is in Sagittarius.

How to Cope If/When the Going Gets Rough

Let’s face it, things get rough, especially around the holidays. Mercury retrograde just adds fuel to that fire. Here’s some suggestions backed by Astrology, a little witchcraft and spiritual know-how.
  • Walk away. Sometimes, it’s best to just leave than argue. Revisit it later before foot-in-mouth syndrome claims another victim
  • Setbacks can be valuable lessons; sometimes a detour is a nicer way to get to a destination than the more direct route.
  • Embrace wisdom in the challenges this transit could present. When we’re challenged, we grow. Embrace it.
  • It’s okay if you need to take a time out for a day or two. This applies all year to any and all transits, but this one especially. Let your batteries recharge.
  • Enjoy a good book inside under a warm blanket
  • Self care, as always, is important

I hope all who celebrate have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Blessings,

~The Modern Merlin

 

**This post was originally posted to The Modern Merlin’s Substack, which can be found here**

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Author Bio:

The Modern Merlin has been a Polytheist and Animist Pagan, Witch, Sorcerer, Wizard, Druid, Mystic, Ceremonial Magician, Occultist, Shaman, Seer and Soothsayer for 15 years, worshipping and casting magick with deities and spirits from many cultures, including Ancient Greece, Rome, Norse & Germanic, Celtic, Egyptian, Sumerian, as well as many Faeries, Nymphs, Dryads, Ancestors and other nature and land spirits and spirits of place. He is a Priest of Hecate, Diana, Hades, Lilith and Persephone. He has experience in the Left and Right Hand Paths, working with both hands as needed. He currently practices Necromancy and Deathwalking, as well as Traditional Witchcraft, Druidry, Hellenism and Ceremonial Magick, incorporating all of them into a cohesive practice, with some shamanic touches. He studies and practices Astrology as well as Tarot and other forms of divination such as Runes, Palmistry and Ogham. He has a personal blog where he shares Astrological, Pagan, and other magickal wisdom for free! He gives readings and other spiritual services on his Facebook Page, The Modern Merlin, as well other free informational posts for everyone to see!