It is time for another Mercury retrograde cycle and this one is shaping up to be a doozy! This communications breakdown cycle occurs in the relationship sign of Libra, September 17-October 9th. This review and revise retrograde cycle combines with a Super Moon Lunar Eclipse. It is also the big & beautiful Harvest Moon, so North American eclipse watchers are in for a treat on September 27th.

When Mercury gives the illusion of moving backwards in Libra, it is time to review your relationships, and that means all types of relationships including relationship with self and lack of relationships. It is time to improve your communications with others. Speak your truth but do it in a diplomatic and graceful way. 

Consider where your life has gotten out of balance, and take steps to put things in order. Many people do not know that the Libra constellation is so small that it gets swallowed up by the large Virgo constellation. So Libra has some traits in common with Virgo such as cleaning up their environment so that it is more beautiful. Both have a certain people-pleaser energy. Remember to take care of yourself while helping those around you. 

There is also a spiritual vibration to Mercury retrograde in Libra. Mercury helps you to live in your center in spite of external world chaos, an energy known as the Fourth Ray in esoteric astrology. Libra is associated with the Seventh Ray of Transmutation, the Violet Flame, and the master St. Germaine. Lower frequencies are transmuted into higher to help you live in a higher balance based upon higher values. 

Expect this Mercury retrograde to dredge up emotional depths. The lunar eclipse on September 27th is very close to the earth, amplifying its effects. In Aries and Libra, you must balance your individual needs vs. your relationship needs. A Super Moon pulls you apart, wanting relationship one day and aloneness the next. The universe is not out to get you. It is just helping you to determine what you value most so you can put your energy into it.

The key to this Mercury retrograde cycle is to allow room for flexibility. You can literally make your home or office space more beautiful if you stop your busy life for just a short time. Some people will take a short trip to a beautiful location, just to remember the pleasure side of life.

But everyone will process their relationship needs, beliefs and behaviors as they shift into the autumn season. Practice healthy communications in your relationships and be honest and diplomatic in telling people what you need.

Mark Dodich has been an astrologer and intuitive consultant since 1980 with a busy international practice based in Portland, Oregon. He is also leading a metaphysical African Safari in 2016. He specializes in Earthlines ACG relocation astrology maps and Seven Ray esoteric astrology. Check out his bio and services at www.astromark.us/newsletter.pdf (503) 252-1558 www.astromark.us